ᐅ How do I clean MALM surfaces when they have stains?

Hello everyone, I have a fairly specific question regarding the cleaning of IKEA Malm furniture: What is the best way to clean Malm surfaces when dealing with stains, without damaging the surface or causing unwanted shine? Specifically, I have a white Malm dressing table made of lacquered wood-based material, and there are some stubborn stains from makeup and ink. So far, I have used regular microfiber cloths and mild dish soap, but not all stains come off. Could someone provide tips on which cleaning products or methods are suitable to protect the surface while effectively removing the stains? I would appreciate detailed advice because I want to avoid damaging or discoloring the lacquer finish. Thanks in advance!

Hello jurichen, in your case, I would use a mild soapy solution and a soft sponge. Gently rub stubborn stains with a damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or harsh detergents.

jurichen schrieb:
How can I best clean MALM surfaces when there are stains, without damaging the surface or causing unwanted shine?

Regarding your question: MALM surfaces typically consist of particleboard with a foil or lacquer coating. To remove stains like makeup or ink without damaging the surface, you should follow these steps:

1. Always start by cleaning with warm water and a soft microfiber cloth. This removes dust and loose dirt.

2. For stubborn stains, you can use a mild soapy solution (about 1 teaspoon of dishwashing liquid per 1 liter (1 quart) of warm water) and gently rub the stain in circular motions.

3. For ink stains, a small amount of alcohol can be effective, but use a cotton swab carefully and follow immediately by wiping with water to prevent the alcohol from damaging the surface.

4. After cleaning, make sure to dry the surface thoroughly to avoid water spots.

5. Avoid harsh cleaners, abrasive agents, solvents, and all-purpose cleaners, as they can dissolve or dull the foil or lacquer finish.

How large and old are the stains approximately? Are they dried in? This also affects how easily they can be removed.

Johnathon schrieb:
Harsh cleaners, abrasives, solvents, and all-purpose cleaners should be avoided, as they can dissolve or dull the film or paint.

I generally agree with this, but I wonder if there are also special gentle cleaning solutions specifically recommended for painted surfaces like those on MALM? Cleaning agents that have some dissolving effect without making the surface dull or spotty. Do you have any tips for this, Johnathon? Sometimes plain soapy water is just too weak against old or dried-on stains. Being too cautious during cleaning can lead to stains only being removed superficially and then darkening again or penetrating further into the surface.

janeo schrieb:
Do you have a tip for this, Johnathon?

In my experience, a special water-based furniture care and cleaning product that contains no solvents works well on painted surfaces. I use products recommended for painted or coated furniture that do not contain polishing agents like silicones, as these can cause unwanted shine or film residues over time.

Additionally, applying a bit more pressure with a soft sponge or microfiber cloth can help remove the stain mechanically, but always be gentle to avoid scratching the surface. For makeup stains, mildly alkaline cleaners can sometimes be effective, but be sure to wipe down with clean water afterward.

Overall, it is important to test the cleaning method on an inconspicuous area at the back of the furniture first. If available, care and cleaning instructions are often listed on the label of MALM furniture.