Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
You can refresh an IKEA MALM dresser with paint, stencils, new drawer pulls or a coordinated wood top. The ideas below range from small, reversible changes to more involved surface and room-planning projects; they are inspiration, not a guarantee that every finish or model will suit every treatment. Check surface compatibility, preserve the dresser’s stable assembly and keep it securely anchored to the wall.
Choose a MALM hack that suits the dresser and the job
Before choosing a finish or hardware, identify your dresser’s model and inspect its drawer fronts. MALM models and surface finishes can differ, so follow the instructions on the primer, paint or adhesive you select and confirm they are suitable for that surface. A makeover creator’s materials include bonding primer, paint, wallpaper, pulls and sanding tools; those are examples, not a required kit for every project. Lemons To Lemonade Home’s MALM makeover video shows the range of materials used in one project.
| Idea | Work involved | Useful materials | Change and planning |
|---|---|---|---|
| Change drawer pulls | Low; measure and fit compatible hardware | Selected pulls and suitable screws | Small visual change; often reversible. Existing holes and mounting method matter. |
| Paint drawer fronts | Moderate; surface preparation, priming and coats of paint | Surface-compatible bonding primer and furniture paint | More lasting finish change; check product guidance for the exact surface. |
| Stencil drawer fronts | Moderate; careful stencil placement and paint application | Stencil, furniture paint, clear matte varnish | Decorative finish; allow coats to dry as directed. |
| Coordinate dressers with a custom-cut top | More involved; plan the layout and top | Matching paint and a custom-cut wood piece | Creates a storage-run look; the cited example gives no structural loading or attachment specification. |
18 DIY MALM dresser ideas
Quick hardware changes
- Add leather tab handles. Swap plain fronts for leather tabs for a warmer accent. Measure the existing holes and check the handle’s mounting method and screw length before ordering; universal MALM compatibility is not established.
- Choose a contrasting pull. Use a finish that stands out against the dresser rather than blending in. Confirm the hardware can be mounted securely without damaging the drawer front.
- Use matching pulls across the drawers. A consistent shape and finish makes the dresser feel more deliberate while keeping the change focused on hardware.
- Repeat one accent color. Pick a handle color that appears elsewhere in the room, such as in a frame or lamp, to connect the dresser to its surroundings.
- Make a restrained hardware refresh. Keep the original dresser finish and change only the pulls for a smaller, easier-to-reverse makeover.
Paint and stencil treatments
- Paint the drawer fronts one color. Follow the chosen primer and paint labels for surface preparation, application and drying. Check that the products are intended for the specific finish on your dresser.
- Use a chevron stencil. An editorial MALM example pairs a chevron pattern with furniture paint, clear matte varnish and leather tab handles. Ideal Home’s IKEA hacks guide describes the approach.
- Apply stencil paint with a dry brush. The cited example uses a coarse-haired brush with little paint to apply the stencil. Follow the stencil and paint makers’ directions and test your method on an inconspicuous area first.
- Stencil a single drawer. Keep the pattern to one drawer front for a focal detail instead of covering the whole dresser.
- Repeat a small motif. Use the same simple stencil across the fronts for a more uniform pattern; take time to align each placement.
- Finish a painted pattern with clear matte varnish. The cited stencil idea includes clear matte varnish. Check product compatibility with the paint and let each layer dry as directed.
- Pair a painted finish with new pulls. Coordinate the paint and hardware as one palette, while checking the selected pulls’ fit separately.
- Refresh several dressers in one color. Paint multiple MALM chests alike to make separate pieces feel coordinated. Confirm the paint is appropriate for each dresser’s finish.
More involved surface and room ideas
- Use wallpaper as a drawer-front accent. Wallpaper appears in a creator’s supply list, but the source does not establish a universal adhesive method or finish compatibility. Check the product directions for both the wallpaper and the dresser surface.
- Sand only when the finish system calls for it. Sanding tools appear in a project supply list, but sanding is not a universal preparation step. Follow the primer or paint instructions; avoid removing more surface than the product guidance requires.
- Build a coordinated storage run. Arrange multiple dressers together and use a shared color to create a unified, built-in-style effect. Treat this as a design concept, not a structural specification.
- Top the coordinated run with custom-cut wood. An editorial example adds a custom-cut wood piece above painted MALM chests. The source does not specify how to attach it, how much weight it can support or whether a particular configuration is safe; do not assume a load limit.
- Keep the makeover intentionally reversible. Choose hardware changes or a limited accent rather than committing every drawer to a permanent finish, especially if you are unsure about the surface or long-term look.
How to plan a paint or stencil makeover
- Check the exact model and finish. Use the instructions supplied with your dresser and inspect the surface before choosing a coating. The examples do not establish paint compatibility for every MALM model or finish.
- Read the product labels. Select primer, paint, adhesive or varnish only when the maker’s instructions cover the surface and intended use. Respect preparation steps, application conditions and drying times.
- Test the method discreetly. Before treating all the drawer fronts, try the proposed materials and process on an inconspicuous area, where practical, and check the result after drying.
- Protect the working area and remove hardware carefully. Keep coatings off moving parts and hardware openings. Retain any original hardware if you may want to restore the dresser.
- Apply coats and patterns patiently. For stencils, secure alignment and use the amount of paint recommended by the product and stencil directions. Allow each coat to dry as instructed before adding another layer.
- Reassemble and check operation. Confirm drawers move properly and the dresser remains stable. Do not disable drawer safety features or compromise the wall restraint.
For ideas involving an orbital sander or pocket-hole jig, remember these tools appear in a creator’s project-specific material list; they are not needed for every makeover. The source does not establish a structural design or safe load for modified furniture.
Keep the dresser safe after the makeover
IKEA’s US wall-anchoring guidance says, “The best way to help prevent furniture tip over accidents is to anchor furniture to the wall.” Use the dresser’s tip-over restraint and hardware appropriate to your wall type; IKEA’s guidance distinguishes stud and solid walls. It also advises placing heavy objects in lower drawers, not putting a TV or other heavy object on a chest not intended for a TV, and never allowing children to climb or hang on drawers, doors or shelves. Read IKEA’s wall-anchoring guidance before installation.
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
#1 Best Overall
Sale
FOTOSOK White Dresser, Dresser for Bedroom, Small Dresser Chest of Drawers
- Space-Saving Compact Design: Measuring 23.6" L × 15.7" W × 31.5" H, this 4-drawer dresser is ideal for bedrooms, offices, hallway, living room and other compact spaces where efficient storage is a priority without sacrificing style.
- Sleek Handleless Drawer Design: Featuring a modern diagonal-cut opening mechanism for a clean, handle-free look, each drawer of the white dresser offers a 6.7" internal height to neatly store linens, office supplies, or other essentials.
- Sturdy Construction--Crafted from durable boards, this chest of drawers provids stable support. The top surface is suitable for a TV, lamp, lamps, glasses, or smile photographs and so on, things you need are in hand reach.
- Versatile Multi-Scene Use--This versatile storage unit functions seamlessly as a dresser, nightstand, office cabinet, or living room organizer, adapting to your changing needs and complementing a variety of modern decor styles.
- Keep It Simple--Thanks to the numbered parts, and easy-to-follow instructions, you'll have this 4 drawer dresser without sacrificing much of your leisure time, and find a practical yet unique way to spice up your home.
Do not use a makeover as a reason to stack dressers, add unverified loads or bypass a restraint. Keep the dresser assembled according to its matching instructions and make sure any change leaves safe wall attachment possible. IKEA’s UK MALM six-drawer assembly document is revision AA-2022891-6, with a 2018-12-13 footer date; it is not a substitute for the manual supplied with a different size, revision or market model.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Check local MALM availability before buying parts
Ideal Home reported on 12 June 2026 that IKEA said parts of the MALM range would be phased out globally, with chest-of-drawer ranges planned to be phased out by the end of 2026; exact timelines were not confirmed. This report does not establish that every MALM dresser is discontinued or unavailable in every market. Check your local IKEA listing before planning a project around a replacement dresser or particular part. Read Ideal Home’s report on the announcement.
Quick Recap
Bestseller No. 2
Best Value
jiteentarou Black Malm Dresser for Bedroom, 55" Wide 37" Tall Dresser with 10 Drawers, Modern Large Wood Chest of Drawer Handle Free, Living Room, Entryway, Hallway, Black
- Modern Style: The black 10 drawer dresser is particularly suitable for modern families. Whether it is placed in the living room or bedroom, it can add a fashionable and noble beauty. At the same time, up to 10 large storage drawers can fully meet storage needs and make the home more tidy
- Spacious Interior: Overall size：15.7"D x 55.1"W x 37.2"H. Drawers dimensions: 26.7"D x 13.8" W x 7.5"H and 13.3"D x 13.8" W x 7.5"H. With 6 large drawers and 4 medium drawers with a depth of 5 inch. The roomy top for placing your favorite picture frames, flowers and cute decorations
- Multiple Uses: This large chest of drawers with 10 deep and wide drawers, not only can store clothes, but its 55-inch width can also be used as a TV stand for a 60/65-inch TV. It can be placed in the living room, bedroom, hallway, entryway, cloakroom, dressing room
- Thick and Sturdy: This black modern tall dresser is mainly composed of medium-density fiberboard material, which is stable. The retracted bottom base is waterproof and scratch-resistant, metal drawer slides for long-term use. Easy maintenance with just a damp cloth
- No Hassle Shopping: Every wooden board of the 55 inch dresser for bedroom has been inspected by professionals. At the same time, we also provide clear instructions and installation videos. jiteentarou will continue to create furniture that is minimalist and aesthetically to the customer
Rank #4
Orgobysol 6 Drawer Double Dresser for Bedroom, Modern Simply Chest of Drawers, Wood Storage Dresser with Anti-Tipping for Living Room Hallway Entryway, Nursy Black (15.3" D x 47.2" W x 32.3" H)
- 【6 Drawers, Ample Storage】: 6 large drawers (11.8"D x 5.1"H x 21.3"W) hold clothes and bed sheets.The spacious top can serve as a vanity desk or TV stand, and is perfect for displaying photo frames, plants, or a mirror.
- 【Stable & Durable】: Made of thickened particleboard with a reinforced 3D frame and seamless design, this dresser organizer provides excellent stability. Anti-tip hardware and safety stops ensure secure, long-term use for kids and the elderly.rniture.
- 【Versatile for Any Room】: This horizontal 6-drawer chest features a space-saving footprint that fits effortlessly into bedrooms, living rooms, hallways, and entryways. Its clean, contemporary style works beautifully for boys, girls, and couples alike.
- 【Modern Style, Versatile Fit】: The sleek design of this horizontal 6-drawer dresser effortlessly elevates any space — whether adding a fresh, fashionable touch to a new home or creating a calm, tidy upgrade in a boy's or girl's bedroom.
- 【Superior Craftsmanship】: The matte waterproof finish makes this 6-drawer chest easy to clean and quick to dry. Premium metal slides ensure drawers open and close smoothly and silently
Rank #3
Sale
FOTOSOK White Dresser, Dresser for Bedroom, 5 Drawer Chest of Drawers
- Warm Tips: Our product size is: 17.6 "D * 23.6 "W * 39.1 "H(60*44.7*99.3 cm), please note the size first and check if it suits your needs for saving your trouble.
- Simple & Elegant Style: This 5-drawer chest adopts a simple modern style, which makes it more versatile and can match any home style. This elegant design can make your room or office look neater and brighter, showing your good taste.
- Long-Lasting: Made of high-quality MDF boards and mental slide rail, the drawer storage cabinet is more sturdy and durable, and not easy to deform. The surface is smoothly painted and easy to clean. You only need to gently wipe the dust on it, which can save you a lot of cleaning time.
- Multi-scene Application: This modern white dresser can be used to place books and sundries in the living room, or to store office documents in the office. This practical and beautiful cabinet is a great gift for family or friends.
- Five Large Capacity Drawers: With a size: of 23.5(W)*13(D)*4.5(H) of each drawer, this five dresser cabinet has a large storage capacity to hold most of your sundries. There are two smooth slides installed with every drawer unit for easy pull-in or pull-out.
Rank #2
IKEA Malm 40 x 55 cm Chest of Drawers with 2 Drawers
- Very spacious drawers - more storage space.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
