IKEA MALM 6-Drawer Dresser Review: The Budget Classic That Still Delivers

The IKEA MALM dresser has been a bedroom staple for over two decades. At $199 for the 6-drawer model, it remains one of the most accessible storage solutions on the market. We put it through our standard furniture testing protocol to see if the 2026 version still holds up.

Build & Materials

Let’s be direct: this is particleboard with a foil finish, not solid wood. IKEA doesn’t pretend otherwise, and at this price point, that’s expected. The construction is competent — drawer joints are tight, the foil finish is smooth and even, and the included wall anchor kit is a smart safety addition that should be used immediately upon assembly.

Assembly

Assembly took us 68 minutes solo — among the longer IKEA builds. The infamous cam locks and dowels require patience and attention to the pictogram instructions. We’d rate this a 6/10 difficulty: not hard, just tedious. Having a second person for the final drawer-rail alignment saves frustration.

Daily Use

Drawers glide smoothly on plastic runners — not ball-bearing, so don’t expect buttery-smooth action, but perfectly functional. Each drawer holds roughly 15 lbs of folded clothing without strain. The clean lines and minimal hardware make it genuinely versatile across bedroom styles from modern to traditional.

The Verdict

The MALM won’t impress furniture snobs, but it solves a real problem at a real-world price. For first apartments, guest rooms, or anyone who needs reliable storage without a $800+ investment, it remains the rational choice. Just anchor it to the wall.

Pros: Unbeatable price, clean design, versatile finish options, widely available
Cons: Particleboard construction, plastic drawer runners, lengthy assembly, no soft-close