ᐅ What is the best way to remove scratches from the MALM surface coating?
Created on: 22 Nov 2024 09:37
J
JuttajonHello everyone, I have unfortunately noticed some scratches on the surface of my IKEA Malm desk. The surface is either lacquered or laminated, and I would like to remove the scratches as much as possible without them being visible or damaging the surface. Are there any proven methods or special products that work well for removing scratches from the Malm finish? I know that for lacquered furniture, gentle polishes or waxes often help, but I am unsure if this applies to the Malm coating or if repair markers or other remedies are more suitable. I would be very grateful for tips that specifically match the Malm finish and are practical to apply.
For scratches on the MALM finish, it is recommended to first carefully assess the damage: Are they superficial, merely dull scratches, or deeper defects?
For light surface scratches, a wax-based polish designed specifically for veneered or painted surfaces is suitable. This visually fills in minor cracks and creates a more uniform surface.
If the scratches are deeper and reveal the substrate beneath the finish, repair markers, such as those made for furniture or laminate, are a good option. These are matched to the color chart of IKEA furniture.
Important: Avoid using abrasive sanding agents or scouring pads, as they can cause further damage to the surface.
For light surface scratches, a wax-based polish designed specifically for veneered or painted surfaces is suitable. This visually fills in minor cracks and creates a more uniform surface.
If the scratches are deeper and reveal the substrate beneath the finish, repair markers, such as those made for furniture or laminate, are a good option. These are matched to the color chart of IKEA furniture.
Important: Avoid using abrasive sanding agents or scouring pads, as they can cause further damage to the surface.
To achieve the best results with the MALM coating, the process should be approached systematically.
First: Clean the affected area. A mild, grease-dissolving cleaner or dish soap is recommended to remove dust and oil. Afterward, allow the surface to dry completely.
Second: Assess the scratch carefully. For superficial scratches, targeted rubbing with a furniture polish that fills in or conceals fine scratches is often sufficient.
Third: If the scratch is clearly visible and deeper, using a repair kit is worthwhile. These usually include a touch-up pen or wax mixture tailored to different wood colors. In my experience, it is advisable to start with very small amounts and apply gradually if needed, to avoid color stains on the surrounding surface.
Additionally, for an especially smooth finish after repair, you can carefully work the area with ultra-fine sandpaper (e.g., grit 1500 or finer) and polishing compound. However, this must be done with great caution to prevent further damage.
A question: How large are the scratches, and on exactly which surface are they located (recess, tabletop, drawer side, etc.)? This can influence the choice of method.
First: Clean the affected area. A mild, grease-dissolving cleaner or dish soap is recommended to remove dust and oil. Afterward, allow the surface to dry completely.
Second: Assess the scratch carefully. For superficial scratches, targeted rubbing with a furniture polish that fills in or conceals fine scratches is often sufficient.
Third: If the scratch is clearly visible and deeper, using a repair kit is worthwhile. These usually include a touch-up pen or wax mixture tailored to different wood colors. In my experience, it is advisable to start with very small amounts and apply gradually if needed, to avoid color stains on the surrounding surface.
Additionally, for an especially smooth finish after repair, you can carefully work the area with ultra-fine sandpaper (e.g., grit 1500 or finer) and polishing compound. However, this must be done with great caution to prevent further damage.
A question: How large are the scratches, and on exactly which surface are they located (recess, tabletop, drawer side, etc.)? This can influence the choice of method.
W
warrenka5722 Nov 2024 13:07I understand the problem very well – I’ve experienced this with my own furniture, where an unpleasant scratch can appear quickly, and it can be annoying for days.
I think it’s important to approach not only the result but also the “treatment” of scratches calmly. Trying to remove them too aggressively usually only makes them more visible or worsens the damage.
What I did myself: very fine polishing with furniture balm and rather subtle repair markers. And I’ve learned to simply accept some scratches as a kind of patina – it shows the character the furniture gains from it 😉
By the way, there are also small wax sets that you can mix in different colors to match the tone of the MALM finish exactly. I’ve had very good experiences with this on darker furniture.
I think it’s important to approach not only the result but also the “treatment” of scratches calmly. Trying to remove them too aggressively usually only makes them more visible or worsens the damage.
What I did myself: very fine polishing with furniture balm and rather subtle repair markers. And I’ve learned to simply accept some scratches as a kind of patina – it shows the character the furniture gains from it 😉
By the way, there are also small wax sets that you can mix in different colors to match the tone of the MALM finish exactly. I’ve had very good experiences with this on darker furniture.
Here is a brief guide on how to best treat scratches on the MALM finish:
1. Preparation: Clean the affected area with a lint-free cloth and a mild detergent.
2. Damage assessment: Are the scratches superficial or deep? For superficial scratches, apply furniture polish containing microscopic fillers, such as beeswax or silicone-based polishes.
3. For deep scratches: Purchase a repair marker in the matching color of the MALM surface.
4. Application: When using repair markers, apply the color in thin layers, allowing each layer to dry in between.
5. Finally, polish the area to even out the surface.
Note: Always test any product first on an inconspicuous spot to rule out any color differences or reactions with the finish.
If someone wants to try a specific product, please check the ingredients and avoid using harsh solvents.
1. Preparation: Clean the affected area with a lint-free cloth and a mild detergent.
2. Damage assessment: Are the scratches superficial or deep? For superficial scratches, apply furniture polish containing microscopic fillers, such as beeswax or silicone-based polishes.
3. For deep scratches: Purchase a repair marker in the matching color of the MALM surface.
4. Application: When using repair markers, apply the color in thin layers, allowing each layer to dry in between.
5. Finally, polish the area to even out the surface.
Note: Always test any product first on an inconspicuous spot to rule out any color differences or reactions with the finish.
If someone wants to try a specific product, please check the ingredients and avoid using harsh solvents.
Similar topics