Hello everyone, I recently noticed some unpleasant scratches on my Malm furniture, especially on the white lacquered surface. The furniture has been treated with care, yet there are visible scratches that really affect the appearance. Now I’m wondering what methods are available to effectively remove or at least reduce these scratches? I’m looking for specific tips that are suitable for Malm surfaces, which are mostly foil or lacquer coatings, and that won’t damage the furniture. Perhaps someone knows reliable home remedies, specially formulated products, or professional techniques? I’d appreciate any help, even if it’s based on experience with similar furniture. Thanks in advance!
Thank you for your input so far! The scratches are actually quite superficial; I would say they have slightly damaged the surface finish without exposing the base material. From my perspective, the furniture is covered with a white foil, not painted.
I hope this helps you further. Should I still be very careful when using polishes to avoid damaging the foil? Are there any specific products you would recommend, or do you think household remedies like walnut oil are effective?
Thank you!
Tause schrieb:
Are the scratches rather superficial (only in the paint/foil) or deeper?
I hope this helps you further. Should I still be very careful when using polishes to avoid damaging the foil? Are there any specific products you would recommend, or do you think household remedies like walnut oil are effective?
Thank you!
Hello BOHAU40,
From your description, it sounds like you could start by trying a polishing cloth and some furniture polish designed for veneer or laminate surfaces. Home remedies like walnut oil may make the surface feel smoother and enhance the color slightly, but they don’t really fill in scratches.
If you find a furniture lacquer polish that is specifically suitable for veneers or laminates, you could apply it sparingly using a soft cloth. It’s important, as already mentioned, to test it first in an inconspicuous area to avoid any unwanted reactions.
A wax crayon in a matching color can actually improve the appearance, but this is more of a cosmetic fix.
Feel free to share what you try and how it works out!
From your description, it sounds like you could start by trying a polishing cloth and some furniture polish designed for veneer or laminate surfaces. Home remedies like walnut oil may make the surface feel smoother and enhance the color slightly, but they don’t really fill in scratches.
If you find a furniture lacquer polish that is specifically suitable for veneers or laminates, you could apply it sparingly using a soft cloth. It’s important, as already mentioned, to test it first in an inconspicuous area to avoid any unwanted reactions.
A wax crayon in a matching color can actually improve the appearance, but this is more of a cosmetic fix.
Feel free to share what you try and how it works out!
BOHAU40 schrieb:
Should I still be very careful with polishes to avoid damaging the film?Definitely! Films are not as durable as paint and can develop shiny spots if polished too aggressively, which often looks worse than the original scratch.
A small addition: Many recommend isopropyl alcohol or vinegar for cleaning, but I would definitely avoid using those on delicate film surfaces. It’s better to use mild cleaners.
I’m cautious about DIY remedies for films because their chemical effects are sometimes underestimated. If you want to use a product, specifically look for “plastic polish” or “film care products.”
I understand that having an issue with furniture you like can be frustrating. I also scratched my Malm dresser some time ago and was quite disappointed.
At that time, I tried using a circular polishing pad with a very mild polish, working carefully and in small sections. It helped a little, but the scratches didn’t completely disappear—just became less noticeable.
For me, it was important to stay patient and, when in doubt, polish gently several times rather than too aggressively. Maybe this gives you a bit of encouragement? 🙂
At that time, I tried using a circular polishing pad with a very mild polish, working carefully and in small sections. It helped a little, but the scratches didn’t completely disappear—just became less noticeable.
For me, it was important to stay patient and, when in doubt, polish gently several times rather than too aggressively. Maybe this gives you a bit of encouragement? 🙂
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