ᐅ IKEA Malm bed creaks even after tightening the screws – what could be the cause?

Hello everyone, I have an IKEA Malm bed, and despite tightening all the screws firmly several times, the bed still squeaks. The noises mainly occur when turning over or with slight movements during sleep. My question is: what could be causing the squeaking even after tightening the screws? I have already checked that all screws are properly seated, inspected the wood for any damage, and also examined the slatted bed base, but without success. Are there common causes or specific areas in this bed model that are particularly prone to such noises? I would appreciate detailed explanations or personal experiences with the Malm bed.

Agaklo schrieb:
Despite repeatedly tightening all the screws firmly, the bed still squeaks

This could be a classic case of “screws tight, but parts still move.” The screws don’t directly clamp the wood surfaces together; instead, they may hold components that can shift against each other under load.

Interestingly, resonance issues are often heard with IKEA products because they use veneer or particleboard. Honestly, I find the idea that “tightening helps” quite naive – sometimes the squeaking is caused precisely by trying to “over-tighten everything.”

Maybe the squeaking comes from friction at the joints or thin metal-plastic connections?

Agaklo schrieb:
Typical causes or specific spots on this bed model that are particularly prone to it?

I admit, some IKEA beds are simply too rigidly built and transmit vibrations to the wood, which then creaks. I’d check exactly where it’s coming from – the slatted frame, side rails, or support legs, since the forces don’t always run straight there.

Most of the time, the noise comes from friction between the slatted frame and the bed frame. Tightening all the screws is not enough. Try treating the wooden surfaces with wax or soap, which helps reduce the squeaking.

nanidra schrieb:
Sometimes the squeaking occurs precisely because you try to "tighten everything down too much"

That’s an interesting perspective. In fact, overtightening screws in particleboard furniture can cause material deformation, which may encourage micro-movements.

To fix the squeaking, you should specifically check the contact points of the joined wooden parts. A small trick is to insert thin felt or foam strips at friction areas. These help dampen movement between the parts.

rimole schrieb:
Try treating wood surfaces with wax or soap

That can help, yes. But be careful: oils can damage the material or leave unwanted marks. Beeswax or natural furniture polish are generally better options.

Additionally, I would check that the bed frame corners fit perfectly. Even minimal shifts in the joint can cause the annoying noise.

Agaklo schrieb:
What could be causing the squeaking despite tightening the screws?

You should not only consider the screws but the entire structure. IKEA furniture often uses a lot of particle board and veneers, which can flex slightly under load.

The friction between different materials – metal, wood, laminate – often causes the squeaking.

blagla schrieb:
insert small felt or foam strips at points of friction

That’s a good idea, but you should first precisely identify where the noise is coming from.

A tip: Sometimes the squeaking is caused by the bed screws in the headboard or footboard pressing against the side panels during movement. The small metal clip or screw lock on the slatted frame can also cause noise when moving.

Another common issue is that the slatted frame is not properly or flush fitted, causing it to rub at the support points.

A thorough inspection, possibly with a second person to help locate the noises, is worthwhile.