ᐅ How to Change the Drawer Handles on an IKEA Malm Nightstand?
Created on: 24 Feb 2024 08:14
H
Hause57
Hello everyone, some time ago I bought the IKEA Malm bedside table. Now I want to change the furniture handles because I no longer like the standard ones and prefer something more modern. However, I haven't found any clear instructions on how to best replace the handles on this model without damaging the wood or having the screws stuck.
Can someone explain the best way to change the furniture handles on the IKEA Malm bedside table? What tools are needed, what should I pay attention to, and are there any tips to ensure everything fits perfectly and looks neat?
I appreciate any help!
Can someone explain the best way to change the furniture handles on the IKEA Malm bedside table? What tools are needed, what should I pay attention to, and are there any tips to ensure everything fits perfectly and looks neat?
I appreciate any help!
If you’re unsure, I recommend a simple safety measure: Place a thin cloth between the drawer and the handle before you start screwing. This will protect the surface from scratches while working. Additionally, using a screwdriver with an ergonomic handle can help prevent slipping.
To remove the handles: Simply stop the drawer before it comes all the way out, and unscrew the screws from the inside. This is often enough and saves you from having to remove the drawer completely, as long as you are careful.
However, it is really important: Never force a screw if it’s stuck! Instead, apply some WD-40 or oil, let it sit for a moment, and then try again.
To remove the handles: Simply stop the drawer before it comes all the way out, and unscrew the screws from the inside. This is often enough and saves you from having to remove the drawer completely, as long as you are careful.
However, it is really important: Never force a screw if it’s stuck! Instead, apply some WD-40 or oil, let it sit for a moment, and then try again.
SONLIS schrieb:
The MALM models usually have a standard drilling distance of 128 mm (5 inches) for the handles.Thanks for the important tip! I believe I have purchased handles with exactly that spacing. So they should fit easily.
Dopoki schrieb:
If the hole spacing differs, it is advisable to fill old holes with wood filler before drilling new ones.If that really becomes necessary for me, do you have a recommendation for a good product? I want the surface to remain as flawless as possible.
In general, I find your tips very helpful. I will start working on it this afternoon and report back. Thanks in advance for the support!
Wood filler from well-known brands like "Pattex Repair Express" or "Bondo Wood Filler" works well. It is important that it can be sanded and painted over after drying.
Additionally, you should always use fine sandpaper (grit 220 or higher) to achieve a perfectly smooth surface.
Good luck with your handle replacement!
Additionally, you should always use fine sandpaper (grit 220 or higher) to achieve a perfectly smooth surface.
Good luck with your handle replacement!
Yeah, you’re doing great! 🙂
Just a small tip: when you install the new handles, don’t tighten them too much. Sometimes the paint around the hole can crack, and that doesn’t look good. It’s better to use the right amount of torque, no more.
And if you need to drill new holes, do it slowly using a drill bit designed specifically for wood. This will help you avoid those annoying splinters.
Looking forward to your update!
Just a small tip: when you install the new handles, don’t tighten them too much. Sometimes the paint around the hole can crack, and that doesn’t look good. It’s better to use the right amount of torque, no more.
And if you need to drill new holes, do it slowly using a drill bit designed specifically for wood. This will help you avoid those annoying splinters.
Looking forward to your update!
Good morning!
I wanted to add that if you need replacement screws, you can check at IKEA or a hardware store for suitable M4 screws. These are quite common with Malm furniture. You can also use longer screws, but make sure they are not too long and don’t stick out the back.
In general, the material is quite soft, so gentle tightening is sufficient. If you have any questions about screw sizes, feel free to ask.
I wanted to add that if you need replacement screws, you can check at IKEA or a hardware store for suitable M4 screws. These are quite common with Malm furniture. You can also use longer screws, but make sure they are not too long and don’t stick out the back.
In general, the material is quite soft, so gentle tightening is sufficient. If you have any questions about screw sizes, feel free to ask.
labar43 schrieb:
When you install the new handles, don’t tighten them too much.That was really great advice. Yesterday, while assembling, I pressed a bit too hard and ended up slightly scratching a small corner of the paint. I’ll be more careful today. 🙂
If anyone has specific recommendations for modern handles compatible with MALM furniture, I’m open to ideas. Preferably metal and simple, but I’m also interested in something more unusual.
Thanks again for all the practical tips here.
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