ᐅ How can I protect Malm furniture from damage?

Hello everyone,

I recently bought an IKEA Malm desk and want to protect it as well as possible from damage. Specifically, I’m interested in simple and effective ways to prevent scratches, dents, and discoloration on the surface. I’m thinking both about protection through care products and preventive measures like covers or proper handling.

My question to you is: How can I protect Malm furniture from damage without affecting its appearance? Are there any specific products to look out for? And what should be avoided based on experience?

Thanks in advance for your tips!

kokura schrieb:
What simple and effective measures can be taken to prevent scratches, dents, and discoloration on the surface?

That’s a precise question, thank you for that. However, we should also clarify: To what extent does the material of the Malm furniture piece play a role? The classic Malm series combines particleboard with a foil or melamine coating, which responds differently to cleaning products.

My advice: First, avoid aggressive cleaning agents that could damage the sealant. Second, for mechanical protection, felt pads under heavy items or transparent PVC mats are suitable, for example.

Question for kokura: How much is the desk used? Is it mainly for office work, or is it located in a high-traffic area?

Simple solution: Apply protective film on tabletops and attach felt pads to furniture legs. Clean with mild dish soap; do not use abrasive cleaners.

Josefane schrieb:
The classic Malm series is a combination of particleboard with a foil or melamine finish

Exactly. That’s the crucial point. Malm furniture is mostly made of MDF or particleboard, coated with melamine resin or a foil layer. This surface is generally durable but sensitive to mechanical impacts and inappropriate cleaning products.

Regular moisture care is important here, but without allowing water to stand on the surface. To prevent damage, I recommend the following steps:

1. Assess how much mechanical pressure or friction the surface typically experiences.
2. As Josefane already mentioned, use felt pads or coasters (for cups, plants, electronic devices). Nylon or rubber feet can even cause abrasion.
3. Protective films with UV protection can prevent discoloration from direct sunlight, which is often underestimated.
4. For cleaning, use only a soft cloth with a neutral cleaning agent; avoid alcohol- or acetone-based solvents.

Can you specify which items you usually keep on your desk? That could help make the recommendation more precise.

Hello kokura,

I think your question is really important because many people find Malm furniture affordable but are often unsure about how to care for it.

Basically, Malm furniture is not solid wood, which explains the level of care it requires.

My clear recommendation is to avoid placing anything sharp-edged or wet directly on the surface, as this often causes most of the damage. Also, make sure not to use abrasive cleaners when cleaning, as these can cause tiny micro-cracks that worsen over time.

I would also advise against using wax or oils, as these do not react well with the foil or melamine coating.

I recommend using special felt pads for the legs of chairs or heavy objects. Additionally, simply placing a wipeable table protector helps; there are transparent materials available that hardly affect the appearance but still provide protection.

If you like, I can gladly suggest some products.

Clean Malm furniture best with a slightly damp cloth; do not use harsh chemicals. For protection: cover tabletops with felt pads and avoid placing heavy objects directly on the surface without a protective layer.