ᐅ How can I clean a Malm surface without causing damage?

Created on: 2 Nov 2024 08:22
K
kindi
Hello everyone,

I recently bought a Malm chest of drawers from IKEA and am now looking for a gentle and effective way to clean the surface without damaging it. The surface is lacquered and seems quite sensitive – I’ve heard about white water spots and light scratches that can appear if the wrong cleaning products or methods are used.

Does anyone have experience with how to keep the Malm surface clean long-term without dulling or damaging the lacquer? Which cleaning products do you recommend, and what is your exact cleaning routine? I am especially interested in advice about natural remedies versus specialized cleaning products and whether microfiber cloths or similar should be used. Thanks for your tips!
F
flo-Theres
3 Nov 2024 07:58
kindi schrieb:
Are there any recommended home remedies that can gently remove light water stains, or is it better to avoid experimenting?

Hello,

Light water stains on painted surfaces usually occur due to leftover lime or mineral deposits. You can carefully remove these with a damp cloth and a small amount of diluted vinegar solution (about 1:10 vinegar to water). Vinegar has a mild descaling effect.

It is important to immediately wipe the surface again with a damp cloth using clean water only, then dry thoroughly to remove the vinegar smell and avoid new stains.

Do not rub too hard, as this can damage the paint. Basic tools like microfiber cloths and using minimal amounts of liquid are essential here.
N
Nabla64
3 Nov 2024 09:16
A brief guide for the daily cleaning process:

1. Choose a cloth: Use a clean, soft microfiber cloth – ensure there are no dirt particles or abrasive residues.

2. Cleaning solution: Use lukewarm water with a drop of mild dish soap or a pH-neutral cleaner. Never apply it over the entire surface; use sparingly.

3. Wiping: Always wipe in one direction, not in circles. This reduces scratches and ensures a uniform result.

4. Rinse: Follow with a damp cloth (water only) to remove any cleaning solution residues.

5. Drying: Immediately wipe dry with a microfiber or cotton cloth. This prevents water spots and helps avoid paint damage.

Additionally, regular use of furniture polish products can help maintain the shine, but only use those explicitly designed for painted surfaces.

A common mistake is spraying cleaners directly onto the surface, as these are often too strong and aggressive.
K
koduga
3 Nov 2024 11:03
I really appreciate how carefully the surface protection is handled here. Especially when you’re taking care of a piece of furniture, you want it to look good for a long time without worrying about damage.

If you’re ever unsure, you can test a small area behind the dresser or underneath. I myself once accidentally cleaned with too much pressure and was pretty disappointed afterward.

It’s worth being patient and gentle, and the little routines can be enjoyable too 🙂

If you like, feel free to share which cleaners you’ve used—maybe we can compare and find the safest method.