How To Stop a Metal Bed Frame From Squeaking

A good night’s sleep can improve your mood, productivity, and overall health. However, a squeaky bed frame can disrupt sleep quality and turn a peaceful sleep into a noisy and irritating ordeal. Fortunately, simple and effective ways exist to solve this issue and enjoy quiet nights. Whether you are a DIY enthusiast or looking for a quick fix, read this article to discover how to stop a metal bed frame from squeaking.

Why Is My Metal Bed Frame So Squeaky?

Metal bed frames are known for durability, sturdiness, and versatility. However, they can become rusty and start squeaking over time. If you are wondering why your bed frame is so squeaky, keep reading for the causes of a squeaky metal bed frame.

1. Loose Joints

Loose joints are the most common cause of metal bed frame squeaking. Screws attaching joints can become loose over time due to constant pressure from the mattress, bedding, and body weight. When the loose screws rub against each other, the resulting friction can lead to creaking and squeaking sounds.

2. Inadequate Lubrication

Metal bed frame parts can become dry over time. If there is inadequate lubrication, friction from these parts can cause a creaking sound due to constant friction during use.

3. Worn Out Hardware

Although metal bed frames are durable, their parts can wear out or get damaged and cause squeaking. For instance, bolts and screws can wear out over time due to rust, become loose and cause creaking sounds. Besides, a low-quality frame may be weak, wobbly, and squeaky due to its inability to support bedding and body weight.

4. Incorrect Assembling

Incorrect assembling can cause a metal bed frame to squeak. It can result from incorrect instructions from the manufacturer, incompatible parts, or missing screws. Under-tightening screws may leave them loose, causing friction and leading to squeaking.

5. Uneven Weight Distribution

Uneven weight distribution on a bed frame can cause squeaking. For instance, putting more weight on some joints can cause strains that may result in bending and wear. As a result, the joints may loosen up and cause squeaking sounds when in use.

6. Floor Type

Certain floor types can cause a metal bed frame to squeak. For instance, placing it directly over an uneven or wooden floor can cause more squeaking than placing it on an even and carpeted floor.

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How To Fix a Squeaky Metal Bed Frame?

You can fix a squeaky metal bed frame in the following ways.

1. Identify The Source Of The Squeak

Remove the bedding pillows and mattress from the bed frame and thoroughly inspect to find the source of the sound. Check for loose or worn-out screws or broken parts. Apply pressure onto different parts of the bed frame and check where the sound comes from. Check whether the frame is positioned correctly by moving it to see if it produces a squeaky sound.

2. Tighten The Loose Screws

If you identify loose screws or bolts, tighten them using a screwdriver. Replace rusty, old, and worn-out screws with new ones. Keep retightening the screws periodically to avoid squeaking in the future.

3. Lubricate

If the squeaking is due to inadequate lubrication, dismantle the entire frame and remove the headboard. Add oil to the holes and joints to reduce friction and increase flexibility. If you notice rust on screws and bolts, apply WD-40 or silicone spray to reduce dryness and stop the squeaking sound.

4. Apply Anti-Slip Pads

If the squeaking sound results from the metal bed frame rubbing against the floor, add anti-slip pads to make the floor even and stop the squeaking. You can purchase rubber pads from your local furniture store or use simple DIY procedures.

5. Re-assemble The Bed Frame

A metal bed frame may squeak due to improper assembling. In this case, dismantle the frame and ensure you have all the parts. Re-read the manufacturer’s instructions on assembling and seek clarification by watching videos from the official website. Consider hiring a professional or ask for assistance from your supplier if you need help to assemble correctly.

6. Check and Adjust Weight Distribution

If the squeaking is from uneven weight distribution, consider re-arranging the frame to distribute weight equally. Adjust the bed legs to ensure they are the same height and width. Re-adjust the position of your mattress, support systems and other bed accessories to stop the squeaking.

7. Invest In a New Bed Frame

If your bed frame doesn’t stop squeaking after using the above tips, getting a new bed frame may need to invest in a new one. You can check online for metal bed frames that don’t squeak or ask for recommendations from friends or relatives.

The Best Bed Frames That Don’t Squeak

A squeaky bed frame can significantly hinder a good night’s sleep. However, bed frames on the market are designed to minimize or eliminate noise. The section below reviews the three best bed frames that don’t squeak.

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ZINUS Abel Metal Platform Bed Frame

ZINUS Abel Metal Platform Bed Frame makes a great choice for those looking for a sleek minimalist design and appealing aesthetics. It provides a modern and boldly outlined foundation that combines strength with sophistication. The bed frame has a solid and sturdy multiple-slat support system that eliminates the need for a box spring. It has 14 inches of clearance space and recessed legs, providing ample space for storage. The platform bed is easy to assemble and comes with fewer bolts and screws. It is shipped with all the assembly tools in one box and clear instructions, making it possible to assemble in less than one hour. 

Pros

• Value for money
• Durable and sturdy
• Easy to assemble
• Ample storage space
• No squeaking

Cons

• No headboard

ZINUS Arnav Metal Platform Bed Frame

ZINUS Arnav is a minimalist-style platform bed frame made from durable steel and plywood. It has a simplistic silhouette and can complement various bedroom designs and styles. The platform bed provides a stable foundation with a sturdy steel frame and closely spaced wooden slats. Hence, it can support a latex, memory foam or spring mattress without a box spring. ZINUS Arnav metal platform bed comes with pre-drilled holes for headboard attachment. It leaves 6.8 inches of clearance space and has a five-year limited warranty.  All its parts are shipped in one box, with clear instructions for seamless assembly in less than an hour.

Pros

• Five-year limited warranty
• Headboard compatible
• Minimalist design
• Sturdy and durable
• Easy to assemble

Cons

• Poor customer service

SHA Cerlin Queen Size Metal Platform Bed Frame

SHA Cerlin focuses on the user’s needs and designs elegant, practical products at affordable prices. Its queen-size metal platform bed frame is thoughtfully designed to last a lifetime. The legs at the head and foot are reinforced with thick metal to distribute weight evenly and support up to 1000 lbs. With a height of 12.2 inches, this platform bed frame provides ample clearance space for storage. It comes with reserved holes at the head for headboard attachment. The platform bed frame has an anti-slip design with tape that ensures the mattress stays securely in place. It has an Eva sponge on the center slats to reduce noise and squeaking. The rubber button at the joints increases the stability of the metal slats and prevents the mattress from scratches. Besides, It’s easy to assemble in less than an hour.

Pros

• Sturdy construction
• Ample clearance space
• Headboard compatible
• Anti-slip design
• Noise-free
• Easy to assemble

Cons

• No warranty or guarantees

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Does My Bed Squeak?

A bed can squeak due to loose screws, inadequate lubrication, worn-out hardware, incorrect assembling, uneven weight distribution, and a wrong floor type.

Do Metal Bed Frames Squeak?

Metal bed frames squeak due to age, poor construction, missing or incompatible hardware, and a slippery floor.

Is It Normal For a New Bed To Squeak?

No, a new bed frame should not squeak. If it does, it is improperly assembled and of poor quality. Ensure you have properly assembled your new bed before sleeping on it, and purchase a good quality platform bed from a reliable supplier.

Can You Stop a Metal Bed From Squeaking?

You can stop a metal bed frame from squeaking by tightening bolts or screws, lubricating, distributing weight evenly, and assembling correctly. If you have placed your metal bed frame directly over a slippery floor, place anti-slip pads where the feet come into contact with the floor. Invest in a new frame if you have tried all the above methods, but your bed frame won’t stop squeaking.

Conclusion

A squeaky bed frame can ruin a good nights sleep resulting in lack of concentration and poor productivity.  It can be caused by loose joints, worn out hardware, inadequate lubrication, improper assembling and a slippery floor. How to stop a metal bed frame from squeaking? You can stop a metal bed frame from squeaking by tightening bolts and screws, lubricating, distributing weight evenly, assembling correctly. Invest in a new bed frame if your current one is old, broken or worn out. We recommend choosing any of the three best bed frame that don’t squeak including ZINUS Arnav, Zinus Abel and SHA Cerlin queen size metal platform bed frames to enjoy many peaceful nights.