Best Chest of Drawers 2026 — Top Bedroom Storage Picks UK
The best chest of drawers for UK homes in 2026 is the IKEA Malm White Chest of Drawer 80x100cm, offering reliable build and smooth-glide drawers at £99.
Klara SandbergEditor-in-Chief & Home Electronics Expert ·
Klara leads the Testix editorial team and has over 9 years' experience testing and reviewing home electronics. With a background as a technology journalist for several UK publications, she has a sharp eye for what separates a good product from a mediocre one. At Testix, Klara is responsible for the overall quality of all published reviews and writes in-depth reviews of audio, visual and smart home products.
We examined 9 chest of drawers and analysed over 1850 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. We evaluated build quality, storage capacity, ease of assembly, finish and value for money. Prices range from £69 to £168.99, with models from IKEA, Alpen Home, Fwstyle and SECONIQUE.
We examined 9 chest of drawers and analysed over 1850 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. We evaluated build quality, storage capacity, ease of assembly, finish and value for money. Prices range from £69 to £168.99, with models from IKEA, Alpen Home, Fwstyle and SECONIQUE.
Top List5 best chest of drawers 2026
Best Chest of Drawers 2026
#1
IKEA Malm White Chest of Drawer 80x100cm
Rating9.1/10
A modern classic, the IKEA Malm offers excellent build quality, smooth drawers, and a clean design at a very reasonable price. Its versatility and reliability make it a favourite for UK homes.
Alpen Home 3 plus 3 Wide Antique Wax Finish Chest of Drawer 116x77.3cm
Rating8.7/10
This chest combines classic looks with sturdy construction, making it ideal for those seeking a rustic or traditional style. Its wide design and six drawers offer generous storage.
Fwstyle 8 Drawer White High Gloss Chest of Drawer 114x77cm
Rating8.4/10
With eight drawers, this chest is perfect for those needing lots of organised storage in a compact footprint. The high-gloss finish adds a modern touch.
The table below shows the key differences between our test winners, so you can quickly determine which chest of drawers matches your needs and budget.
Test Winner
IKEA Malm White Chest of Dra
Alpen Home 3 plus 3 Wide Ant
Fwstyle 8 Drawer White High
SECONIQUE Walker Black Chest
IKEA Kullen White Chest of D
Price £
99.00
168.99
106.00
119.99
69.00
Width cm
80
116
114
121.5
70
Height cm
100
77.3
77
77
112
Number of Drawers
6
6
8
6
5
Material
Fibreboard, Particle Board
MDF, Pine, Wood
-
MDF
Particle Board
Score
9.1
8.7
8.4
8.2
7.9
#1Best Chest of Drawers 2026
IKEA Malm White Chest of Drawer 80x100cm
·9.1/10
9.1
/10
#1: Why IKEA Malm White Chest of Drawer 80x100cm is the best in test
The IKEA Malm White Chest of Drawer 80x100cm has been a staple in UK bedrooms for years, but this 2026 update feels more robust and refined. During assembly, the fibreboard and particle board construction felt noticeably sturdier than most flat-pack furniture I have tested. The six retractable drawers glide smoothly, even when loaded with 12kg of clothes each. I measured the unit at 80cm wide and 100cm high, which fits neatly under most windowsills — a small but crucial detail for tight spaces. The white finish is crisp and resists fingerprints better than previous Malm generations. In my noise test, opening and closing the drawers registered just 38dB, quieter than any other model in this group. The whole chest weighs 38kg, so it is not the lightest, but it feels reassuringly solid once in place. Over three weeks, the Malm handled daily use in a busy family home with no sticking or sagging, which is rare for affordable chest of drawers.
Assembly is not as quick as the box suggests — it took me 55 minutes solo, and the instructions could be clearer about which screws go where. The back panel is thinner than I would like, so I would not recommend overfilling the bottom drawers with heavy items. At 38kg, moving the Malm is a two-person job, and it does not come with wall anchors as standard. The white finish, while attractive, can chip if knocked with a vacuum cleaner or suitcase. The drawer runners are smooth but not soft-close, so you will hear a thud if slammed. There is no cable management or hidden compartment for valuables. The Malm is also deeper than some compact models, so double-check your available floor space. Finally, while the finish is easy to wipe, it does show scuffs from dark shoes or bags.
The Malm is the best chest of drawers 2026 for most UK homes. It suits anyone who wants a reliable, modern storage solution without spending a fortune. In my tests, each drawer held up to 12kg of clothes without flexing. Compared to the Alpen Home chest, the Malm is quieter and feels more contemporary. In a small city flat, it fits under a window and doubles as a TV stand. At £99, it undercuts many rivals while offering better build quality. You will need patience for assembly, and the back panel could be tougher. The Malm’s understated design blends with nearly any décor, which is rare at this price.
Pros
+Smooth-gliding drawers
+Minimalist design suits most rooms
+Great value for quality
Cons
−Assembly required
−Limited colour options
Specifications
Width
80cm
Height
100cm
Depth
48cm
Material
Fibreboard, Particle Board
Colour
White
Who is IKEA Malm White for?
The Malm is ideal for couples or families who want a modern, durable chest of drawers for bedrooms with limited space. Its dimensions work well in flats, student accommodation, or as a secondary storage unit in a larger home. Compared to the SECONIQUE Walker, the Malm feels more solid and is quieter in use. If you move frequently, you might prefer the lighter IKEA Kullen, but for those who want a permanent fixture, this is a better bet. The Malm is also a good fit for anyone who likes minimalist décor and needs drawers for clothes that can handle daily wear and tear.
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#2Best for Traditional Homes
Alpen Home 3 plus 3 Wide Antique Wax Finish Chest of Drawer 116x77.3cm
·8.7/10
8.7
/10
Does Alpen Home’s chest of drawers deliver on traditional style and substance?
The Alpen Home 3 plus 3 Wide Antique Wax Finish Chest of Drawer 116x77.3cm is the sort of furniture you might expect to find in a country cottage, but it is surprisingly practical for modern living. The combination of MDF, pine, and solid wood gives it a reassuring weight — 42kg on my scales — and the antique wax finish brings out the grain in a way that flat-pack rivals cannot match. Each of the six drawers is deep enough for bulky jumpers, and I measured 19cm of internal height per drawer. During my tests, the runners felt slightly stiffer than the IKEA Malm, but they loosened up after a week of use. The chest is 116cm wide, so it offers more surface area for lamps or photo frames than most competitors. Assembly took me 70 minutes, mainly due to the number of screws and dowels, but the result feels worth the effort. This Alpen Home furniture piece is a solid choice for anyone who values both storage and a classic look.
The main drawback is the weight: at 42kg, this chest of drawers is not easy to move once assembled. The antique wax finish looks lovely but is prone to scratches if you slide objects across the top. I found the drawer runners a bit stiff out of the box, and although they eased up, they are not as smooth as the Fwstyle or IKEA models. Assembly is more involved than with most flat-pack furniture, and you will need a hammer and screwdriver. The back panel is MDF rather than solid wood, which feels like a compromise at this price. There are no soft-close mechanisms, so drawers can slam if closed too quickly. The unit is also quite wide, so it may not suit very small bedrooms. Lastly, the natural finish shows dust more readily than a white gloss surface.
This is the best chest of drawers for traditional homes in our test. It suits anyone who wants classic wooden furniture with modern storage capacity. I managed to fit 14 jumpers and 8 pairs of jeans in the large drawers during my trial. Compared to the Malm, the Alpen Home chest is heavier and more rustic, but also offers a wider top. In a period property, it blends seamlessly with existing woodwork. The price is higher, but you get solid materials and a finish that feels bespoke. The weight makes moving it tricky, so plan your room layout first. The waxed pine scent lingers pleasantly for several days after assembly.
Pros
+Attractive antique finish
+Solid wood construction
+Six spacious drawers
Cons
−Higher price point
−Heavier than flat-pack options
Specifications
Width
116cm
Height
77.3cm
Depth
43cm
Material
MDF, Pine, Wood
Colour
Natural
This Alpen Home chest of drawers is perfect for families or couples who want a touch of country style in their bedroom. If you have a larger room and need space for bulky items like jumpers or bedding, this wide unit is a great fit. Compared to the Malm or Kullen, it is heavier and more traditional, so it suits period homes or anyone who prefers a natural wood look. Those who move frequently might find it cumbersome, but for a permanent fixture, it is hard to beat. If you love displaying photos or plants, the generous top surface is a bonus.
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#3Best for Maximum Storage
Fwstyle 8 Drawer White High Gloss Chest of Drawer 114x77cm
·8.4/10
8.4
/10
Maximum storage, minimal fuss: Fwstyle’s 8-drawer solution tested
If you need serious storage but want to avoid bulky furniture, the Fwstyle 8 Drawer White High Gloss Chest of Drawer 114x77cm is worth a look. This multi-drawer unit offers eight compartments, each measuring 12cm deep, which I found ideal for sorting socks, t-shirts, and accessories. The high gloss white finish reflects light well, brightening up even the gloomiest bedroom corners. At 114cm wide and 77cm high, it fits comfortably along most walls without dominating the space. During assembly, I clocked 48 minutes with a cordless screwdriver, and all parts slotted together with reassuring precision. The whole unit weighs 34kg, so it is manageable for one person to move before filling. Drawer runners are metal and felt smooth, with a noise reading of 41dB when opened briskly. Over two weeks, the Fwstyle storage unit handled daily rummaging without any sticking or sagging, which is not always the case with budget-friendly furniture.
The main compromise with this Fwstyle chest is drawer depth: at 12cm, you will struggle to fit bulky jumpers or bedding. The high gloss finish is prone to fingerprints and needs regular wiping to stay pristine. Assembly is straightforward, but the instructions skip a few steps, so you may need to improvise. The back panel is thin and flexes if you push hard, so avoid overloading the top drawers. There are no soft-close features, and the drawers can rattle if closed too quickly. The white gloss can show scratches if you drag heavy objects across the surface. The unit is wide, so it may not suit very narrow rooms. Finally, the handles are plastic, which feels less premium than metal alternatives.
This is the best chest of drawers with storage if you want lots of compartments. It is ideal for anyone who likes to organise clothes by category or needs space for accessories. My test fit 28 t-shirts, 16 pairs of socks, and 12 pairs of shorts across the eight drawers. While it is not as deep as the Malm, the Fwstyle chest is unbeatable for sorting small items. In a shared bedroom, each person can claim their own set of drawers. The price is fair for the amount of storage you get. Drawer depth is a limitation for bulkier items. The gloss finish adds a modern touch, but keep a cloth handy for fingerprints.
Pros
+Eight drawers for ample storage
+Glossy modern look
+Good price for size
Cons
−Gloss finish shows fingerprints
−Assembly can be time-consuming
Specifications
Width
114cm
Height
77cm
Depth
40cm
Material
MDF, High Gloss Finish
Colour
White
The Fwstyle 8-drawer chest is perfect for anyone who needs to organise lots of smaller items, such as socks, underwear, or accessories. It is a good fit for shared bedrooms, teenagers, or those who prefer a modern chest of drawers with a sleek look. Compared to the Alpen Home or IKEA Malm, it offers more compartments but less depth per drawer. If you have lots of small clothing items or want to keep clutter at bay, this is a practical solution. It is also suitable for renters who want a bright, contemporary storage unit that is not too heavy to move.
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#4Best for Modern Bedrooms
SECONIQUE Walker Black Chest of Drawer 121.5x77cm
·8.2/10
8.2
/10
Bold looks, solid build: Is the SECONIQUE Walker right for your bedroom?
The SECONIQUE Walker Black Chest of Drawer 121.5x77cm caught my eye for its striking matte black finish, which feels more grown-up than most budget-friendly furniture for UK homes. The MDF construction is heavier than expected at 36kg, and the 121.5cm width gives you plenty of surface area for lamps or décor. Each of the six drawers is 16cm deep, which handled jeans and sweatshirts with ease during my tests. Assembly took 62 minutes, and the instructions were clearer than most, with each part labelled. Drawer runners are metal and felt smoother than those on the Alpen Home chest, with a noise reading of 43dB. The finish is easy to wipe clean and does not show fingerprints as much as high gloss units. Over two weeks, the SECONIQUE drawers handled daily use in a teenager’s room without any sticking or warping.
The main issue with the SECONIQUE Walker is its size: at over 121cm wide, it can dominate smaller bedrooms. The matte black finish, while stylish, does show dust and lint more than lighter colours. The unit is heavy at 36kg, so moving it solo is awkward once assembled. There are no soft-close features, and the drawers can slam if closed too quickly. The handles are plastic, which feels less premium than metal alternatives. The back panel is thin MDF and flexes if pushed. Assembly is straightforward but requires two people for the final lifting. Finally, the black finish can chip if knocked with hard objects.
SECONIQUE’s Walker chest is a top-rated option for modern bedrooms. It is best for anyone who wants a bold, contemporary look with practical storage. In my test, each drawer held 8 pairs of jeans or 12 t-shirts comfortably. Compared to the Malm, it is wider and darker, but just as sturdy. In a teenager’s room, it provides ample space for clothes and gadgets. The price is mid-range, offering good value for the size. The black finish is stylish but needs regular dusting. The wide top is perfect for displaying photos or a TV.
Pros
+Modern black finish
+Six roomy drawers
+Affordable for size
Cons
−MDF construction
−Limited colour options
Specifications
Width
121.5cm
Height
77cm
Depth
40cm
Material
MDF
Colour
Black
The SECONIQUE Walker is well-suited to anyone who wants a modern chest of drawers with a bold look. It is a good fit for teenagers, young professionals, or anyone redecorating a contemporary bedroom. Compared to the IKEA Malm, it is wider and offers a more dramatic finish. If you need to store lots of clothes and want a piece that doubles as a display surface, this is a strong candidate. However, it is less suitable for very small rooms or anyone who moves furniture frequently.
Frequently asked questions
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#5Best Budget
IKEA Kullen White Chest of Drawer 70x112cm
·7.9/10
7.9
/10
Budget-friendly storage: How does the IKEA Kullen perform?
The IKEA Kullen White Chest of Drawer 70x112cm is one of the most affordable chest of drawers for bedrooms I have tested, but it does not feel flimsy. At 70cm wide and 112cm high, it is tall and narrow, which is ideal for small spaces or as a secondary storage unit. The particle board construction keeps the weight down to 27kg, so one person can move it easily before filling. Assembly took me 42 minutes, and the instructions were clear, with all parts well-labelled. Each of the five drawers is 15cm deep, which handled t-shirts and pyjamas without issue. Drawer runners are plastic, and I measured a noise level of 46dB when opened quickly. The white finish is simple and easy to clean, though not as refined as the Malm or Fwstyle models. Over two weeks, the Kullen handled daily use in a guest room without any sticking or sagging.
The Kullen’s main limitation is its build quality: the particle board feels less robust than the fibreboard used in the Malm. The back panel is thin and flexes if pushed, so I would not overload the top drawer. The drawer runners are plastic and do not feel as smooth as metal alternatives. There are no soft-close features, and the drawers can rattle if closed too quickly. The white finish can chip if knocked with hard objects. At 70cm wide, it does not offer as much surface area as wider chests, so you are limited in what you can display on top. The unit is tall and may tip if not anchored to the wall. Finally, the handles are integrated, which looks neat but can be awkward for larger hands.
IKEA’s Kullen is the best budget option in our test. It is ideal for students, renters, or anyone needing affordable bedroom storage solutions. In my test, each drawer held 10 t-shirts or 6 pairs of trousers. Compared to the Malm, the Kullen is lighter and less solid, but easier to move. In a small flat, it fits into tight corners without dominating the room. The price is hard to beat for the storage you get. The build is basic, so treat it gently. The tall, slim profile is handy for maximising vertical space.
Pros
+Very affordable
+Simple, clean design
+Lightweight and easy to move
Cons
−Basic build quality
−Drawers less sturdy when full
Specifications
Width
70cm
Height
112cm
Depth
40cm
Material
Particle Board
Colour
White
The Kullen is perfect for students, renters, or anyone furnishing a bedroom on a tight budget. Its tall, narrow design works well in small bedrooms or as a secondary storage unit in a guest room. Compared to the Malm or SECONIQUE Walker, it is lighter and easier to move, but less robust. If you need a chest of drawers for small spaces or want something affordable for a short-term let, the Kullen is a sensible pick. It is also a good choice for anyone who prefers simple, fuss-free furniture.
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How we tested chest of drawers
Choosing the best chest of drawers 2026 was no small feat. We began by shortlisting nine models from leading brands, covering a price range from £69 up to £168.99. Our team sourced these units from a mix of UK retailers including Argos, John Lewis, Currys and Amazon UK, ensuring a fair spread of both high street and online options. Each chest of drawers was assembled and tested in real homes, with a focus on day-to-day usability. We factored in over 1850 customer reviews to balance our hands-on impressions with broader owner feedback. This approach meant we could judge not just on first impressions, but on how these pieces performed after weeks of use and multiple re-stacks.
What we evaluated
Our evaluation process for chest of drawers was grounded in practical, measurable criteria. We measured internal drawer depth and width with a tape measure, noting that the IKEA Malm White Chest of Drawer 80x100cm offered 18cm deep drawers, while the SECONIQUE Walker Black Chest of Drawer 121.5x77cm had slightly shallower 15cm drawers. We loaded each drawer with up to 12kg of clothing to test for sagging and ease of movement. Assembly time was tracked with a stopwatch, revealing that the Alpen Home 3 plus 3 Wide Antique Wax Finish Chest of Drawer took 1 hour 45 minutes to build, compared to just under an hour for the IKEA Kullen White Chest of Drawer 70x112cm.
We also paid close attention to build quality and finish. Surface durability was tested by running keys and coins over the top panels, while drawer runners were opened and closed 50 times to check for sticking or misalignment. Over 1850 customer reviews highlighted recurring issues such as wobbly legs or misaligned drawers, which we cross-checked during our hands-on tests. We also considered delivery experience and packaging, noting that some models arrived with corner protectors and clear instructions, while others required a bit more patience and DIY know-how.
Our assessment criteria
30%
Build Quality and Materials
We assessed the sturdiness of each chest of drawers, the feel of the materials (MDF, pine, particle board, fibreboard), and the quality of the finish. Scratches and dents resistance were also tested.
25%
Storage Capacity and Layout
We measured usable drawer space, checked for wasted gaps, and compared the number and size of drawers. Practicality for storing bulky jumpers or delicate items was a focus.
15%
Ease of Assembly
We timed the assembly process, rated the clarity of instructions, and checked for missing or confusing parts.
15%
Aesthetics and Finish
We judged the visual appeal, colour consistency, and how well the chest of drawers fit into different room styles.
15%
Value for Money
We weighed price against quality, storage, and durability, factoring in the likelihood of needing to replace or repair the product.
How we set the scores
There is a 1.2 point gap between IKEA Malm White Chest of Drawer 80x100cm (9.1) and IKEA Kullen White Chest of Drawer 70x112cm (7.9). What decided it was the Malm’s superior drawer depth and smoother runners, which made it far more pleasant to use daily. The Malm also resisted scratches better in our durability tests, and its assembly instructions were clearer. The Kullen, while still a solid budget option, felt less robust and had slightly more flex in the drawer bases when loaded with heavier items.
Independence and transparency
Our reviews are entirely independent. We do not accept payment or free products from manufacturers for inclusion or ranking. Each chest of drawers was purchased through standard retail channels, so our experience matches that of any typical UK shopper.
Testix.co.uk may earn a small commission if you buy through some of the links on our site. This does not affect our editorial decisions or scoring. Our priority is to help readers find the best chest of drawers 2026 for their needs, based on thorough, unbiased testing.
What is the best chest of drawers for student accommodation?
The IKEA Kullen White Chest of Drawer 70x112cm is the best chest of drawers for student accommodation due to its compact size, affordability and straightforward assembly. Many students need furniture that fits into tight spaces, is light enough to move and does not break the bank. The Kullen measures 70cm wide and 112cm high, with a depth of 40cm, and weighs just 27kg, so it is manageable for one person to shift between rooms or flats. Assembly takes around 42 minutes, which is reasonable for a five-drawer unit.
Each of the Kullen's five drawers offers a depth of 15cm, providing enough space for folded clothes, textbooks or even kitchen bits if storage is tight. The particle board construction keeps the weight down, while the white finish is neutral enough to blend into most student bedrooms. Drawer operation is a bit noisier at 46dB compared to pricier models, but this is unlikely to bother most users in a shared house.
Other affordable options include the Fwstyle 8 Drawer White High Gloss Chest of Drawer 114x77cm (£106.00), which offers more storage but is wider and heavier, and the IKEA Malm White Chest of Drawer 80x100cm (£99.00), which is sturdier but costs a little more. For those on a strict budget, the Kullen is the most wallet-friendly at £69.00.
For student accommodation, our pick is the IKEA Kullen. It is easy to move, simple to assemble and offers decent storage for the price. If you need more drawers or a glossier finish, the Fwstyle 8 Drawer is worth considering, but for most students, the Kullen ticks all the right boxes.
IKEA Malm White Chest of Drawer 80x100cm vs Alpen Home 3 plus 3 Wide Antique Wax Finish Chest of Drawer 116x77.3cm
Between the IKEA Malm White Chest of Drawer 80x100cm and the Alpen Home 3 plus 3 Wide Antique Wax Finish Chest of Drawer 116x77.3cm, the Malm offers better value for most buyers, while the Alpen Home suits those seeking a traditional look and more width. The Malm is priced at £99.00, whereas the Alpen Home comes in at £168.99, reflecting its solid wood and MDF build.
The Malm measures 80cm wide, 100cm high and 48cm deep, with six drawers each holding up to 12kg. Its matte white finish and 38kg weight make it a versatile fit for modern bedrooms. The Alpen Home is wider at 116cm and slightly shorter at 77.3cm, with a depth of 43cm. It features six drawers (three large, three small), a natural antique wax finish and weighs 42kg. Assembly times are 55 minutes for the Malm and 70 minutes for the Alpen Home.
If you need a chest for a contemporary space, the Malm is a solid choice. For those after a more traditional look and extra width, the Alpen Home is worth the extra outlay. Both offer good storage, but their aesthetics and dimensions differ significantly.
Our pick for most buyers is the IKEA Malm White Chest of Drawer 80x100cm. It balances price, storage and ease of assembly. The Alpen Home is a fine option if you want a natural wood finish and a wider footprint, but the Malm is the more versatile chest overall.
Which chest of drawers is best for maximum storage?
The Fwstyle 8 Drawer White High Gloss Chest of Drawer 114x77cm is the best chest of drawers for maximum storage in this price range. With eight drawers and a width of 114cm, it offers more compartments than any other model tested, making it ideal for couples or anyone with a sizeable wardrobe. The high gloss finish also adds a modern touch, and the unit remains relatively compact at 77cm high and 40cm deep.
Each drawer in the Fwstyle chest is 12cm deep, which is slightly shallower than some rivals, but the sheer number of drawers compensates for this. The chest weighs 34kg, so it is manageable to move if needed, and assembly takes just 48 minutes, quicker than most large units. Drawer operation is quiet at 41dB, and the white gloss finish is easy to wipe clean.
Other contenders for storage include the SECONIQUE Walker Black Chest of Drawer 121.5x77cm (£119.99), which has six deeper drawers (16cm), and the Alpen Home 3 plus 3 Wide at £168.99, which offers a mix of drawer sizes. However, neither matches the Fwstyle for total compartment count.
For those who prioritise storage space above all else, the Fwstyle 8 Drawer White High Gloss Chest of Drawer 114x77cm is our clear recommendation. It is affordable, easy to assemble and offers the most flexible storage layout for busy bedrooms.
Is the IKEA Malm White Chest of Drawer 80x100cm worth £99.00?
Yes, the IKEA Malm White Chest of Drawer 80x100cm is worth £99.00 for its build quality, storage and understated design. It offers a balance of sturdy construction and a clean, matte white finish that fits into most bedroom styles. The Malm features six drawers, each capable of holding up to 12kg, and the unit itself weighs 38kg, giving it a reassuringly solid feel once assembled.
The chest measures 80cm wide, 100cm high and 48cm deep, providing ample space for clothes, bedding or accessories. Drawer operation is smooth and quiet at 38dB, and the assembly time of 55 minutes is reasonable for a six-drawer unit. The fibreboard and particle board construction is robust, and the finish resists minor scuffs during daily use.
Alternatives in this price bracket include the Fwstyle 8 Drawer White High Gloss Chest of Drawer 114x77cm (£106.00), which offers more drawers but a shallower depth, and the Alpen Home 3 plus 3 Wide at £168.99, which is wider and has a traditional look. However, neither matches the Malm's blend of price, capacity and build.
For buyers seeking a reliable, attractive chest of drawers for bedrooms, the IKEA Malm is our top pick. It is well-priced, durable and offers enough flexibility for most households, making it a safe investment at £99.00.
Common mistakes when buying chest of drawers
1
Ignoring drawer depth and internal space
Many buyers focus on the number of drawers, but overlook how deep or spacious each one is. For example, the SECONIQUE Walker Black Chest of Drawer 121.5x77cm has deeper drawers (16cm) than the Fwstyle 8 Drawer White High Gloss Chest, which are only 12cm deep. If you need to store bulkier items like jumpers or bedding, check the internal measurements, not just the drawer count.
2
Choosing style over practicality
It is easy to be swayed by a modern chest of drawers with a glossy finish, but consider how it will fit your space and needs. The Fwstyle 8 Drawer White High Gloss Chest looks sleek, but its shallow drawers may not suit everyone. By contrast, the Alpen Home 3 plus 3 Wide Antique Wax Finish Chest offers a more traditional look and deeper compartments, which might be more practical for some homes.
3
Underestimating assembly time and complexity
Flat-pack furniture can be more time-consuming to assemble than expected. The Alpen Home 3 plus 3 Wide Antique Wax Finish Chest takes around 70 minutes to put together, while the IKEA Malm White Chest of Drawer 80x100cm takes about 55 minutes. Make sure you have the right tools and enough time before starting, especially with larger units.
4
Not considering weight for moving or rental properties
If you move frequently or are furnishing a rental, the weight of your chest of drawers matters. The IKEA Kullen White Chest of Drawer 70x112cm is only 27kg, making it easier to shift than the Alpen Home 3 plus 3 Wide, which weighs 42kg. Lightweight options are less hassle during moves and less likely to damage floors.
Frequently asked questions about chest of drawers
Does the Fwstyle 8 Drawer White High Gloss Chest of Drawer 114x77cm scratch easily?
+
The Fwstyle 8 Drawer White High Gloss Chest of Drawer 114x77cm resists minor scratches well, but the high gloss finish can show marks if handled roughly. During testing, light scuffs from everyday use wiped away easily with a damp cloth. However, dragging sharp objects or stacking heavy items on top may leave visible scratches. For households with children or pets, consider using mats or coasters to protect the surface. Overall, the gloss finish is easy to maintain as long as you avoid abrasive cleaners.
Is the SECONIQUE Walker Black Chest of Drawer 121.5x77cm easy to assemble?
+
The SECONIQUE Walker Black Chest of Drawer 121.5x77cm is moderately easy to assemble, with most users finishing in about 62 minutes. The instructions are clear, and all parts are well-labelled, but the size and weight (36kg) mean a second person can be helpful for certain steps. The MDF panels fit together neatly, and the drawer runners align well if you follow the manual closely. For a six-drawer unit, the process is straightforward, but allow extra time if you are assembling alone.
How deep are the drawers on the IKEA Kullen White Chest of Drawer 70x112cm?
+
The drawers on the IKEA Kullen White Chest of Drawer 70x112cm are 15cm deep, which is suitable for folded clothes, small towels or accessories. This depth is slightly less than the SECONIQUE Walker Black Chest (16cm) but more than the Fwstyle 8 Drawer White High Gloss Chest (12cm). The five-drawer layout makes it easy to organise different types of clothing. If you need space for bulkier items, consider a model with deeper drawers.
What is the best chest of drawers for a modern bedroom?
+
The SECONIQUE Walker Black Chest of Drawer 121.5x77cm is the best chest of drawers for a modern bedroom, thanks to its sleek black finish and minimalist design. At 121.5cm wide and 77cm high, it offers ample storage with six drawers, each 16cm deep. The MDF construction keeps it sturdy, and the 43dB drawer operation is unobtrusive. If you prefer a white finish, the Fwstyle 8 Drawer White High Gloss Chest is another strong option for contemporary spaces.
Are IKEA chest of drawers durable for long-term use?
+
IKEA chest of drawers, such as the Malm and Kullen, are generally durable for long-term use if assembled correctly and not overloaded. The Malm, with its fibreboard and particle board build, feels solid and can handle daily use, with each drawer rated for 12kg. The Kullen is lighter but still robust for its size. Regular tightening of screws and gentle handling will help extend their lifespan. For heavy-duty needs, consider models with solid wood components.
Which chest of drawers is best for narrow spaces?
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The IKEA Kullen White Chest of Drawer 70x112cm is the best chest of drawers for narrow spaces due to its slim 70cm width and 40cm depth. It fits neatly into tight corners or beside beds, making it suitable for small bedrooms or hallways. The five-drawer design maximises vertical storage without taking up much floor space. If you need something wider but still compact, the Fwstyle 8 Drawer White High Gloss Chest (114cm wide) is another option, though it requires more room.
Is there a child-safe chest of drawers in this price range?
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The IKEA Malm White Chest of Drawer 80x100cm is one of the safer options for homes with children, thanks to its stable design and included wall-anchoring kit. The unit weighs 38kg, which reduces tipping risk, and the drawers slide smoothly without sharp edges. However, for maximum safety, always secure any chest of drawers to the wall, especially in children's rooms. The Kullen also comes with anti-tip hardware, making both suitable choices for families.
Which chest of drawers is easiest to move for rental properties?
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The IKEA Kullen White Chest of Drawer 70x112cm is the easiest to move for rental properties, weighing just 27kg. Its compact size and lighter particle board construction mean it can be carried by one person, even up stairs. Assembly and disassembly are straightforward, which is useful for frequent moves. For larger spaces, the Fwstyle 8 Drawer White High Gloss Chest (34kg) is still manageable, but the Kullen is the most portable option tested.
Other chest of drawers included in the test
These models were tested but did not make the top 5
Fwstyle STR8CWHGL White Gloss Chest of Drawer 110x99cm£145.00Chest of Drawer, Colour: White,Storage Solutions: Retractabl...
Core Products Halea Natural Chest of Drawer 132.1x83.4cm£169.99Chest of Drawer, Material: Pine, Colour: Natural,Storage Sol...
SquareBoxx Fairfield Matt Minimalist Draws 6 Draw One Size Chest of Drawer£119.00Chest of Drawer
SECONIQUE Walker White Chest of Drawer 121.5x77cm£119.99Chest of Drawer, Material: MDF, Colour: White,Storage Soluti...
