Hello everyone, I have a Malm chest of drawers from Ikea that regularly squeaks when opening the drawers. Although I have lubricated the runners, the noise persists. I am particularly interested in understanding more precisely why these typical squeaking sounds occur with this type of chest, what mechanics or material friction are involved, and whether there are any recommended, sustainable solutions that can permanently eliminate the problem. Has anyone had more in-depth experience with this issue or can explain the exact cause?
pikin schrieb:
The best solution is a targeted cleaning of the tracks along with the use of an appropriate lubricant – ideally silicone oil or Teflon spray instead of conventional oil Thank you, that was an important point. Could you please explain why conventional oil is not ideal? I’m afraid I may have used machine oil and feared the worst.
blapau schrieb:
The MDF material used reacts to moisture and temperature fluctuations with minimal expansion, which can worsen the squeaking. Is there a way to better protect this material, or is regular maintenance the only option?
watkins schrieb:
Could you explain why conventional oil is not ideal? Standard oils are often viscous and attract dust particles, which increases friction and can cause sticking over time. In contrast, silicone oil or Teflon spray creates a thin, dry layer that does not promote dust adhesion.
watkins schrieb:
Is there a method to better protect this material, or is regular maintenance the only option? MDF can be protected by sealing, such as painting the edges. However, with furniture like Malm, this is rarely possible without causing damage. Regular inspection and maintenance are usually the most practical approach.
This is brilliant, so many details are already coming together here! 🙂 I experimented with some graphite powder on my Malm dresser and then I had no more trouble. Try it out — it stays dry and you don’t have to keep reapplying lubricant!
I did the same, great tip!
Elijah42 schrieb:
You can also completely remove the drawer slides and clean them with cleaning naphtha or a suitable cleaner
I did the same, great tip!
Davidleo schrieb:
It’s amazing how many details are already coming together here! Or you just let it squeak and accept it as part of IKEA’s charm. 😉 Seriously though, constantly messing around with lubricants often causes more problems than it solves, since it hardly changes the underlying building materials. Maybe the squeaking is even an intentionally accepted “sound effect” to keep mass production costs low. Durable or high-quality is something else entirely.
likuken schrieb:
Maybe the squeaking is an intentionally accepted ‘sound effect’ An interesting theory, but in fact, the squeaking can be effectively reduced from a technical standpoint. It is more likely the result of basic materials and construction aimed at keeping costs low. The user can counteract it effectively through cleaning and the use of appropriate lubricants. I find it unlikely that the noise is intentionally created for marketing purposes.
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