ᐅ Malm nightstand squeaks when moved on the floor – any tips?

Hello everyone,

I have a small but quite annoying issue with my IKEA Malm bedside table: when I slide it across the floor, it produces a squeaking sound that is noticeably unpleasant. The bedroom floor is laminate, and so far the bedside table has no felt pads or anything similar underneath. I have already tried lifting the table slightly and sliding it more gently, but the squeaking remains.

My question is: Does anyone have tips on simple ways to reliably eliminate the squeaking when moving a Malm bedside table on laminate floors? Are there any special gliding materials or techniques that have proven effective for this IKEA model, without damaging the floor or the furniture?

I would appreciate well-founded and practical recommendations. Thanks in advance!

Hello Lugilles,

The squeaking of furniture like the Malm nightstand on laminate flooring usually results from friction between the floor and the furniture legs, which are often made of wood or coated materials. A well-proven first step is to use felt pads or special plastic glides, which can be included in the furniture price or purchased separately.

It is important that the glides are large enough and have adhesion suitable for the laminate floor, so they do not slip or come loose. Alternatively, applying furniture wax to the edges of the furniture legs can help—it reduces friction and the associated noise.

Please check the glides regularly to prevent damage to the furniture or floor.

In summary:
- Attach felt or plastic glides to the feet
- Use furniture wax as a lubricant
- Clean the floor and furniture legs before installation

These methods are widely recommended by manufacturers and other users.

tra_nina schrieb:

It is important when choosing glides that they are large enough and have the appropriate grip for laminate flooring, so they do not slip or come loose.

I want to emphasize this warning. Additionally, you should first check the nightstand legs for any loose screws or joints – sometimes such small movements cause squeaking.

Another often underestimated tip: cork glides or special silicone pads are a good alternative to felt glides. They are more durable and provide better protection for the floor against scratches.

I also recommend cleaning the area under the furniture before attaching the glides, to prevent dust or dirt from getting caught and causing noise again.

If the squeaking persists, you could also attach thin furniture casters under the piece, which allow for smooth and quiet movement, although this will change the appearance.

I would simply stick felt pads to the floor contacts. This prevents squeaking and protects the floor. Cheap and simple.

Lugilles schrieb:
I have a small but rather annoying flaw with my IKEA Malm bedside table: when I slide it across the floor, it makes a squeaking noise.

Oh yes, I know that feeling! 🙂 At the time, I just stuck self-adhesive felt pads under the feet, and suddenly the squeaking was gone.

If you ever want to spruce up your Malm, you can wrap the felt pads with colorful washi tape—it looks cool and provides extra protection ;-)

One more tip: the handle areas on the bedside table can sometimes rub against each other—keep an eye on that too! Good luck, you’ll manage it!