how to add a drawer in a drawer ikea

How to Add a Drawer in a Drawer: IKEA Hack

By Rachel MillerNovember 9, 2025

Ever wondered how to add an extra layer of storage to your already existing IKEA drawer? Creating a drawer within a drawer can be a practical and stylish solution to maximize your space. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to achieve this, using IKEA's popular MALM series as an example.

Before we dive into the process, ensure you have the necessary tools and materials. You'll need a saw (handheld or jigsaw), sandpaper, wood glue, clamps, screws, and a drill. Also, gather your MALM drawer unit, a new drawer front, and some plywood or MDF for the inner drawer.

Preparing the Inner Drawer

The first step is to create the inner drawer. Measure the depth and width of your existing MALM drawer, then subtract about 1/4 inch from each dimension to account for the thickness of the drawer sides and back.

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Cut your plywood or MDF to these new dimensions. You'll need two pieces for the sides, one for the back, and one for the bottom. Assemble these pieces using wood glue and clamps, ensuring they're square and flush with each other.

Creating the Drawer Sides and Back

Using your MALM drawer as a template, cut out the sides and back of the inner drawer. These pieces should fit snugly inside the existing drawer, creating a new, smaller drawer within it.

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Sand any rough edges to prevent splinters and ensure a smooth finish. Apply wood glue to the joints and clamp them together until the glue dries.

Attaching the Drawer Bottom

Measure and cut the bottom piece of your inner drawer. It should fit perfectly within the sides and back you've just assembled.

Apply wood glue to the edges of the bottom piece, then place it into the assembled sides and back. Use clamps to secure it in place while the glue dries.

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Installing the Inner Drawer

Once the inner drawer is fully assembled and the glue is dry, it's time to install it into your MALM drawer.

First, measure and mark the center point of the MALM drawer's bottom. This is where you'll attach the inner drawer's bottom. Drill a pilot hole through the MALM drawer's bottom and into the inner drawer's bottom.

Securing the Inner Drawer

Insert a screw through the pilot hole, securing the inner drawer to the MALM drawer. Repeat this process at the front and back of the inner drawer to ensure it's securely attached.

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Test the inner drawer by opening and closing it. It should slide smoothly in and out of the MALM drawer.

Adding the Drawer Front

Measure and cut your new drawer front to match the size of the inner drawer. Attach it using hinges, ensuring it aligns with the MALM drawer's front.

If desired, you can paint or stain your new drawer to match the rest of your MALM furniture. Allow the paint or stain to dry completely before using your new, double-layered drawer.

There you have it! You've successfully created a drawer within a drawer using your IKEA MALM furniture. This added layer of storage can help keep your space organized and clutter-free. Happy crafting!