ᐅ Removing Stains from IKEA MALM Nightstand Wood – Any Tips?

Created on: 28 Dec 2020 09:17
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rufus56
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rufus56
28 Dec 2020 09:17
Hello everyone, I have a problem with my IKEA Malm nightstand, which is made of lacquered wood. Unfortunately, some unpleasant stains have appeared, probably caused by liquids that have soaked in over time. My question is: What tried-and-true methods or home remedies do you know for effectively removing stains from the Malm nightstand without damaging the surface? I definitely don’t want to harm the lacquer or make the table look worse. Are there any specific cleaning products or care tips that have proven effective for this type of wood and lacquer finish? Thanks in advance for your advice and experiences!
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Genuan
28 Dec 2020 09:53
It’s best to use lukewarm water with a small amount of mild dish soap. Use a soft cloth, avoid making it too wet, and gently wipe the surface. Do not use harsh cleaners, as they can damage the paint.
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NUPIN
28 Dec 2020 12:26
Oh yes, I know that problem well! 🙂 If there are stains on the MALM nightstand, a mixture of lemon juice and a bit of olive oil often helps! Just gently rub it in, let it sit for a while, and then carefully wipe it off. This gives the finish a great fresh boost and removes stains! Don’t hesitate to try it, it’s brilliant :-)!
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LOJOPAR
29 Dec 2020 08:44
Hello, I would like to add a structured guide here that works well for painted wood surfaces like those on the IKEA MALM nightstand:

1. First, remove dust and loose particles with a dry microfiber cloth.
2. For light stains, use a soft cloth with lukewarm, mild dishwashing water (ratio about 1:20). Avoid using too much water, as moisture can be damaging.
3. Dried stains (e.g., water rings) can be gently treated with a mixture of vinegar and water (1:1). Test it first on an inconspicuous spot! Vinegar can damage the paint if left on too long.
4. For stubborn or dark stains, a special furniture polish cleaner for painted wood can help. Please do not use abrasives or alcohol, as they will damage the surface!
5. After cleaning, make sure to dry the surface thoroughly and, if needed, protect the painted finish with a furniture care product.

A common mistake is using too much water and scrubbing too aggressively – this usually causes more harm than good. Hope this helps you!
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theota
30 Dec 2020 15:39
LOJOPAR schrieb:
For stubborn or dark stains, a special furniture polish cleaner for lacquered wood can help.

I think that's a common tip, but most of the time these products damage the delicate surface more than they actually help. Since IKEA furniture is usually affordable, it often isn’t worth buying expensive specialty products. A simple home remedy like a baking soda paste (mix baking soda with water to make a paste, then gently rub it in) can often work wonders. Of course, you have to be careful, but it causes less harm than many believe.

Besides, honestly: after a few stains, is the MALM nightstand really something that needs restoring? To me, these signs of use are part of the character of the furniture. Being a perfectionist here seems a bit over the top, don’t you think?