ᐅ How can you check for issues with Malm furniture before purchasing?

Hello everyone, I am currently planning to buy an IKEA Malm desk but have often heard about issues with stability, workmanship, and the furniture panels. My question is: How can I specifically check when purchasing if my Malm piece is affected by common problems such as uneven finishing, crooked edges, boards that appear damaged or worn, or unstable connections? What should I pay attention to during an on-site inspection to avoid unpleasant surprises at home and unnecessary returns? Are there specific tests, practical tips, or visible indicators that should not be overlooked? Thanks for your advice!

First, check all edges for smooth finishing and ensure all screws are properly tightened. Shake the piece of furniture to test its stability. If anything wobbles, report it immediately.

When inspecting Malm furniture, I recommend paying attention to two main aspects: 1. The surface quality, to identify manufacturing defects such as cracks, warping, or torn edges. 2. The joints and fittings, to ensure they are securely attached. Additionally, check whether the drawers and doors operate smoothly and without resistance. Unstable materials or poor adhesive bonding are often causes of problems.

Great question! I love the Malm, but for that very reason, here’s an extra tip: Check the back side carefully! You can often find unattractive repair attempts or damaged parts there! 🙂 And not only that – when testing the drawers, pull them out completely and feel if the wooden edges are smooth. I once had one where the edge was really rough, and that can be quite annoying!

I understand how frustrating it is when furniture isn’t as sturdy as expected. I once had a Malm bed where a screw kept coming loose. Since then, I always check and tighten all screws again after assembly. Although this isn’t a direct buying recommendation, it can help you avoid trouble.

The inspection when purchasing should be done in two steps: First, a visual check for any defects such as deformations, color inconsistencies, chipping, or poor bonding. Then, I recommend a mechanical test by opening and closing the drawers several times, checking the stability, and, if necessary, gently pressing on the furniture panels to see if they show any flexing. The MDF panels sometimes tend to delaminate at the edges.