Hello everyone, I have the following problem: My IKEA Malm dresser has developed an annoying squeaking noise in several drawers when closing. The noise mainly occurs when I slowly push the drawers back and the sliding rails along the sides glide. I have already cleaned the rails, but the squeaking remains. My suspicion is that it comes from the rollers or the sliding rails, and maybe they need lubrication or a minor repair. Does anyone have experience with this issue and possibly a step-by-step guide on how to fix it quietly without having to buy a new drawer or rail? Thanks in advance!
The point raised by theota is interesting, but with IKEA furniture, especially popular lines like Malm, we are dealing with mass-produced items made from cost-effective materials. This means that wear and tear over time is quite normal.
The most important thing: if drawers squeak, it is usually a maintenance issue, not a design flaw. Regular care using an appropriate lubricant (silicone spray instead of oil) and keeping the tracks clean significantly extends their lifespan.
For beginners, I recommend carefully pulling out the drawers and closely inspecting the sliding tracks. You can also easily remove dust and lint with a soft cloth.
If you’re unsure, test the lubricant first on a discreet area to avoid discoloration.
The most important thing: if drawers squeak, it is usually a maintenance issue, not a design flaw. Regular care using an appropriate lubricant (silicone spray instead of oil) and keeping the tracks clean significantly extends their lifespan.
For beginners, I recommend carefully pulling out the drawers and closely inspecting the sliding tracks. You can also easily remove dust and lint with a soft cloth.
If you’re unsure, test the lubricant first on a discreet area to avoid discoloration.
I completely removed my Malm drawers once, cleaned the slides with a lint-free cloth, then applied silicone spray, and haven’t had any problems since. The process is actually quite simple.
You just need to be careful not to spray too much, so the spray doesn’t get on the wood or other visible surfaces. You can also achieve some effect by applying the spray to a cloth and wiping the slides with it.
Good luck!
You just need to be careful not to spray too much, so the spray doesn’t get on the wood or other visible surfaces. You can also achieve some effect by applying the spray to a cloth and wiping the slides with it.
Good luck!
kieran schrieb:
Avoid oils, as they attract dust That’s good to know, I was actually thinking of WD-40. I’ll skip that then.
Jeanbar schrieb:
Test the lubricant first on an inconspicuous spot Can this help prevent dirt or stains on the melamine-coated side panels? I’d rather not risk marks on the surface.
I’ll pull out the drawer and clean it tonight, then I’ll get back to you if I have any questions.
A word of caution: Some rails in the Malm series have plastic guides or small plastic inserts. When cleaning, be careful not to damage or remove these, as this can affect the smooth operation of the drawer.
Silicone spray maintains the plastic and metal parts well and helps the drawer slide smoothly without damaging the plastic components.
If possible, remove the sliding rails for a thorough cleaning. A brush or dry cloth works well for dust and small particles.
If a rail is bent, it can often be carefully straightened again.
Silicone spray maintains the plastic and metal parts well and helps the drawer slide smoothly without damaging the plastic components.
If possible, remove the sliding rails for a thorough cleaning. A brush or dry cloth works well for dust and small particles.
If a rail is bent, it can often be carefully straightened again.
Ethan schrieb:
Some rails have plastic guides, be careful not to damage them Thanks for the tip, I was a bit worried that the plastic parts might break easily. I will proceed carefully.
I already removed and cleaned the drawer yesterday. Today I will get some silicone spray and try it out.
Do I need to let the spray sit for a while after applying it, or can I put the drawer back in and test it right away?
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