There’s nothing worse than trying to drift off to sleep, only to be interrupted by a loud squeak every time you move. If your metal bed frame is squeaking, you're not alone, as it’s a common problem, and luckily, it’s usually fixable with just a few simple steps.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to stop a metal bed frame from squeaking, based on my own experience (yes, my bed used to creak like an old pirate ship). We’ll explore the causes, quick DIY solutions, and when it might be time to upgrade.
Why Do Metal Bed Frames Squeak?
Most squeaky sounds come from friction between metal parts, especially where components are joined together. Here's a breakdown of the usual suspects:
-
Loose screws or bolts: Over time, joints can shift or become loose with movement.
-
Metal-on-metal contact: When two pieces rub against each other without cushioning.
-
Uneven flooring: If your bed isn’t level, it puts uneven pressure on joints.
-
Hard mattresses: These transfer more movement, causing noise.
-
Worn-out components: Old or damaged slats, centre rails or fixings can also be noisy.
Understanding the source is key to solving it for good.
Related: Do Ottoman Beds Break Easily ?
Step-by-Step: How to Fix a Squeaky Metal Bed Frame
1. Find the Source of the Noise
Start by stripping the bed down:
-
Remove the mattress, pillows, and bedding.
-
Detach the headboard (if you have one).
-
Press different parts of the bare frame to locate the noise.
-
Don’t forget to check the mattress itself by placing it on the floor and pressing around – sometimes the noise isn’t the frame!
If your bed makes a sound only in certain spots or when you move a certain way, you've narrowed it down.
2. Tighten All Screws and Bolts
This is often the simplest and most effective fix.
-
Use a screwdriver or Allen key to go over every joint.
-
Pay special attention to corners, slats, and the central support bar.
-
If possible, add rubber washers or thread-locking adhesive to reduce movement and maintain a tighter fit.
Pro Tip: You can use nylon or rubber washers from any hardware store to cushion metal contact points.
3. Lubricate Joints and Metal Connections
If tightening doesn’t fully fix it, try lubrication.
-
Use a metal-safe lubricant like WD-40, silicone spray, or white lithium grease.
-
Spray lightly on squeaky joints or where metal rubs metal.
-
Wipe away excess to prevent attracting dust.
Be mindful if your frame is near fabric or wooden floors – use a cloth to avoid overspray.
4. Add Padding or Insulation
If you hear squeaks where the mattress meets the frame, or where slats rest:
-
Slide old t-shirts, felt pads, foam strips, or fabric between contact points.
-
Use furniture pads under the legs to stabilise the frame and dampen vibrations.
-
If the slats are moving around, tie them down or add grip strips to hold them in place.
A small bit of soft padding can silence a surprisingly loud creak.
5. Check for Uneven Flooring
Place a spirit level on the bed frame. If it’s tilting:
-
Add furniture wedges or felt pads to balance it.
-
Consider rearranging the bed to a more level part of the room.
An unbalanced frame adds pressure to certain joints, leading to more noise over time.
6. Replace Worn or Damaged Parts
If your bed frame is old, parts like:
-
Slats
-
Central support bars
-
Screws or connectors
…can wear down. You can often order replacements online or from the brand you purchased from.
If the frame is heavily rusted or cracked, it might be time to think about replacing it altogether.
Advanced Fixes for Persistent Squeaks
If you’ve tried all the basics and your bed still sounds like it’s haunted:
-
Use PTFE tape (plumber’s tape) around screw threads to tighten joints without overtightening.
-
Insert rubber grommets where parts rub.
-
Swap noisy metal bolts for quiet fasteners (available online).
Real Case: “Fixed My Frame in 10 Minutes Flat!”
“My bed started creaking like mad every time I moved. I thought I needed a new one. But I found a tip online, I used silicone spray and added rubber washers from a DIY shop. Done in 10 minutes. Completely silent now.”
— Liam T., Leeds
When to Consider a Replacement
If your bed frame has been patched up many times and still groans in the night, it may be more cost-effective to upgrade to a newer model.
Modern metal beds are designed with anti-squeak features like:
-
Welded joints (instead of bolted)
- Built-in washers
-
Powder-coated finishes that reduce friction
Explore our collection of superking beds designed for modern comfort (and silence).
FAQs
Q: Can I use WD-40 on all parts of my bed frame?
Yes, as long as you're applying it only to metal joints. Avoid spraying on wooden parts or near fabric.
Q: Is it dangerous to sleep on a squeaky bed?
Not usually, but it could be a sign of structural weakness – always check for loose or broken parts.
Q: How often should I tighten my bed frame?
Every 6 months is a good rule of thumb, especially if you move the bed often or sleep actively.
Q: Can mattresses squeak, too?
Absolutely. Especially older mattresses with internal springs. If yours squeaks even off the frame, it might be time for a replacement.
Q: Can I stop a bed from squeaking without tools?
Yes, try adding padding, furniture pads, or adjusting the bed’s position. But tools are usually needed for a lasting fix.
Final Thoughts:
Fixing a squeaky bed doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether it’s a simple tightening or a DIY padding hack, you can say goodbye to those annoying midnight creaks. Try out these tips today and bring the peace and quiet back to your bedroom.
Still having trouble? Maybe it's time to upgrade. Discover our bed frames built with durability and silence in mind.