ᐅ How do IKEA MALM furniture pieces protect against moisture?

Created on: 31 Oct 2016 08:17
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Goboplo
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Goboplo
31 Oct 2016 08:17
Hello everyone,

Some time ago, I ordered several IKEA Malm furniture pieces, which I really appreciate in my apartment. However, I am concerned about protecting them from potential moisture, as condensation sometimes forms in the room, and I want to avoid the furniture swelling or getting damaged. Are there any proven methods to effectively protect MALM dressers or beds from moisture? I am thinking of practical solutions such as impregnations, sealants, or even simple everyday items for moisture absorption. Maybe someone has already had experience with related products or approaches.

I look forward to helpful tips and advice, preferably with brief explanations of why these measures are effective.
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troyjon
31 Oct 2016 08:43
It’s best not to place furniture directly against exterior walls and to use furniture legs or pads. Additionally, dehumidifiers can help in the room. I would avoid special varnishes or oils, as they often alter the material.
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Guyju
31 Oct 2016 09:15
Hello,

To protect MALM furniture from moisture, I recommend a multi-step approach:

1. Positioning: Place the furniture against interior walls if possible and keep it about 2 cm (1 inch) away from the wall to allow air circulation.

2. Moisture absorption: Use small silica gel packets inside the cabinet to absorb excess moisture.

3. Surface treatment: Applying a thin layer of furniture wax on the visible wooden parts can also help repel moisture.

4. Control the indoor climate: Regularly ventilate the room, at least three times a day for 5-10 minutes, to reduce condensation.

I advise against heavy varnishes, as MALM furniture usually has a melamine coating that can be damaged by strong sealants.

Hope this helps!
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Colby42
31 Oct 2016 10:02
It’s great that you’re thinking about this! 🙂 I’ve been using a room dehumidifier with granules for a few months now – it’s truly a benefit for the furniture! My MALM wardrobe always looks perfect, no more swelling or stains. It’s simply wonderful to have this kind of protection! And it doesn’t even cost much!
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silako
31 Oct 2016 10:44
Interesting post, Goboplo, but do you have more specific information about the room? At what room temperature and humidity level are the furniture pieces kept? Only with this information can it be explained precisely how much protection is necessary.
Guyju schrieb:

I would advise against heavy varnishes, as MALM is usually coated with melamine.

I would also like to know how durable a thin wax layer is under everyday use. Are there any tests or experiences that demonstrate a real improvement? Air circulation is also a key factor, but how can this be practically achieved in cramped spaces?
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Goboplo
31 Oct 2016 11:12
Thank you for the questions and responses so far.

About the room: It is an older apartment with 18 m² (194 ft²), where I have a MALM bed and a dresser. The wall behind the bed faces north and tends to get a bit damp quickly when airing out. The temperature is around 18°C (64°F), and the humidity fluctuates between 55 and 70%.

Due to limited space, the distance from the bed to the wall is only about 1 cm (0.4 inches). Ventilating multiple times a day is difficult because I am not always home during the day.

I have not applied any waterproofing treatment yet, as I am concerned about damaging the melamine coating. I would appreciate any tips on quick and easy methods to protect against moisture.