ᐅ Malm chest of drawers squeaks under heavy load – how to fix it?

Created on: 11 Jan 2017 08:23

Hello everyone,

I have a Malm chest of drawers from Ikea that starts squeaking under heavier loads, for example when I pull out several drawers fully or store something heavy on or inside the drawers. The noise seems to come from the runners or the connections between the drawers and the frame.

I’m mainly interested in: What exactly could be causing this squeaking? And what would be the best approach to fix the problem without compromising the mechanical functionality or stability?

I have considered lubricants like silicone oil or graphite spray but am unsure whether these are recommended for this type of furniture system.

I would appreciate any well-founded advice or tips!

bufukin13 Jan 2017 09:18

lipeje schrieb:
Can anyone recommend a precise product? There are various sprays and waxes, so it’s easy to lose track.

For furniture with simple metal tracks, I recommend spray graphite or Teflon sprays from well-known brands like WD-40 Specialist Dry Lube or Ballistol Teflon. These leave a thin, dry film that reduces friction and does not attract dust.

lipeje schrieb:
How often should you typically re-lubricate with normal use?

For normal use, applying once every 6 to 12 months is sufficient. It is important to clean the tracks and keep them free of dust before each lubrication.

Mechanically, slightly tightening the screws can also help if the guides have any play. The combination of cleaning, using the right lubricant, and occasional inspection minimizes squeaking and extends the lifespan.

If noises persist, consider replacing the running rails with higher-quality models.

ᐅ Malm chest of drawers squeaks under heavy load – how to fix it?

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