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JAYDENPL6831 Oct 2017 19:23Hello everyone,
Some time ago, I bought the IKEA Malm bed and now want to disassemble it, either to move or to store the individual parts more easily. Although I still have a rough idea of the assembly process, taking it apart is still a challenge for me, especially without the manual.
My question is: What is the recommended procedure for simply and carefully disassembling the Malm bed or wardrobe without causing damage? Are there specific tools that are essential? What is the best way to avoid damaging screws or joints?
I look forward to helpful tips and tricks from you that make the process easier and possibly point out common pitfalls. Thanks in advance!
Some time ago, I bought the IKEA Malm bed and now want to disassemble it, either to move or to store the individual parts more easily. Although I still have a rough idea of the assembly process, taking it apart is still a challenge for me, especially without the manual.
My question is: What is the recommended procedure for simply and carefully disassembling the Malm bed or wardrobe without causing damage? Are there specific tools that are essential? What is the best way to avoid damaging screws or joints?
I look forward to helpful tips and tricks from you that make the process easier and possibly point out common pitfalls. Thanks in advance!
Hello JAYDENPL68,
Disassembling a Malm piece of furniture—whether it’s a bed or a wardrobe—works best when you follow a systematic approach and keep a few basic rules in mind. First, examine all types of screws carefully. The Malm series usually uses screws with an Allen (hex) head and sometimes small plastic dowels. So, having the right size Allen key is essential.
Important: Work from the outside in and avoid removing the screws too quickly or forcefully to prevent damaging the threads. Use prying tools gently to avoid tearing the chipboard.
I also recommend labeling or marking the individual parts carefully during disassembly to ensure you can reassemble everything correctly later.
For safety: If the furniture has been used for a while, the joints may be tighter. Applying some gentle heat with a hairdryer—but not too hot—can help soften the adhesive on the dowels a bit.
Good luck!
Disassembling a Malm piece of furniture—whether it’s a bed or a wardrobe—works best when you follow a systematic approach and keep a few basic rules in mind. First, examine all types of screws carefully. The Malm series usually uses screws with an Allen (hex) head and sometimes small plastic dowels. So, having the right size Allen key is essential.
Important: Work from the outside in and avoid removing the screws too quickly or forcefully to prevent damaging the threads. Use prying tools gently to avoid tearing the chipboard.
I also recommend labeling or marking the individual parts carefully during disassembly to ensure you can reassemble everything correctly later.
For safety: If the furniture has been used for a while, the joints may be tighter. Applying some gentle heat with a hairdryer—but not too hot—can help soften the adhesive on the dowels a bit.
Good luck!
I would like to add a point about preparation:
Before you start, write down all the screws and fasteners used, ideally with photos, in case you no longer have the instructions. This will make it easier later to identify which step belongs to which part.
If the Malm furniture piece is older and screws are already embedded in the wood fibers, use a cordless drill with adjustable torque settings when unscrewing to avoid over-tightening. Never force screws out with just physical strength, as this can damage the screw sleeves.
Regarding tools: In addition to hex keys, a small flathead and Phillips screwdriver can be helpful since some parts might be secured with those. A rubber mallet can also be useful for gently loosening individual components.
I also recommend using a padded surface to protect the finishes while disassembling.
Before you start, write down all the screws and fasteners used, ideally with photos, in case you no longer have the instructions. This will make it easier later to identify which step belongs to which part.
If the Malm furniture piece is older and screws are already embedded in the wood fibers, use a cordless drill with adjustable torque settings when unscrewing to avoid over-tightening. Never force screws out with just physical strength, as this can damage the screw sleeves.
Regarding tools: In addition to hex keys, a small flathead and Phillips screwdriver can be helpful since some parts might be secured with those. A rubber mallet can also be useful for gently loosening individual components.
I also recommend using a padded surface to protect the finishes while disassembling.
KESIRI schrieb:
Get an Allen key, loosen the screws.That is correct, but I would add that special care should be taken with the dowel joints. Simply prying them out can easily damage the wood fibers, making reassembly more difficult.
KESIRI schrieb:
Avoid damage by not prying.Exactly, it’s better to work carefully with the right tools to keep everything intact. Maybe place a soft pad underneath to prevent scratches.
I think the whole debate about the 'easy disassembly' of IKEA furniture is somewhat exaggerated. Malm is designed for the mass market – which means the construction is not optimized for repeated assembly and disassembly. In my opinion, expecting that is mistaken.
Why? Because particleboard-based materials and dowel connections are stressed the first time and lose stability afterward. Every turn of the Allen key slightly loosens the components – that’s simply a matter of material science.
My hypothesis: if you want to repeatedly take furniture apart and put it back together over a longer period, you should opt for higher-quality alternatives with real joinery. Malm is more suitable for short-term use or at least a rather static setup.
That doesn’t mean you can’t be careful – but honestly, I believe it’s just the material.
Why? Because particleboard-based materials and dowel connections are stressed the first time and lose stability afterward. Every turn of the Allen key slightly loosens the components – that’s simply a matter of material science.
My hypothesis: if you want to repeatedly take furniture apart and put it back together over a longer period, you should opt for higher-quality alternatives with real joinery. Malm is more suitable for short-term use or at least a rather static setup.
That doesn’t mean you can’t be careful – but honestly, I believe it’s just the material.
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