ᐅ How can I reduce the squeaking noise from Malm furniture?

Created on: 31 Aug 2022 08:22
K
kinpra
Hello everyone,

I am looking for effective ways to reduce the squeaking of my Malm furniture, especially the drawers and the bed frame. The noise occurs mainly when moving and is becoming increasingly annoying. I have considered using lubricants but am unsure which type is best suited for the furniture material, as it mostly consists of particleboard with a painted finish. Does anyone have experience with specific household remedies or products that can sustainably reduce the squeaking without damaging the furniture? And are there any mechanical tricks to decrease friction between the individual components?

Thanks in advance for your tips!
K
Kenon70
31 Aug 2022 11:05
Just to summarize: loosen the screws, apply graphite powder to the threads, then tighten. For drawers, use wax or paraffin. Silicone spray should only be used on metal parts. This usually stops the squeaking.
N
nedagla
31 Aug 2022 12:14
This is great that so many useful tips are being shared here!

I recently had similar problems with my Malm bed – I simply stuck felt pads under the bed where wood rubs against wood, and it made a huge difference! The squeaking became much quieter, and the furniture is protected 🙂

So try using small felt protectors at the contact points; I’ve also done this with other furniture pieces, and it really works well!
G
glamo
31 Aug 2022 12:47
Another factor is the climate environment: fluctuations in humidity and temperature can cause the particleboard to expand or contract. This can create small gaps that increase friction and lead to squeaking.

It might also help to completely disassemble the furniture and carefully reassemble it. Treat all screws with a light lubricant and check the drill holes to see if they have become slightly worn out – this can also cause instability.

Do you have a cordless screwdriver or an appropriate screwdriver available? That makes the work much easier. Which parts are squeaking exactly? Just the drawers or also the bed frame?
K
kinpra
31 Aug 2022 13:11
glamo schrieb:
"Maybe it also helps to completely disassemble the furniture once and then carefully reassemble it."

I hadn’t dared to disassemble it yet, so I will keep that in mind as a possible step.

Currently, the squeaking mainly occurs with the wardrobe drawers, but I also hear a slight creaking or squeaking from the bed frame when it moves.

I have a cordless drill that fits most screws.

Thanks for the helpful tips; they motivate me to tackle this step by step.
A
Aimee
31 Aug 2022 14:02
I also recommend thoroughly cleaning drawer slides, especially. Dust and small particles can cause squeaking. Afterwards, treat them with a bit of PTFE grease or a dry lubricant. This will help ensure the noise is reduced.
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gregto
31 Aug 2022 14:37
Hello everyone,

I’d like to add that choosing the right lubricant is important. Silicone spray often leaves a thin layer that can attract dust, which can be counterproductive in the long run. For drawers, special dry lubricants like graphite powder work well as they don’t stick or create dust-adhesive layers.

For screws and moving metal parts, WD-40 or similar products are commonly used; they lubricate and displace moisture. However, these can easily get onto wood and cause stains, so use them carefully.

Important: After applying lubricant, move the furniture a few times to distribute it evenly.

If you like, feel free to share later what worked for you!