Good morning everyone,
I have had IKEA Malm dressers for some time now, and since the drawers sometimes stick or are difficult to pull out, I want to lubricate them properly. My specific question is: How do you lubricate Malm drawers correctly without damaging the material or the mechanism? Are there any recommendations for the appropriate lubricant and the correct procedure to ensure smooth operation?
I assume that using the right product and method is important, as ordinary oil can damage wood or plastic and attract dirt. I am especially interested in whether there are special lubricants for the runners or slides, and how to apply them best.
I look forward to your experiences and tips!
I have had IKEA Malm dressers for some time now, and since the drawers sometimes stick or are difficult to pull out, I want to lubricate them properly. My specific question is: How do you lubricate Malm drawers correctly without damaging the material or the mechanism? Are there any recommendations for the appropriate lubricant and the correct procedure to ensure smooth operation?
I assume that using the right product and method is important, as ordinary oil can damage wood or plastic and attract dirt. I am especially interested in whether there are special lubricants for the runners or slides, and how to apply them best.
I look forward to your experiences and tips!
Hello Jomita,
Your question is very precise, which makes it easier to answer. Malm drawers typically run on metal or plastic drawer slides.
Basically, I recommend using a dry lubricant, such as silicone spray or a PTFE-based spray, for lubrication. These reduce friction, do not attract dirt, and do not damage the material. Oil- or grease-based products may work temporarily but quickly make the slides dirty and sticky.
Procedure:
- Fully extend the drawer
- Clean the slides (remove dust and old residues, for example with a lint-free cloth and some isopropanol)
- Apply the lubricant thinly and sparingly by spraying or spreading
- Open and close the drawer several times to distribute the lubricant
Important: Do not apply a thick layer directly, as this will only attract more dirt.
If you have any further questions, feel free to ask!
Your question is very precise, which makes it easier to answer. Malm drawers typically run on metal or plastic drawer slides.
Basically, I recommend using a dry lubricant, such as silicone spray or a PTFE-based spray, for lubrication. These reduce friction, do not attract dirt, and do not damage the material. Oil- or grease-based products may work temporarily but quickly make the slides dirty and sticky.
Procedure:
- Fully extend the drawer
- Clean the slides (remove dust and old residues, for example with a lint-free cloth and some isopropanol)
- Apply the lubricant thinly and sparingly by spraying or spreading
- Open and close the drawer several times to distribute the lubricant
Important: Do not apply a thick layer directly, as this will only attract more dirt.
If you have any further questions, feel free to ask!
barle schrieb:
I would recommend silicone spray,Exactly, silicone spray is the ideal choice in most cases. It lubricates effectively and is neutral to the materials.
It is also important to clean beforehand; otherwise, you will just spread the dirt.
As an addition: For Malm drawers with plastic runners, oil-based lubricants should never be used, as they can permanently damage the plastic material.
The best options are high-quality PTFE sprays or pure silicone spray, as they provide low friction and are water-repellent. Before application, it is advisable to thoroughly clean the runners with isopropanol or a similar solvent to remove grease, dust, and residues.
After applying, distribute the lubricant evenly by moving the drawer back and forth.
Another alternative is special dry film lubricants, which are especially durable.
The best options are high-quality PTFE sprays or pure silicone spray, as they provide low friction and are water-repellent. Before application, it is advisable to thoroughly clean the runners with isopropanol or a similar solvent to remove grease, dust, and residues.
After applying, distribute the lubricant evenly by moving the drawer back and forth.
Another alternative is special dry film lubricants, which are especially durable.
Jomita schrieb:
without damaging the material or the mechanism?Hey, that’s a great question because many people just spray some oil on and later wonder why their drawers are sticky.
Personally, I always use silicone spray – it acts like an invisible lubricant film for the tracks. And yes, always clean thoroughly beforehand!
A little tip: don’t pour it on; apply it sparingly, otherwise it will attract dust and ruin the whole thing. After lubricating, open and close the drawer several times to distribute the lubricant evenly. 🙂
Similar topics