Hello everyone,
I have an IKEA Malm chest of drawers with the original drawer handles and am considering replacing them with more modern handle bars or possibly even leather handles. Now my question is: Is it worth doing it myself (DIY installation), or is this better handled by professional tradespeople?
I would like to know how difficult it is to remove the original handles, whether special tools are needed, and what to watch out for when fitting the new handles. I’m also interested in whether the Malm drawer model has any particular features that make changing the handles more complicated.
Does anyone here have experience with DIY installation of drawer handles on IKEA Malm furniture or any tips on how to best approach this project?
I have an IKEA Malm chest of drawers with the original drawer handles and am considering replacing them with more modern handle bars or possibly even leather handles. Now my question is: Is it worth doing it myself (DIY installation), or is this better handled by professional tradespeople?
I would like to know how difficult it is to remove the original handles, whether special tools are needed, and what to watch out for when fitting the new handles. I’m also interested in whether the Malm drawer model has any particular features that make changing the handles more complicated.
Does anyone here have experience with DIY installation of drawer handles on IKEA Malm furniture or any tips on how to best approach this project?
glamo8 schrieb:
Screw on new handles, paying attention to the existing holes.That’s a good tip, but you should also consider the stability with longer handles – sometimes the existing holes for Malm are spaced too closely together for longer spans.
Additionally, I would recommend carefully measuring everything before removing the old handles to avoid leaving unpleasant drill holes.
bufukin schrieb:
Exact match of the drill holes is the most important point for me. Otherwise, it won’t look neat in the end.I want to offer a slightly different perspective. When installing the Malm drawer handles yourself, the material aspect should not be underestimated.
The drawer front is made of particleboard with a thin laminate – improper unscrewing or drilling can cause chipping.
Therefore: If you have no experience with these kinds of tasks or feel unsure, you should work carefully using gentle leverage and, if necessary, support with soft materials. Professional installation may seem time-consuming but can sometimes save you from repair work.
I still consider self-installation feasible, as long as it is done calmly and with the necessary care.
The drawer front is made of particleboard with a thin laminate – improper unscrewing or drilling can cause chipping.
Therefore: If you have no experience with these kinds of tasks or feel unsure, you should work carefully using gentle leverage and, if necessary, support with soft materials. Professional installation may seem time-consuming but can sometimes save you from repair work.
I still consider self-installation feasible, as long as it is done calmly and with the necessary care.
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