ᐅ How can I reduce the noise from squeaking IKEA Hemnes furniture?

Hello everyone, I recently bought some IKEA Hemnes furniture and unfortunately noticed an annoying creaking noise with even the slightest movement, especially on drawers and doors. The creaking is quite loud and affects the living atmosphere.

My specific question is: What practical and long-lasting measures can I take to significantly and permanently reduce the creaking of the IKEA Hemnes furniture?

It is important to me that no complicated modifications are necessary and that the furniture’s function remains fully intact. I have already considered lubricants but am unsure which material is best suited, especially since it involves wood rubbing against wood.

I would be very grateful for any tips on systematically addressing the causes (e.g., tightening screws, maintaining joints, installing dampers, or similar).

Metaro schrieb:
What practical and long-lasting measures can I take to noticeably and permanently reduce the squeaking of IKEA Hemnes furniture?

Honestly, I think the problem of squeaking furniture is far too often addressed just with “lubricants.” The real issue lies in the product quality of Hemnes itself. The large amount of cheap particleboard combined with relatively weak screws is the true cause.

But if you prefer simple solutions: grease or oil often only work temporarily because they either dry out too quickly or attract dust. Silicone sprays or even small felt pads on the contact points are better for reducing friction.

I just wonder why IKEA doesn’t invest more in noise-reducing furniture construction.

To effectively reduce squeaking in Hemnes furniture, I recommend the following steps:

- First, systematically check all screws and tighten them if necessary, as loose connections often cause squeaking.
- Lightly treat contact surfaces between wood and metal or wood and wood with a dry lubricant, such as silicone spray, which does not attract dust.
- Attach small felt pads or foam rubber strips at friction points, especially on drawer slides.
- Inspect moving parts for damage and deformation, as worn components can generate additional noise.

Important: Do not use oil, as it attracts dust and can reduce functionality.

Tighten the screws, apply silicone spray to contact points, and place felt pads underneath. This usually helps.

Here is a simple step-by-step guide to systematically address the problem:

1. Inspect the furniture: Specifically look for loose or weak fastenings, especially screws and wall plugs.
2. Secure fastenings: Tighten all screws with the appropriate tools. Caution: Over-tightening can weaken the panel structure!
3. Identify friction points: Check exactly where the creaking occurs – often at wood joints or along sliding rails.
4. Apply felt strips: Cut small pieces of felt or foam rubber and stick them between the contact surfaces.
5. Use silicone spray: Lightly spray on moving parts, not too much to avoid dust accumulation.

Summary: The combination of strong joints + cushioning of the wood surfaces + suitable lubricant usually reduces noise effectively.

I can completely understand how annoying this creaking can be – I had the same problem with Hemnes furniture. The tips here have been really helpful for me.

One additional suggestion: Sometimes it helps to use a small dehumidifier in the room where the furniture is, because wood is very sensitive to changes in humidity and often creaks as a result.

I’m keeping my fingers crossed that you can get rid of the noises – it’s truly a frustrating issue.