When it comes to IKEA, storage furniture is likely the first thing you think of. Cabinets, consoles, dressers — there are certain designs from the brand that you'd be hard-pressed not to find in every home, and one of those is the MALM system. You can't go wrong with its flat profile, linear silhouette, and sliding drawers. So when the brand recently announced it would be retiring the cult-favorite, we got to thinking: what are the best IKEA MALM alternatives to fill the hole it will inevitably leave behind?
Whether you're looking for something just as simple (perhaps primed for a DIY?), something a bit more designed, bigger, or smaller, we've scoured the best IKEA alternatives to see what's on offer that serves the same purpose, while looking even better.
From three simple sliding drawers all the way to Anthropologie's pretty patterned six-drawer chest of drawers, these are the best IKEA MALM alternatives to shop when stock eventually runs out.
If you're looking for an IKEA MALM alternative that's as close to the real deal, I would forgive you for mistaking Dunelm's Walker Chest as the exact same thing. Available with three, four, six, or eight drawers, it also comes in six different finishes (including white, oak, and walnut), and is currently on sale right now, so it's even cheaper than the original.
This dark wood chest from MADE is the perfect chic addition to any contemporary bedroom. The three-drawer design is the perfect amount of storage, but comes in a wide style, too, if you prefer. The drawers are framed by glossy dark wood, and the upper shelf offers ample space for décor — the definition of chic, understated minimalism.
The Habitat Otto comes in a smaller size, in a gorgeous sage green, and with wooden handles and legs. Although smaller, it still has ample storage space, plus two upper half-drawers, which are arguably far more practical than three long drawers. It also comes in an earthy yellow, a contemporary elephant gray, and, truer to IKEA’s MALM, a sheet white. It looks far more expensive than it is, at £90.
The Hale chest of drawers from Anthropologie brings a strong sense of character and sophisticated charm. No need to DIY — it comes in a range of strong patterns and bronze handles. Needless to say, it’s more expensive than the other alternatives, but it’s got perfect reviews, one stating “it’s exceptionally made and well worth the investment.”
This piece is so stylish that it could make clothes spilling out of it look intentional and design-y. With its curved wood and woven panels, this chest of drawers feels like a jukebox reimagined. But for practical styling? Plants positioned on top, green accessories, and gold decor like picture frames would complement the teal detailing and gold handles.
If you never seem to be able to fit all your clothes into a dresser, and always find yourself wishing you had more space, this chest of drawers from the Cotswold Company has 10 drawers — making it a much bigger IKEA MALM alternative for anyone who needs storage. Plus, it's got quite a traditional style, while still feeling relatively neutral in a space.
So, while there are lots of IKEA MALM alternatives on the market (some that arguably look much better), it's hard to argue with the fact that the original provided the perfect base when it comes to DIYing, and there are so many IKEA MALM hacks that transform the chest of drawers into so much more. If you've got a plan you haven't quite put into action yet, time is running out!
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