ᐅ What is the best way to clean Malm surfaces?

Created on: 6 Dec 2024 18:37
M
Martingu
M
Martingu
6 Dec 2024 18:37
Hello everyone,

I am planning to thoroughly clean my IKEA Malm furniture, but I want to make sure I do not damage or roughen the surfaces. Therefore, I am specifically interested in the best way to clean Malm surfaces without affecting the white paint or the laminate finish.

My questions are mainly about which cleaning products are truly suitable. Should I use a damp microfiber cloth, or are special care products recommended? Are there any cleaners I should definitely avoid because they could dull or discolor the surface?

It would also be helpful to know how to remove stubborn stains without damaging the surface. I have often read that aggressive cleaning agents can cause damage quickly.

I appreciate any helpful recommendations and tips on caring for and cleaning Malm surfaces. Thank you in advance!
K
KAULIS
6 Dec 2024 19:05
Hello Martingu,

Regarding your question: Malm furniture is usually finished with a foil coating or a matte lacquer. It is important not to use abrasive cleaners or strong solvents, as these can damage the surface.

For regular cleaning, a damp microfiber cloth with mild dish soap is completely sufficient. Afterwards, wipe the furniture with a dry cloth to prevent water spots.

To remove stubborn stains, you can cautiously try a mixture of water and a little vinegar essence or lemon juice, preferably first on an inconspicuous area. Do not use acetone, alcohol, or chlorine-based cleaners under any circumstances, as they will destroy the surface.

If you want to care for the furniture, there are special furniture oils for lacquered or coated surfaces that leave a light protective film without being sticky or leaving residues.

To summarize:
- Damp microfiber cloth + mild dish soap
- No solvents, abrasives, or harsh cleaners
- Stubborn stains carefully treated with diluted vinegar
- Furniture oils for lacquered surfaces are optional

I hope this helps you.
K
Kinbu
7 Dec 2024 08:24
Hello Martingu,

I can confirm KAULIS’s advice and would like to add that patience and gentleness are very important when cleaning Malm surfaces. For example, if you need to remove glue residues or grease stains, soak the microfiber cloth in lukewarm water with a neutral cleaning agent, applying only light pressure.
KAULIS schrieb:
For regular cleaning, a damp microfiber cloth with mild dish soap is completely sufficient.

Additionally, stains caused by ballpoint pens or other marks can be gently treated with a soft eraser. Please avoid rubbing too hard, as this may damage the surface.

If you want to protect the furniture overall, I also recommend avoiding placing it near heat sources and keeping it out of direct sunlight, as foils and lacquers can discolor or become brittle under these conditions.

If you have any further questions about the exact procedure, I am happy to help.
F
Filippo
7 Dec 2024 10:47
Hello everyone and hello Martingu,

I would like to go into more detail about the cleaning and care of Malm surfaces, as both the type of surface and the composition of cleaning agents are crucial.

Malm furniture usually has a surface laminated with a plastic film or is treated with a water-based matte lacquer. Both types of surfaces are sensitive to strongly alkaline or acidic cleaning agents. Therefore, neutral cleaners with a pH around 7 are ideal.

Step-by-step recommendation:
1. Remove dust: Use a dry microfiber cloth or a soft duster.
2. Light dirt: Use a damp microfiber cloth with lukewarm water and 1-2 drops of mild dish soap, such as a pH-neutral glass cleaner.
3. Stain treatment: For stubborn but non-soluble stains like grease or paint residues, you can use 70% isopropyl alcohol. However, always test it first in an inconspicuous area! Use sparingly and dab the stain—do not rub.
4. Drying: Always wipe immediately with a dry cloth, as standing moisture can cause the film to peel.

Important: Never use scouring sponges or aggressive chemical cleaners—they cause scratches and discoloration.

Regarding care: There are special care products for plastic film coatings that can make small micro-scratches invisible. These waxes or nano-sealants must be specifically suitable for film surfaces, otherwise discoloration may occur.

I am curious though: Does anyone combine cleaning with regular care for their Malm furniture? Or is daily cleaning with mild soap sufficient? Which product do you specifically use?
F
flo-Theres
7 Dec 2024 12:33
Filippo schrieb:
I wonder: Does anyone combine cleaning with regular maintenance for their Malm furniture? Or is cleaning with mild soap enough for everyday care?

These questions are important because I often see users completely neglect maintenance, which predictably leads to cracks or discoloration.

From experience, for most cases with Malm furniture, regularly wiping the furniture with a mild cleaner and a soft cloth is sufficient. Intensive maintenance is not always necessary for foil surfaces and is often overestimated.

If the surface still appears dull or slightly scratched, I recommend applying a care wax designed for foil furniture once a year. It is crucial to use a product that is specifically approved for plastics and foil, as other products often leave residues.

It is also advisable to avoid letting water sit on the surface for extended periods to prevent adhesion damage and film inclusions.

My tip: Start with simple cleaning and add maintenance measures if signs of wear appear; this is the best way to prevent damage.