ᐅ MALM nightstand wobbles even after tightening the screws – how can I stabilize it?

Created on: 16 Jun 2021 18:07

Hello everyone,

I recently assembled a Malm nightstand from IKEA. Even after tightening all the screws several times, the piece of furniture still wobbles slightly, especially when you hold it at the top and move it gently. The screws are tight, and I made sure they are properly recessed. My issue seems to be that the wobbling comes more from the overall frame stability rather than loose fasteners.

Does anyone have experience with how to additionally stabilize the Malm nightstand without having to replace all the screws or do major modifications? Tips for small reinforcements or tricks would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance!

Aimee17 Jun 2021 08:17

If the wobbling is really minimal, you can simply stick felt pads under the legs. This compensates for small unevenness and helps distribute the load better on the floor, which also stabilizes the structure.

tra_nina17 Jun 2021 09:43

To improve the stability of a Malm nightstand when it still wobbles despite tightening the screws, I recommend the following steps:

1. Check all connection points for worn or damaged drill holes (possibly reinsert wooden dowels).
2. Use wood glue on the joints, combined with refastening, to achieve a strong bond.
3. Install an additional thin back panel, if not already present, to reduce shear forces.
4. Use metal brackets for reinforcement, but not as the sole method, since they transfer concentrated loads.

This combination significantly increases overall rigidity and remains reversible.

GALENKU17 Jun 2021 10:29

If I were you, I would also take a closer look at the screws. It is not uncommon for small connectors or screws with slightly more play to be used in bedside tables. Replacing them with longer screws or slightly thicker ones can often eliminate the wobbling.

GAGRAHAM17 Jun 2021 11:45

#10

Wow, this topic is really fascinating! 🙂 I’ve experienced the same issue with my MALM dresser. What definitely helped me was attaching small metal brackets at several corners! It’s really clever because it adds extra stability and you don’t have to buy new furniture.

I also added felt pads underneath – the combination of both is fantastic. So don’t get discouraged, there are plenty of simple solutions! 🙂

Kerem3717 Jun 2021 15:22

#11

tra_nina schrieb:
Use of wood glue on the joints

Thanks, tra_nina, for the detailed summary. The idea of using wood glue sounds plausible. I will give it a try.

GALENKU schrieb:
Replacing these with longer or slightly thicker screws can often stop the wobbling.

That also sounds reasonable. However, I am currently using the standard furniture screws from IKEA, which, as far as I know, are designed specifically for the wood material. But trying longer screws could be worth a shot.

I have also ordered a thin additional back panel, which I will install when I get the chance. Thanks for all the tips so far 🙂

karlau18 Jun 2021 07:16

#12

Kerem37 schrieb:
I have now also ordered a thin additional back panel, which I will install when I get the chance.

I still maintain: This whole thing always feels a bit like refusing to accept the furniture piece as it was designed. You can’t reinforce everything with extra wood and screws to make it more stable.

If you’re dealing with IKEA materials, you shouldn’t expect heavy-duty craftsmanship. A little wobbling is almost normal, and it helps to mentally practice a bit of patience ;-)

ᐅ MALM nightstand wobbles even after tightening the screws – how can I stabilize it?

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