ᐅ Malm nightstand squeaks – how can you stop the noise?

Hello everyone, I have had an issue with my IKEA Malm bedside table for some time now: it makes a quiet but annoying squeaking noise when pressed down. It is clearly noticeable when opening or closing the drawer, as well as when leaning on the table. I have already checked if the screws are loose, but that does not seem to be the case. Can anyone advise how to effectively stop these squeaking sounds? Are there any specific lubrication methods or other tips recommended particularly for the Malm series? Thanks in advance for your suggestions!

The best approach is to spray some WD-40 into the drawer slides. This lubricates them and usually eliminates the squeaking quickly.

In addition to lubricating, you should also check whether the drawer slides are properly aligned. Sometimes, small misalignments cause friction.

Hello, I can fully understand the frustration with squeaky furniture. For the Malm series, the drawer slides are usually made of metal or plastic, depending on the year of manufacture. I recommend first removing the drawer completely and then thoroughly cleaning all visible tracks – dust or small particles often accumulate there, which can increase the squeaking. Afterwards, you can use silicone spray, as it is non-sticky and safe for plastic slides. Be careful not to apply too much, as that can attract dust again. If noise persists after cleaning and lubricating, a loose joint in the side panels of the nightstand could also be the cause. In this case, properly tightening the screws again or filling small gaps with some wood glue can help.

liRaul49 schrieb:
It’s best to spray some WD-40 into the drawer slides.

WD-40 is actually a rust remover and not a long-term lubricant. I would rather advise against it because it helps at first, but after a few weeks everything sticks again and attracts dust. It’s better to use a special lubrication grease for furniture or maybe regular petroleum jelly, which won’t cause any issues.

To solve the problem: The Malm nightstand usually uses simple roller slides, which can squeak due to dust buildup or slight warping. Cleaning with isopropanol or a mild cleaner, followed by light lubrication with silicone spray, is generally the most effective method. WD-40 can help temporarily but is not a suitable lubricant. If the squeaking comes from the drawer itself, the guide rails may not be properly secured – checking that the screws are tight is essential.