Hello everyone,
I recently purchased several MALM dressers from IKEA and noticed that, despite assembling them correctly, they still feel a bit wobbly. The overall construction doesn't seem unstable, but especially when I pull out the drawers or there are small vibrations, the dresser noticeably sways.
My question is: How can I make MALM dressers more stable? Are there any special tips or reinforcements that can be used to improve the firmness and overall feel?
I followed the instructions carefully, and all screws are tight, but I'm still not completely satisfied. I’m not looking to completely rebuild the furniture, but small adjustments or simple aids that can be easily applied would be very helpful.
Thanks in advance for your tips!
I recently purchased several MALM dressers from IKEA and noticed that, despite assembling them correctly, they still feel a bit wobbly. The overall construction doesn't seem unstable, but especially when I pull out the drawers or there are small vibrations, the dresser noticeably sways.
My question is: How can I make MALM dressers more stable? Are there any special tips or reinforcements that can be used to improve the firmness and overall feel?
I followed the instructions carefully, and all screws are tight, but I'm still not completely satisfied. I’m not looking to completely rebuild the furniture, but small adjustments or simple aids that can be easily applied would be very helpful.
Thanks in advance for your tips!
maureo schrieb:
Additionally, you can use angle brackets at the corners,That's true, those small angle brackets really make a difference!
With my MALM, I even placed small rubber pads underneath on the inside at the bottom – no magic, but they do prevent some wobbling on slippery floors. 😉
Hello Jonchase,
I’d like to go into more detail because the topic can be a bit more complex.
First of all, the original MALM design is primarily intended for easy assembly and low-cost production. The connecting parts often consist of wooden strips and particleboard, which are sufficient for normal use but not for high stability requirements.
My first tip is to check whether the back panel (usually a thin MDF board) fits exactly straight and cleanly into the main structure. Often, only nails are used here, which provide very little stability. I recommend securing it with small screws or attaching an additional strip on the backside to minimize any twisting motion.
Secondly, the connection between the side panels and the bottom or top panel is critical. Wooden dowels and screws are commonly used here—make sure all screws are fully tightened and firmly screwed in. It’s best to re-tighten them after a few days.
As a third measure, you can add reinforcing brackets or metal plates in the inner corners, which is especially important for larger dressers to prevent warping.
Finally, the surface the furniture stands on also affects stability: uneven floors or absence of felt pads can make a difference, so check with a spirit level.
If you plan to load the wardrobe with heavy items, an additional internal support at the bottom or side is advisable. What will you be using it for? Drawers with heavy clothing or objects that cause movement?
If you can describe your intended use in more detail, I can provide more specific advice.
I’d like to go into more detail because the topic can be a bit more complex.
First of all, the original MALM design is primarily intended for easy assembly and low-cost production. The connecting parts often consist of wooden strips and particleboard, which are sufficient for normal use but not for high stability requirements.
My first tip is to check whether the back panel (usually a thin MDF board) fits exactly straight and cleanly into the main structure. Often, only nails are used here, which provide very little stability. I recommend securing it with small screws or attaching an additional strip on the backside to minimize any twisting motion.
Secondly, the connection between the side panels and the bottom or top panel is critical. Wooden dowels and screws are commonly used here—make sure all screws are fully tightened and firmly screwed in. It’s best to re-tighten them after a few days.
As a third measure, you can add reinforcing brackets or metal plates in the inner corners, which is especially important for larger dressers to prevent warping.
Finally, the surface the furniture stands on also affects stability: uneven floors or absence of felt pads can make a difference, so check with a spirit level.
If you plan to load the wardrobe with heavy items, an additional internal support at the bottom or side is advisable. What will you be using it for? Drawers with heavy clothing or objects that cause movement?
If you can describe your intended use in more detail, I can provide more specific advice.
Laukau5 schrieb:
What kind of use are you planning? Drawers with heavy clothing or items that cause movement?Thank you for the detailed answer.
Mainly, I want to store clothing, so some heavier sweaters in the lower drawers and lighter items on top. The dressers are standing on a wooden floor, which is slightly uneven—something I have already tried to compensate for with rubber pads. The wobbling mainly occurs when the large lower drawers are fully extended. It seems the cabinet frame flexes a bit.
Could I possibly reinforce the inside with small battens or cross braces? Or would that risk affecting the drawer slides?
Jonchase schrieb:
Could I possibly reinforce the inside with small battens or cross braces? Or is there a risk of affecting the drawer slides?Hello,
Certainly, cross braces are a good idea if installed correctly. It’s important that they don’t obstruct the movement of the drawers. I recommend mounting horizontal strips on the inner back panel, about 5cm (2 inches) wide, wide enough so they don’t get in the way. Accurate measurements are crucial here: maintain proper clearance from the drawer runners and the back panel.
Alternatively, you can install an additional vertical brace towards the rear, which can help distribute lateral pressure.
Before screwing in any parts, I suggest assembling the dresser once and measuring all internal dimensions precisely to ensure accurate work later. You might also consider using thin plywood panels, which are a bit sturdier than particleboard.
Keep in mind that extra bracing will increase the overall weight the furniture needs to support. Therefore, using high-quality tools during assembly is advisable.
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