I am planning to modify my IKEA Malm furniture in the children's room to make it as safe and child-friendly as possible. My main concerns are preventing finger pinches on the drawers, using child-appropriate handles, ensuring stability against tipping, and addressing any sharp corners that could harm small children. Does anyone have experience or tips on the best ways to modify the furniture, which materials are suitable, and which specific safety precautions should be taken with Malm furniture? I look forward to expert advice and practical instructions.
Hector schrieb:
whether to completely remove the MALM drawer handles and instead switch to push-to-open technology.I think push-to-open is very convenient, but people often overlook that the MALM drawers have relatively little clearance inside. You need to measure precisely and pay close attention to the installation height of the mechanism; otherwise, the drawer may stick or the mechanism won’t operate smoothly.
If you decide to try this, Bertil65, I can send you a detailed installation guide. It requires a bit of finesse and modern tools like a cordless drill with fine adjustment.
Also: The anti-tilt device is not only important for the chest of drawers but also for desks, as children often lean on or climb them.
A small addition: For desks, you can also use rounded wooden edge protectors that you glue on, sand smooth, and then paint. This looks more high-quality than foam and lasts longer.
Nofege schrieb:
Installing dampers to prevent the drawer from slamming shutThat sounds interesting. Could you provide some examples of how to install these dampers? Do I need to take the MALM drawers apart, or is there an easy retrofit solution?
Domau0 schrieb:
Please send detailed installation instructionsYes, that would be great if you could send me the instructions! I was particularly concerned about whether the push-to-open mechanism works reliably.
For installing dampers on MALM drawers:
There are so-called soft-close dampers for furniture drawers that can be mounted inside on the side of the cabinet or the drawer frame. These are available at hardware stores or online.
Usually, the drawers need to be pulled out of the cabinet for this. Most MALM drawers are relatively easy to remove as they run on metal runners.
Installation is done with small screws or clips, depending on the model. It is important to position the dampers so that they slow down the speed when the drawer is closing.
Alternatively, there are damper inserts that can be glued to the drawer front. These are easier to install but are often less durable.
I can gladly send you a list of sources if you like.
There are so-called soft-close dampers for furniture drawers that can be mounted inside on the side of the cabinet or the drawer frame. These are available at hardware stores or online.
Usually, the drawers need to be pulled out of the cabinet for this. Most MALM drawers are relatively easy to remove as they run on metal runners.
Installation is done with small screws or clips, depending on the model. It is important to position the dampers so that they slow down the speed when the drawer is closing.
Alternatively, there are damper inserts that can be glued to the drawer front. These are easier to install but are often less durable.
I can gladly send you a list of sources if you like.
R
RonJarrett16 Jul 2022 15:01Confirmation: Anti-tip devices are mandatory for furniture like MALM in children's rooms. Without a secure wall connection, there is a high risk when climbing.
For edge protection, I recommend durable PVC profiles that are easy to clean and wear less than foam.
For drawer safety, magnetic locks provide a neat solution that can be retrofitted and remain discreet.
Push-to-open mechanisms can work but require precise adjustment; otherwise, the drawers may not function optimally.
Recommendation: Measure all parts carefully before remodeling and, if necessary, perform a trial assembly.
For edge protection, I recommend durable PVC profiles that are easy to clean and wear less than foam.
For drawer safety, magnetic locks provide a neat solution that can be retrofitted and remain discreet.
Push-to-open mechanisms can work but require precise adjustment; otherwise, the drawers may not function optimally.
Recommendation: Measure all parts carefully before remodeling and, if necessary, perform a trial assembly.
I find the whole safety paranoia a bit exaggerated. MALM furniture is sturdy and safer for children than many designer pieces with sharp edges and pointed handles.
Why not simply teach children to be careful instead of covering every corner with foam? Education rather than overprotection – this encourages more awareness.
Of course, but isn’t this more about making the furniture safer for young children who don’t yet have a good sense of risk?
The best solution would be good education and safe furniture from the start. Foam padding and magnetic locks don’t make your MALM childproof – they just make it more complicated.
Why not simply teach children to be careful instead of covering every corner with foam? Education rather than overprotection – this encourages more awareness.
RonJarrett schrieb:
Anti-tip devices are mandatory
Of course, but isn’t this more about making the furniture safer for young children who don’t yet have a good sense of risk?
The best solution would be good education and safe furniture from the start. Foam padding and magnetic locks don’t make your MALM childproof – they just make it more complicated.
NOAHSAU schrieb:
Discipline instead of overprotection – that encourages more mindfulness.I understand your point, and discipline is important. Still, my concern is to ensure a basic level of safety so that the furniture does not cause unnecessary injuries in everyday life. Children are often spontaneous and unpredictable, and sometimes warnings alone are not enough.
Domau0 schrieb:
Which MALM furniture pieces exactly do you want to modify?I wanted to point out that, in my opinion, the combination of anti-tip devices, edge protectors, and drawer locks is a well-balanced approach.
I will try the suggestions and gladly share my experiences here to hopefully provide everyone with a practical perspective.
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