I have a rather specific question about my IKEA Malm dresser, which I have been using for several months and have noticed an annoying noise: Why does the Malm dresser squeak when opening the drawers? I have observed the problem, and it happens every time I pull a drawer, especially when opening it gently or more forcefully. I suspect it might be related to the runners or the materials used, but I would like to hear your opinion on what exactly could be causing this. Should I apply lubricant, or are there other factors I should consider? Thank you in advance for your help!
draleo schrieb:
Please do not use oil-based lubricants, as they attract dust and worsen the problem over time. Interesting point, thanks! I hadn’t considered that. Which silicone-based lubricant would you recommend? Is there something specific for furniture, or would a standard product from a hardware store do?
For furniture drawers with plastic runners, special silicone sprays available at hardware stores work well. It is important that the spray is dust-resistant and non-sticky. Alternatively, dry lubricants based on PTFE are also suitable. These products reduce friction sustainably without attracting dirt. Avoid grease or oil-based lubricants.
Amaliabu schrieb:
Which silicone-based lubricant would you recommend? Additionally, the area should be thoroughly cleaned before application, preferably with a slightly damp cloth and, if necessary, some alcohol to remove grease and dust. This helps the lubricant adhere better and last longer.
Mekau schrieb:
Drawers properly aligned That's correct. If the drawer sticks or doesn’t slide smoothly, it’s more likely to squeak. Especially with Malm furniture, a screw can easily shift out of place.
In summary, squeaking in the Malm chest of drawers primarily occurs due to dry or contaminated sliding surfaces in the drawer runners. The solution involves thorough cleaning, occasional maintenance with a silicone-based lubricant, and checking the mechanical fasteners. Incorrect drawer alignment or loose screws can worsen the issue. As a result, physical friction forces and material properties influence the noise behavior. This approach represents the best practice for noise reduction.
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