ᐅ How do I remove obstructing parts from Malm drawers?

Created on: 4 Feb 2020 08:43
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MARKELPEO
Hello everyone,

I have an issue with IKEA Malm drawers that no longer open properly because some parts seem to be blocking their movement. Specifically, it seems that either the drawer slides are catching or the locking mechanism isn’t working correctly – sometimes the drawer gets completely stuck and won’t either pull out or push in fully.

Has anyone dealt with freeing up jammed parts in Malm drawers reliably? Should I completely remove the drawer, or are there tricks that can be tried on the spot? It’s important to me not to damage any parts since the drawers are fairly new.

I would appreciate any tips on how to clean the drawer slides or check the locking system, as well as any experiences with faulty components!
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pinpa
4 Feb 2020 11:24
Hey Markelpeo,

It might sound complicated at first, but the cam levers are actually well hidden – a bit like a secret IKEA passage 😉 Try gently working a small screwdriver or your fingernails in and look out for the levers you can press.

Drawers often get stuck when dirt or wood chips get caught inside. After that, just wipe everything down with a dry cloth and a bit of lubricant, and it usually runs much smoother.

Good luck, and don’t let the little catches throw you off! 😉
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fepau
4 Feb 2020 13:35
Exactly, that’s the fun with IKEA furniture 🙂 The levers are a bit tricky, but with patience it works really well! And hey, don’t hesitate to take the drawer out and give it a proper clean!

I’ve always treated my slides with silicone spray, which makes them glide smoothly. If the parts ever get stuck, this has worked wonders for me so far. Just keep at it—the result is worth the effort!
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olivernu
5 Feb 2020 08:17
Good morning,

a bit more detailed: The Malm drawers are reliable constructions but can be somewhat prone to issues if the runners are blocked by foreign objects or if plastic components are damaged.

My tip: Pull the drawer fully forward until it almost comes out, then simultaneously press the locking levers on both sides at the back of the runner inward (these are often small, sliding plastic clips). This releases the lock and allows you to remove the drawer.

With the drawer outside of the furniture, check the runners for dirt or damaged plastic parts. Clean the runners with a damp cloth. After drying, I recommend applying a special lubricant designed for plastic guides (not oil, as that attracts dust).

If plastic parts are cracked or broken, it is usually advisable to get replacement parts – IKEA often offers these individually. Broken levers can cause the drawer to become permanently stuck.

When reinstalling, please make sure the runners are properly hooked in until you hear a clear click.
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MARKELPEO
5 Feb 2020 10:55
olivernu schrieb:
Press both locking levers on the back of the rail inward at the same time

Thank you for the detailed instructions! The part about the levers on the back sounds like the crucial tip. I will try it exactly like that today and then clean it with a suitable lubricant.

Is there a specific lubricant recommended by IKEA, or is a regular silicone spray also fine? I don’t want to damage the drawers by using the wrong product.
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gipifa
6 Feb 2020 07:48
MARKELPEO schrieb:
Is there a specific lubricant that IKEA recommends, or is a regular silicone spray also fine?

Hello Markelpeo, silicone spray is great, that’s exactly what I use! 🙂 It works well on plastic and is safe to use. It’s important not to use anything with oil or grease, as that attracts dust and can make the blockage worse over time. Good luck freeing the drawers!