ᐅ The Malm dresser only squeaks occasionally – how can I reproduce the issue?

Created on: 17 Jul 2021 08:23
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Stephenix
Hello everyone, I have a Malm chest of drawers from IKEA that sometimes squeaks when pulling out or pushing in the drawers. The squeaking only occurs occasionally, not consistently, and I can’t exactly say under which conditions it happens. Does anyone have an idea how I could systematically reproduce this sporadic squeaking? I want to narrow down the problem to search for a targeted solution. Are there specific factors like load, speed, temperature, or similar that I should test? I would really appreciate any helpful tips!
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Guyju
17 Jul 2021 15:38
I’m happy to provide you with a structured approach: 1. Record when the squeaking occurs, such as temperature, humidity, and time of day. 2. Vary the weight of the drawer—best to test it empty, half-full, and fully loaded. 3. Test different opening and closing speeds, ranging from very slow to brisk. 4. Observe whether the drawer is pulled straight or slightly at an angle. 5. Check the rails for dirt and dry spots. Note all findings. This way, you can reliably reproduce the noise and then address it.
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Stephenix
18 Jul 2021 08:11
Taylorsi45 schrieb:
Try opening and closing the drawer under different loads.

Thanks for the tip, I will check today if the squeaking occurs more often with varying weights.
angel schrieb:
Vary the speed when pulling it out and observe any temperature differences.

That explains a lot, I will try to observe and note this more carefully. Which temperatures should be relevant? Normal indoor climate or more extreme conditions?
Guyju schrieb:
Document all findings so the noise can be reliably reproduced and addressed.

I like the structured approach, I will proceed like this and report back.
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plopra
18 Jul 2021 09:44
Pull the drawer out very slowly and then very quickly. Some squeaking noises only occur at certain speeds. Also check if the noise happens only at a specific drawer extension depth.
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TELAHAU
18 Jul 2021 10:12
Try checking if moisture plays a role. Squeaking often occurs more frequently when humidity is higher. After airing out for a while, open the drawer again and compare the noise.
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Stephenix
19 Jul 2021 07:34
sonplo schrieb:
Check if any clamps or misalignment occur – this increases friction selectively.

Yesterday I paid close attention, and indeed, the squeaking can sometimes be triggered by pulling at a slight angle.
NUPIN schrieb:
For me, cleaning the track and then spraying a little WD-40 helped.

That’s what I want to try next. Do you have experience with whether WD-40 is good for the long term or if it only helps temporarily?
Ianlau schrieb:
Also test this with different loads and possibly with small movement variations.

I’m trying that as well. I haven’t tested with a full load yet because I was unsure if I might damage the track.
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angel
19 Jul 2021 09:58
Stephenix schrieb:
Do you have experience whether WD-40 is good for long-term use or only helps temporarily?

WD-40 is convenient but not ideal as a lubricant for sliding rails because it mainly cleans and provides short-term lubrication, but the effect fades quickly. It is better to use a specialized silicone-based lubricant, which dries more slowly and ensures a longer-lasting smooth operation.