ᐅ Why Do MALM Beds Creak in Cold Weather?

Hello everyone, I have a Malm bed from IKEA and I noticed that it starts squeaking especially at low temperatures, when it’s colder. My question is: Why do MALM beds squeak in the cold? I suspect it might be related to the materials or the construction, but I would like to know exactly what causes the bed to make noise when it is quiet at warmer temperatures. Maybe factors like wood swelling or metal connections play a role? I look forward to your insights or experiences with this.

The cause of squeaking in MALM beds at low temperatures can be technically explained by the thermal expansion and contraction of different materials. Wood and metal respond differently to temperature changes: wood typically contracts slightly in the cold, while metal changes less noticeably. These differing expansions cause movement and friction at connection points, such as screws or fittings, which results in the squeaking. Additionally, lower humidity levels in cold air can make the wood somewhat drier and more brittle, which may amplify the noise. Precise adjustment and regular maintenance of the screws can at least help reduce the noise level.

I would like to add a brief explanation of how these noises occur. The MALM bed is made of wooden panels and screw connections. When it’s cold, the wood contracts slightly, which causes the connection to the metal parts to become tighter or uneven. When you then move or redistribute your weight, microscopic friction occurs between the wood and metal. This friction causes the familiar creaking sounds.

Tip: Applying a dry lubricant such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or a special furniture wax to the joints can help reduce the squeaking. Please avoid using oil, as it may cause the wood to swell and change.

gadalu schrieb:
different expansions lead to movements and friction

That makes sense to me, especially the different expansion rates of wood and metal. Is there any evidence-based information showing that certain wood species or manufacturing methods used in IKEA beds exhibit this problem more or less frequently?

Also, can latent fluctuations in moisture combined with cold temperatures increase the noises, meaning is the humidity factor crucial for the squeaking?

Regarding the types of wood and their tendency to squeak: MALM beds primarily use MDF panels (medium-density fiberboard) with a lacquered or foil surface. MDF is very sensitive to changes in humidity, which can increase tension at the joints.

In cold conditions, the indoor humidity is often lower, making the MDF drier and somewhat more brittle. The combination of cold and reduced humidity causes the material to contract slightly, which increases friction at the connection points.

Therefore, fluctuations in humidity are a significant factor in the occurrence of squeaking.

One way to minimize this is to maintain a consistent room temperature and try to ensure stable humidity levels around 40-60%.

I am also familiar with this problem from my own experience. It is really frustrating when you turn over at night and hear that squeaking. What helped me was a thorough check of all screws and fasteners. Often, these are slightly loose, which increases the movement.

I have also noticed that in my case, the noises occur more frequently when I let fresh cold air into the room, meaning when ventilating too often. Since I have been paying more attention to maintaining a consistent room temperature, the situation has improved significantly.

Perhaps a small piece of softwood placed between the connection points could reduce friction – but expert advice from the community would be valuable here.