ᐅ How do I properly secure a MALM dresser to the wall?

Hello everyone,

I recently bought a MALM chest of drawers from IKEA and want to securely and properly fasten it to the wall. My specific question is: How do I correctly anchor a MALM chest of drawers to the wall so that it stands stable and cannot tip over? I am especially interested in what to consider regarding the fastening materials, how to optimally position the chest, and whether there are any special considerations for different wall types (e.g., concrete, drywall/plasterboard). I want to make sure the chest is not only firmly but also safely attached, particularly if there are children in the household. Are there any differences in the procedure depending on the wall construction? Thank you in advance for your tips and experiences!

Hello!

Use the supplied wall mounting kits from IKEA. Screw the bracket into the wall with appropriate anchors (concrete or drywall). Then attach the rail to the top of the dresser and hang it. Secure enough with proper installation.

Hello sojanneke,

I’m happy to provide a brief guide on how to securely attach the MALM chest of drawers to the wall.

1. Check materials: The IKEA mounting kit includes brackets, screws, and anchors. Use heavy-duty anchors suitable for concrete or brick walls, and special cavity anchors for drywall.

2. Determine position: Place the chest of drawers in the desired spot and mark the holes for the wall bracket.

3. Drill holes: Make sure to drill to the correct depth and diameter according to the anchor specifications.

4. Insert anchors and screw in the bracket.

5. Attach the mounting strip to the chest of drawers (usually screws from the inside at the top back of the furniture).

6. Hang the chest of drawers and check all connection points.

Common mistakes: Using the wrong anchors or drilling holes too deep, which reduces holding strength.

Summary: Using the right anchors and careful installation are essential. If unsure about the wall type, it’s best to ask for advice at a hardware store.

I hope this helps!

giabau schrieb:
Typical mistakes: choosing the wrong anchors or drilling holes too deep, which reduces holding strength.

This is a very important point. Additionally, I would like to add that extra caution is needed with drywall walls.

If the MALM dresser will be loaded relatively heavily, you should use special cavity anchors or even screw directly into the wall studs (wood framing). It helps to locate the studs beforehand using a small screwdriver or a magnet.

For installation:

- Start by placing the dresser near the wall and mark the bracket positions with some spacing, which are often located high up on the back of the furniture.
- Drill holes with a drill bit that exactly matches the size of the anchors – not larger, not smaller.
- For drywall, it is best to use toggle anchors (folding metal clips) if possible, since simple plastic anchors are not secure enough.
- Make sure the screws are not too long, otherwise you may damage the wall or the furniture.
- Finally, the dresser should be slightly pre-tensioned so that it fits firmly in the bracket without being misaligned.

What kind of wall do you have there, sojanneke?

Surela schrieb:
What type of wall do you have, sojanneke?

Thank you for the detailed explanation! My wall is a typical interior wall, most likely drywall with wooden studs behind it. I also used a magnet to locate the studs, but it wasn’t very precise.

Therefore, I would like to know exactly: Is there a recommended method to securely install anchors in this type of wall? And how should I position the dresser to ensure the best support?

I am a bit concerned that using the wrong anchors or screws might compromise safety.

Hey sojanneke,

I had the same problem with my MALM dresser. 😊

My tip: Definitely use metal hollow wall anchors, as these are more robust compared to plastic hooks. They expand behind the drywall when you push them through the hole – they really hold the weight well.

Position the dresser so that the brackets are directly on the wooden studs or at least close to them. If you’re not sure, it’s better to screw the bracket into the stud with a longer screw than just into the drywall.

And don’t worry: The brackets supplied by IKEA are actually well made. Just try everything carefully and don’t overtighten so that everything fits perfectly.

If you want to be absolutely sure, check where the stud is beforehand using a small nail or a thin drill bit. Good luck! 🙂