ᐅ Malm drawer handles are coming loose – how do I properly fix them?

Created on: 26 Nov 2019 08:42
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tra61
Hello everyone, I have noticed that the drawer handles on my Malm dressers tend to loosen over time, even though I tightened them properly. I’m wondering how to secure these handles correctly so they remain stable in the long term. Are there any special techniques or materials that should be used for this? And how can I prevent the screws from coming loose again? I look forward to your tips and experiences.
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karus66
26 Nov 2019 11:45
Kinbu schrieb:
If desired, a small drop of medium-strength threadlocker (not a permanent adhesive) can also help

This is a very good tip because permanent adhesives would interfere when working on the piece of furniture. The medium-strength threadlocker provides enough hold but can still be undone later. Its use is therefore technically practical and efficient here.
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GEKAU51
26 Nov 2019 14:27
But honestly, I doubt that many here have even the time or patience to fill the holes and prepare everything precisely. Most of the time, people just tighten the screws again and eventually accept that the handles wobble as normal. My opinion: it’s better to buy good handles right away, ones with larger mounting threads, and then the problem is solved.
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onMarcos
26 Nov 2019 15:12
I would like to add: A common mistake is overtightening the screws. Since the material is often MDF or particleboard with a melamine surface, excessive pressure can cause it to break out. My tip: Tighten until you feel slight resistance, then loosen slightly and test again. Regularly retightening after a few weeks can also help before the screw completely loosens.
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tra61
26 Nov 2019 16:08
GEKAU51 schrieb:
Most of the time, people just retighten the screws, and eventually consider it normal for handles to become loose.

I don’t see it that negatively. My Malm furniture is located quite centrally in the apartment, and I don’t want to have to readjust it all the time.
onMarcos schrieb:
A common mistake is overtightening the screws.

That makes sense. I suspect this is why I already have some material displacement issues after installing the screws. Thanks for the tip to work carefully here.

I will try the tips with wood glue and toothpicks and also order a medium-strength threadlocker at the same time.
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onan56
27 Nov 2019 08:15
I found your posts incredibly helpful. From my own experience, these cabinet handles can often be frustrating. It’s disappointing when you think you’re doing everything right, but they still don’t hold up. My advice to everyone: Take your time, work carefully, and don’t be too hard on yourself if something wiggles. It happens even to the best of us. 🙂
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SUDAN
27 Nov 2019 08:39
tra61 schrieb:
I will try the suggestions with wood glue and toothpicks and at the same time order medium-strength thread locker.

Very good decision; double protection usually provides the desired stability. A tip for the wood glue: make sure to let it dry completely, otherwise the screw might not grip properly. And if you use thread locker, don’t use too much—one drop per screw is enough.