ᐅ How can I effectively prevent water stains on Malm furniture?

Hello everyone,

I recently acquired several pieces of furniture from IKEA, specifically from the Malm series, and to be honest, I’m a bit disappointed because some water stains have already appeared on the surface. I know the surface is melamine-coated, but these water-like stains seem quite stubborn and noticeably affect the appearance.

I am therefore very interested in effective ways to prevent water stains on Malm furniture. I’m not only asking about avoiding water on the surface itself, but also tips for care and protection to prevent such stains from forming in the first place.

Does anyone have personal experience or know of effective tricks? How do you specifically handle this issue in daily life, for example with glasses, potted plants, or cleaning products?

Thanks in advance for your help!

It is best to always use coasters and wipe away any moisture immediately. This is usually sufficient.

I understand your frustration; water stains can be really annoying, especially when you want to take good care of your furniture. I find it very helpful to always protect glasses, cups, and plants with a coaster. Even though it can be a bit bothersome at times, I think it saves a lot of trouble in the long run. Maybe you could make it a routine as well?

Water stains on Malm furniture usually occur from prolonged exposure to moisture on the melamine-coated surface. The protective layer may not fully repel water in the worst cases, leaving slight discoloration.

Preventive recommendations:

1. Use coasters or placemats, especially under hot or cold drinks.
2. Wipe off moisture quickly with a dry, lint-free cloth.
3. Avoid aggressive cleaning agents, as they can damage the coating.

If stains are already present, it may help to gently treat them with a specialized melamine surface care product that removes micro-scratches and restores the surface.

The stains usually come from moisture that is not wiped away immediately. Acting quickly is the most important thing.

I place a thin plastic sheet under the glass top on all my Malm tables. This keeps the surface fully protected, and water stains are a thing of the past.