ᐅ How can I protect Malm furniture from UV damage?

Hello everyone,

I recently bought an Ikea Malm bed, which is known to have a painted or veneered surface. Since the room is very bright and sunny, I am concerned about the effects of UV rays on the furniture surface. Specifically, I am interested in what methods or products are available to protect Malm furniture from fading or potential material aging caused by UV exposure.

Are there special UV protection films, coatings, or perhaps specific storage or positioning tips that are effective? Also, is it advisable to oil or treat the furniture regularly? I would appreciate practical advice as well as warnings about what might not be worth it or could potentially damage the surface.

Thank you in advance for your expertise!

Hi,

to protect Malm furniture from UV rays, I recommend not placing the furniture directly next to the window. Additionally, UV protection films on the windows help to significantly reduce the radiation. Maintenance with special furniture polishes keeps the surface smooth but does not replace UV protection.

Devin schrieb:
Additionally, UV protection films on the windows help to significantly reduce radiation.

That is correct, window films with UV filters typically block over 90% of UV light and are one of the most effective measures against fading.

Furthermore, it should be noted that Malm furniture has an MDF panel with a lacquer or foil coating. While these are relatively durable, they are not immune to UV damage. Over time, UV light can cause the lacquer to appear dull and can trigger color changes.

Regular treatment of the surface with a suitable furniture wax or oil only makes sense if the product is specifically designed for lacquered or veneered surfaces and does not contain aggressive solvents that could damage the lacquer.

In addition, I believe it is important to place the furniture so that direct sunlight exposure is avoided whenever possible. Roller blinds or curtains with UV protection function can help regulate the amount of light in the room.

In summary:
- UV protection films on windows
- Avoid placing furniture in direct sunlight
- Use care products sparingly and choose them carefully

This significantly reduces the risk of UV damage to Malm furniture.

Goleo schrieb:
I would appreciate practical tips or also advice on what might not be worth it or could possibly damage the surface.

Hello!

Very good question, especially since with inexpensive furniture like the Malm series, UV exposure can indeed quickly affect the surface.

Many people try to treat their furniture with household oils, such as linseed oil or olive oil, which I would not recommend. These oils can rather discolor the surface or cause unsightly stains, especially since the furniture is not made of solid wood.

In my experience, the following measures are practical and effective:

- Using UV-protection window films that can be easily applied yourself. They not only reduce UV light but also decrease heat buildup, which provides additional protection for the furniture.

- Sun protection with curtains or blinds, which are closed during the strongest sunlight hours.

- Finally, furniture with a light surface should preferably be kept out of direct sunlight. Rearranging is not always possible, but it is often more effective than any treatment.

Personally, I have had good results with a thin layer of furniture wax specifically designed for painted surfaces on a similar piece. Please pay attention to the ingredients to ensure no strong solvents are included, as these can damage the finish.

One last tip: If you want to be safe in the long term, small furniture covers or even decorative wraps can help, which can be placed over the furniture when the sun is strong.

I hope this helps 🙂