ᐅ Are there better replacement parts available for Malm drawers?

Hello everyone,

I recently noticed that some drawer slides and rollers on my IKEA Malm dressers are not running as smoothly as they used to – sometimes they even stick or the drawers don’t sit perfectly straight anymore. Since I find the original replacement parts from IKEA a bit expensive and often difficult to get individually, I wanted to ask: Are there better or compatible replacement parts for Malm drawers that are more durable or easier to install?

I’m especially interested in quality improvements—parts that aren’t just cheaper but actually offer real added value, such as better roller bearings, stronger rails, or improved materials. Maybe someone here has experience with third-party products or can even recommend an affordable alternative.

I would really appreciate any tips or recommendations, especially from people who have tried something different than the standard IKEA accessories.

Thanks in advance!

There are third-party replacement parts that are sometimes of better quality, such as rollers with ball bearings. However, you need to pay close attention to the exact measurements, otherwise they won’t fit. I would recommend measuring the parts carefully beforehand and searching online specifically for the correct sizes.

NICOLELIS schrieb:
There are third-party replacement parts that are sometimes of better quality, such as rollers with ball bearings.

Exactly, I can confirm that.

Often, the original IKEA parts are designed for high volume production and are cost-effective, but not always for maximum durability. Especially for frequently used drawers, sturdier slides or rollers with better bearings can definitely provide a smoother experience.

There are several manufacturers specializing in furniture replacement parts who offer, for example, full-extension drawer slides with soft-close features that also fit Malm drawers. However, caution is needed when replacing parts: the dimensions of the drawers and slides can vary slightly, and installation can be a bit tricky if you don’t have the right adapters or screws.

If you like, I can suggest some online stores that offer a selection of replacement parts. It’s also important to consider whether the effort of replacing parts is worth the benefit, or if it might be more cost-effective to invest in a better dresser right away.

I hope this helps you for now! 🙂

pepoja schrieb:
Are there any better or compatible replacement parts for the Malm drawers that are more durable or easier to install?

An interesting question, which in my opinion should also consider the expectations regarding replacement parts. If something sticks or doesn’t run smoothly anymore, it doesn’t automatically mean the part itself is poor quality – sometimes the issue is due to improper installation conditions or wear caused by incorrect use.

Regarding better replacement parts: I would critically ask what exactly is meant by “better.” Higher quality often means higher costs and usually a more complicated installation since third-party parts are not always perfectly matched to IKEA’s design. The Malm series is priced to offer good value for money – if you use specialized roller bearings, you might gain smoother operation and increased durability, but you risk parts not fitting plug-and-play, which can require extra effort.

Also, keep in mind that in some cases, replacing the entire drawer slide system (not just the rollers) might be necessary, especially if the furniture is older.

In summary: There are definitely alternatives, and some are “better” in terms of durability and smoothness. But installation is usually more complex and costs are higher. Before opting for better replacement parts, you should consider whether the additional effort and potential fitting issues justify the benefits.

I’m curious if you have already worked on the drawers yourself and what specific problems you encountered? That way, advice could be more targeted.