ᐅ How can I get rid of extra screws when assembling a Malm?

Created on: 11 Apr 2023 07:53
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Endrit
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Endrit
11 Apr 2023 07:53
Hello everyone,

I’m currently facing an issue while assembling my Ikea Malm dresser set. During the build, I noticed that some screws remain unused at the end – several that, according to the instructions, don’t seem to be required and therefore appear to be surplus. Now I’m wondering: What’s the best way to deal with these extra screws during the Malm assembly without damaging the furniture or compromising its stability?

I understand that the instructions are quite precise, but sometimes parts or screws seem to be included as spares. Should I just keep them as replacements, or are there better ways to dispose of them safely? Maybe you also have tips on how to make practical use of these screws before getting rid of them?

I want to avoid any wobbling or problems with the furniture later on, so it’s important for me to understand whether these screws are truly unnecessary or if they might serve a specific function. Thanks in advance for your help!
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RETRAVIS
11 Apr 2023 09:46
You are absolutely right; the assembly kits from Ikea often include more screws than are actually needed. This is because they either provide spare screws or use a universal packaging for different models.
Endrit schrieb:
How can I best get rid of these extra screws without damaging the furniture or compromising its stability?

My recommendation: Keep the screws as spares initially. If you purchase more furniture from this series or make modifications, they might still come in handy. For proper disposal, it is best to recycle them—metal should go into a metal recycling bin or be taken to a local recycling center. Simply throwing them away without sorting is not environmentally friendly.

Also, check whether the screws are truly unnecessary. Sometimes they are used for optional components or different variations. Make sure not to leave any unused holes that could potentially affect stability.
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KINMIN4
11 Apr 2023 11:03
Simply keep the screws as replacements. If you truly don’t need them, take them to metal recycling. This way, you have them on hand just in case and do something good for the environment!
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sarlo
12 Apr 2023 14:29
Hello Endrit,

it’s good that you’re thinking about this! Many Ikea furniture items include extra screws and small parts because manufacturers want to make sure customers have replacements in case of errors or losses. Especially with the Malm series, it’s common to find both short and long screws included, just in case the wrong size is chosen or because they fit different versions.
Endrit schrieb:
Should I simply keep these as spares, or are there better ways to dispose of them safely?

I recommend keeping these screws in a small container. That way, if you ever need to tighten or repair something, you’ll be well prepared. If you decide to dispose of them, as RETRAVIS says: metal screws should go in the metal recycling bin, not the household trash. This helps protect the environment and prevents contamination in waste collection.
RETRAVIS schrieb:
Check whether the screws are truly not needed.

I’d like to add: sometimes the extra screws are meant for optional parts, such as a back panel or reinforcements that you may not have installed. Have a look to see if you have any additional components that might require these screws.

Good luck with your assembly 🙂