Let me tell you why the IKEA Malm bed is worth your attention. It’s sleek, affordable, and fits into almost any bedroom vibe you’re going for—modern, minimalist, or cozy.
I’ve spent months sleeping on this bed, and its clean lines, sturdy feel, and clever storage options have made it a game-changer for my small apartment.
Sure, it’s not perfect, but for the price, it’s hard to beat. If you’re hunting for a stylish, functional bed that won’t break the bank, the Malm is calling your name. Stick with me, and I’ll walk you through my experience, the highs, the lows, and everything in between.
My Journey With The IKEA Malm Bed
When I moved into my tiny city apartment, I needed a bed that could do it all—look good, save space, and not cost a fortune.
Enter the IKEA Malm bed, specifically the queen-size high frame with four storage boxes in black-brown.
I’ll be honest: I was skeptical at first.
IKEA’s reputation for affordable furniture sometimes comes with whispers of “cheap” or “flimsy,” but I decided to give it a shot after seeing it in the showroom.
The sleek design and underbed storage had me sold, and at under $500, it felt like a steal compared to other brands.
Assembly was my first real test. I’m no handyman, but I managed to put it together solo in about two hours, with the help of IKEA’s famously cryptic picture-only instructions. The pieces were heavy, which gave me confidence in the build quality, but I did curse a few times when aligning the side panels.
Once assembled, the bed felt solid—no wobbling or creaking when I plopped down. The high headboard is perfect for late-night reading, and the storage boxes? A lifesaver. I’ve got extra blankets, shoes, and even my winter jackets tucked away neatly.
Sleeping on the Malm has been a dream. I paired it with a memory foam mattress and Luröy slats, and the combo feels supportive yet cozy. The low profile gives my room a modern vibe, but those sharp corners? Yeah, I’ve stubbed my toe more than once.
After a year, the bed still looks sharp, though I’ve noticed some light chipping on the veneer. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s a reminder that this isn’t heirloom furniture. Overall, the Malm has made my small space feel bigger and more organized, and I’m happy with my choice.
The Pros of The IKEA Malm Bed
Let’s talk about why the Malm is a crowd-pleaser. I’ve broken down the best parts into bite-sized chunks so you can see what makes this bed shine.
- Sleek, Timeless Design
The Malm’s clean lines and minimalist aesthetic are its biggest selling points.
Whether you go for white, black-brown, or oak veneer, it blends seamlessly into any room.
I love how it doesn’t scream for attention but still looks polished.
It’s like the little black dress of bed frames—versatile and always in style. In my apartment, it pairs perfectly with my eclectic decor, from boho pillows to industrial lamps. Interior designers even praise it for its modern appeal, especially in small spaces where every inch counts.
- Affordable Price Tag
At roughly $200-$500 depending on size and storage options, the Malm is a budget-friendly champ. Compare that to brands like West Elm or Pottery Barn, where you’re easily dropping $1,000 for a similar look.
I got my queen-size with four storage boxes for $459, and it felt like a steal. The price includes the Skorva midbeam for stability, though you’ll need to grab slats separately. For anyone furnishing their first apartment or upgrading on a dime, the Malm delivers serious bang for your buck.
- Storage That Saves the Day
The underbed storage is a godsend for small-space dwellers like me. You can add two or four Malm storage boxes on casters, which slide out smoothly and hold a ton. I’ve got everything from bedding to out-of-season clothes stashed away, and it keeps my room clutter-free.
The storage version of the Malm, with a lift-up base, is even better for accessing items without crouching. It’s like adding a closet to your bedroom without losing floor space.
- Easy to Assemble (Mostly)
While I had a few choice words during assembly, the process isn’t rocket science. The instructions are clear if you take your time, and all the hardware fits together snugly. I managed it alone, but having a second pair of hands would make it faster.
The bed’s modular design also means it’s easy to disassemble for moving—perfect for renters like me who relocate every few years. Just keep that Allen wrench handy!
- Adjustable and Versatile
The Malm’s adjustable side rails let you use mattresses of different thicknesses, which is great if you’re pairing it with a plush foam mattress or a thinner spring one. I’ve got a 10-inch memory foam, and it sits perfectly.
You can also place the bed freestanding or against a wall, giving you flexibility in room layout. The high headboard is a bonus for propping up pillows to read or binge Netflix in bed.
The Not-So-Good Parts of The IKEA Malm Bed
No bed is perfect, and the Malm has its quirks. Here’s where it falls short, based on my experience and what others have said.
- Particleboard Construction
The Malm isn’t solid wood—it’s particleboard with a wood veneer.
While the veneer looks nice, it’s prone to chipping, especially at the edges.
I’ve noticed minor chips on my headboard after a year, and some users report chunks breaking off over time.
In humid climates, the particleboard can swell if exposed to moisture, so it’s not ideal for damp environments. If you’re after heirloom-quality furniture, the Malm might disappoint.
- Sharp Corners Are a Hazard
Those sleek edges? They’re sharp. I’ve banged my shins and toes more times than I’d like to admit, and I’m not alone—reviewers often mention shin injuries. If you’ve got kids or pets, this is a real concern.
I ended up adding foam corner guards, which isn’t the chicest look but saves my legs. Sanding the edges or adding rubber guards can help, but it’s an extra step.
- Creaking and Noise Issues
Some users, including me, have dealt with creaking. My bed was quiet for the first few months, but now it squeaks when I shift at night. The culprit? Loose slats or the center beam. Tightening the screws helps, but it’s a recurring chore.
Others report slats slipping off the frame, causing the mattress to sink. Securing the slats with metal screws, as some suggest, can fix this, but it’s a hassle for a bed that’s supposed to be low-maintenance.
- Assembly Can Be a Pain
While I found assembly doable, not everyone agrees. Some reviewers call it a nightmare, especially if parts are misaligned or defective. The picture-only instructions can be confusing if you’re not used to IKEA’s style.
One user even got a defective frame and had to exchange it, which was a headache. If you’re not handy or patient, consider paying for IKEA’s assembly service.
- Limited Durability
The Malm isn’t built to last forever. Some users report the center beam breaking after a few years, especially for couples with a combined weight over 300 pounds.
Mine’s held up for a year, but I’m solo and under 200 pounds. If you’re rough on furniture or need a bed for heavy use, you might want something sturdier.
Maintenance Tips To Keep Your Malm Bed In Top Shape
To make your Malm last, a little TLC goes a long way. Here’s how I keep mine looking and feeling great.
- Tighten Screws Regularly: Creaking is the Malm’s biggest complaint, but it’s often fixable. Every couple of months, I grab my Allen wrench and tighten all the screws, especially around the frame and center beam. It takes 10 minutes and makes a huge difference in stability and noise. If your slats are slipping, try securing them with metal screws to the frame for a permanent fix.
- Protect the Veneer: The wood veneer is pretty but delicate. I avoid placing drinks or wet towels on the bed to prevent bubbling or chipping. If you spill, wipe it up immediately with a dry cloth. For extra protection, I use coasters on the side rails when I set down my water bottle. A furniture polish like Pledge can keep the veneer shiny, but test it on a small spot first to avoid damage.
- Use the Right Slats: The Malm requires slats (sold separately), and choosing the right ones matters. I went with Luröy slats for a firmer feel, but Lönset offers more cushioning. Make sure the slats are properly aligned to avoid slipping. If you hear creaking, check that the slats are seated correctly in the metal rails. Some users even add felt pads between the slats and frame to reduce noise.
- Keep It Dust-Free: The open design makes vacuuming under the bed a breeze, which is great for keeping dust bunnies at bay. I vacuum weekly to prevent dust from settling in the storage boxes or on the mattress. If you have the storage version, consider using fabric organizers like IKEA’s Skubb boxes to keep items dust-free and easy to access.
- Watch Those Corners: To avoid shin injuries, I added foam corner guards, but you can also sand the edges lightly for a smoother finish. If you’ve got kids, consider rubber edging from a child safety catalog. It’s not the most stylish fix, but it saves your shins and keeps the bed looking intact.
How The Malm Stacks Up Against Other Brands?
Let’s see how the Malm holds its own against competitors like West Elm, Wayfair, and Zinus. I’ve compared it on design, price, durability, and features to help you decide if it’s the right fit.
The West Elm Mid-Century Bed ($999-$1,499) is a stunner with solid wood construction and a retro vibe. It’s more durable than the Malm’s particleboard, but you’re paying triple the price for a similar minimalist look.
West Elm doesn’t offer built-in storage, so you’ll need to buy separate underbed boxes, which adds to the cost. If you want heirloom quality and don’t mind splurging, West Elm is a step up, but the Malm’s affordability and storage make it more practical for budget-conscious folks like me.
Wayfair’s Allewie Upholstered Platform Bed ($250-$400) is closer in price to the Malm and comes with a fabric headboard for a softer look. It’s sturdy with a metal frame, but the upholstery can stain, and there’s no built-in storage.
I prefer the Malm’s sleek wood veneer for its versatility and easy-to-clean surface. If you want a cushier aesthetic, Allewie might edge out, but the Malm wins for storage and modern style.
Zinus’s Mia Platform Bed ($150-$300) is the closest budget competitor. It’s made of steel, so it’s sturdier than the Malm’s particleboard, and assembly is a breeze. However, it lacks the Malm’s storage options and high headboard, and the metal look feels less polished.
I chose the Malm for its aesthetic and storage, but if durability is your top priority and you don’t need drawers, Zinus is a solid alternative.
The Malm strikes a balance between style, function, and price that’s hard to beat. It’s not as durable as pricier solid wood options, but its storage and design make it a standout for small spaces or temporary setups.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, the Malm requires slats, and they’re not included with the frame. You’ll need to buy either Luröy or Lönset slats separately. Luröy is firmer, while Lönset offers more flexibility. I use Luröy with my foam mattress, and it’s supportive, but some users report slats slipping, so secure them tightly. A box spring can work, but it might make the bed look awkward and reduce storage space. Stick with IKEA’s slats for the best fit.
The Malm dresser, like the bed, isn’t solid wood—it’s particleboard with a wood veneer finish (oak, ash, or stained options). The veneer gives it a real wood look, but it’s prone to chipping and can swell in humid conditions. If you want solid wood, IKEA’s Hemnes line, made of pine, is a better bet, though it’s pricier. I’ve got the Malm dresser too, and it’s held up well with careful use.
Assembly time varies, but it took me about two hours alone with the queen-size frame. With a second person, you could cut it to 60-90 minutes. The instructions are picture-only, which can be tricky, but the parts fit well if you follow the steps. Some users report issues with defective parts or misaligned holes, which can add time. If you’re not handy, IKEA’s assembly service is worth considering.
There’s no evidence that Malm drawers or the bed frame are being discontinued. The Malm line remains one of IKEA’s bestsellers, available in multiple sizes and colors. However, there was a recall on Malm dressers in 2016 due to tipping hazards, so always anchor them to the wall. My local IKEA still stocks the bed and storage boxes, and they’re listed online as of 2025.
Wrapping It Up: Why The Malm Is Still A Winner?
After a year with the IKEA Malm bed, I’m still a fan. It’s stylish, budget-friendly, and maximizes my small space with smart storage.
Yes, it has flaws—sharp corners and occasional creaks—but with regular maintenance, it’s a solid choice.
If you’re after an affordable, modern bed that gets the job done, the Malm is hard to beat. Grab one, add some cozy bedding, and make it your own. You won’t regret it.