ᐅ How do you clean Malm furniture when dealing with stubborn dirt?

Created on: 24 Mar 2023 08:17
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Dirktar61
Hello everyone, I have some Malm furniture from Ikea that I mainly use in the living room. Unfortunately, there is stubborn dirt that is not easy to remove with regular cleaning, such as set-in stains, dust in the corners, and slight wear on the surface. Therefore, I’m wondering what the best way to clean Malm furniture with stubborn dirt is, without damaging the surface. What cleaning agents and tools are suitable, and are there any special tips for protecting the material and avoiding scratches? I look forward to your experiences and recommendations!
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Davebla
24 Mar 2023 11:23
Deandre schrieb:
Glass cleaner is usually not a good choice for coated furniture like Malm, as it often contains ammonia or other solvents that can damage the surface.

I want to emphasize this point again: Many cleaners claim to be gentle, but the term is very vague. Using unsuitable products often leads to permanent damage, such as dull spots or cracks in the veneer. Before reaching for glass cleaner, you should carefully check the ingredients and preferably follow the manufacturer's recommendations. When in doubt, it's better to avoid chemical products altogether and rely on mechanical cleaning instead.
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Jukin
24 Mar 2023 12:01
Davebla schrieb:
If in doubt, better to avoid chemical agents altogether and rely on mechanical cleaning.

Exactly, and to prevent mechanical damage, I truly recommend using a soft microfiber cloth and no abrasive cleaners. Another tip: if you want to use any kind of nourishing furniture oil or polish, please test it first on an inconspicuous spot to avoid discoloration.
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Jensson
25 Mar 2023 09:12
A brief addition regarding mechanical methods: For stubborn dirt that cannot be removed by damp cleaning, you can gently treat the surface with an eraser (preferably a special cleaning eraser). This works well for small stains or slight discoloration, but please proceed gently to avoid rubbing off the coating.

A slightly damp cloth with a bit of baking soda paste (baking soda mixed with water) can also remove stains. Afterwards, be sure to wipe with clean water and dry.
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Tobias
25 Mar 2023 10:45
I would also recommend avoiding abrasive sponges or steel wool when cleaning – they will damage the surface immediately. A soft brush or sponge is sufficient, otherwise just a microfiber cloth and mild cleaning agents.
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DEOLAU
26 Mar 2023 08:33
Brief and clear: For Malm furniture, use plain water with a mild soap. Gently remove stubborn dirt with a soft sponge and dry immediately. Never leave it wet or treat it with harsh cleaners.
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Genevieve
26 Mar 2023 12:17
Jensson schrieb:
For stubborn dirt... you can gently work the surface with an eraser.

Interesting, this method is new to me. However, I would caution that some laminates or veneers can quickly show visible marks if rubbed too hard. It is essential to test beforehand whether the furniture piece can withstand the mechanical stress.

Also, I believe it is sometimes more sustainable to use protective furniture waxes proactively rather than only reacting after the dirt appears.