ᐅ How can I prevent the rollers on Malm drawers from breaking?

Hello everyone,

Some time ago, I bought an IKEA Malm drawer chest, but unfortunately, I have experienced several times that the rollers or drawer slides break or become deformed. This issue is quite frustrating because the drawers no longer work properly and are often difficult to open and close.

I would be interested to know if any of you have tips or experiences on how to prevent these rollers from wearing out so quickly. I am especially interested in helpful maintenance methods, proper loading techniques, or the use of alternative parts that might be more durable.

Thanks in advance for your input!

Hello minlaurent,

regarding your topic: Malm drawers often use plastic runners that can wear out or break quickly if handled improperly. The most important thing is careful use – so don’t overload the drawer. IKEA specifies a maximum load in the product description, which ideally should not be exceeded.

It is also advisable to clean the slides and rollers from time to time – dust, crumbs, or fibers can accumulate and affect the mechanism. A dry cloth or brush helps with this.

If the rollers are actually damaged, IKEA usually sells replacement rollers, or you can switch to high-quality third-party options that are often more durable. Installation is usually straightforward and worth the effort.

If you have more details about the exact model number, I’d be happy to provide further advice.

I would recommend not loading the drawers too heavily. The rollers will then last longer. Replacement rollers are available online at a low cost.

Tevin schrieb:
The important thing is careful handling – so don’t overload the drawer.

That’s an important point. So far, I have also considered the rollers to be somewhat delicate. When you say "overload," do you mean really heavy weight, or is just too much volume enough to strain the rollers?

Also, you mention that the running mechanism should be cleaned. Is there anything you would recommend for lubrication? I’m a bit concerned about using the wrong product on IKEA parts and potentially causing more damage.

minlaurent schrieb:
When you say "overloaded," do you mean really heavy weight, or is too much volume enough to strain the rollers?

Weight is the key factor. Even if the volume is large, it doesn’t strain the rollers as much, as long as you don’t stuff them completely and the mechanical impact isn’t too great.

minlaurent schrieb:
Is there anything you would recommend for lubrication?

A silicone-based spray is best because it doesn’t attract dirt and won’t damage plastic parts. WD-40 is a classic, but it’s often too harsh for plastic runners. Important: spray the rollers and tracks lightly to avoid excess lubricant attracting dirt.

Tevin schrieb:
The key point is gentle use – so don’t overload the drawer.

This is the usual advice, but I find it too superficial.

It would be necessary to examine whether the design of the Malm drawers themselves is sufficiently engineered to withstand the stresses encountered in daily use, or if there are structural weaknesses that could be addressed with reinforcements.

Therefore, I ask: Has anyone tried improvements through retrofitting, such as thicker rollers or metal guides? This way, one could address not only the symptoms but also the root cause.

In addition, it should be checked whether incorrect installation or later modifications cause the rollers to experience more strain than intended.