ᐅ Why do Malm dressers often squeak?

I have recently noticed that my IKEA Malm dressers sometimes squeak when I open or close the drawers. The noise is not only annoying but also suggests that some components may occasionally misalign or are not optimally manufactured. My question to everyone here: Why do Malm dressers often squeak? Is it due to the design, the materials, or perhaps the way the drawers are guided? What are the typical causes of this squeaking, and how can the problem be best fixed or prevented? Maybe some of you have had similar experiences and can share tips on how to reduce this irritating noise permanently.

The squeaking usually comes from the drawer slides. Just apply a little silicone spray or candle wax to the metal parts, and the noise will stop.

In addition to regularly lubricating the drawer slides, the material composition of the Malm dressers also plays a role in the squeaking. The combination of MDF boards with a thin melamine coating and basic runners can lead to slight expansion and movement due to humidity or temperature changes, which in turn causes noise.

kloreo schrieb:
The squeaking usually comes from the drawer slides.

That is true; however, the installation of the drawers should also be checked, as improper positioning or misalignment can worsen the problem.

A preventive tip is to occasionally clean the slides and ensure that all components are securely fitted.

It’s interesting that the discussion here always focuses on lubrication and material. I believe the issue runs deeper and is also related to IKEA’s pricing. The Malm dressers are relatively inexpensive, so the manufacturing is designed to be simple. They save on tightly fitted parts, which leads to play and ultimately squeaking.

hauklo schrieb:
Material quality of Malm dressers relevant to the squeaking

Sure, but this can’t be fixed by maintenance alone – eventually, it stops making sense if there is simply too much play.

My advice: if you want lasting quiet, you should invest in more durable furniture. Everything else is just patching and tinkering.

There are several common causes for squeaky drawers in furniture such as the Malm dresser:

1. Unlubricated metal or plastic drawer slides
2. Slight play due to manufacturing tolerances
3. Low load capacity of the sliding components, leading to friction
4. Moisture in wood or particleboard parts causing expansion

gupi66 schrieb:
What are the typical causes of squeaking, and what are the best ways to fix or prevent the problem?

To prevent this, I recommend:
- Regular lubrication of the sliding components with suitable products (silicone spray preferred)
- Checking that all screws and trims are securely fastened
- Avoiding humidity in the room, as it causes wood parts to swell

The combination of these measures usually eliminates squeaking in the long term.