ᐅ The Malm bed creaks loudly when lying down – how can I fix this?

Hello everyone,

A few months ago, I bought a Malm bed from IKEA, which is otherwise quite decent. However, it has started to squeak loudly whenever I lie down or even just move. This is very annoying and significantly affects my sleep.

I have already tried tightening the screws, but that hardly helped. The squeaking seems to come from the connections between the slatted bed base and the frame, or possibly from the contact points of the slats.

Does anyone know this problem and have specific tips on how to eliminate the squeaking? I already checked the gap measurements during assembly, and the frame itself is stable without visible damage. What products or methods work best here? Maybe lubricants, extra padding at the contact points, or other solutions?

I look forward to your advice!

juanti schrieb:
I have already tried tightening the screws, but that hardly helped.

Hello juanti,

I’m familiar with the squeaking problem on your MALM bed, as such noises often occur due to friction between wood and metal or between wooden panels. Usually, a few simple steps can help fix the issue.

First, I recommend pinpointing the exact source of the squeak—for example, try removing the slatted frame and see if the bed frame itself makes noise without it. Then, you can lightly treat the areas with graphite powder, silicone spray, or a wax strip to reduce friction. Avoid using oil or grease, as these tend to attract dirt.

Additionally, inserting thin felt or fabric strips at the contact surfaces between the slatted frame and the bed frame can be very effective. These prevent direct wood-on-wood contact and dampen the squeaking.

If you want, I can provide you with a step-by-step guide. Good luck!

juanti schrieb:
The squeaking seems to come more from the connections between the slatted frame and the outer frame, or possibly from the points where the slats rest.

Tighten all screws properly again.

Then lightly rub all wooden joints with wax or soap.

Check the slatted frame to see if anything is loose.

This is usually enough.

Jukin schrieb:
First, I recommend narrowing down the locations precisely to the squeaking sound

A structured approach is ideal in such cases.

First, test the bed frame without the mattress and slatted base. Pressing firmly at different points on the frame can help identify the source of the squeaking.

Additionally, I recommend lightly treating wooden joints with suitable dry lubricants to minimize friction. Silicone-based sprays are a good standard here since they do not attract dust.

It is also important to check for micro-cracks or deformations in the wood that could compromise stability and cause noises.

Adding felt pads between the slatted base and the frame can effectively reduce mechanical vibrations.

Finally, make sure all screws are tightened with sufficient torque and properly secured to prevent loosening during use.

I hope these precise tips are helpful.