ᐅ MALM Bed Squeaks After Climate Changes – What Can I Do?

Created on: 14 Nov 2021 08:23
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sarson
Hello everyone,

I have recently started experiencing a problem with my Malm bed from IKEA. Over the past few weeks, especially since the significant changes in temperature and humidity due to autumn, the bed has begun to squeak intermittently when lying on it. It’s not constant but occurs whenever I move or slightly change the load. I suspect that the “climate change” in the room plays a role here – that is, the drying out of the wood or shrinking and swelling caused by fluctuations in moisture.

Has anyone had similar experiences or any tips on how to eliminate or at least reduce the squeaking? I have already tried tightening all the screws, but without success.

Looking forward to your advice!
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Guyju
15 Nov 2021 10:39
sarson schrieb:
If anyone has tips on the best way to apply beeswax to wood joints

Here you go:

Take some beeswax and warm it gently (for example, in your hand or near a heat source, but not too hot), then apply it sparingly to the contact surfaces using a soft cloth or a small brush. Use only a small amount to avoid a greasy finish. Let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe off any excess wax with a clean cloth.

It’s especially important not to use waxes containing oils, as they can darken the wood or leave stains. Pure beeswax from beekeeping suppliers or organic stores works best.

Repeat this process every few months, especially after the heating season – this keeps the wood supple and the joints moving smoothly.
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pilous
15 Nov 2021 11:02
Guyju schrieb:
The most important thing is to avoid using oily waxes

I think that’s an important point. Many DIY enthusiasts use various products that end up causing more harm than good.

I’m curious whether sarson actually uses the Malm bed with or without padding? Some models also have padded headboards – which come with their own frame. Sometimes the noises come from these components and can be mistakenly attributed elsewhere.
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sarson
15 Nov 2021 11:39
pilous schrieb:
I would like to know whether sarson uses the MALM bed with or without upholstery?

The bed is the standard model without upholstery.

I will start cleaning and tightening the screws this evening, then apply the beeswax as described by Guyju.

I will update once I make progress.
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nojaus
15 Nov 2021 20:07
Hello sarson,

how is the repair going? Were you able to locate or reduce the squeaking? If you need any tips or are unsure about certain steps, please let us know.

Sometimes it is normal that not everything is fixed right away – but with a bit of patience and the right measures, the bed will definitely become much quieter.
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sarson
16 Nov 2021 08:29
A brief update from me:

I systematically retightened all the screws and resecured the slightly loosened spots. At the joints of the central frame, I applied beeswax as recommended. In addition, I attached thin felt strips at some wood contact points to further reduce friction.

The result is very satisfactory – the squeaking has significantly decreased and is now only rarely audible.

Thanks to everyone for the helpful tips! The combination of retightening, waxing, and felt strips worked particularly well.