ᐅ How easy is it to replace MALM drawers?

Hello everyone,

I have a Malm dresser from IKEA and I’m planning to replace the drawers because they are slightly damaged and I would like new fronts and drawer slides. My question is: How easy or difficult is it generally to replace the drawers or the drawer fronts and the metal slides installed in the MALM series?

I’ve read that some MALM drawers can be pulled out without disassembling the entire dresser, but what about the drawer slides specifically? Do I need to take the whole drawer apart? Are special tools required?

Who has experience with this or can offer tips on what to watch out for when replacing the drawers of a MALM dresser? Thanks in advance for your help!

KUTLULI schrieb:
How easy or difficult is it generally to replace the drawers or the drawer fronts and the metal runners used in the MALM series?

This is an important question because, although the MALM series looks simple at first glance, it actually has a relatively complex drawer system.

In general, the drawers are easy to remove by pulling them out completely and pressing the clips on the sides of the runners.

However, when it comes to replacing the fronts or the runners, it becomes more complicated. The fronts are usually screwed on, but the runners are sometimes glued and difficult to fully replace without damaging the entire drawer.

My recommendation: take photos of each component during disassembly to ensure correct reassembly later. Also, consider looking for used replacement parts, as buying new ones can be expensive.

I will try to break this down somewhat systematically:

1. Drawer removal: With the MALM series, you can pull the drawer out completely. Usually, there are small plastic clips on the runners that you need to press or lever to release the drawer.

2. Replacing the front panel: The front panel is fixed to the carcass with three or four screws from the inside. You need to loosen these screws to remove the front panel.

3. Replacing the runner unit: This is more complicated because the metal runners are attached to the carcass. In some models, they are screwed in; in others, they are clipped or glued. Usually, a complete replacement of the runner unit is only possible if you disassemble the carcass or at least open the side panel slightly.

4. Tools: Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead), possibly a small Allen key, and a lever (e.g., a flathead screwdriver) to release the clips.

A calm and careful approach with detailed documentation (e.g., photos) during disassembly is helpful.

Hope this helps a bit!

Pull out the drawers, press the clips on the sides, unscrew the front panel, and you’re done. Replacing the drives is complicated; it’s better to replace the entire drawer.

rigau schrieb:
Replacing drives is time-consuming; it’s better to replace the entire drawer.

I can only agree with that. The slides are usually not designed to be replaced individually.

If you want to be on the safe side, buy new drawers or the complete drawer slide unit from IKEA. It causes less hassle and often doesn't cost much more.