Hello everyone,
I am planning to replace the drawer slides on my IKEA Malm dressers myself because they have become quite stiff and sometimes get stuck. I would like to know the best way to approach this replacement: which tools do I need, how can I safely remove the old slides, and are there any specific tips or tricks I should keep in mind to ensure the new rails fit and work properly?
Also, I’m curious if it’s possible to replace just the drawer slides or if other parts might need to be replaced as well.
Thanks in advance for your advice!
I am planning to replace the drawer slides on my IKEA Malm dressers myself because they have become quite stiff and sometimes get stuck. I would like to know the best way to approach this replacement: which tools do I need, how can I safely remove the old slides, and are there any specific tips or tricks I should keep in mind to ensure the new rails fit and work properly?
Also, I’m curious if it’s possible to replace just the drawer slides or if other parts might need to be replaced as well.
Thanks in advance for your advice!
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PeoDaniel14 Apr 2024 09:13Hello Sarpra37,
your plan to replace the Malm drawer slides yourself is definitely doable if you follow a few basic steps.
First of all, you will need a Phillips screwdriver or, ideally, a cordless drill with the appropriate bit; the screws on IKEA furniture are usually Phillips and relatively small.
Here is a step-by-step guide:
1. Fully pull the drawer out of the cabinet.
2. Loosen the screws on the inside of the drawer that hold the old slides in place.
3. Carefully remove the old slides – sometimes you need to wiggle them a bit to make removal easier.
4. Align the new slides; it is important to mount them at exactly the same height and parallel to the drawer edge.
5. Tighten the screws, reinsert the drawer, and test it.
Note: If the sliding surfaces of the slides are very worn, a complete replacement is worthwhile. Sometimes the slides also include small rollers or plastic guides that may need to be replaced.
In most cases, this is not necessary; the slide is usually replaced as a whole, including the rollers. Make sure the replacement parts are exactly for the Malm model and the drawer size.
Good luck, and feel free to ask if you have any more questions!
your plan to replace the Malm drawer slides yourself is definitely doable if you follow a few basic steps.
First of all, you will need a Phillips screwdriver or, ideally, a cordless drill with the appropriate bit; the screws on IKEA furniture are usually Phillips and relatively small.
Here is a step-by-step guide:
1. Fully pull the drawer out of the cabinet.
2. Loosen the screws on the inside of the drawer that hold the old slides in place.
3. Carefully remove the old slides – sometimes you need to wiggle them a bit to make removal easier.
4. Align the new slides; it is important to mount them at exactly the same height and parallel to the drawer edge.
5. Tighten the screws, reinsert the drawer, and test it.
Note: If the sliding surfaces of the slides are very worn, a complete replacement is worthwhile. Sometimes the slides also include small rollers or plastic guides that may need to be replaced.
Sarpra37 schrieb:
I am also interested in whether it is possible to replace only the slides or if other parts might also need to be replaced.
In most cases, this is not necessary; the slide is usually replaced as a whole, including the rollers. Make sure the replacement parts are exactly for the Malm model and the drawer size.
Good luck, and feel free to ask if you have any more questions!
Hello Sarpra37,
I’m happy to provide you with a detailed guide that includes technical details, as there are a few pitfalls to watch out for when replacing the Malm drawer slides:
First: The Malm dresser usually uses built-in rails with metal runners and small plastic rollers. The correct replacement parts vary depending on the drawer depth (e.g., 40cm (16 inches) or 60cm (24 inches)). So, be sure to check the model number of the furniture before purchasing.
Second: To remove the slides, take out the drawer and unscrew the four or six screws per side that attach the slides to the drawer. Carefully pull the slide off, tilting it slightly to release the plastic rollers from the rail.
Important: Often, the slides are still secured to the cabinet with a locking mechanism. Check if a small lever needs to be released before fully pulling out the slide.
Third: When installing the new slide, make sure it is perfectly parallel and positioned at exactly the same height. Even a few millimeters offset can cause the drawer to jam later on.
I also recommend loosely fastening the screws first, then inserting the drawer and doing several test runs to fine-tune the alignment before tightening everything securely.
From my experience: drawers often run stiffly on the first attempt, but with a good amount of patience and retightening the screws, this can be improved significantly.
If you like, I can also share some sources where you can order the correct replacement slides.
Good luck with your project!
I’m happy to provide you with a detailed guide that includes technical details, as there are a few pitfalls to watch out for when replacing the Malm drawer slides:
First: The Malm dresser usually uses built-in rails with metal runners and small plastic rollers. The correct replacement parts vary depending on the drawer depth (e.g., 40cm (16 inches) or 60cm (24 inches)). So, be sure to check the model number of the furniture before purchasing.
Second: To remove the slides, take out the drawer and unscrew the four or six screws per side that attach the slides to the drawer. Carefully pull the slide off, tilting it slightly to release the plastic rollers from the rail.
Important: Often, the slides are still secured to the cabinet with a locking mechanism. Check if a small lever needs to be released before fully pulling out the slide.
Third: When installing the new slide, make sure it is perfectly parallel and positioned at exactly the same height. Even a few millimeters offset can cause the drawer to jam later on.
PeoDaniel schrieb:
Align new rails; it is important to mount them exactly at the same height and parallel to the drawer edge.
I also recommend loosely fastening the screws first, then inserting the drawer and doing several test runs to fine-tune the alignment before tightening everything securely.
From my experience: drawers often run stiffly on the first attempt, but with a good amount of patience and retightening the screws, this can be improved significantly.
If you like, I can also share some sources where you can order the correct replacement slides.
Good luck with your project!
Hello,
I would like to provide a brief overview of the best way to replace Malm drawer runners. To ensure no step is missed, here is a structured guide:
1. Preparation
- Tools: Phillips screwdriver, possibly a small lever or flathead screwdriver to release locking mechanisms.
- Replacement parts: runners suitable for the drawer depth and model.
2. Removing the Drawer
- Pull out completely, also lift slightly if necessary to release the rail.
- Loosen screws on both sides.
3. Detaching the Old Runner
- Gently pull off; sometimes small plastic clips remain on the drawer, which can break easily, so work carefully.
4. Installing the New Runner
- Align! Parallel to the side and at the same height—this is crucial.
- Do not fully tighten screws yet.
5. Testing and Fine Adjustment
- Insert the drawer and open and close it several times.
- If it sticks, adjust the runner slightly.
6. Final Assembly
- Fully tighten the screws.
Common mistakes and tips:
- Tightening screws too much before testing the operation.
- Not ensuring the runner is perfectly straight.
- Applying too much force when pulling out the drawer—there are locking mechanisms or levers.
This cannot be emphasized enough.
I hope this helps you!
I would like to provide a brief overview of the best way to replace Malm drawer runners. To ensure no step is missed, here is a structured guide:
1. Preparation
- Tools: Phillips screwdriver, possibly a small lever or flathead screwdriver to release locking mechanisms.
- Replacement parts: runners suitable for the drawer depth and model.
2. Removing the Drawer
- Pull out completely, also lift slightly if necessary to release the rail.
- Loosen screws on both sides.
3. Detaching the Old Runner
- Gently pull off; sometimes small plastic clips remain on the drawer, which can break easily, so work carefully.
4. Installing the New Runner
- Align! Parallel to the side and at the same height—this is crucial.
- Do not fully tighten screws yet.
5. Testing and Fine Adjustment
- Insert the drawer and open and close it several times.
- If it sticks, adjust the runner slightly.
6. Final Assembly
- Fully tighten the screws.
Common mistakes and tips:
- Tightening screws too much before testing the operation.
- Not ensuring the runner is perfectly straight.
- Applying too much force when pulling out the drawer—there are locking mechanisms or levers.
Filippo schrieb:
Make sure to install the new runner exactly parallel and at the same height.
This cannot be emphasized enough.
I hope this helps you!
Hello everyone,
I know exactly how frustrating stiff or jammed Malm drawers can be – I had the same problem. It’s great that so many helpful tips have been collected here.
That was the case for me as well, and at first I was worried I might break something. In the end, it worked carefully and without force, as long as I stayed patient.
Sometimes you also feel uncertain whether you’re doing it right or if the drawer will still hold properly afterward. I can only say: Go for it! If you have the correct replacement parts, you are on the safe side.
For me, it helped a lot to test the slide multiple times before finally tightening the screws – that way I felt more confident and could make small adjustments.
If you run into problems: keep your spirits up, it’s normal. Less is more, and it’s better to align it one more time than to let it run crooked later. 🙂
I know exactly how frustrating stiff or jammed Malm drawers can be – I had the same problem. It’s great that so many helpful tips have been collected here.
PeoDaniel schrieb:
Carefully pry off the old drawer slides – sometimes you need to wiggle them a bit.
That was the case for me as well, and at first I was worried I might break something. In the end, it worked carefully and without force, as long as I stayed patient.
Sometimes you also feel uncertain whether you’re doing it right or if the drawer will still hold properly afterward. I can only say: Go for it! If you have the correct replacement parts, you are on the safe side.
For me, it helped a lot to test the slide multiple times before finally tightening the screws – that way I felt more confident and could make small adjustments.
If you run into problems: keep your spirits up, it’s normal. Less is more, and it’s better to align it one more time than to let it run crooked later. 🙂
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