How to Fix a Squeaky Bed, Once and For All

Here’s a breakdown of the usual suspects that cause a squeaky bed.

Parts Are Rubbing Together from Weight and Movement

“The bed is comprised of a system of parts working together. Before long, the weight and shifting of bodies will cause some parts to rub unexpectedly,” says Macek, who is also an Austin-based craftsman of custom wood furniture at Macek Furniture.

Seasonal Humidity Could Be At Play

Macek also says that environmental changes can play a role in increased noise from a squeaky bed frame.

“The wooden parts of a bed frame shrink and swell with changes in humidity, which can lead to unexpected rubbing and squeaking sounds,” he says. “Tight connections can become loose. Steel parts can oxidize—all of this contributes to the potential for squeaking.”

You Have Loose or Unanchored Wood Slats

Macek says these slats are crucial to the bed’s structure, so if they aren’t adequately secured, you can expect some noisy consequences.

His tip? Screw the slats to the bed rails. “That’s often the issue, that the slats are simply not anchored,” he says. And forget the nails—they won’t hold up long-term. No drill? Lubricate the slat ends with mineral oil, wax, or dish soap to eliminate the most common source of squeaks.

Your Box Spring Is Getting Old

Box springs tend to creak with age as they oxidize internally. Macek notes, “It’s not the first source of squeaks, but it is worth checking.”

Your Bed Frame Is Rubbing on Your Floors

According to Macek, if your bed rests on a wooden floor, those squeaks might come from friction between the frame’s feet and the floor. The rubbing creates noise as the bed shifts, potentially disrupting your nightly slumber.

5 Ways to Stop a Bed From Squeaking

Once you’ve identified the culprit behind the noise, it’s time to figure out how to stop a bed from squeaking. Fortunately, most squeaky bed issues are easy to fix with a few adjustments and household tools.

So, if you’re serious about getting a good night’s rest, it’s time to learn how to fix a squeaky bed—because you deserve more than a symphony of creaks between the sheets.

1. Tighten Loose Connections

One of the most common causes of a squeaky bed is loose connections. If your bed is creaking every time you move, grab a screwdriver or wrench and tighten all the bolts, screws, and nuts on your bed frame. Regular maintenance can help prevent parts from loosening over time.

2. Lubricate Metal Parts

If metal hardware (like bolts or screws) is rubbing and making noise, applying a lubricant can help, Macek says. Using WD-40 or a similar lubricant will reduce friction and stop the squeaks.