ᐅ What to do if your Malm bed is making squeaking noises?

Hello everyone, I recently got a Malm bed from IKEA, and it squeaks very noticeably with every movement. I find this surprising because the bed seems quite sturdy and is made of wood. I have already checked whether the screws are loose, but so far I have not found any looseness. My question is therefore: What could be causing the squeaking in the Malm bed, and how can it be best and permanently fixed? Are there specific spots I should pay special attention to, or are certain aids like lubricants or washers recommended? Thanks in advance for your tips!

Basically, squeaking is usually caused by friction between wood and metal or between wooden parts. Tighten the screws again and then apply silicone spray to the contact points. This usually helps.

The squeaking in furniture such as the Malm bed often results from slight movements at connections, caused either by loose screws or stresses in the wood. In addition to tightening all screws, it is recommended to treat the contact points between wooden parts with paraffin- or silicone-based lubricants. It is important to ensure that some lubricants do not damage the wood. Alternatively, self-adhesive felt pads can help reduce friction. The connections at the headboard and footboard, as well as the support slats under the mattress, are particularly critical.

sarpa schrieb:
The joints at the headboard, footboard, and the support slats under the mattress are especially critical.

That’s true, often overlooked, but this is where squeaking tends to occur.

Let's be honest: A solid wood bed squeaks because the material naturally expands and contracts, similar to how old wooden houses creak. If someone is bothered by this or wants absolute silence, they should accept the nature of the material. Sure, some lubricants can help temporarily, but in the long run, it's like fighting a losing battle. If quiet is a priority, it might be better to opt for metal beds. The squeaking of some beds is simply part of their character.

I can partly agree with that, but the Malm bed is mostly made of particleboard with a laminate surface and metal fittings, not solid wood. The squeaking often comes from slight movement at the metal connections—especially if the screws are not fully tightened or due to minor deformations. I recommend systematically checking and tightening all screws with the appropriate Allen key. Afterwards, apply thin felt strips under the support surfaces to reduce friction during movement. Use lubricants on metal parts sparingly, as they can attract dust and quickly become unsightly.