Hello everyone,
I want to replace the drawer fronts on my IKEA Malm dresser set, as they have become visibly worn from several moves and years of use. My question is: What is the easiest and proper way to renew the MALM drawer fronts without having to replace the entire drawers? I am mainly interested in restoring the appearance—for example, re-laminating, repainting, or swapping out the fronts. Which materials and tools are suitable, and what special considerations should I keep in mind when removing and reinstalling the fronts?
Additionally, I would appreciate tips on how to detach the fronts without damaging the carcass, and whether there are recommended sources for replacement fronts if making my own doesn’t work out well.
I already have some experience assembling furniture but want to avoid mistakes and would be grateful for any advice.
I want to replace the drawer fronts on my IKEA Malm dresser set, as they have become visibly worn from several moves and years of use. My question is: What is the easiest and proper way to renew the MALM drawer fronts without having to replace the entire drawers? I am mainly interested in restoring the appearance—for example, re-laminating, repainting, or swapping out the fronts. Which materials and tools are suitable, and what special considerations should I keep in mind when removing and reinstalling the fronts?
Additionally, I would appreciate tips on how to detach the fronts without damaging the carcass, and whether there are recommended sources for replacement fronts if making my own doesn’t work out well.
I already have some experience assembling furniture but want to avoid mistakes and would be grateful for any advice.
Hello Bauron,
Regarding your issue, I recommend the following structured approach:
1. Disassembly: MALM drawer fronts are usually attached to the drawer with screws located inside. You should fully pull out the drawer and then loosen the screws on the inner side of the front panel. Be careful not to force it to avoid damaging the connection holes.
2. Choosing new fronts: You may be able to reorder original replacement fronts from IKEA if still available. Alternatively, custom-made fronts from MDF with paint or laminate finish are an option. For redesigning, you can also use thin furniture films as long as the surface is smooth.
3. Surface finishing: Painting requires a good base and sanding. Applying films is usually easier, but it is recommended to use high-quality furniture film and carefully remove air bubbles during application.
4. Assembly: Reinstall screws ensuring a secure fit, adjust the fronts carefully so the drawer operates smoothly.
Tools: Screwdriver, sandpaper (P220), squeegee for film, paint roller/brush or spray gun.
The most important thing: Handle the screw holes carefully and do not damage the drawer’s connection profiles.
With this method, you should be able to renew your drawer fronts without problems.
Regarding your issue, I recommend the following structured approach:
1. Disassembly: MALM drawer fronts are usually attached to the drawer with screws located inside. You should fully pull out the drawer and then loosen the screws on the inner side of the front panel. Be careful not to force it to avoid damaging the connection holes.
2. Choosing new fronts: You may be able to reorder original replacement fronts from IKEA if still available. Alternatively, custom-made fronts from MDF with paint or laminate finish are an option. For redesigning, you can also use thin furniture films as long as the surface is smooth.
3. Surface finishing: Painting requires a good base and sanding. Applying films is usually easier, but it is recommended to use high-quality furniture film and carefully remove air bubbles during application.
4. Assembly: Reinstall screws ensuring a secure fit, adjust the fronts carefully so the drawer operates smoothly.
Tools: Screwdriver, sandpaper (P220), squeegee for film, paint roller/brush or spray gun.
The most important thing: Handle the screw holes carefully and do not damage the drawer’s connection profiles.
With this method, you should be able to renew your drawer fronts without problems.
Hello Bauron,
I’ll add step-by-step instructions on how to replace the MALM drawer fronts:
1. Remove the drawer completely.
2. On the inside, there are usually 4 to 6 screws (depending on the width of the front). These screws secure each front – you need to loosen them.
3. Before taking off the front, mark its position either with a note or masking tape – this will help you align it during reassembly.
4. For a new front, you can either use the IKEA replacement or have high-quality MDF boards cut to the correct thickness (about 16mm (0.6 inches)) and size.
5. If you want to paint, first sand the surface lightly (grain size about 180-220), then apply a primer, followed by 2-3 coats of paint – water-based paint is best since it has low odor and is durable.
6. Applying a veneer film is much faster: stick on a high-quality furniture foil carefully, ensuring there are no bubbles or wrinkles. It is recommended to warm the front slightly to make the foil more flexible.
7. Screw the front back on after processing, but don’t overtighten to avoid warping.
Tip: If the screw holes are worn out, you can repair them with wood glue and wooden dowels or use special screw plugs.
This way, you can achieve a durable and professional result.
I’ll add step-by-step instructions on how to replace the MALM drawer fronts:
1. Remove the drawer completely.
2. On the inside, there are usually 4 to 6 screws (depending on the width of the front). These screws secure each front – you need to loosen them.
3. Before taking off the front, mark its position either with a note or masking tape – this will help you align it during reassembly.
4. For a new front, you can either use the IKEA replacement or have high-quality MDF boards cut to the correct thickness (about 16mm (0.6 inches)) and size.
5. If you want to paint, first sand the surface lightly (grain size about 180-220), then apply a primer, followed by 2-3 coats of paint – water-based paint is best since it has low odor and is durable.
6. Applying a veneer film is much faster: stick on a high-quality furniture foil carefully, ensuring there are no bubbles or wrinkles. It is recommended to warm the front slightly to make the foil more flexible.
7. Screw the front back on after processing, but don’t overtighten to avoid warping.
Tip: If the screw holes are worn out, you can repair them with wood glue and wooden dowels or use special screw plugs.
This way, you can achieve a durable and professional result.
gadalu schrieb:
Disassembly: MALM drawer fronts are usually attached to the drawer with screws on the inside.I would like to add in detail: The screws for MALM drawers are located on the inside of the front panel, often fixed into so-called cross plates. These cross plates hold the screws securely and provide firm attachment to the drawer box. When removing the front, it is important to loosen the screws evenly and not fully unscrew them until the front can be gently lifted off. Avoid prying the front off, as this can cause the edges to chip or the surface coating to be damaged.
Additionally, the exact thickness of the front panel is crucial (often 16 mm (5/8 inches)), since any deviation can cause problems with the pre-drilled holes on the drawers when replacing the fronts. For custom-made or replacement fronts, I recommend taking precise measurements (width, height, thickness) using a caliper.
When painting, proper preparation is essential. The original fronts are coated with melamine resin, which has poor paint adhesion. Therefore, start by sanding thoroughly, possibly following up with 400 grit sandpaper and be sure to apply a primer suitable for melamine surfaces. Then apply 2–3 layers of paint—ideally a high-quality furniture paint.
It is important to maintain proper room climate control during painting and drying to minimize dust contamination.
sinhau schrieb:
Screws on the inside … mark the position [...]Very important tip: Marking can also be done digitally—photos of the screwed-in front help ensure correct realignment.
Also, it is worthwhile to check the drawer slides: if the fronts are heavily damaged, it might be advisable to replace the entire drawer unit to ensure smooth operation.
In conclusion, I recommend ordering replacement fronts only from reputable carpenters or specialized furniture manufacturers if IKEA no longer offers them.
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