ᐅ Why does the BILLY bookshelf squeak despite being assembled correctly?

Hello everyone, I recently assembled a Billy bookshelf from IKEA following the instructions correctly and tightening all screws properly. However, it creaks with every movement, for example when I pull out a book or even just shake the shelf a little. The noise seems to come from the joints, but there are no visible damages or loose parts.

Can anyone explain why the BILLY bookshelf creaks despite proper assembly? Are there possible causes related to the materials or design, or any tips on how to effectively eliminate the creaking?

The squeaking usually comes from the wood or particleboard rubbing against the joints. Try loosening the screws slightly and applying some lubricant (e.g., WD-40) to the moving parts.

This is a common issue with BILLY shelves, especially when they are made from particleboard or MDF panels. Even with what appears to be proper assembly, microscopic movements between the panels at the connection points can create friction, which then results in squeaking noises.

Sometimes this also happens due to the combination of engineered wood and metal fasteners—if the screws are tightened too much, they compress the wood, which can increase friction.

It would be interesting to know: Have you secured the shelf to the wall? Often, additional fastening reduces squeaking because it limits movement. What is the condition of the floor? Uneven surfaces can also cause tension.

Domau0 schrieb:
Did you fix the shelf to the wall? Often, an additional attachment reduces squeaking

No, so far it is just standing freely, not fixed to the wall yet.

ju_ren schrieb:
Try loosening the screws slightly and treating the moving parts with some lubricant (e.g., WD-40)

I actually wanted to avoid lubricant because I’m worried about stains or discoloration. Are there any drier options?

Regarding the floor: it’s fairly level, vinyl flooring, so there are no uneven spots where the shelf could “wobble.”

Hello @fabelo, I’m familiar with your issue. The squeaking is often caused by minimal movements at the edges or screw connections.

If you don’t want to apply oil or liquid lubricant, I recommend trying a dry lubricant like graphite powder or even talcum powder, which can be applied precisely to the contact points (e.g., the dowel holes or screws). This way, you avoid stains.

Also, make sure that no wood chips or sawdust worsen the contact – sometimes even a tiny wood shaving stuck between the tongue and groove can cause noise.

Another option is to gently tap all connections again with a rubber mallet to ensure everything fits tightly and doesn’t move slightly.

Squeaking in furniture often comes from wood that expands and contracts. Changes in humidity cause the panels to slightly expand or shrink. When the shelf moves, this creates noise. Securing it to the wall can help.