ᐅ IKEA MALM Bed Squeaks Despite Tight Screws – Possible Causes?
Created on: 14 Sep 2023 08:12
M
Macaradoc
Hello everyone, I have been using the IKEA Malm bed for some time now, but I am annoyed by a constant squeaking, even though all screws and connections are properly tightened.
I am especially interested in knowing: What causes could be responsible for the squeaking despite correct and firm screwing? Are there known weak points with this model or mechanical characteristics that might explain it?
I have tightened all screws according to the recommended torque and checked that no wooden parts move against each other, but the noise remains, especially when turning over or getting up.
Maybe there are people here with similar experiences or technical knowledge who can give me tips on how to diagnose the issue precisely and fix it effectively. Thank you!
I am especially interested in knowing: What causes could be responsible for the squeaking despite correct and firm screwing? Are there known weak points with this model or mechanical characteristics that might explain it?
I have tightened all screws according to the recommended torque and checked that no wooden parts move against each other, but the noise remains, especially when turning over or getting up.
Maybe there are people here with similar experiences or technical knowledge who can give me tips on how to diagnose the issue precisely and fix it effectively. Thank you!
Another often overlooked cause is the fastening of the central support beam to the slatted frame.
If there is slight movement there, even with tight screws, the squeaking could originate from this point.
Therefore, be sure to check if the central support beam is securely connected to the frame system and if the slats of the frame are properly and firmly seated in their holders.
If there is slight movement there, even with tight screws, the squeaking could originate from this point.
Therefore, be sure to check if the central support beam is securely connected to the frame system and if the slats of the frame are properly and firmly seated in their holders.
You can counter that annoying squeaking noise with a bit of creativity! 🙂
I once had a similar problem and glued small pieces of felt or fabric to all contact surfaces that would otherwise touch the wood directly. This practically eliminated all unpleasant sounds.
What I also found amusing: simply sprinkling a little baby powder or talcum powder as a friction reducer in hidden areas worked wonders—kind of like a "wellness treatment" for the bed ;-)
I once had a similar problem and glued small pieces of felt or fabric to all contact surfaces that would otherwise touch the wood directly. This practically eliminated all unpleasant sounds.
What I also found amusing: simply sprinkling a little baby powder or talcum powder as a friction reducer in hidden areas worked wonders—kind of like a "wellness treatment" for the bed ;-)
sifope schrieb:
Has it already been checked here whether, for example, the plastic sleeves or washers in the screw connections are still intact and properly seated?This is crucial. Malm beds often use so-called dowels and plastic sleeves, which can deform or shift over time. While this does not directly affect the structural strength, it can cause movement and thus noise.
A thorough inspection and, if necessary, replacement of these plastic components is recommended.
M
Macaradoc14 Sep 2023 13:25Thanks for the very helpful answers so far!
To clarify: I have actually checked all the anchors to ensure they are firmly seated, and the plastic sleeves also appear undamaged; none of the screws show any movement. The slats of the framework are also fixed in place.
I will try the recommended assembly paste and also test baby powder, although I am unsure how long-lasting these measures will be.
My next question: Could the engineered wood (particleboard) itself expand and contract due to changing humidity and be the source of the squeaking, even if all mechanical connections are tight?
To clarify: I have actually checked all the anchors to ensure they are firmly seated, and the plastic sleeves also appear undamaged; none of the screws show any movement. The slats of the framework are also fixed in place.
I will try the recommended assembly paste and also test baby powder, although I am unsure how long-lasting these measures will be.
My next question: Could the engineered wood (particleboard) itself expand and contract due to changing humidity and be the source of the squeaking, even if all mechanical connections are tight?
Macaradoc schrieb:
Could the wood-based panel (chipboard) itself expand and contract due to changing humidity and be the source of the squeaking?Yes, this is definitely possible and typical for chipboard or MDF. Fluctuations in humidity cause slight swelling or shrinking, which creates tension in tightly fitted components. This tension then results in noises when the wood or fasteners shift even slightly.
That’s why indoor climate is important. Air that is too dry or too humid can promote these effects. Ventilation and maintaining a stable humidity level around 40–60% help prevent them.
Similar topics