Good morning everyone, I’m facing an issue with my MALM chest of drawers from IKEA. Unfortunately, some of the side panels are damaged – the right side panel is cracked, and on the left side, there is an area where the surface has chipped off. Since I want to continue using the piece of furniture, I’m considering how to properly replace the damaged side panels.
My question to you is: What is the best way to replace the side panels of the MALM chest of drawers without disassembling the entire unit? Which tools and replacement parts are needed, and are there any specific steps to keep in mind to maintain both stability and appearance?
I look forward to your tips and experiences.
My question to you is: What is the best way to replace the side panels of the MALM chest of drawers without disassembling the entire unit? Which tools and replacement parts are needed, and are there any specific steps to keep in mind to maintain both stability and appearance?
I look forward to your tips and experiences.
Hello TARVIN,
to add a few points from my side: If you order replacement panels from IKEA, keep in mind that depending on the production year of the Malm dresser, there can be slight differences in drill holes and colors. I had to buy replacements myself and made sure the production year matched.
Also, during assembly it can be helpful to screw in the screws only lightly at first and then align the side panels before tightening everything firmly. This prevents stress in the wood.
One more tip: If you come across damaged nuts or dowels during disassembly, it’s better to purchase replacements, as these small parts are essential for stability.
I wish you good progress and feel free to reach out if you have any more questions.
to add a few points from my side: If you order replacement panels from IKEA, keep in mind that depending on the production year of the Malm dresser, there can be slight differences in drill holes and colors. I had to buy replacements myself and made sure the production year matched.
Also, during assembly it can be helpful to screw in the screws only lightly at first and then align the side panels before tightening everything firmly. This prevents stress in the wood.
One more tip: If you come across damaged nuts or dowels during disassembly, it’s better to purchase replacements, as these small parts are essential for stability.
I wish you good progress and feel free to reach out if you have any more questions.
Wow, that sounds like a great project! 🙂
Be confident, you can definitely do it!
Completely unscrew them, no half measures! That way you can easily remove the side panel.
At the same time, I agree with SARBLA1: first screw them in loosely, then align everything and tighten the screws – I’ve done it many times myself.
Have fun with the project! It’s really great to restore furniture like this! :-)
Be confident, you can definitely do it!
TARVIN schrieb:
Do I need to completely unscrew the side panel screws, or is it enough to just loosen them a bit?
Completely unscrew them, no half measures! That way you can easily remove the side panel.
At the same time, I agree with SARBLA1: first screw them in loosely, then align everything and tighten the screws – I’ve done it many times myself.
Have fun with the project! It’s really great to restore furniture like this! :-)
Similar topics