ᐅ Repairing Scratches on Malm Furniture – How to Do It Effectively?

Created on: 25 Jan 2021 09:12
J
Junis2
Hello everyone,

I have unfortunately noticed some unpleasant scratches on my Malm bed from Ikea, caused by everyday use. The surface is painted and relatively smooth. My question is: What is the best way to repair these scratches so that they become as invisible as possible and the surface is not further damaged?

I would like to know which materials or methods work best for this. Is it advisable to use special furniture touch-up markers, or should I rather rely on sanding and polishing products? I am also curious whether home remedies like walnut or wood oil can actually help on painted surfaces like those of the Malm.

It is important to me that the repair is relatively simple and requires little effort, as I am not a professional furniture restorer. Thank you in advance for your tips!
J
Junis2
25 Jan 2021 14:03
Thanks for the tips so far!

Can someone explain whether using sandpaper on painted surfaces is risky? I’m asking because I don’t want to remove the protective layer entirely and end up with ugly sanding marks instead of scratches.

What is the best approach if I want to try sanding? Should I just be very cautious as a formality, or is it better to avoid it altogether?
S
sarla
25 Jan 2021 15:37
Junis2 schrieb:
Can someone explain if using sandpaper on painted surfaces is risky?

Yes, it is definitely a delicate process. With Malm furniture that has a thin paint layer, sanding should be done very carefully and only on deeper scratches. I recommend using only very fine sandpaper (at least grit 800 to 1000) and working carefully on a small area.

The goal is to smooth the edges of the scratches, not to remove the entire surface. Afterwards, the area should be treated with an appropriate polish or paint to restore the gloss.
F
Fitigu
25 Jan 2021 16:02
In addition to the previous post:

Instead of sandpaper, you can also use microfiber cloths and special polishing pastes, which are less abrasive but can still remove fine scratches.

Also important: For Malm furniture, I recommend treating the surfaces with furniture wax or maintenance oil to prevent new damage.
S
SAWYERR
25 Jan 2021 16:47
Regarding home remedies:
sarla schrieb:
Home remedies like walnut oil are more suitable for oiled wood surfaces

I can confirm that. Such remedies do not produce any visible effect on painted edges or surfaces.
G
Germanro
25 Jan 2021 17:32
For final maintenance, I recommend furniture polish containing wax or a clear lacquer spray. This will help keep the surface protected.
J
Junis2
26 Jan 2021 10:15
Thank you for the explanations!

I have chosen a furniture touch-up marker in a matching color and will first only repair the deepest scratches with it.

My last question: How long should the marker dry, and can I polish immediately afterward? Is there anything to keep in mind to achieve an even result?