ᐅ Malm drawers sometimes come loose or fall out – how can I secure them properly?

Hello everyone,

I have a problem with my IKEA Malm dressers where the drawers sometimes simply fall out if I pull them out too far. They run on metal runners, but it seems the catch is not reliable enough. Is there a simple and secure way to lock the drawers so they don’t come all the way out, without restricting their functionality?

Maybe someone has experience retrofitting safety stops or knows a simple trick that can be done by yourself. It’s important that the solution is sturdy because the dresser is used frequently and I don’t want to take any risks.

Thanks in advance for your tips!

You could buy so-called drawer locks that are attached to the side. Alternatively, rubber or plastic stoppers can be placed at the back to prevent them from sliding all the way through.

Basically, the Malm drawers are equipped with metal slides that have a built-in stop function. If the drawers still come off, this indicates worn or damaged runners.

A secure retrofit can therefore be done with the following steps:

1. Check the slides for damage or wear
2. Attach additional drawer stoppers, for example made of rubber or plastic, such as IKEA-style "stopper clips"
3. Alternatively: install a separate safety bracket or stop at the back, which prevents the drawer from coming out

It is important that the safety feature does not interfere with the mechanical function and remains stable during daily use.

Are there more specific details about which slides are installed and whether the drawers come out when fully loaded?

gadalu schrieb:
If the drawers still fall out, this indicates worn or damaged runners.

That seems to be exactly the case. The slides still work but are no longer completely stable, especially noticeable when closing the drawer quickly or under heavy load.

BOMILAN schrieb:
Use rubber or plastic stoppers at the back

Could you please describe that in more detail? Where exactly on the drawer is the best place to install the stoppers? Do they hold up over time, or do they wear out eventually?

I’m looking for not just a short-term fix but a secure, long-lasting solution.

A very effective way to prevent Malm drawers from falling out is to use so-called "drawer stop clips" or "drawer slide stoppers," which are available from specialized suppliers. These are installed inside the metal drawer slides and block the drawer from being pulled out too far.

Please consider the following:

- The slides on Malm dressers are usually full-extension ball-bearing slides; pay attention to the type when purchasing stoppers.
- Before installation, it is advisable to remove the drawers and thoroughly clean the metal slides, checking for any cracks or deformations.
- The stoppers are typically secured with small screws or snap into a groove, preventing the drawer from being pulled out beyond a defined point.

Another method is to install a safety bracket or a small stop made of wood or metal on the inside of the dresser, which prevents the drawer from being completely removed.

Please also note that all safety components should be of high quality, as low-quality products can easily fail, compromising the intended safety.

Could you please check exactly which slides are installed on your Malm dressers? (e.g., brand, model number). This will make it easier to select the appropriate stoppers.

Hey, I had the same issue with my Malm drawer – it’s really annoying when it suddenly slips all the way out. I just stuck small silicone bumpers on the back of the drawer frame. They absorb the impact and prevent the drawer from sliding out too far and falling.

Pesireo schrieb:
Can you describe that a bit more specifically? Where exactly should I install the stoppers on the drawer?

I always mount them on the back side of the drawer, where it meets the sides of the dresser. It’s super easy and not visible during everyday use. And the best part: these bumpers last quite a long time, at least in my case over a year without any issues. 🙂