ᐅ IKEA Malm dresser squeaks when moved – should I use lubricant?
Created on: 10 Feb 2017 19:42
J
Jonni2Hello everyone,
I have had an IKEA Malm dresser for a few weeks now, and unfortunately, it makes quite an annoying squeaking noise when sliding it across hard flooring. The sound seems to come mainly from the area of the drawer runners or the plastic runners underneath.
I’m wondering if a lubricant could help with this or if that might actually make things worse.
Does anyone know this problem and can advise on the best way to treat it? Also, recommendations on what type of lubricant would be suitable? I’d prefer not to just use any oil because I’m worried about possible residues or damage to the materials.
Looking forward to your tips and experiences!
I have had an IKEA Malm dresser for a few weeks now, and unfortunately, it makes quite an annoying squeaking noise when sliding it across hard flooring. The sound seems to come mainly from the area of the drawer runners or the plastic runners underneath.
I’m wondering if a lubricant could help with this or if that might actually make things worse.
Does anyone know this problem and can advise on the best way to treat it? Also, recommendations on what type of lubricant would be suitable? I’d prefer not to just use any oil because I’m worried about possible residues or damage to the materials.
Looking forward to your tips and experiences!
I
Issac_kla210 Feb 2017 20:03Jonni2 schrieb:
Does anyone know this problem and can suggest the appropriate treatment?I always find it interesting why everyone immediately thinks of lubricant. If the Malm dresser squeaks, it could simply be due to the type of flooring or the assembly. Many people instinctively reach for some kind of oil without knowing whether it will actually help in the long term.
The squeaking might also be caused by slight deformations or material friction between the panels – usually, a careful examination of the cause helps more than just applying lubricant. Even with an inexpensive piece of furniture like the Malm, "dry" friction can occur, which, if lubricated permanently, may create new problems.
What I mean is: sometimes lubricant is applied too quickly instead of identifying the real point of friction.
Hello Jonni2,
First of all, thank you for clearly describing your issue; that already solves half the problem when it’s defined so precisely. The squeaking with the IKEA Malm dresser is actually quite common among some users and often originates from the drawer slides.
Using lubricants is a good idea, but it’s important to use a suitable product. I recommend silicone spray because it sticks lightly, doesn’t attract dust particles, and doesn’t damage the material. Important: Do not spray directly onto the wooden surfaces; apply only to the slides and runners, then open and close the drawer several times to distribute the product.
Alternatively, you can use petroleum jelly or paraffin, which are also safe for wood and plastic. Please avoid using WD-40 or general-purpose oils, as these attract dust and can damage the materials over time.
If you have moving rollers (which is rare for the Malm), treat those as well.
If the squeaking remains loud, also check the screws, as sometimes something isn’t fully tightened.
Good luck with the repair!
First of all, thank you for clearly describing your issue; that already solves half the problem when it’s defined so precisely. The squeaking with the IKEA Malm dresser is actually quite common among some users and often originates from the drawer slides.
Using lubricants is a good idea, but it’s important to use a suitable product. I recommend silicone spray because it sticks lightly, doesn’t attract dust particles, and doesn’t damage the material. Important: Do not spray directly onto the wooden surfaces; apply only to the slides and runners, then open and close the drawer several times to distribute the product.
Alternatively, you can use petroleum jelly or paraffin, which are also safe for wood and plastic. Please avoid using WD-40 or general-purpose oils, as these attract dust and can damage the materials over time.
If you have moving rollers (which is rare for the Malm), treat those as well.
If the squeaking remains loud, also check the screws, as sometimes something isn’t fully tightened.
Good luck with the repair!
kaudi schrieb:
I recommend silicone spray because it only lightly adheres, does not attract dust particles, and does not damage the material.That sounds very good. Do you perhaps have a recommendation for a specific brand or product that you personally use and find particularly effective? Also, should the part be cleaned or degreased before applying? In other words, how should I best prepare the material so the spray can achieve its full effect?
It would also be interesting to know how often the lubricant should be reapplied after a few months. For the Malm, is it possible to remove the guide rails for separate cleaning or treatment, or is that not really intended?
Recommendation for lubricants for the Malm dresser:
Silicone spray from a hardware store is often completely sufficient. It is important that the lubricant is not oil-based petroleum, as this can damage or degrade plastic and wood.
Preparation: The runners or glides should be clean and dry, with grease and dust removed. A dry microfiber cloth or a little alcohol on a cloth works well for this—do not use too much liquid.
Maintenance: Reapply every 6 to 12 months, depending on usage and environmental conditions.
For removing the runners: Yes, the Malm drawer runners are usually attached with clips or screws and can be removed. This allows for separate cleaning and treatment, especially if a lot of dust or dirt has accumulated.
Important: When reinstalling, make sure to snap or screw them back in properly; otherwise, the drawer may stick or not slide smoothly.
Silicone spray from a hardware store is often completely sufficient. It is important that the lubricant is not oil-based petroleum, as this can damage or degrade plastic and wood.
Preparation: The runners or glides should be clean and dry, with grease and dust removed. A dry microfiber cloth or a little alcohol on a cloth works well for this—do not use too much liquid.
Maintenance: Reapply every 6 to 12 months, depending on usage and environmental conditions.
For removing the runners: Yes, the Malm drawer runners are usually attached with clips or screws and can be removed. This allows for separate cleaning and treatment, especially if a lot of dust or dirt has accumulated.
Important: When reinstalling, make sure to snap or screw them back in properly; otherwise, the drawer may stick or not slide smoothly.
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