ᐅ Malm drawers roll open on their own – how can I prevent this?

Hello everyone,

I have an issue with my Malm dressers from IKEA. The drawers keep sliding out on their own, even though I put them in properly and don’t shake or move them. This doesn’t happen just occasionally, but quite regularly when I open the drawer slightly or apply uneven pressure. I’m mainly interested in how to reliably prevent this without damaging the dresser or the drawer in any way.

Does anyone have an idea if this might be related to the drawer slides, the installation, or maybe an additional component? I often read about improvements or tricks to stop drawers from sliding out—would such solutions be effective? I’m looking forward to practical, actionable advice. Thanks in advance!

Hello,

Regarding the issue of Malm drawers sliding out unintentionally, there are some technical aspects to consider: these drawers in this series do not have automatic locking mechanisms, which means they are not mechanically secured when not fully closed. This problem often occurs if the drawer slides are not installed correctly or are slightly damaged, especially if they are not perfectly parallel or positioned at the correct angle.

The following measures can help:
1. Check whether the installation was done according to the IKEA instructions and ensure all screws are tightened.
2. Inspect the drawer slides for any deformation, foreign objects, or dirt.
3. Install small stoppers or catches that prevent the drawer from being pulled out further.

Alternatively, there are retrofit mechanical locking systems available specifically for Malm drawers that reliably prevent them from sliding out. These should be carefully selected to avoid restricting functionality.

GLORIA schrieb:
The drawers in this series do not have automatic locking mechanisms

This is exactly where I see the main problem! IKEA produces furniture designed for self-assembly, but in terms of safety and functionality, more effort could definitely have been invested in this case. Why aren’t there integrated stoppers? It’s hard to understand why all users now have to come up with their own DIY solutions.

GLORIA schrieb:
Installation of small stoppers or stops that prevent the drawer from being pulled out further

These “retrofit solutions” are often only half measures. I wonder if a modifier or tool, offered directly by IKEA, might solve the problem better than any piece of plastic or rubber added by users themselves.

My opinion: When using furniture that often requires child safety or general household safety features, the manufacturer needs to take more responsibility instead of shifting it onto the customer.

Muso4 schrieb:
Why aren’t there any built-in stoppers?

Because the design focuses on simplicity and cost-efficiency.

If you want to prevent it from rolling out, get small rubber bumpers or plastic stops the size of the drawer slides and attach them to the back.

Alternatively, avoid pulling the drawer out too far and ensure it is loaded evenly.