ᐅ Malm furniture surfaces scratched – how to improve their appearance?

Hello everyone,

I have owned several IKEA Malm furniture pieces for some time now, which I actually like quite a bit, but there is one issue: the surfaces have developed some light scratches in several spots, which are quite noticeable visually. The furniture is white, laminated with a slightly matte finish, and the scratches are shallow, mostly superficial.

My question is: what methods or home remedies do you know to improve the appearance of these Malm surfaces and conceal the scratches? I am thinking of treatments that are not too complicated and won’t damage the furniture—so nothing involving extensive sanding or repainting. I’m especially interested in experiences with special polishes, wax mixtures, or even natural products like olive oil or baking soda pastes.

Are there also any tips on how to best clean and maintain these laminated surfaces to keep the effect of such treatments lasting as long as possible?

I look forward to your answers and advice. Thanks in advance!

Hello, I would recommend trying furniture polish designed for lacquered surfaces. Simply apply carefully, then polish.

Are the scratches a bit deeper? Then you might consider using furniture touch-up sticks in a matching color.

But make sure to test first in an inconspicuous area.

DULIS schrieb:
Scratch a bit bigger? Then maybe use furniture glides in a matching color.

I think that's a good tip. I once had Malm tables myself and noticed how quickly the surface wears, especially with children in the household.

Personally, I carefully applied some olive oil, which added a bit more shine and a fresh look, but it didn’t really make the scratches invisible.

Maybe a microfiber cloth with some water and mild soap will help with basic cleaning before you apply anything. I understand the frustration when furniture suddenly looks old. Hang in there, there’s always a way to improve its appearance 🙂

I would like to take a moment to question the practicality of certain measures.

Waltrautda schrieb:
The furniture is white, laminated with a slightly matte finish

Laminated surfaces are relatively thin and sensitive to mechanical impact. Sanding or using strong chemical agents can make the damage worse.

Many recommend furniture polish or wax, but are these products really suitable for laminates? They are often designed more for lacquered surfaces and solid wood.

Therefore, my suggestion is to carefully touch up small scratches with furniture repair markers that match the color, followed by a gentle cleaning using a neutral cleaner, rather than experimenting with oils or polishes that could, at worst, damage or cause the laminate to become sticky.

If anyone has more detailed experience or test results, please feel free to share.

theo63 schrieb:
Foil-covered surfaces are relatively thin and sensitive to mechanical impact.

That is correct and important to know. Malm furniture is coated with melamine resin foil, which is durable but not easy to repair.

For superficial scratches, manufacturers often recommend mild cleaning agents and for minor damage, furniture repair kits with wax sticks. These visually fill in scratches and often match the foil color well.

Olive oil or other home remedies can, over time, make the surface greasy or smudged and cause darkening.

If more extensive repairs are required, replacing a furniture part or professional repair might be a better option than DIY methods.

As a general rule: do not use aggressive cleaners; instead, use soft cloths and treat damaged areas only locally.