ᐅ Sanding Malm drawers – how can I fix this?

Created on: 3 Nov 2020 19:12
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Marken31
Hello everyone, I have the following problem: my Malm chest of drawers from IKEA is rubbing against the frame on the second and third drawers. The drawers no longer slide smoothly and get stuck when pulling out or pushing in. I have already tried cleaning the tracks, but it didn’t improve. What could be causing this, and how can I fix the rubbing? Are there any tips for readjusting or placing shims under the drawer slides? I would appreciate any helpful advice, as I would like to repair it myself.
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meoreo
4 Nov 2020 16:22
Drawers often stick because the slides are not perfectly parallel. Simply loosen the screws slightly, insert the drawer, and realign the slides. Then tighten the screws again.
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GAGRAHAM
5 Nov 2020 08:04
I had the same problem and still tried a few things. :-) In the end, a tiny wooden shim placed under the front of the guide rail was enough to stop any rubbing and make the drawer slide smoothly again!

So, don’t rush to sand everything down; sometimes a small insert can be the solution. Good luck to you all!!! 🙂
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Phillipkau
5 Nov 2020 09:47
GAGRAHAM schrieb:
In the end, a tiny wooden wedge under the front guide rail was enough for me

This is a good solution, but you need to be careful with the material and thickness of the wedge, as otherwise the running rails may tilt, which can reduce the lifespan of the drawer. Precise adjustment is crucial here.
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pilous
5 Nov 2020 13:53
GAGRAHAM schrieb:
Sometimes a tiny insert can be the solution.

That may be true, but such temporary fixes should always be approached with caution. Simply covering up the issue can cause further damage in the long run. It is better to identify the exact cause and address it permanently rather than opting for makeshift solutions.