ᐅ How do I clean MALM surfaces after renovation work?

Created on: 25 Apr 2022 09:17

Hello everyone, I renovated my apartment last week and had Ikea Malm furniture in the living area, which unfortunately is now dirty with dust, paint residue, and some adhesive spots. After removing the large debris, I’m wondering how to best clean the surfaces without damaging or affecting the light melamine coating. Are there any specific cleaning products or home remedies that have proven effective, especially after renovation work where stubborn dirt like wall paint or fine sanding dust can be present? It’s important to me that the cleaning is thorough but gentle. I look forward to your tips and experiences!

Kenon7025 Apr 2022 12:42

By "carefully," I mean: apply isopropanol to a soft cloth, not directly spray it onto the surface. Then test it first on a hidden corner to see if the paint or melamine is affected. If there is no change, gently dab the paint stains without rubbing.

lajudo25 Apr 2022 13:05

My experience after renovation: first, thoroughly remove the dust, then carefully clean with a microfiber cloth and lukewarm water. Paint spots can usually be removed this way. If not, fine sandpaper can help; please do not scrape.

fartu25 Apr 2022 14:02

Thank you for your quick responses!

Regarding MUMENAR: The paint is completely dry. There are splashes of wall paint (acrylic) and some white dispersion adhesive on the melamine table. I want to avoid the surface becoming matte or developing white marks.

Kenon70 and Naomige, thank you for the advice about isopropanol and mild dish detergent.

Does anyone have experience with removing dispersion adhesive specifically without roughening the melamine surface?

Naomige25 Apr 2022 14:45

#10

fartu schrieb:
What helps to remove dispersion adhesive without damaging the melamine surface?

You can usually loosen dispersion adhesive with some time and warm water. Soak a cloth in lukewarm water with a drop of dish soap and place it on the affected area for a few minutes. Then, carefully try to lift the adhesive using a plastic scraper or your fingers. It’s important not to apply too much force, as melamine is quite durable, but the white melamine surface can scratch or dull easily. Patience often works better than pressure.

BOMILAN25 Apr 2022 15:23

#11

After renovations, I have had good results using a furniture eraser. It usually removes glue residues and small paint stains. Do not press too hard, as it can dull the surfaces.

MUMENAR25 Apr 2022 15:48

#12

Naomige schrieb:
Patience often helps more than force.

I fully agree. Additionally, if adhesive residues are very stubborn, one should consider whether it is really necessary to remove them completely or if a slight patina is acceptable, since excessive treatment can irreversibly alter the surface.

ᐅ How do I clean MALM surfaces after renovation work?

Reaktionen