The MALM dresser and bedside table from IKEA are timeless designs that can be easily customized with a variety of hacks. Their sleek, modern aesthetic and range of finishes make them versatile pieces that can fit seamlessly into any home. One of the simplest ways to modify the MALM is by adding decorative stickers, giving you endless possibilities for personalization.
If you’re looking to breathe new life into an unused MALM dresser or bedside table, we’ve got some creative solutions to share with you. From these easy hacks, your MALM will be completely transformed and unrecognizable from its original state.
Even if DIY projects make you nervous, don’t worry – among the hacks we’re sharing, there are plenty that are so straightforward, anyone can complete them, even children as young as three (my little one is quite a whiz with DIY, I must say!).
Malm Wooden Decor Overlay Panels
For those who lack the time or inclination to devote hours to perfecting their Malm drawers, there’s a clever solution. No DIY skills required! Simply attach these specially designed wooden decor panels to the drawer fronts – they’re tailored to fit Malm pieces perfectly. Instant transformation, no sweat.
Fluted Drawer Fronts on This Ikea Malm Dresser
Jennifer Liu transformed an unassuming IKEA MALM dresser into a stunning work of art, boasting a sophisticated blend of black and gold hues. The journey began with a $15 find on Facebook Marketplace, which initially presented itself with imperfections such as discoloration, peeling veneer, and scratches. To elevate the piece, Liu added texture by wrapping it in pole wrap and attaching tapered wooden legs for a modern touch. A coat of black paint, applied using a shellac-based primer for increased durability, provided a sleek foundation. The addition of gold hardware and polished spray-painted legs further enhanced the dresser’s overall aesthetic.
Simple Green Paint Job Transformation
A subtle yet striking makeover can work wonders for any room’s aesthetic. Case in point: the clever use of matching green paint on this Malm dresser hack from Interior Twin, which effortlessly blends with the surrounding wall. The harmonious combination of the fresh coat with the verdant hues of nearby plants and the natural texture of a woven wicker basket creates a visually appealing symphony.
Chunky Wooden Slats
Transforming the Ikea Malm dresser into a unique piece of furniture is a breeze with a simple yet effective hack. The chunky wooden slats used in this DIY project infuse the dresser with a fresh, rustic charm that can be tailored to suit your personal style. You have two options: leave the wood natural for a distressed look or stain and varnish it for a richer, darker aesthetic. Whatever your preference, this hack requires minimal effort, involving only the need to cut the wooden slats to size and attach them to the drawer fronts using glue.
Ikea Malm Gray and Leather Hack
The IKEA MALM dresser’s unique design feature is its wedge-shaped top, which serves as the opening mechanism for each drawer. This intentional omission leaves ample opportunity for customization. One such way to elevate this piece is by adding handles. A clever example of this can be seen on Instagram, where user josefinegunhamre has incorporated leather strap pulls, complemented by a soothing grey paint job that harmonizes with the room’s decor.
Ikea Malm Tree Decoupage Hack
This timeless classic trees wallpaper from Cole & Son has the power to elevate any space. The pairing of this print with bright colours by sophierobinsoninteriors on Instagram is particularly striking. To achieve a similar look, start by covering the MALM dresser’s drawer fronts with the wallpaper. Simply cut out the shapes of the drawer fronts and apply them using a water-based glue like Mod Podge. Once the first layer sets, add an additional coat to seal it. The result is a beautifully transformed piece that can be further enhanced with unique details like the moth drawer knobs. Alternatively, consider using antique gold butterfly knobs to add an extra touch of sophistication.
Ikea Malm Black & White Hack
The Ikea MALM dresser, when reimagined with an art deco flair by Home Talk, boasts a striking black and white aesthetic, elevated by the incorporation of hexagonal shelves treated to a sleek black finish. A thoughtful touch is added through the installation of black bar handles on the drawers, which are further accentuated by painting the separation strips between them in matching black hues. The introduction of tapered legs in black not only adds a sense of sophistication but also raises the dresser off the floor, preventing it from appearing boxy. Finally, a horizontal wooden strip at the bottom serves as a subtle yet impactful finishing touch, dramatically transforming the overall look and feel of the piece.
Ikea Malm Tricolor Hack
This clever upcycle transforms the Ikea MALM dresser into a one-of-a-kind piece with just two added colours. The top drawer remains unpainted, while the middle and bottom drawers receive bold strokes of white and black respectively. The simplicity is striking yet effective.
The incorporation of star knobs adds an extra layer of whimsy to the dresser, making it an ideal addition to a child’s bedroom.
And if you’re smitten with cactus lamps like the featured one, you’ll be pleased to know that similar alternatives can be found on Etsy.
Ikea Malm Relief Pattern Hack
Lux Hax offers an impressive range of stick-on panels that can elevate various Ikea furniture pieces. One such example is the MALM chest of drawers, which has been given a sleek makeover by applying a relief panel in the same color and complementing it with oversized wooden knobs. The classic white and wood combination remains timeless, making this hack a testament to enduring design principles. This stylish transformation can also be applied to the larger dresser, although I couldn’t find an image of it in the same style – and I had to include it because I’m genuinely fond of this hack!
Ikea Malm Black & White Hack (Reversed!)
With the mostly white MALM hack already making waves, we’re excited to introduce its darker counterpart – a mostly black transformation that brings a fresh perspective. The result is undeniably stylish, especially when paired with bold black and red accents, as showcased by mercedes.doczi on Instagram. What truly elevates this hack, though, is the creative use of three dressers in a row to create a unique sideboard. This modular approach has been applied to several other hacks, offering a versatile way to repurpose Ikea furniture into custom pieces. We’re also big fans of the striking black and red French bulldog print, and have discovered an equally charming pug-inspired design.
Ikea Malm Floral Pattern Hack
One of the best ways to give your Ikea furniture a unique touch is by adding decals. For instance, Stickerscoloray on Etsy has created a stunning tropical floral print decal that can be applied to the front of a black-brown MALM, completely transforming its look. This simple hack can breathe new life into the piece and provide endless possibilities for customization. With a vast array of designs available, you’re free to choose any style that suits your taste. We’re particularly fond of this tropical plant design, which adds a touch of elegance to the room when paired with an oversized vase and twigs.
Ikea Malm Media Unit Hack
One creative way to repurpose the IKEA MALM series for a harmonious blend of white and wood tones is exemplified in this media unit hack, courtesy of Instagram user katrin_gaimakova. The designer’s solution leverages the modular nature of the MALM to craft a custom setup that seamlessly integrates with its surroundings. By placing the TV slightly lower than the adjacent dresser, the visual impact of the television is minimized, thereby resolving a common conundrum many of us face when it comes to incorporating TVs into our décor. To further conceal the media unit, the designer incorporates soft furnishings such as cushions and plants, effectively blurring the lines between style and functionality.
Ikea Malm Pastel Hack
A clever Ikea MALM hack by Shake employs a similar approach to the tricolor example, but this time incorporating softer, pastel hues. In contrast to the earlier example, these dressers lack novelty handles, which proves beneficial in maintaining a subdued overall aesthetic. The finished look is remarkably sophisticated, with stylish accessories and lighting adding to its allure – all starting from humble Ikea MALM beginnings.
Ikea Malm Rustic Workbench Hack
Grey House Studio has crafted an impressive piece of design that seamlessly blends function and aesthetics. The studio’s creative team, known for their innovative ideas, has cleverly repurposed a MALM dresser by cladding it with reclaimed wood and adding a chunky raised worktop with storage baskets. This stunning rustic hunk of furniture is versatile enough to be used as either a workspace or console table, making it an excellent addition to almost any room.
Ikea Malm Mirrored Morroccan Hack
Instant elegance can be achieved with the clever use of mirrors, which also create the illusion of space. One creative way to elevate an Ikea MALM dresser is through the application of a mirrored panel from HomeArtStickers on Etsy. This innovative solution consists of a single piece featuring both a mirrored surface and intricate fretwork design. Simply peel off the backing and stick it onto the dresser for a dramatic transformation that takes the MALM to new heights. The abundance of specially designed Ikea add-ons available has made hacking an Ikea product much more accessible and diverse, opening up endless possibilities for creative expression.
Ikea Malm Kitchen Island Hack
One of the most impressive Ikea MALM dresser hacks is when Ginawohnen on Instagram combined four dressers to create a spacious kitchen island. The original dressers remained untouched, but the overall transformation was nothing short of remarkable. By adding a worktop and cleverly designing the layout, they managed to fit in a breakfast bar and even stools, making this hack an accessible solution for anyone with the necessary space.
Ikea Malm Gold Trim Hack
The IKEA MALM hack has taken Pinterest by storm, and for good reason – a touch of gold adds an undeniable air of sophistication to this piece. One creative outlet has taken the concept to new heights by applying gold vinyl to the gaps between drawers, transforming the MALM into a stunning bedside dresser. While adding short legs might have further elevated its aesthetic appeal, it’s equally impressive in its current form.
Ikea Malm Mirrored Hack
One impressive instance of upcycled IKEA MALM designs can be found at Comfy Dwelling. By applying mirrored vinyl sheets to the entire dresser, the result is a stunning piece that seamlessly blends into its environment. Furthermore, the harmonious combination of gold mirror accents, dressing room lighting, and soft textiles elevates the overall aesthetic, making it a standout example of creative transformation.
Ikea Malm Raindrops Decal Hack
In an effortless yet effective makeover, the team at Sliik breathed new life into a standard white MALM dresser by incorporating raindrop decals, seamlessly integrating it into their monochromatic decor. This clever hack is not only simple but also versatile, making it perfect for kids’ rooms or any space where a pop of color is desired. With an array of colors and styles available, the possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor the look to your unique scheme.
Ikea Malm Rustic Shabby Chic Dresser Hack
An eye-catching Ikea MALM hack caught my attention recently, courtesy of Instagram user anitanosova_._pro_kraski’s impressive creation showcases her mastery of distressing and shabby chic styles. The addition of embellishment panels imbues the dresser with a unique Moroccan flair, while the wooden surface on top serves as the perfect finishing touch, completing the stunning overall aesthetic.
Ikea Malm Stencilled Hack
Stencils offer a creative way to inject personality into any surface, from furniture to walls. A prime example is the Ikea MALM dresser makeover showcased on Home Talk, where various stencils were used to transform the piece into something extraordinary. This versatility is what makes stenciling such an appealing hack for the MALM. We stumbled upon a playing card symbols stencil that we think would be a great addition to any room. What’s more, this technique is surprisingly easy and offers endless possibilities with countless stencil designs available. The Ikea MALM provides a blank slate, allowing you to customize it in numerous ways. These hacks serve as inspiration for tackling your own MALM transformation and showcasing your unique style. With these ideas, you’ll be equipped to turn an ordinary piece of furniture into something truly special.
