ᐅ How can I modify Malm dressers to increase storage space?

Good morning everyone, I have several Malm dressers from IKEA at home and I’m wondering about the best ways to modify them to maximize storage space. It’s less about adding more dressers and more about changing or expanding the existing furniture structure itself. Where are the greatest opportunities? For example, through additional shelves, increasing the depth, or perhaps using the gaps between units? I’m especially interested in practical and sturdy solutions that can be implemented with a reasonable amount of DIY effort.

Hey, this is a really great topic! :-) I personally added some extra shelves to my Malm dresser, and it made a big difference! Using simple wooden boards that I had cut to size, I was able to create several smaller compartments. This way, the storage space is used much more efficiently! And if you don’t have a lot of tools: many hardware stores will even cut the wood to size for you on request! Definitely give it a try, it’s really fun, and the dresser almost looks like new afterwards! 🎉

A good way to optimize storage space in Malm dressers is to add extra shelves made of sturdy material. The original drill holes are limited, so it is advisable to modify them using appropriate tools, such as a drill or dowels. Increasing the depth by attaching additional back panels or extensions is also possible, but stability should be taken into consideration. Alternatively, installing drawer fronts on existing boxes can help make better use of the storage space by keeping small items more organized.

Installing shelves is simple and effective. The height of each compartment should be adjusted appropriately depending on the items being stored. Additionally, buy drawer inserts to divide the space. Making it deeper is more complex.

Colby42 schrieb:
I added a few extra shelves to my Malm dresser myself

Thanks for the reply, that actually sounds very practical! I’m curious: how did you secure the shelves? Did you glue them or use brackets? And did you buy the wooden boards yourself, or can you recommend which material is suitable? I want to avoid damaging or weakening the frame as much as possible.

Tauzosimus schrieb:
How did you secure the shelves?

I used small metal brackets that hook into the side panels, similar to standard shelf supports. I carefully drilled the matching holes with a thin drill bit to avoid damaging the side panels. This method is quite sturdy and reversible if you want to make changes later. I bought the wooden boards at the hardware store – plywood veneer is ideal because it’s lightweight yet strong. It’s important that the boards are cut precisely so they fit flush. Pro tip: sand the edges to avoid splinters :-).