ᐅ What should you do if the drawer handles on your Malm nightstand become loose?

Hello Lafula!

This is a common issue with particleboard furniture. The advice from PRA64 and Luchen is very good. When tightening the screws: turn them just enough so the handle doesn’t wobble, but without creating strong resistance—enough so the screw won’t move when opening or closing, without needing excessive force.

If there are cracks in the handle, you can reinforce the broken edge with epoxy adhesive; otherwise, replacing the handle is the only solution. Fortunately, Malm handles are easy to find as replacements.

One more tip: also check that the screws are the correct length. Screws that are too long can damage the wood inside and cause loose handles.

Lafula schrieb:
Do you have any suggestions for when the handle starts to crack due to loosening? Or is it better to just replace the handle?

Of course, this is a matter of aesthetics, but I wonder in general: why try to repair it when you can simply replace the handle? Sometimes sticking to original parts is just sentimental attachment or IKEA marketing. A nightstand with modern handles can enhance the piece of furniture and might look more elegant—just try something different instead of fixing the old one 🙂

ottilie schrieb:
A nightstand with modern handles can enhance the piece of furniture

That’s true, of course, I just hoped to keep the original look. But I actually don’t mind the idea of experimenting with a new type of handle. Does anyone know if the drill holes for other IKEA handle models are the same? I want to avoid any visible, unattractive modifications.

The issue with the drilling holes of other handle models is that they vary greatly. For example, handles from the "Mosslanda" or "Rings" models are often designed for eccentric or elongated holes.

My recommendation:

1. Check the hole distances (using a ruler or caliper).
2. Then specifically look for handles with the same spacing.
3. If there are only slight differences, you can enlarge the holes and conceal them with larger dowels or plugs.

This way, visible imperfections are mostly avoided.

A note on the original mounting: Ikea furniture often uses self-tapping screws designed specifically for particleboard. If you want to use different screws, make sure to choose the correct thread type.

In short: wood glue plus toothpicks usually works, and handles should be sturdy again. New screws can also help if the old ones are a bit worn.

Hello everyone,

here is a brief update from me: Yesterday, I filled the holes with broken toothpick pieces and spray wood glue. After it dried, I carefully screwed in the screws. In fact, the handle is now very stable again and the material doesn't feel overstressed. Thanks for the advice!

However, I noticed that some of the screws have started to show slight rust (I live in a very humid environment). Would you recommend switching to stainless steel screws in general? Or are the original screws from Ikea resistant enough to moisture?