ᐅ How can I make Malm furniture more scratch-resistant?

Hello everyone, I own several Malm furniture pieces from Ikea, which I really like in terms of design. However, I have noticed many small scratches on the surface after a short time. This is especially frustrating with the dressers, as the finish doesn’t seem to be very durable. My question is: How can I make Malm furniture more scratch-resistant without changing its appearance? Are there specific products or methods to protect the surface without making it glossier or duller? Additionally, I would be interested to know if there are long-term solutions that can be applied by myself, without having to completely disassemble or repaint the furniture.

Hey, it’s great to hear that you really appreciate Malm furniture! 🙂 I have some myself, and the scratches can be quite annoying at times. What worked really well for me is applying a thin layer of furniture wax. You can find it at hardware stores, it’s easy to apply, and it protects the surface without adding any noticeable shine. Just apply it with a soft cloth! Give it a try, it really makes a difference. Also, I recommend using coasters or felt pads under decorative items to prevent scratches. Good luck!

What a fitting topic! Stains and scratches always seem to go hand in hand. 😉 Besides furniture wax, I also recommend a mixture of some furniture oil and a mild cleaner to protect and maintain the surface. It’s important not to use too much—otherwise the surface becomes sticky. And yes, as NUGRANT says: felt pads are little heroes! They often save my hardwood floors and furniture. A protective film can help, but make sure to follow Ikea’s care instructions so nothing goes wrong.

To increase the scratch resistance of Malm furniture, I recommend the following: The surfaces are usually coated with a melamine resin layer, which already provides a certain level of hardness but is not invulnerable. An additional sealant with a polymer-based furniture care product can improve resistance. These products are available from specialized retailers and should be applied thinly using a soft cloth. Equally important is avoiding harsh cleaning agents and using protective pads when there is regular contact with hard objects. Repainting or re-sealing is only advisable in case of more severe damage; otherwise, care products sustainably enhance protection.

Apply furniture wax or a special care varnish thinly. Avoid using aggressive cleaners. Make sure to use felt pads under furniture. This provides good protection.

I understand your frustration with the scratches – I felt the same way. At first, I was quite disappointed, but after switching to regular maintenance with furniture oil, the situation improved significantly. It also helps to keep the furniture regularly dust-free and avoid placing heavy or rough objects directly on it. Sometimes, you just need a bit of luck with how the item is used. Chin up, with patience it will get better! 🙂