ᐅ IKEA Malm nightstand wobbles after moving – how to improve stability?

Created on: 16 Apr 2020 09:23
G
Gla43
Hello everyone,

I recently reassembled my IKEA Malm nightstand after moving and noticed that it now feels a bit wobbly. I followed the assembly instructions carefully and tightened everything as described. My question is: What options are there to improve the stability and safety of the Malm nightstand so that it doesn't wobble and stays securely in place? Are there suitable tools, additional parts, or special solutions I can use to better secure the furniture? I would appreciate any tips, especially if someone has already solved this issue after a move.
J
jokau
16 Apr 2020 16:01
Place rubber pads under the feet or use suitable furniture feet for leveling. Always tighten screws securely.
T
tutan
17 Apr 2020 09:22
Hey Gla43,

I’ve had my Malm issue as well. If you notice it wobbling after moving, it could be because the base plate is no longer sitting flat, possibly due to small imperfections.
Marlenepa schrieb:
Replace any damaged wooden connectors or seals if necessary.

I would recommend that too—sometimes a nightstand just needs a little TLC after being moved 😉

You can also secure the nightstand to the wall using small brackets. IKEA offers suitable mounting kits for this, which are usually inexpensive and give peace of mind when the wobbling stops. Maybe that solution would work for you?
V
valentino
17 Apr 2020 11:09
To improve stability, I recommend the following sequence:

1. Check that all connection points are properly seated and tightened.
2. If needed, install height-adjustable furniture feet to customize the level.
3. Use brackets for wall mounting, such as those offered for the Malm series.
Gla43 schrieb:
What options are there to increase the stability and safety of the Malm nightstand to prevent it from wobbling?

The focus should always include the floor surface. If there are uneven areas, even the most robust table can wobble. Addressing this can also improve safety.
K
KODAN32
18 Apr 2020 08:47
Hello again,

to wrap things up: One often overlooked cause of wobbling is recessed dowels that have shifted during disassembly or transport. If the dowels are too loose, they lose their holding strength.
valentino schrieb:
Install adjustable furniture feet if necessary

This is also my number one tip after checking the screws. Alternatively, you can use wood glue for a more permanent repair around the dowels if they are loose.

In conclusion: wobbling usually does not pose a fundamental risk, but the measures mentioned can help improve safety and prevent annoying movement if needed.

Good luck with the assembly!