ᐅ How do I remove scratches from the surface of the IKEA BRIMNES furniture?

Hello everyone,

Some time ago, I bought a cabinet from the IKEA Brimnes series, which has a white matte surface. Unfortunately, several light scratches have appeared over time that significantly affect its appearance.

My question is: What is the best way to clean or treat scratches on the BRIMNES surface without causing further damage? Are there any household remedies or special care products suitable for this type of melamine-coated surface?

I have heard of various methods—from gentle polishing and special sponges to repair kits—but I don’t want to try anything that might worsen the coating.

Could you please share detailed tips or experiences that help remove or at least conceal light scratches on this particular surface? Thanks in advance for your help!

Hello mason44,

I completely understand how frustrating scratches on an otherwise nice surface can be. The BRIMNES series from IKEA, as you mentioned, has a melamine-coated surface that is quite durable but not indestructible.

First of all, I strongly recommend avoiding aggressive cleaning agents or scouring pads, as these can cause further damage to the coating.

The following approach has proven effective:

- Clean the surface initially with mild dish soap and lukewarm water to remove dust and dirt.
- For light scratches, a special furniture polish or wax based on acrylic or melamine can often be used. These products slightly fill in the scratches and make them less visible.
- If available, special repair pens or kits for melamine-coated furniture can also help. These are often sold in furniture stores and can be color-matched.
- A simple home remedy is to gently rub a small amount of olive oil or mineral oil into the surface. This provides a slight shine and masks fine scratches, although this is only a temporary solution.

It is important to test any treatment on an inconspicuous area first to ensure the surface does not become stained.

Don’t be discouraged; light scratches can often be treated quite well with some patience. If the scratches are deeper, it may be more practical to cover the affected area with a suitable adhesive film or sticker, since fully repairing melamine surfaces is difficult.

I hope these tips help you!

naudan schrieb:
The BRIMNES series from IKEA, as you already mentioned, has a melamine-coated surface that is quite durable but not indestructible.

Exactly, so care is necessary when maintaining it.

To add:

- The surface of the BRIMNES furniture is a melamine resin coating on particleboard. It is scratch-resistant but not scratch-proof.
- Abrasive cleaners or mechanical polishes should not be used to repair damage, as they can remove the protective layer.
- Instead, cleaning with a lint-free cloth and mild cleaners without alcohol or solvents is recommended.
- For cosmetic repair of light scratches, furniture wax or silicone-based furniture polish can be used to visually fill in the damage.
- For deeper scratches, replacement or covering up are often the only practical solutions.

If you want to use a repair kit, make sure it is specifically designed for melamine-coated surfaces, as some kits intended for wood or lacquered finishes are unsuitable.

In general, avoid aggressive cleaners or strong mechanical stress. The best approach is prevention, such as protecting surfaces with felt pads or mats to prevent new scratches.

Can you describe the type of scratches in more detail? Are they fine surface scratches or deeper damages? This would help refine the recommendations.

Fitigu schrieb:
Could you describe the type of scratches in more detail? Are they fine surface scratches or deeper damage?

Thank you for asking, that makes it easier to assess. These are mostly fine, superficial scratches caused by light contact with rougher objects. Fortunately, deeper gouges are not present (yet).

naudan schrieb:
A simple home remedy is to gently rub a small amount of olive oil or mineral oil in.

I will carefully try that, using a soft cloth step by step to see if the scratches can be visually reduced.

Otherwise, I would also look for furniture wax suitable for melamine-coated surfaces.

Do any of you have practical tips on application to avoid uneven marks or spots? For example, how much product to use per area, how long to let it sit, and how to remove any excess?

I want to avoid making the condition worse as much as possible.