ᐅ How can creaking be prevented in BILLY hinges?

Created on: 3 Oct 2023 09:07
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rickdan
Hello everyone,

I have noticed a faint creaking noise coming from the hinges of my IKEA Billy bookshelf, which occurs repeatedly when using the doors. My specific question is: how can this creaking on Billy hinges be effectively prevented or eliminated?

I have already tried adjusting the hinges, as I suspected that a misalignment might be causing the problem. Unfortunately, this did not have the desired effect. The noise occurs regardless of the door position – both when opening and closing.

Does anyone know the exact cause of this creaking in Billy systems? What products or methods do you recommend to make the hinges silent without making the mechanism stiff?

Thanks in advance for your experiences and tips!
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andre3
3 Oct 2023 11:05
In addition to lubrication, it is important to check whether the screws securing the hinge are properly tightened but not over-tightened. Looseness or excessive pressure can impair function and cause noise.

If the creaking persists, sometimes a small adjustment of the door helps, as unfavorable pressure or alignment can lead to multiple points of friction.

I also recommend cleaning the hinges thoroughly with a dry cloth before lubricating to remove dirt or skin oils.
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vinpau
3 Oct 2023 11:26
I had the same problem with my Billy shelf! 🙂

After some trial and error, silicone spray worked wonders for me. I opened and closed the door several times until the squeaking completely disappeared.

It really makes a huge difference, and it feels much higher quality when there’s no more creaking! Sometimes it’s really the little things that matter a lot 🙂

Good luck, you’ve got this!
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BOLUKEO
4 Oct 2023 08:11
Just a quick note: If lubrication does not help, a thin layer of wax (e.g., furniture wax or beeswax) on the contact points can also help eliminate creaking. This also provides a good sliding layer.
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rickdan
4 Oct 2023 08:57
vinpau schrieb:
After a bit of trial and error, the silicone spray worked wonders for me.

Thanks for the tip! I used silicone spray yesterday, and so far it's much better.
Goixkin schrieb:
Just use some silicone oil or graphite spray and apply it to the hinge pins.

I would rather avoid graphite spray because of the appearance, right? Could it discolor the surface?
BOLUKEO schrieb:
A thin layer of wax on the contact points helps.

I will try that as an alternative if the silicone spray doesn’t prove effective in the long run.
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Lotizar
4 Oct 2023 09:16
Graphite spray can leave dark residues on visible surfaces and is therefore less suitable for furniture. It is better suited for locks or mechanical parts that are not directly visible.

Wax is a mild, gentle alternative, but it can attract dust and make the surface slightly sticky. Therefore, it is mainly recommended for areas with low wear.

It is true that silicone spray is preferred because of its cleanliness and typical durability.
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RENMA
5 Oct 2023 10:03
Additional note: When cleaning and lubricating, be careful not to apply too much lubricant, as excess material can be pushed out by movement and may get onto nearby painted surfaces.

Accurate dosing—for example, using a spray can with a fine nozzle or a small brush—helps to treat only the actual moving metal parts.

The door itself should also be checked for any looseness or play to ensure that the creaking is not caused by other furniture parts or the frame.