Hello everyone,
I have been experiencing an issue for some time with my IKEA Malm drawer unit where the drawers squeak when pulled out and during cleaning. The noise is quite annoying and seems to come from the runners or slides. I have already tried adjusting the drawers, but without much success.
I’m interested to know if anyone has tips on how to eliminate the squeaking quickly and effectively—without needing special tools or buying specific lubricants. Maybe there are household remedies or simple tricks that could help?
For your information: The Malm drawers have the typical metal runners with plastic rollers. What methods have worked for you to get rid of the squeaking permanently?
Thanks for your help!
I have been experiencing an issue for some time with my IKEA Malm drawer unit where the drawers squeak when pulled out and during cleaning. The noise is quite annoying and seems to come from the runners or slides. I have already tried adjusting the drawers, but without much success.
I’m interested to know if anyone has tips on how to eliminate the squeaking quickly and effectively—without needing special tools or buying specific lubricants. Maybe there are household remedies or simple tricks that could help?
For your information: The Malm drawers have the typical metal runners with plastic rollers. What methods have worked for you to get rid of the squeaking permanently?
Thanks for your help!
Hello Nifupa,
When dealing with squeaking MALM drawers, it is important to proceed systematically. The noise often results from friction between metal and plastic parts or because the sliding track is dirty. First, I recommend pulling the drawers out completely and thoroughly cleaning the rails from dust, hair, or grease residues. A dry cloth or an old toothbrush works well for this.
Next, check whether the plastic wheels turn smoothly. If the wheels are damaged or stuck, this can also cause squeaking sounds.
For lubrication, silicone sprays or Teflon sprays are particularly suitable, as they do not attract dust. If these are not available, petroleum jelly is a safe alternative, as mentioned earlier.
I would advise against using WD-40, as this product is primarily designed as a rust remover and tends to dry out or attract dirt over time, which can lead to renewed squeaking.
It is also advisable to carefully tighten the screws on the rails, as loose fittings can cause noise as well.
I would also be interested to know how old the piece of furniture is and whether the rails have ever been completely disassembled. Sometimes completely removing and re-greasing the moving parts helps.
If you have any special circumstances, please let me know—I am happy to assist with the assessment.
When dealing with squeaking MALM drawers, it is important to proceed systematically. The noise often results from friction between metal and plastic parts or because the sliding track is dirty. First, I recommend pulling the drawers out completely and thoroughly cleaning the rails from dust, hair, or grease residues. A dry cloth or an old toothbrush works well for this.
Next, check whether the plastic wheels turn smoothly. If the wheels are damaged or stuck, this can also cause squeaking sounds.
For lubrication, silicone sprays or Teflon sprays are particularly suitable, as they do not attract dust. If these are not available, petroleum jelly is a safe alternative, as mentioned earlier.
I would advise against using WD-40, as this product is primarily designed as a rust remover and tends to dry out or attract dirt over time, which can lead to renewed squeaking.
It is also advisable to carefully tighten the screws on the rails, as loose fittings can cause noise as well.
I would also be interested to know how old the piece of furniture is and whether the rails have ever been completely disassembled. Sometimes completely removing and re-greasing the moving parts helps.
If you have any special circumstances, please let me know—I am happy to assist with the assessment.
Hi everyone! 😊
I had the exact same problem with my MALM chest of drawers and came up with a brilliantly simple solution: a little graphite powder works wonders. I just sprinkled some into a slightly open drawer and then opened and closed it several times. After that, no more noise!
I agree with that; my attempt with WD-40 unfortunately caused new squeaking after a few weeks. Graphite, on the other hand, stays dry and provides lasting lubrication.
Give it a try—it’s cheap and harmless. 🙂
I had the exact same problem with my MALM chest of drawers and came up with a brilliantly simple solution: a little graphite powder works wonders. I just sprinkled some into a slightly open drawer and then opened and closed it several times. After that, no more noise!
Wyatt schrieb:
I would advise against WD-40, as this product is primarily designed as a rust remover and tends to dry out or attract dirt over time.
I agree with that; my attempt with WD-40 unfortunately caused new squeaking after a few weeks. Graphite, on the other hand, stays dry and provides lasting lubrication.
Give it a try—it’s cheap and harmless. 🙂
Summary and Additional Notes:
1. Cleaning: Remove dust and dirt from the metal rails and plastic rollers. This prevents wear and ensures smooth movement.
2. Lubrication: Dry lubricants such as graphite powder or specialized silicone sprays are recommended. Liquid oils or WD-40 can attract dust and worsen the problem.
3. Inspection: Check the screws on the running rails and tighten them if necessary, as loose fittings can also cause squeaking.
4. Check the condition of the rollers: Replace worn or damaged rollers.
If none of these measures help, replacing the guide rails from IKEA can be considered; spare parts are usually available there.
My advice: Start with thorough cleaning and dry lubrication, as this is often the most long-lasting solution.
1. Cleaning: Remove dust and dirt from the metal rails and plastic rollers. This prevents wear and ensures smooth movement.
2. Lubrication: Dry lubricants such as graphite powder or specialized silicone sprays are recommended. Liquid oils or WD-40 can attract dust and worsen the problem.
3. Inspection: Check the screws on the running rails and tighten them if necessary, as loose fittings can also cause squeaking.
4. Check the condition of the rollers: Replace worn or damaged rollers.
If none of these measures help, replacing the guide rails from IKEA can be considered; spare parts are usually available there.
My advice: Start with thorough cleaning and dry lubrication, as this is often the most long-lasting solution.
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