ᐅ How do I secure Malm furniture to prevent it from sliding?

Created on: 1 Jul 2024 09:17
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FEVIK38
Hello everyone,

I recently bought a Malm dresser set from IKEA and want to prevent the furniture from sliding on my smooth laminate floor during everyday use, for example when opening and closing the drawers. That’s why I’m asking: What methods or materials would you recommend to securely stabilize a Malm dresser against slipping without damaging the floor or affecting its appearance? Are there any special solutions or proven tips that are also suitable for rental apartments where you cannot simply drill fixed points? Thanks in advance!
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TEOZAR
2 Jul 2024 11:12
In addition to the tips mentioned, I would like to address the use of so-called furniture straps for securing items. These are often used for shelves or cabinets and connect the furniture to the wall, while being relatively easy to remove.

Important to know:
- Furniture straps are usually available as bands or strips that are attached to the back of the furniture and to the wall.
- Installation is typically done with screws, but there are also self-adhesive options that make them easier to use in rental properties.
- They mainly prevent tipping and shifting, but they are not slip-resistant stoppers; rather, they provide additional safety.
FEVIK38 schrieb:
Although not a lot of force is required, it is noticeable enough to put strain on the laminate flooring and make the chest of drawers appear unstable.

If you feel instability, I would actually combine two measures: anti-slip pads under the feet and a furniture strap attached to the wall. If drilling is really problematic, you can try the adhesive versions. However, be sure to check the adhesive’s load capacity and compatibility with surfaces.
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KNUTGI
3 Jul 2024 07:53
Hey! 🙂

Moving it out — trouble comes in! 😉 Thanks for the great discussion so far. This topic is actually popular with Malm furniture because this lightweight piece sometimes tends to slide on laminate flooring.

A few additional thoughts from me:

- A simple trick: slide cork coasters (like the ones used for plants) under the feet. Of course, not an official solution, but cork naturally has anti-slip properties and is very gentle on floors.

- If you use carpet pads, choose thin models so the dresser doesn’t stand too high; otherwise, it can affect how the drawers operate.

- If you’re feeling a bit experimental: there are special anti-slip sprays for carpets that can also add more grip to rubber mats.

Not every solution has to be complicated — sometimes a little creativity is enough. And if the dresser really likes to move, you can give the furniture extra grip with rubber cords behind it :-)

Hope there’s something here you’d like to try!
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benon
3 Jul 2024 09:16
KNUTGI schrieb:
A simple trick: place cork pads (like the ones for plants) under the feet.

That’s true, it’s a pretty clever idea. Cork provides very good grip and also protects the floor from scratches. Another advantage is that cork can be easily adjusted – if the dresser feet have small unevenness, you can cut the pads as needed.
Maria35 schrieb:
The rug underlay should be made of special non-slip material, usually rubber or latex, and must not be glued directly to the laminate flooring.

Absolutely important, I wanted to emphasize that, because some people buy regular rugs and then find they cause more problems than they solve.

For anyone living in rental properties, I also recommend furniture pads with residue-free adhesives, preferably those with certification marks. That way the landlord stays happy :-) .
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Domau0
4 Jul 2024 10:44
Hello everyone,

I would like to summarize the previous suggestions a bit more systematically, as some points were very well presented:

1. Floor Protection and Anti-Slip:
- Suitable pads or felt gliders with rubberized undersides minimize movement and protect the floor.
- Caution is advised with adhesives on laminate flooring, as plasticizers can leave residues.

2. Stability and Safety:
- Wall fastenings (metal brackets or furniture anchors) are ideal to prevent tipping and shifting but require drilling.
- Self-adhesive furniture anchors are an alternative for rental properties but should be tested for compatibility.

3. Combinations and Alternative Solutions:
- Anti-slip pads combined with carpet underlays provide increased friction without damaging the floor.
- Non-technical solutions like cork coasters or special mats can complement these options.

If the dresser frame is noisy when opening drawers or shows noticeable movement, I recommend placing the dresser on a level surface and adjusting the feet if possible (some models offer height adjustment options).

Finally, a question to FEVIK38: How often is the dresser used? Only occasionally or several times daily? This could affect the durability of the protective measures.