Hello everyone,
Some time ago, I bought an IKEA Malm bed with drawers. Recently, the drawers have started to show clear signs of wear on the drawer slides: they stick, don’t move as smoothly, and the mechanism seems to be weakening. Now I am considering replacing the Malm drawer slides to restore proper functionality.
My questions are: What type of drawer slides does IKEA specifically use in the Malm drawers? (material, design) Is it possible to replace them without special tools? Are there any recommended replacement parts that are compatible? And what is the easiest way to remove the old drawer slides, especially for the screwed or inserted parts?
If anyone has done this before: How exactly does a replacement affect the stability and smoothness of the drawers?
I look forward to specific feedback, ideally with some step-by-step tips. Thanks in advance!
Some time ago, I bought an IKEA Malm bed with drawers. Recently, the drawers have started to show clear signs of wear on the drawer slides: they stick, don’t move as smoothly, and the mechanism seems to be weakening. Now I am considering replacing the Malm drawer slides to restore proper functionality.
My questions are: What type of drawer slides does IKEA specifically use in the Malm drawers? (material, design) Is it possible to replace them without special tools? Are there any recommended replacement parts that are compatible? And what is the easiest way to remove the old drawer slides, especially for the screwed or inserted parts?
If anyone has done this before: How exactly does a replacement affect the stability and smoothness of the drawers?
I look forward to specific feedback, ideally with some step-by-step tips. Thanks in advance!
Some precise notes regarding Malm drawer slides and their replacement:
1. These are usually metal slides with ball bearings or combined plastic rollers. IKEA uses standardized models, often referred to as "metal runner Tandembox" or similar.
2. Steps for replacement:
- Fully pull out and remove the drawer.
- Carefully release clips or small unlocking mechanisms.
- Unscrew the slide rails and remove them.
- Position the new slide rails precisely and secure them with screws.
3. Tools: Phillips screwdriver, possibly a flathead for clips, no special tools needed.
4. Spare parts: best obtained through the IKEA spare parts shop or third-party verified compatible slides.
5. Note: Clean the slides before installation and, if necessary, lightly lubricate them, for example with silicone spray.
This structured approach helps avoid damage to the furniture and drawer.
1. These are usually metal slides with ball bearings or combined plastic rollers. IKEA uses standardized models, often referred to as "metal runner Tandembox" or similar.
2. Steps for replacement:
- Fully pull out and remove the drawer.
- Carefully release clips or small unlocking mechanisms.
- Unscrew the slide rails and remove them.
- Position the new slide rails precisely and secure them with screws.
3. Tools: Phillips screwdriver, possibly a flathead for clips, no special tools needed.
4. Spare parts: best obtained through the IKEA spare parts shop or third-party verified compatible slides.
5. Note: Clean the slides before installation and, if necessary, lightly lubricate them, for example with silicone spray.
This structured approach helps avoid damage to the furniture and drawer.
usbla schrieb:
Fully extend and remove the drawerThis is really the crucial first step. Without taking the drawer completely out, you won’t be able to properly access the screws and rails.
praWarre69 schrieb:
It’s best to test the new rails beforehandI agree with that. Sometimes there are slight differences between IKEA batches. Even if the designation is the same, the holes might vary slightly.
In general, MALM drawer runners are not unique, but you should definitely compare the exact measurements.
One more tip: If the drawer still feels stiff, it can help to gently sand the rail with fine sandpaper – but only as a last resort.
Mekau schrieb:
No special tools needed.I agree, but I still found the replacement quite tricky. The biggest challenge is often releasing those small clips. I first used a gentle touch and then small flat screwdrivers.
flota schrieb:
Sometimes there are slight differences between IKEA batches.I've noticed that too. Sometimes the replacement part doesn’t fit perfectly, which can be frustrating. So it’s a good idea to check whether the replacement part is already available and fits before removing anything.
Gelunau schrieb:
How exactly does a replacement affect the stability and smoothness of the drawers?In my case, everything noticeably improved – the drawers now run smoothly and quietly without sticking.
Thank you for all the helpful feedback so far.
Just a quick question: You mentioned that the drawer should be pulled out completely before releasing the clips. Is there a risk that the drawer could get stuck while pulling it out, making it impossible to remove fully without damaging the slides?
Or is there a trick to safely 'disassemble' the drawer before removing the runners? Since I have no experience with this, I’d prefer to avoid damaging anything.
Also, it would be great if someone with experience could share how often the MALM drawer runners typically need to be replaced – is this a common wear part?
Looking forward to your insights.
Just a quick question: You mentioned that the drawer should be pulled out completely before releasing the clips. Is there a risk that the drawer could get stuck while pulling it out, making it impossible to remove fully without damaging the slides?
Or is there a trick to safely 'disassemble' the drawer before removing the runners? Since I have no experience with this, I’d prefer to avoid damaging anything.
Also, it would be great if someone with experience could share how often the MALM drawer runners typically need to be replaced – is this a common wear part?
Looking forward to your insights.
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