ᐅ How can I prevent MALM dressers from sliding?

Created on: 12 Nov 2022 08:23
C
carinasi
C
carinasi
12 Nov 2022 08:23
Hello everyone,

I recently bought several MALM dressers from IKEA. They look great, but unfortunately, they are quite easy to slide around—especially on my laminate flooring, which isn’t ideal because they tend to shift frequently. This can also be dangerous when you pull out the drawers and the dresser becomes unstable.

So my question is: What is the best way to secure MALM dressers against slipping? I’m looking for a solution that requires little to no drilling into the wall or the dresser itself, as I’m not allowed to make many modifications to the furniture in my rental apartment.

Do you have any tips on anti-slip materials or special brackets that are reliable? Advice on long-term durability or possible damage to the floor or furniture would also be appreciated.

Thank you in advance!
J
JONSON
12 Nov 2022 10:49
Hello carinasi,

The issue of MALM dressers slipping is quite well known because the furniture is relatively lightweight and often placed on smooth floors. So you're looking for a simple solution without wall mounting, correct?

A proven method is to use special anti-slip pads made of rubber or silicone that you stick under the furniture feet. They significantly increase friction and are easy to apply. Make sure the pads are suitable for laminate flooring to avoid discoloration.

If you want something more secure, rubber furniture wedges that can be slid behind or under the dresser are also recommended, especially if the back is against a wall.

I generally advise against double-sided tapes, as they often leave residues or can damage laminate flooring.

Important: Always check stability regularly, especially if there are children in the household.

I hope this helps you.
S
sinhau
13 Nov 2022 15:37
Hello carinasi,

I have read your post carefully and want to provide you with a clear guide on how to securely prevent your MALM dressers from sliding without damaging your home.

1. Material selection:
- Non-slip pads made of silicone or rubber (e.g., "furniture pads with anti-slip function")
- Rubber wedges for additional stabilization

2. Preparation:
- Clean the floor under the dressers thoroughly (remove dust, grease, etc.)
- Also clean the dresser feet and allow them to dry completely

3. Application:
- Stick the non-slip pads under each foot. Make sure they are centered so the load is distributed evenly.
- If possible: use furniture wedges as well, especially if the dresser is placed against a wall. You can wedge these between the wall and the furniture.

4. Summary and tips:
- Use high-quality pads that do not leave residue or cause discoloration on laminate flooring.
- I advise against cheap self-adhesive pads – they often lose their adhesive strength or damage the floor when removed.
- Keep in mind that any securing method only works well with maintenance: regularly check the condition of the pads and clean the area.
JONSON schrieb:
I rather advise against double-sided adhesive tapes, as they often leave residue or can damage laminate flooring.

I can only agree with that. Rental apartments especially require residue-free solutions.

I hope my explanation helps you keep your dressers from sliding.
N
Naomige
14 Nov 2022 09:16
Hello carinasi,

I would like to add to your very good question, as it’s not just the sliding that can be problematic, but often also the tipping when drawers are pulled out or children play with them.

In addition to securing against sliding, which can be effectively done with anti-slip pads or furniture wedges, I recommend securing your MALM dressers to the wall if your rental agreement allows it. IKEA offers a fairly discreet safety system for attaching furniture to the wall – these brackets are often included in the packaging.

If drilling into the wall is not an option at all, you can use furniture stabilizers that use tension mechanisms, similar to a spring, which clamp between floor and ceiling. These are often available at hardware stores or online and can prevent sliding without causing damage.

It’s also important not to overload the dressers and to distribute weight evenly. I have one more tip:
sinhau schrieb:
Clean the floor beneath the dressers thoroughly (remove dust, grease, etc.)
– this is really crucial, as otherwise the pads won’t hold for long.

Finally: If there are children in the household, you should definitely try IKEA’s clamp system, as an unsecured dresser poses a tipping hazard.

I hope this information is helpful and wish you good luck!