ᐅ How do you replace MALM nightstand tops if they are damaged?
Created on: 17 Aug 2022 09:27
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Baula44Hello everyone,
I have a damaged surface on my IKEA Malm nightstand that unfortunately cannot be fixed by simple cleaning or polishing. Since I would like to keep the original look, I am considering whether and how the top panels (the tabletop) of the Malm model can be replaced without having to replace the entire piece of furniture.
Is there a guide or any experience on how to remove the panels, whether they are glued or screwed? I am also interested in whether IKEA offers suitable replacement panels and how the replacement process works in practice – especially if there is anything special to consider, such as types of screws, fastenings, or possibly resealing the edges after removal.
I am very much looking forward to your feedback and tips regarding replacing the nightstand top! Thank you in advance!
I have a damaged surface on my IKEA Malm nightstand that unfortunately cannot be fixed by simple cleaning or polishing. Since I would like to keep the original look, I am considering whether and how the top panels (the tabletop) of the Malm model can be replaced without having to replace the entire piece of furniture.
Is there a guide or any experience on how to remove the panels, whether they are glued or screwed? I am also interested in whether IKEA offers suitable replacement panels and how the replacement process works in practice – especially if there is anything special to consider, such as types of screws, fastenings, or possibly resealing the edges after removal.
I am very much looking forward to your feedback and tips regarding replacing the nightstand top! Thank you in advance!
Baula44 schrieb:
whether and how the nightstand surfaces (meaning the tabletop) on the MALM model can be replaced without having to change the entire piece of furniture.Hello, I know that well – it’s really frustrating when something like that breaks! I’ve tried a similar repair myself and can reassure you: on my MALM model, the tabletop is screwed on, not glued. However, the screws are underneath the tabletop, so you’ll definitely need to lay the nightstand on its side to access them.
Baula44 schrieb:
whether IKEA offers suitable replacement topsReplacement tops directly from IKEA usually aren’t available, at least not without buying a whole new piece of furniture. That’s why I considered using plywood panels cut to size to save costs.
My advice: check carefully whether the connection is only screwed together—otherwise, a look into the assembly instructions or user experiences here in the forum can help. If you have trouble with disassembly, don’t hesitate to ask again—we’re happy to support you!
If the process seems too tricky, don’t worry; simple repair tapes or repair kits often do the trick, especially if the damage isn’t too severe 🙂
I find it interesting that you are already considering a complete replacement of the bedside table surface.
While that is the case with some MALM versions, I have also seen models where the surface is fixed with staples or even adhesive, which makes replacement difficult – so it’s important to check the specific model you have.
I would recommend first checking the official assembly or installation instructions from IKEA for the MALM bedside table, as you can usually determine how the surfaces are attached from there. It’s also worth contacting IKEA directly to ask if replacement tops are available, since sometimes they are not sold as separate parts. This approach helps avoid unnecessary expenses.
And: If anyone here has already completed the replacement, it would be very helpful to know how complex the process was and whether intermediate materials (such as plywood or veneered particleboard) can be used as substitutes. I would generally be cautious about that, as it’s important that the material has a similar smoothness and durability to the original; otherwise, the longevity will suffer.
semuneo schrieb:
The tabletop on my MALM model is screwed on, not glued.
While that is the case with some MALM versions, I have also seen models where the surface is fixed with staples or even adhesive, which makes replacement difficult – so it’s important to check the specific model you have.
I would recommend first checking the official assembly or installation instructions from IKEA for the MALM bedside table, as you can usually determine how the surfaces are attached from there. It’s also worth contacting IKEA directly to ask if replacement tops are available, since sometimes they are not sold as separate parts. This approach helps avoid unnecessary expenses.
And: If anyone here has already completed the replacement, it would be very helpful to know how complex the process was and whether intermediate materials (such as plywood or veneered particleboard) can be used as substitutes. I would generally be cautious about that, as it’s important that the material has a similar smoothness and durability to the original; otherwise, the longevity will suffer.
Regarding replacing the MALM bedside table surface, I can provide very detailed advice, as the topic is somewhat more complex than it might seem at first glance.
Basically, depending on the production year and version, the surfaces are either screwed on or, as mentioned, fixed with fastening elements that are difficult to access. Additionally, the problem is that the surface is usually made of particleboard with a melamine coating, which is hard to manufacture yourself. Replacement parts from IKEA are rarely available, unless you order a complete new tabletop or a new bedside table.
Step-by-step guide for inspection and possible replacement:
1. Preparation: Lay the bedside table on its side or back so you can look under the tabletop. Watch out for any screws or clips.
2. Check fastenings: Use a flashlight to look for screws. On the MALM, these are often Phillips screws, sometimes covered by concealed caps.
3. Dismantling: Carefully loosen the screws, taking care not to damage anything. If clips are used, try to gently pry them off with a plastic lever without breaking them.
4. Take measurements: Once the surface is detached, be sure to precisely note the measurements (length, width, thickness) – often the standard thickness of 16 mm (5/8 inch) does not match exactly and may vary.
5. Obtain a replacement part: Direct replacement from IKEA is rare; you may be able to order a coated board with the exact thickness from a timber supplier. However, an edge sealing (melamine or edge banding) is advisable; otherwise, the material will swell quickly if exposed to moisture.
6. Installation: Drill the new piece with identical holes or adjust as needed, then reinsert the screws. Ensure the surface is clean and not warped.
Tips:
- First check if the damage really justifies replacement. Small scratches can often be repaired using repair wax or special furniture touch-up markers.
- Use hand tools with sufficient torque during dismantling and assembly; do not overtighten screws to avoid splitting.
Have you already checked whether the surface is screwed or glued? And do you know the exact model and production year? This would be very helpful for further advice.
In general, replacement is possible but can quickly become complicated if you cannot get a spare board or have suitable material cut.
Basically, depending on the production year and version, the surfaces are either screwed on or, as mentioned, fixed with fastening elements that are difficult to access. Additionally, the problem is that the surface is usually made of particleboard with a melamine coating, which is hard to manufacture yourself. Replacement parts from IKEA are rarely available, unless you order a complete new tabletop or a new bedside table.
Step-by-step guide for inspection and possible replacement:
1. Preparation: Lay the bedside table on its side or back so you can look under the tabletop. Watch out for any screws or clips.
2. Check fastenings: Use a flashlight to look for screws. On the MALM, these are often Phillips screws, sometimes covered by concealed caps.
3. Dismantling: Carefully loosen the screws, taking care not to damage anything. If clips are used, try to gently pry them off with a plastic lever without breaking them.
4. Take measurements: Once the surface is detached, be sure to precisely note the measurements (length, width, thickness) – often the standard thickness of 16 mm (5/8 inch) does not match exactly and may vary.
5. Obtain a replacement part: Direct replacement from IKEA is rare; you may be able to order a coated board with the exact thickness from a timber supplier. However, an edge sealing (melamine or edge banding) is advisable; otherwise, the material will swell quickly if exposed to moisture.
6. Installation: Drill the new piece with identical holes or adjust as needed, then reinsert the screws. Ensure the surface is clean and not warped.
Tips:
- First check if the damage really justifies replacement. Small scratches can often be repaired using repair wax or special furniture touch-up markers.
- Use hand tools with sufficient torque during dismantling and assembly; do not overtighten screws to avoid splitting.
Have you already checked whether the surface is screwed or glued? And do you know the exact model and production year? This would be very helpful for further advice.
In general, replacement is possible but can quickly become complicated if you cannot get a spare board or have suitable material cut.
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