ᐅ How can I clean Malm furniture without losing its finish?

Created on: 19 Mar 2021 09:37
D
Debbie
Hello everyone, some time ago I purchased several Malm furniture pieces from Ikea, mainly dressers and nightstands in matte white. I have noticed that after regular cleaning with a damp cloth, they sometimes appear a bit dull and lose their original, slightly velvety look.

My main question is: How can I properly clean Malm furniture without losing the matte, subtle effect and the surface’s original finish or “sheen”? Are there specific cleaning products that should be avoided? What is the best approach when dealing with grease stains or more stubborn dirt without damaging the surface?

It would be great if anyone with experience or background knowledge could share useful tips on how to clean Malm furniture gently and effectively, especially for the matte versions. Thanks in advance for your help!
K
KUDAISY
21 Mar 2021 09:18
Debbie schrieb:
How exactly can possible residues be checked or removed if the surface becomes dull due to care mistakes?

You can test a small area by wiping it with a clean, damp microfiber cloth. If residues come off, the spot will appear slightly glossier or cleaner. Important: let it dry afterward and observe whether the uniform appearance returns.

If the surface remains dull, it may be due to chemical changes in the coating that are hardly reversible.

A practical step for light contamination is cleaning with water and dish soap, followed by clear water and quick drying with a cloth. For heavier soiling, a special furniture cleaner for melamine surfaces that is free of waxes and solvents is suitable.

Summary: residues can be removed by repeated simple wiping, but mechanical or chemical damage cannot be repaired. Avoid care products that leave residues.
G
GAGRAHAM
21 Mar 2021 11:44
Oh, thanks for the detailed tips! 🙂 It really feels great when the furniture looks fresh and well-maintained, but without that artificial shine – the matte finish definitely has its own charm!

I have Malm tables with matte surfaces, and what really helps is gentle cleaning and, above all, never using rough sponges or harsh cleaners. The right cloth is important; I always use very soft microfiber cloths and prefer to work with just a little water. This way, the look stays great for a long time!

Very important: If you accidentally use the wrong product (speaking from experience ;-)), don’t panic! Patient cleaning, as described here, often helps to fix a lot. So, don’t give up on your Malm! :-)