How to Repair Metal Bed Frames That Squeak

Metal bed frames that squeak can be really annoying and may even deprive you of sleep. The squeaking noise can be triggered by material fatigue, loose bolts, or several other causes. Squeaking can also be a sign that your bed frame is about to fail. Climate can also make your bed frame squeak, so try to establish if the squeaks are seasonal, or if the noise is present all year round. Fixing squeaking bed frames is not a difficult task. It may also save you a considerable amount of money, as you won’t have to buy a new bed frame. Follow these steps to identify the cause of your squeaking bed frame and repair it.

Step 1 - Identify the Source of the Squeaking

Remove the mattress to expose both the bed frame and the mattress support. Doing so helps you identify the source of the squeaking noise. You will also have to inspect all the bolts and nuts in your metal bed frame to determine if they are tightened appropriately. If you identify any loose bolts, determine their size and get a proper wrench. In case you do not find any loose bolts or nuts, try to remember whether the squeaks are only present during certain seasons. In this case, the bed frame might only need some lubrication. If the bed frame squeaks regardless of season, and you cannot identify the exact source of the squeaks, you will have to take the bed frame apart.

Step 2 - Clean and Lubricate the Bed Frame

After you disassemble the bed frame, wipe all the screws, bolts, and nuts with a piece of clean cloth. Apply lubricant on the bolts, screws, and nuts. Wipe off the excess, so that it won’t attract debris over time. Another good option is to wrap the bolts, screws, and nuts in sealant tape. Use only a single layer of sealant tape so that the nuts and the bolts won’t change their size considerably. The tape acts as a lubricant and prevents future squeaks. If the bed frame still squeaks, take the bolts out again and attach a plastic washer to each of them. Make sure to choose plastic washers that will not change the needed length of the bolts that you need.

Step 3 - Apply Candle Wax

Inspect the bed frame to identify the areas where metal parts rub against each other. You can easily identify them because the metal looks shiny. Rub candle wax in those areas to lubricate them. Doing so ensures that those areas will not cause squeaks in the future.

Step 4 - Reassemble the Bed Frame

Insert all bolts, screws, and nuts into their holes. Tighten them very well with an appropriate wrench. After you have reassembled the bed frame and tightened all of screws and bolts, check the bed to determine if it makes any more squeaks. After tightening and lubricating the frame, the bed should feel considerably firmer than before.

Step 5 - Lubricate the Frame Regularly

Inspect your metal bed frame regularly and apply lubricant.