ᐅ Replacing MALM drawer handles – what is the proper procedure?

Hello everyone, I want to replace the drawer handles on my Malm sideboard. I’m interested in hearing how you approach this.

Specifically: Do you need any special tools to unscrew the handles? Are the screws usually standard everywhere, or are there differences? And what about installing new handles, which sometimes can be a bit different from the manufacturer?

I definitely want to avoid drilling holes in the wrong place or damaging the surface. Are there any experiences or tips on the exact procedure to get everything done cleanly and without rework?

Looking forward to your feedback!

Tanjon schrieb:
Do you need special tools to remove the handles?

Hello Tanjon, usually no special tools are needed. A simple Phillips screwdriver is completely sufficient – at least for the MALM drawers I recently replaced.

To be honest, the process wasn’t as straightforward as I expected. It seems simple, but with the first handle I was a bit unsure because you usually have to fully open the drawer and then access the screws from the inside. That took some finger gymnastics for me.

Tanjon schrieb:
Are there any experiences or tips for the exact procedure?

What helped me was to pull the drawer out completely and then tilt it slightly forward to get better access to the screws. I also found it useful to have a small container ready for the screws to avoid losing any.

I understand you want to avoid damage – I’d recommend carefully positioning the screwdriver blades to prevent scratching the wood. If needed, you can wrap the tool with some tape to protect the surface even more.

Hello, adding to what elgla has already mentioned: Take a close look at how the new handles are mounted. Sometimes the screw length or the distance between the holes differs slightly.

I once had new handles that looked almost identical, but didn’t fit exactly because of the screw spacing – so I had to use spacers.

elgla schrieb:
I understand that you want to avoid damage – in that case, I would carefully apply the screwdriver blades to avoid scratching the wood.

This is very important! Especially on light-colored MALM surfaces, a scratch stands out a lot.

Good luck!

Hello Tanjon,

here is a simple step-by-step guide on how to replace the MALM drawer handles without causing any damage:

1. Pull the drawer out completely
2. Tilt the drawer to access the back side of the handles
3. Carefully loosen the screws with a Phillips screwdriver – make sure to use the correct size, as a too small one will slip
4. Place the screws in a small container to avoid losing them
5. Remove the old handle
6. Attach the new handle and place the screws
7. Before tightening, check if the holes line up perfectly (if not, you can use dowels or spacers)
8. Tighten the screws evenly and gently to avoid any damage

Common mistakes I have seen:
- Screws tightened too much, causing dents in the wood
- Mixing up screws, as some handles come with screws of different lengths
- Not using a protective mat when placing the drawer down (to prevent scratches on the surface)

One more tip: Some IKEA handles are standardized, while others are not – so be sure to take accurate measurements before buying!

Good luck with your project!

SauDietmar schrieb:
Some IKEA handles follow a standard size, others do not – so definitely take precise measurements before buying!

Thanks for the detailed instructions!

It really seems smart to measure everything carefully first. So far, I’ve only measured the handle itself – but not how far the screws go in or what length they are when screwed in from the inside.

JONKO schrieb:
Also check carefully how the new handles are installed.

I will definitely do that because I actually want a slightly more modern model that might be visually a bit bigger/thicker.

What do you think about the idea of protecting the screws with small washers on the surface? Does that make sense or is it unnecessary?

Hello Tanjon,

Washers can be useful if the screw holes or handles are made of metal and you want to prevent pressure marks.

For MALM drawers, the holes are usually pre-drilled and neatly finished, so additional washers are often not necessary.

However, it's important: if the new handle model requires a different screw length than the old one, it's worth getting the appropriate new screws to achieve the best result.

Tanjon schrieb:
So far, I have only measured the handle – but not how far the screws go in or what length they are when screwed in from the inside.

You definitely should, especially if you are installing a different type of handle. IKEA offers various screw lengths (mostly M4). The screw must be long enough to go through the drawer bottom from the inside and engage the handle, but not so long that it pushes through the surface.

Recommendation: Use a caliper or a ruler and compare the screw length to the thickness of the drawer before purchasing. If you don’t have measuring tools, a tape measure with a precise scale can also help.

If you feel uncertain, you can also ask at a hardware store or directly at IKEA.

I hope this helps you!