ᐅ How can I stabilize IKEA HEMNES beds on uneven or shaky floors?

Created on: 3 Jan 2023 09:13
K
Kellin
Hello everyone,

I have a relatively new IKEA Hemnes bed and I’m facing the problem that it wobbles quite a bit on my wooden floor. It’s only slight, but after a while it gets annoying, especially when you move. I suspect the floor is not completely even, which is common with older wooden floorboards.

My specific question is: How can I effectively stabilize an IKEA Hemnes bed if the floor is uneven and the bed wobbles as a result? Are there proven methods or special products you would recommend? I’m mainly interested in solutions that don’t require major changes to the floor or the bed.

I look forward to your tips and experiences!
N
Nabla64
3 Jan 2023 11:02
Here is a simple guide on how to stabilize your IKEA Hemnes bed using wooden wedges:

- First, lift the bed so you can look underneath the legs.
- Use a spirit level to check which direction the bed is tilting or wobbling.
- Cut a wooden wedge to fit the angled leg (it’s best to use hardwood like oak or beech). The wedges should be thin enough to fit easily under the bed leg.
- Place the wedge temporarily under the leg and check again with the spirit level.
- If needed, stack several thinner wedges on top of each other until the bed is perfectly level.
- To prevent slipping, use either wood glue or a sticky pad layer—but avoid permanent bonding in case you want to adjust it later.

The most important part: check frequently! This ensures the weight is evenly distributed and nothing is pressing or pinching.

If you’re unsure, I can also help you with template measurements or patterns.
J
Jeanbar
3 Jan 2023 11:27
Kellin schrieb:
@Jeanbar: A step-by-step guide for the wedges would be great, if that’s not a problem for you!

It’s great that Nabla64 has already written such a detailed guide. I’ll add some information regarding adjustable furniture glides:

If you can’t find suitable glides for the HEMNES bed at IKEA, there are universal adjustable furniture feet available that can be easily installed. These can be adjusted in height to automatically compensate for uneven floors. However, you will need to modify the bed slightly, which might be worthwhile for a sturdier bed.

Alternatively, rubber pads can be used, as they adapt more flexibly to the floor and help reduce wobbling.

It’s important that all elements used to stabilize the bed are coordinated with each other to avoid any stress on the frame.
J
JEREMIAH38
3 Jan 2023 15:09
I’ve experienced this issue myself, sometimes with my HEMNES bed. What helped me was completely loosening the screws at the joints and then tightening them again, making sure to properly align all the parts. Besides uneven floors, a loose frame can also cause wobbling.
Jeanbar schrieb:
If the bed wobbles because it’s not fully secured, it’s worth checking all the screws and tightening them if necessary, or reinforcing with wood glue.
B
baupau
4 Jan 2023 07:34
If the floor is very stubbornly uneven, you can also attach small rubber pads or washers to the bed legs using silicone. These provide good grip and can compensate for slight unevenness.
K
KIN42
4 Jan 2023 13:56
A long-lasting solution for a wobbly bed on uneven floors is to level the floor height using so-called "shimming plates" or small, sturdy wooden blocks. These plates can be cut to size and provide especially durable support.

It is important to ensure that the bed stands evenly on all legs, as uneven support can cause stress that negatively affects the structure.

Equally important is to avoid using materials that compress over time, such as soft foam or thin felt, as these can lead to wobbling again.
K
Kellin
5 Jan 2023 08:12
Thanks to everyone for the comprehensive tips and the detailed guidance from Nabla64! I now have some ideas to try out, especially the combination of wedges and felt pads sounds promising.

I will first check the structure for stability and then adjust the feet as needed. I also found the suggestion of adjustable furniture glides very helpful, although I would consider that more of a second option since I prefer not to modify the bed.

I’ll be happy to report back if I encounter any problems during implementation or to share how well the solutions worked for me. Thanks again for your help!