27 Awesome IKEA MALM Hacks That Will Transform Your Furniture
IKEA’s MALM series offers minimalist design at affordable prices, making it one of the brand’s most popular furniture lines.
These simple, clean-lined pieces provide the perfect blank canvas for creative customization to match any style.
With just a few tools and some imagination, you can transform basic MALM furniture into custom pieces that look far more expensive than their humble origins.
These hacks range from simple afternoon projects to more involved weekend transformations.
Ready to give your MALM furniture a dramatic makeover? These 27 ingenious hacks will inspire you to see your IKEA staples in an entirely new light.
1: Luxe Upholstered Headboard
Transform your basic MALM bed frame with a DIY upholstered headboard extension for hotel-inspired luxury.
Cut plywood to extend above your existing headboard, then attach high-density foam and wrap with your choice of fabric.
Secure the upholstered panel to the existing headboard with brackets or strong adhesive. Choose fabrics like velvet or linen for an upscale look.
Add decorative nail head trim around the edges for a professional finishing touch that elevates the entire bedroom.
2: Rattan-Fronted Dresser
Give your MALM dresser a tropical makeover by adding rattan webbing to the drawer fronts.
Remove the drawers and cut rattan webbing slightly larger than each drawer front.
Attach the rattan using wood glue and secure it around the edges with decorative trim or small tacks. Replace the original drawer pulls with natural wood or brass handles.
This textural update instantly adds warmth and organic style to the minimalist MALM silhouette while remaining on-trend.
3: Art Deco Mirror Overlay
Transform a plain MALM dresser into an Art Deco showpiece using mirror strips and geometric patterns.
Purchase mirror strips or have them cut at your local glass shop according to your design.
Arrange them in classic Art Deco patterns like sunbursts or stepped designs on drawer fronts, adhering with strong adhesive designed for mirrors and wood.
Replace the standard pulls with glamorous crystal or brass knobs to complete this sophisticated, vintage-inspired transformation.
4: Built-In Window Seat
Convert a low MALM dresser into a custom window seat with storage for an architectural feature that maximizes space.
Position the dresser under a window and secure it to wall studs for safety.
Build a simple frame around it to create a built-in appearance, then add a cushioned top with foam and fabric for comfortable seating.
The dresser drawers provide convenient storage for blankets, books, or seasonal items while the seat creates a cozy nook in previously unused space.
5: Mid-Century Modern Makeover
Transform your MALM dresser with tapered legs and wood accents for mid-century appeal.
Remove the base and attach 6-8″ tapered wooden legs to the bottom corners using mounting plates.
Add thin strips of walnut or teak veneer to the edges of the dresser and drawers for warm wood accents.
Replace knobs with brass or wooden pulls in simple geometric shapes.
This transformation combines contemporary minimalism with classic mid-century elements for a timeless piece that works in nearly any décor.
6: Nursery Changing Table
Convert a MALM dresser into a practical nursery changing station that will transition as your child grows.
Secure a changing pad to the top with safety straps designed for this purpose.
Add small shelves or baskets to the wall above for diapers, wipes, and other essentials within arm’s reach. Consider adding drawer organizers for tiny clothes and supplies.
Paint in a child-friendly, non-toxic finish or add temporary wallpaper to drawer fronts for whimsical appeal that can be updated as tastes change.
7: Elegant Grass-cloth Overlay
Add sophisticated texture to your MALM dresser with grass-cloth wallpaper applied to drawer fronts.
Cut grass-cloth wallpaper slightly larger than each drawer front and adhere with wallpaper paste.
Wrap edges carefully around to the inside of each drawer for a clean finish. Seal with clear, water-based polyurethane for protection and durability.
Replace standard pulls with subtle leather tabs or minimalist brass handles to complement the natural texture without competing with it.
8: Floating Entryway Console
Mount a MALM dresser to your wall as a floating entryway console that saves floor space while providing storage.
Remove the legs and use heavy-duty wall mounting brackets secured to studs.
Position at a comfortable height for dropping keys and mail upon entering. Add a small tray on top for everyday essentials.
Install a decorative mirror or artwork above to complete a functional entryway station that takes up minimal space in smaller homes.
9: Marble Contact Paper Transformation
Give your MALM furniture luxurious appeal with high-quality marble contact paper applied to the top and drawer fronts.
Clean surfaces thoroughly and measure carefully before cutting your contact paper.
Apply slowly using a credit card or plastic scraper to remove air bubbles. Pay special attention to corners and edges for a seamless look.
Add new hardware in gold or brass to complement the marble pattern and complete this high-end transformation that costs a fraction of real marble.
10: Bar Cabinet Conversion
Transform a tall MALM dresser into a fully equipped home bar cabinet with strategic modifications.
Remove several middle drawers and replace with an open shelf section for bottles and glasses.
Install a small LED puck light at the top of this new opening for subtle illumination of glassware. Add wine glass holders underneath one shelf.
Line remaining drawers with felt to store bar tools and accessories. Consider adding mirrored contact paper to the back of the open section for added glamour.
11: Campaign Style Hardware Update
Give your MALM dresser a designer look with campaign-style hardware accents. Add metal corner brackets in brass or nickel to all corners of the dresser and drawer fronts.
Install decorative metal pulls centered on each drawer for authentic campaign style. Consider painting the dresser a bold color like navy, green, or red.
This simple hardware update transforms the minimal MALM into a high-end piece inspired by antique travel furniture used by military officers.
12: Wood Slat Overlay
Add architectural interest to your MALM bed with a wooden slat headboard extension for natural, textural appeal.
Cut wooden slats to your desired height and width using pine or oak boards.
Stain or paint the slats before attaching them to a plywood backing board. Secure this new headboard extension to the existing MALM headboard with brackets.
The vertical lines create visual height while adding warmth and organic elements to your bedroom’s focal point.
13: Hidden Desk Conversion
Transform a MALM dresser into a hidden workspace that closes away when not in use. Replace the top drawer with hinges to create a fold-down desk surface.
Install a small piece of wood cut to size inside the drawer space to serve as support when the desk is open. Add felt padding where surfaces meet to prevent scratches.
Outfit the interior with small organizers for office supplies and consider adding a charging station for electronics in this compact yet functional workspace.
14: Two-Tone Paint Treatment
Create designer appeal with a two-tone paint treatment that adds dimension to your MALM furniture.
Choose complementary colors like navy and gold or blush and white for sophisticated contrast.
Paint the frame one color and the drawer fronts another, using painter’s tape for clean lines. Apply several thin coats for the most professional finish.
Replace the original hardware with pulls that complement your color scheme for a completely customized piece that looks anything but mass-produced.
15: Leather Pull Upgrade
Add warm, tactile elements to your MALM dresser with handcrafted leather drawer pulls.
Purchase leather straps from a craft store or upcycle an old belt for this simple yet effective upgrade.
Cut to equal lengths and fold each piece to create a loop. Secure with small brass rivets or heavy-duty glue for a seamless look.
Attach to drawers using the existing hardware holes for a quick transformation that adds natural texture and Scandinavian-inspired design.
16: Bedside Charging Station
Modify your MALM nightstand to include a hidden charging station for electronics. Drill a hole in the back panel near the top for cords to pass through.
Install a small power strip inside the drawer or on the back of the nightstand. Thread your device chargers through the hole for easy access.
This simple hack eliminates bedside cord clutter while keeping devices charged and accessible, perfect for small bedrooms or tech-heavy households.
17: Geometric Overlay Design
Create visual interest on your MALM dresser with a geometric pattern made from wooden molding.
Purchase thin wooden strips or decorative molding from a hardware store.
Cut to size and arrange in geometric patterns like diamonds or herringbone on drawer fronts. Secure with wood glue and small brad nails.
Paint the entire piece including your new pattern in a single color for subtle texture, or highlight the pattern in a contrasting color for dramatic effect.
18: Makeup Vanity Conversion
Transform a MALM dresser into a dedicated makeup vanity with strategic additions. Remove the middle top drawer and create a knee space for a comfortable seating area.
Mount a framed mirror above or install Hollywood-style vanity lights around an existing mirror. Add glass or acrylic top protector for easy cleaning.
Install drawer organizers specially designed for makeup and beauty tools to keep everything perfectly arranged and accessible.
19: Wallpaper Statement Piece
Turn your MALM dresser into a bold statement piece with patterned wallpaper applied to drawer fronts.
Choose a dramatic pattern that coordinates with your room’s color scheme.
Cut wallpaper precisely to size and apply with wallpaper paste or removable adhesive for temporary application. Seal with clear acrylic sealer for durability.
Keep the frame of the dresser in a solid, neutral color that complements your chosen pattern for the most sophisticated and balanced result.
20: Picture Frame Molding Detail
Add architectural elegance to your MALM dresser with applied picture frame molding.
Purchase thin decorative molding from a home improvement store and cut to create frames on each drawer front.
Attach with wood glue and small brad nails, mitering the corners for a professional finish. Fill any gaps with wood filler before painting.
Paint the entire piece including your new molding in a single color like crisp white, navy, or sage green for classic sophistication that elevates the simple MALM design.
21: Rolling Kitchen Island
Convert a MALM dresser into a functional kitchen island with workspace and storage.
Attach a butcher block or laminate countertop that extends slightly beyond the dresser edges for a finished look.
Install heavy-duty locking casters to the bottom for mobility. Add towel bars or hooks to the sides for additional functionality.
Organize kitchen tools, linens, or small appliances in the drawers for accessible storage that helps maximize space in smaller kitchens.
22: Fabric-Wrapped Makeover
Soften your MALM dresser with fabric-wrapped drawer fronts for texture and color. Select medium-weight fabric in a pattern or color that complements your décor.
Wrap drawer fronts similar to gift wrapping, folding edges neatly and securing with fabric glue on the inside of each drawer. Add a layer of clear vinyl on top for protection.
Replace standard pulls with simple knobs that won’t compete with your fabric design for a custom piece that adds soft texture to your space.
23: Fluted Wood Detail
Add architectural texture to your MALM dresser with vertical fluted wood detailing.
Purchase half-round wooden dowels or ready-made fluted panels from specialty woodworking stores.
Cut dowels to the height of your drawer fronts and attach in evenly spaced rows using wood glue. Paint the entire piece in a single color for sophisticated texture.
This three-dimensional element transforms the flat MALM surface into a designer piece reminiscent of high-end furniture at a fraction of the cost.
24: Hidden Jewelry Storage
Convert your MALM dresser into specialized jewelry storage with customized drawer inserts.
Purchase velvet-lined jewelry trays or create your own using foam board covered in velvet.
Cut to fit precisely inside your dresser drawers with compartments sized for your specific jewelry collection. Create ring slots, necklace hooks, and earring storage.
This hidden organization system keeps valuable accessories dust-free and perfectly arranged while maintaining the clean exterior appearance of your dresser.
25: Cement Tile Pattern Stencil
Create the look of expensive cement tile on your MALM dresser using paint and stencils.
Choose or create a stencil in a classic cement tile pattern like Moroccan quatrefoil or Spanish floral.
Paint the base of the dresser and let dry completely before applying your stencil pattern with contrasting paint colors. Seal with clear polyacrylic for durability.
This graphic update transforms the minimal MALM into a global-inspired statement piece that becomes the focal point of any room.
26: Home Office File Cabinet
Modify a MALM dresser to function as an attractive file cabinet for home office storage. Purchase hanging file frames sized to fit the width of your dresser drawers.
Install frames in the bottom drawers for letter or legal-sized folders. Use upper drawers for office supplies and smaller items.
This hack provides stylish office storage that blends with your home décor much more seamlessly than traditional metal file cabinets.
27: Cane Webbing Insert
Give your MALM furniture an on-trend update with natural cane webbing inserts.
Remove the center portion of each drawer front with a jigsaw, creating a recessed area for the cane.
Attach cane webbing from behind using small tacks or staples and a thin frame of wood for support. Apply wood trim around the opening for a finished look.
This sophisticated natural element adds texture and visual interest while connecting to the current trend of incorporating natural materials in contemporary design.
Conclusion
With minimal investment and some creative thinking, your MALM furniture can evolve from basic to breathtaking.
Choose the hack that best suits your style and skill level to create truly custom pieces that perfectly fit your home.
