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usmatthias23 Apr 2024 10:42Hello everyone,
I have an IKEA Malm chest of drawers where the bottom panel in the lower compartment is damaged. I would like to know the best way to replace just the bottom panel of the Malm drawers—not the entire chest, but specifically the panel at the base of the compartment.
I’m especially interested in whether there are any considerations regarding how it is fixed in place, if the panel can be easily removed, or if it might be glued or screwed in. Are there any tips on how to find and replace the replacement panel without having to take the entire chest apart?
I have thought about having a similar panel custom cut if original spare parts are not available, but maybe someone here has good experience with this type of replacement.
I look forward to your advice!
I have an IKEA Malm chest of drawers where the bottom panel in the lower compartment is damaged. I would like to know the best way to replace just the bottom panel of the Malm drawers—not the entire chest, but specifically the panel at the base of the compartment.
I’m especially interested in whether there are any considerations regarding how it is fixed in place, if the panel can be easily removed, or if it might be glued or screwed in. Are there any tips on how to find and replace the replacement panel without having to take the entire chest apart?
I have thought about having a similar panel custom cut if original spare parts are not available, but maybe someone here has good experience with this type of replacement.
I look forward to your advice!
The bottom panel in MALM dressers is usually just inserted and not securely screwed in place. Simply empty the compartment and carefully lift the panel out – it typically rests only on small guides or dowels.
You can get original replacement panels from IKEA or through customer service. Alternatively, you can have a suitable panel cut to size at a hardware store.
You can get original replacement panels from IKEA or through customer service. Alternatively, you can have a suitable panel cut to size at a hardware store.
I would like to add some details on the exact procedure for replacing the bottom panel of a MALM chest of drawers:
In the MALM model, the lower shelf panel is usually not firmly screwed in but rests on small dowels, which are mostly made of plastic. These dowels are typically positioned in pre-drilled holes on the side panels. It is important to be careful so that these dowels do not break or fall out.
Regarding your question about replacement parts: Original replacement panels can indeed be ordered through IKEA customer service; however, delivery times and costs may vary. Often, it makes sense to take the exact measurements (length x width x thickness) and have a custom board cut at a hardware store. A coated MDF or particleboard panel is recommended to maintain a similar appearance and ensure stability.
It is also technically important that the replacement panel fits precisely into the existing guides on the sides; otherwise, the bottom panel will not sit properly and may wobble. If the original bottom panel sits in a groove, this must be taken into account when cutting.
One more note: Before removing the panel, you should completely empty the compartment and possibly remove any drawers located below or above it to have enough space.
Could you also specify the exact MALM model (e.g., number and size of drawers) and whether the bottom panel is completely broken through or just damaged? This will help determine the right solution.
In the MALM model, the lower shelf panel is usually not firmly screwed in but rests on small dowels, which are mostly made of plastic. These dowels are typically positioned in pre-drilled holes on the side panels. It is important to be careful so that these dowels do not break or fall out.
Regarding your question about replacement parts: Original replacement panels can indeed be ordered through IKEA customer service; however, delivery times and costs may vary. Often, it makes sense to take the exact measurements (length x width x thickness) and have a custom board cut at a hardware store. A coated MDF or particleboard panel is recommended to maintain a similar appearance and ensure stability.
It is also technically important that the replacement panel fits precisely into the existing guides on the sides; otherwise, the bottom panel will not sit properly and may wobble. If the original bottom panel sits in a groove, this must be taken into account when cutting.
One more note: Before removing the panel, you should completely empty the compartment and possibly remove any drawers located below or above it to have enough space.
Could you also specify the exact MALM model (e.g., number and size of drawers) and whether the bottom panel is completely broken through or just damaged? This will help determine the right solution.
Palenar schrieb:
The dowels are usually positioned in pre-drilled holes on the side panels.That's exactly right – I also repaired my MALM dresser myself last year. Just lift the panel, sometimes the dowels can be a bit fiddly, but you'll manage :-)
If you can't get the original panel, just use a slightly thicker or more stable particle board, which will make the base more solid. By the way, I put some felt pads underneath to prevent the panel from slipping.
And don’t worry, the entire dresser won’t fall apart—it’s all built quite sturdy. Good luck! 🙂
Hello!
I would like to add to the advice from Palenar and loken: Replacing the bottom panel in MALM dressers is generally straightforward, but you should be careful if you have older furniture pieces that may be slightly warped or where the dowels no longer hold firmly.
It is advisable to remove all removable drawers completely before taking out the bottom panel to create more space and avoid accidental damage.
If the dowels or drawer runners are damaged, I recommend ordering replacements as well. IKEA sells these parts separately, and the replacement does not take long.
If you decide to use a custom-cut panel, make sure the thickness matches exactly so the drawers still close properly and the stability is maintained. For the surface, a melamine-coated board is recommended if you want to maintain the appearance.
I hope this helps. If you have any further questions, feel free to ask.
I would like to add to the advice from Palenar and loken: Replacing the bottom panel in MALM dressers is generally straightforward, but you should be careful if you have older furniture pieces that may be slightly warped or where the dowels no longer hold firmly.
It is advisable to remove all removable drawers completely before taking out the bottom panel to create more space and avoid accidental damage.
If the dowels or drawer runners are damaged, I recommend ordering replacements as well. IKEA sells these parts separately, and the replacement does not take long.
If you decide to use a custom-cut panel, make sure the thickness matches exactly so the drawers still close properly and the stability is maintained. For the surface, a melamine-coated board is recommended if you want to maintain the appearance.
I hope this helps. If you have any further questions, feel free to ask.
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