ᐅ IKEA Malm Nightstand Squeaks When Lifted – What Could Be the Cause?

Created on: 2 Feb 2015 09:12
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An-Andre
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An-Andre
2 Feb 2015 09:12
Hello everyone,

I recently purchased an IKEA Malm bedside table and noticed that it makes a clearly audible squeaking noise when lifting the entire table. The sound seems to come from the lower parts of the furniture when I lift it slightly and then set it back down.

I suspect it might be caused by the connection between the individual wooden parts or the coating, which shifts slightly against each other. I’m interested to know if this is a known issue with this model and if anyone has experience with the exact cause. Maybe it’s some kind of material friction or related to the screw connections?

I would appreciate any tips on how to fix this or a more precise indication of the cause.
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Declan55
2 Feb 2015 09:45
It's great that you brought this up! :-)

I've also experienced squeaking with the Malm nightstand – it usually comes from the interaction between the wooden parts and the finish. Often, tightening the screws a bit more or applying some silicone spray to the joints helps.

Keep at it, it will be gone soon! 🙂
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deoke
2 Feb 2015 10:03
Hello An-Andre,

your description clearly points to a friction point between two materials that shift under load or movement. The Malm nightstand is made of laminated particleboard, where edges and joints are prone to stress.

The most common cause of squeaking when lifting is that the connecting screws or joints, especially at the wooden edges or the drawer support surface, are slightly loose or have minimal play.

Recommendation:

1. Check all screws carefully for tightness.
2. Inspect the solid connections between the side panels and the top panel.
3. To prevent squeaking, use a PTFE-based lubricant or silicone spray sparingly on the contact points that rub.

Please also let us know if the noise occurs only when lifting with a slight tilting motion or if it happens in general.

Background information: temperature and humidity-related expansion of the material can affect the amount of play.
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barle
2 Feb 2015 10:15
Tighten screws and treat contact points with a bit of wax or soap, which usually stops the squeaking.
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KOLAU
2 Feb 2015 10:47
Squeaking often occurs due to sticking wooden parts. Malm uses particle board with a laminate finish, where silicone spray or graphite powder usually helps.
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zartra
2 Feb 2015 11:03
Check the feet or the underside to see if any edges are rubbing. Sometimes, a felt pad applied in the right spot can help.