ᐅ IKEA Malm drawers come loose – how to secure them?

Hello everyone,

I have a problem with my IKEA Malm bedroom furniture set where the drawers occasionally come out completely. I am using the drawer mechanism according to the instructions, but it seems the mechanism doesn’t hold securely, so when opening, the drawer sometimes slides completely out of the frame. My specific question is: How can the Malm drawers be safely secured so they don’t fall out when pulled, without damaging the original parts or making complicated modifications? Are there proven solutions or alternative securing methods that are easy to implement? I’m looking forward to your advice, as I don’t want to risk the drawer falling, especially when it is fully loaded. Thanks in advance!

GUFIPI schrieb:
How can you securely fix the Malm drawers so they don’t fall out when pulled

This problem often occurs when the drawer runners are not properly engaged or become loose due to frequent use. A simple and reliable method is to check the existing plastic end stops on the rails and, if necessary, clean them gently with warm soapy water to ensure smooth operation.

If the plastic stoppers are damaged, I recommend ordering replacement parts directly from IKEA. Alternatively, you can use felt pads or small rubber bumpers from a hardware store, which can be glued inside the drawer bottom to reduce slipping.

Another option is to install small metal hooks or clips on the drawer sides or rails to mechanically prevent the drawers from falling out. However, this requires careful drilling. My advice is to first inspect and replace the original components.

GUFIPI schrieb:
How can the Malm drawers be securely fixed so they don’t fall out when pulled open, without damaging the original parts or making complicated modifications?

Here is a structured approach that I often recommend:

1. Check the mechanism: Pull the drawer out completely and inspect whether the locking tabs on the runners are still intact. These small hooks keep the drawer in position.

2. Cleaning: Remove dust and dirt from the tracks, which can block the mechanism or cause uneven movement.

3. Replace locking stops: If the locking tabs are damaged, replacement parts can be obtained from IKEA or third-party suppliers.

4. Additional securing: Without modifying the furniture, you can attach small self-adhesive rubber bumpers; these significantly reduce the chance of the drawer falling out.

5. Installation and testing: After reassembly, check whether the drawer opens fully without falling out.

A common issue I often see: The drawer is pulled out too far, bypassing the safety mechanism and causing it to come loose. Make sure to use the correct motion.

If you want, I can also share some sources for replacement parts.

Lyndon55 schrieb:
The drawer is pulled out too far, which bypasses the locking mechanism

Exactly, most people pull it out too far. Just don’t pull it fully out and the problem almost always disappears.

If you want it to be more secure, buy the replacement catch tabs at IKEA. They are inexpensive and very helpful.