Hello everyone,
I want to replace the drawer slides on my Ikea Malm bed because they no longer operate smoothly and are partially worn out. Unfortunately, I haven’t found a detailed guide on the best way to do this—specifically, how to properly remove the old rails and rollers and install the new ones, whether special tools are needed, and what to pay special attention to so that the drawers open easily and quietly again in the end. It’s also important for me to know if the parts can be purchased individually or if it’s better to buy a complete set.
Has anyone here replaced the Malm drawer slides and can describe the process in detail? Thanks!
I want to replace the drawer slides on my Ikea Malm bed because they no longer operate smoothly and are partially worn out. Unfortunately, I haven’t found a detailed guide on the best way to do this—specifically, how to properly remove the old rails and rollers and install the new ones, whether special tools are needed, and what to pay special attention to so that the drawers open easily and quietly again in the end. It’s also important for me to know if the parts can be purchased individually or if it’s better to buy a complete set.
Has anyone here replaced the Malm drawer slides and can describe the process in detail? Thanks!
Hello Ku_samed,
I would like to add some detailed tips here, as installing Malm drawer slides can be tricky, especially when it comes to precise alignment and smooth operation.
1. Preparation: Before installation, check all parts – the slides, rollers, and small components. Most Malm versions from Ikea come with either “soft-close” slides or simple plastic gliders. There are different types, so it’s good to verify the numbers on the packages.
2. Removing the old slides: A Phillips screwdriver is usually sufficient. If there are clips, use a small flathead screwdriver to carefully release them. Work gently to avoid breaking anything.
3. Cleaning: Thoroughly clean all slide tracks on the bed frame and the sides of the drawer to remove dust and old grease, as these can hinder smooth movement.
4. Installation: First, attach the main slides to the sides of the bed. Ideally, position them so that the distance to the front edge is equal on both sides. Use a spirit level and possibly a square to align the slides correctly. Screw them in only loosely at first.
5. Inserting the drawer: Lift the drawer slightly and slide it into the tracks. If it sticks, don’t force it; instead, recheck the alignment.
6. Final assembly: Once the drawer and slides are perfectly aligned, you can fully tighten the screws.
Load distribution is especially important: for higher loads or larger drawers, it’s best to use sturdy and preferably original slides to avoid premature wear.
If you could specify exactly which Malm version you have, I can provide more specific advice. What material are your drawer bottoms and slides made of currently?
I would like to add some detailed tips here, as installing Malm drawer slides can be tricky, especially when it comes to precise alignment and smooth operation.
1. Preparation: Before installation, check all parts – the slides, rollers, and small components. Most Malm versions from Ikea come with either “soft-close” slides or simple plastic gliders. There are different types, so it’s good to verify the numbers on the packages.
2. Removing the old slides: A Phillips screwdriver is usually sufficient. If there are clips, use a small flathead screwdriver to carefully release them. Work gently to avoid breaking anything.
3. Cleaning: Thoroughly clean all slide tracks on the bed frame and the sides of the drawer to remove dust and old grease, as these can hinder smooth movement.
4. Installation: First, attach the main slides to the sides of the bed. Ideally, position them so that the distance to the front edge is equal on both sides. Use a spirit level and possibly a square to align the slides correctly. Screw them in only loosely at first.
5. Inserting the drawer: Lift the drawer slightly and slide it into the tracks. If it sticks, don’t force it; instead, recheck the alignment.
6. Final assembly: Once the drawer and slides are perfectly aligned, you can fully tighten the screws.
Load distribution is especially important: for higher loads or larger drawers, it’s best to use sturdy and preferably original slides to avoid premature wear.
If you could specify exactly which Malm version you have, I can provide more specific advice. What material are your drawer bottoms and slides made of currently?
Thank you for the detailed tips!
My drawers are made of wood with metal runners, without a soft-close function—more like the standard type from Ikea. The old metal sliders are somewhat bent or worn in places. I have removed the drawer several times myself, but reinserting it can be a bit fiddly at times.
I will make a note of your advice about gently inserting and aligning the runners using a spirit level.
One more practical question: Is it worth lubricating the runner beforehand or using a special glide lubricant? Or is it better to leave it dry?
My drawers are made of wood with metal runners, without a soft-close function—more like the standard type from Ikea. The old metal sliders are somewhat bent or worn in places. I have removed the drawer several times myself, but reinserting it can be a bit fiddly at times.
I will make a note of your advice about gently inserting and aligning the runners using a spirit level.
One more practical question: Is it worth lubricating the runner beforehand or using a special glide lubricant? Or is it better to leave it dry?
I agree with this. For Ikea products, I generally advise against using oil or grease—especially plastic rollers, which are sensitive to lubricants and tend to get dirty quickly.
Instead, a dry silicone spray is sufficient if you really want to reduce friction during movement. But even then, use it sparingly and only on specific spots.
Another option is a white Teflon spray, which leaves almost no dirt and keeps mechanical parts running smoothly. Again, the rule applies: less is more.
Instead, a dry silicone spray is sufficient if you really want to reduce friction during movement. But even then, use it sparingly and only on specific spots.
Another option is a white Teflon spray, which leaves almost no dirt and keeps mechanical parts running smoothly. Again, the rule applies: less is more.
A tip for finishing the interior: Most metal drawer slides have small anti-rotation features. Take a close look to see if you need to slightly turn the slide first to remove it from the bracket. Forcing it could otherwise damage the wood or the slide itself.
If your drawer sticks, also check whether the drawer cavities in the bed frame are warped. Sometimes the cause is not the slides themselves but the furniture frame.
If your drawer sticks, also check whether the drawer cavities in the bed frame are warped. Sometimes the cause is not the slides themselves but the furniture frame.
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