ᐅ How can I protect Malm dressers from scratches?

Created on: 30 Aug 2020 16:34
L
Ledara
Hello everyone, I have several Malm dressers from IKEA and want to protect them from scratches. The problem is that I often place small items on them, which can easily damage the surface. Therefore, my question is: What methods or products do you recommend to effectively protect Malm dressers from scratches without significantly changing the look or feel of the furniture? I am thinking of protective films, glass tops, or special coatings but am unsure which option works best in the long term. Thanks in advance for your advice!
L
letar
31 Aug 2020 10:23
Regarding glass protection, the dimensions of the glass panel should be precisely matched to the chest of drawers to avoid overhang. To prevent slipping, it is recommended to use transparent silicone anti-slip pads. These are barely visible, provide good grip, and leave no residue.

Felt pads reduce mechanical stress caused by small movements but do not replace full-surface protection. Felt pads alone are not sufficient for heavy or sharp-edged objects.
C
chenfi
31 Aug 2020 10:56
I used matte protective films on my Malm dresser. They are easy to apply by yourself and provide good protection against scratches. The surface texture is slightly altered to the touch, but the appearance remains well preserved.
M
marcosku52
31 Aug 2020 11:22
I also think anti-slip protection combined with glass is the best option. This way, you get two benefits at once: safety and a clean look. 🙂

Personally, I often use wax cloths or fabric mats under decorations when I need to quickly place something down. They are flexible and won’t cause any damage.
L
Ledara
1 Sep 2020 07:45
Thanks for all the tips! I have two more questions: Is there a specific type of glass material (e.g., tempered glass or float glass) that you would recommend for glass panels? And can the protective film be removed later without leaving any residue, in case I decide to switch to a different type of protection? The dressers are still relatively new, and I would prefer not to make any permanent changes.
L
letar
1 Sep 2020 08:13
ESG glass (tempered safety glass) is the clear recommendation for glass panels used in furniture because it is more stable and resistant to breaking than annealed glass. Annealed glass is less expensive but more prone to cracks and scratches.

Regarding protective films: High-quality adhesive films can usually be removed without residue if done carefully. The film should be peeled off slowly and at a shallow angle. Any remaining adhesive can be removed with a specialized adhesive remover.
G
Gilbert
1 Sep 2020 09:50
letar schrieb:
Tempered glass [...] is stronger and more break-resistant than float glass

Exactly. And anyone who tries to save money on glass ends up paying more later – not only for replacement but also in frustration.

The same applies to protective films. Cheaper films fade, become brittle, or eventually stick very badly.