Hello everyone,
I have been having an issue for some time with the drawers of my Ikea Malm chest of drawers starting to squeak, especially when I pull them out or push them back in. The squeaking seems to come from the metal rails that serve as guides.
I’m wondering what the best and most sustainable way is to eliminate the squeaking without damaging the mechanism or making the drawers harder to move later on.
Does anyone have tips on which lubricants are suitable for the sliding surfaces? Should you even apply something between the rails and the drawer frame, and if so, what?
I’m also interested in experiences with household remedies versus specialized lubricants or possibly replacing the rails.
Thanks in advance for any advice!
I have been having an issue for some time with the drawers of my Ikea Malm chest of drawers starting to squeak, especially when I pull them out or push them back in. The squeaking seems to come from the metal rails that serve as guides.
I’m wondering what the best and most sustainable way is to eliminate the squeaking without damaging the mechanism or making the drawers harder to move later on.
Does anyone have tips on which lubricants are suitable for the sliding surfaces? Should you even apply something between the rails and the drawer frame, and if so, what?
I’m also interested in experiences with household remedies versus specialized lubricants or possibly replacing the rails.
Thanks in advance for any advice!
P
PECLARISSA5 Mar 2020 20:12Hey Sikin!
I’m very familiar with this problem; these Malm drawers sometimes seem to develop a mind of their own 🙂
One thing you can definitely try is applying a small amount of silicone spray to the metal runners. It creates a smooth sliding surface and usually eliminates the squeaking quickly. Important: use the spray sparingly so it doesn’t become too greasy and attract dust.
Besides that, you should check if any screws are loose – noises often occur when something isn’t firmly secured.
Be cautious with WD-40; it’s more of a rust remover and not ideal for lubrication, as it can break down over time. Silicone spray is my preferred choice! 😉
Good luck!
I’m very familiar with this problem; these Malm drawers sometimes seem to develop a mind of their own 🙂
One thing you can definitely try is applying a small amount of silicone spray to the metal runners. It creates a smooth sliding surface and usually eliminates the squeaking quickly. Important: use the spray sparingly so it doesn’t become too greasy and attract dust.
Sikin schrieb:
The squeaking apparently comes from the metal runners
Besides that, you should check if any screws are loose – noises often occur when something isn’t firmly secured.
Be cautious with WD-40; it’s more of a rust remover and not ideal for lubrication, as it can break down over time. Silicone spray is my preferred choice! 😉
Good luck!
Hello Sikin,
to effectively and permanently eliminate the squeaking of the Malm drawers, I would recommend the following procedure:
1. Completely remove the drawer. Usually, you can pull it entirely out of the sliding rails. Be mindful of any locking tabs.
2. Dust, small debris, or old lubricant residues can accumulate on the guides—these are often ball-bearing metal rails. Clean them thoroughly with a lint-free cloth and, if necessary, a mild cleaner (be careful not to get them wet, just slightly damp).
3. Use a silicone spray or a dry lubricant based on PTFE (e.g., Teflon spray) to improve sliding performance. These products also reduce dust buildup compared to oil-based lubricants.
4. Apply the lubricant sparingly to the guiding areas, especially on the ball bearings. Wipe off any excess lubricant with a clean cloth.
5. Reinstall the drawer and test its smoothness. If squeaking continues, check the screws on the frame and the rails, as the underlying structure can sometimes loosen slightly and cause noise.
One more tip: Avoid sprays that remain sticky from oil or wax bases, as these attract dirt and can worsen the problem over time.
Are there any signs of rust or damaged parts on your side? This would be important to know, since replacing the rails might then be a better solution.
Best regards,
PLOMA
to effectively and permanently eliminate the squeaking of the Malm drawers, I would recommend the following procedure:
1. Completely remove the drawer. Usually, you can pull it entirely out of the sliding rails. Be mindful of any locking tabs.
2. Dust, small debris, or old lubricant residues can accumulate on the guides—these are often ball-bearing metal rails. Clean them thoroughly with a lint-free cloth and, if necessary, a mild cleaner (be careful not to get them wet, just slightly damp).
3. Use a silicone spray or a dry lubricant based on PTFE (e.g., Teflon spray) to improve sliding performance. These products also reduce dust buildup compared to oil-based lubricants.
4. Apply the lubricant sparingly to the guiding areas, especially on the ball bearings. Wipe off any excess lubricant with a clean cloth.
5. Reinstall the drawer and test its smoothness. If squeaking continues, check the screws on the frame and the rails, as the underlying structure can sometimes loosen slightly and cause noise.
One more tip: Avoid sprays that remain sticky from oil or wax bases, as these attract dirt and can worsen the problem over time.
Are there any signs of rust or damaged parts on your side? This would be important to know, since replacing the rails might then be a better solution.
Best regards,
PLOMA
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