ᐅ How can I remove dirt stains from Malm drawers?

Hello everyone, I have Malm drawers from Ikea, which unfortunately have developed some stubborn stains over time, mainly dirt-related discolorations. Most of these are dark spots caused by everyday use, such as dirt from hands or from storing certain items. My question is: What is the best way to remove these stains without damaging the surface of the Malm drawers? I am especially interested in a method that is both effective and as gentle as possible on the material. Also, it would be great if you could share tips on which cleaning products are particularly suitable or should be avoided. Thanks in advance for your help!

Hello, for your stains I recommend a simple soap solution. Dampen a soft cloth with it and gently wipe the area. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the surface.

That sounds like a great task! 🙂 I cleaned my Malm drawers using a mild dish soap and lukewarm water – that worked really well for me! It's important not to clean them too wet and to dry them thoroughly afterward. Good luck!

Hello Alfonso, it’s unfortunate that the stains bother you, but don’t worry: The Malm drawers are made of laminated particleboard, and the surface is sensitive to harsh cleaners and moisture. Therefore, I recommend the following: Use a soft cotton cloth, lightly dampen it with a mild cleaning agent (preferably a pH-neutral furniture cleaner or some diluted dish soap in water), and gently rub the stains. Avoid vigorous scrubbing and standing water, as this could damage the laminate. To dry, wipe with a clean, dry cloth. For stubborn stains, you can also carefully use a small amount of isopropyl alcohol, but please test on an inconspicuous area first.

I agree: definitely avoid aggressive cleaners or scouring pads. A scented all-purpose cleaner diluted with water usually works well. I like to use a microfiber cloth for this, as it doesn’t scratch.

Hello Alfonso, in addition to the previous tips, I want to emphasize that caring for the surface is crucial with Malm drawers. The laminate is durable, but solvent-based cleaners and harsh chemicals can damage the adhesion and appearance. For stubborn stains, I recommend a mild cleaner such as denatured alcohol diluted with water at a ratio of 1:10, applied with a soft cloth and rubbed very gently. Afterwards, wipe thoroughly with clean water and dry. This method is effective against grease and dirt-related discoloration, but please be very careful to avoid roughening the surface.