ᐅ IKEA Malm bed still squeaks after professional repair – possible causes?

Hello everyone,

I have an IKEA Malm bed that unfortunately still squeaks despite a professional repair. The workshop checked the screws and tightened the connecting fittings, but the noise is still noticeable when lying down or moving.

I’m interested in what other causes there might be if all obvious repair steps have already been done. Are there maybe weak points or typical parts that are often overlooked?

The bed is about 3 years old and has been used normally and regularly, with no overloading or anything like that. I’m not very skilled technically, but I would appreciate any tips from someone with experience on what else to check to finally stop the squeaking.

Thanks in advance!

The squeaking usually comes from wood friction or screws that are too loose. Also check the slatted bed bases, as they often move and cause noise.

Hello kenplo,

I understand your situation well; persistent squeaking noises can be very annoying. Usually, this is caused by wooden components—especially with Malm beds—slightly moving against each other, particularly when sitting on or turning in the bed.

It’s great that the professional workshop checked the screws. However, I also recommend treating the wood surfaces between the support points with a bit of wax or graphite powder. Applying glide or felt pads at the contact points can significantly reduce friction as well.

Have you tested whether the squeaking occurs at a specific spot, such as the headboard or footboard? Sometimes it also helps to completely disassemble the bed and then reassemble it carefully.

barda6 schrieb:
The squeaking usually comes from wood friction or loose screws.

That’s a good point. Additionally, I would mention the sliding bearings and possible plastic connectors, which in furniture often harden or break over time.

People often focus on the screws, but the contact surfaces themselves (e.g., wood on wood or metal on wood) are often overlooked. If there is dust or small particles there, that can also cause squeaking. It helps to clean these areas and treat them with a lubricant without grease (e.g., sprayable silicone).

I once had the same issue with a Malm bed. In my case, the connection at the center support beam wasn’t properly secured. Check that spot carefully and tighten it!

Besides the usual causes like loose screws and wood friction, the floor condition can also play a role. An uneven floor causes slight deformations in the frame, which produce noises. I would recommend moving the bed to another spot with a level floor or placing small pads under the legs to rule this out.