How to Fix a Squeaky Box Spring

Follow these steps, and this could be you.

In our fast-paced world with cell phones and email alerts, a little uninterrupted rest is hard to come by. Squeaky beds can rob us of what precious little rest we find. The primary culprits of a squeaky bed are loose hardware and grinding metal. These problems develop over time and become more severe if left alone. Luckily for you, they can also be quickly fixed with a few tools and a can of WD-40.

Things You'll Need

• Screwdriver
• Slip-joint pliers
• Hammer or small sledge
• WD-40
• Paper towels

Instructions

1. Remove the mattress from the box spring.

2. Check all screws and bolts. If any are loose, tighten them as much as possible with the screwdriver and pliers. Be careful not to strip the screws.

3. Check spring hooks on bed rails. If you see chipped paint or scratch marks around any of the hook holes, this is a good sign of a loose hook. Use the pliers to pinch the hook, lessening the chance of movement.

4. Hammer any loose wooden slats or rails into place, depending on the type of box spring. Wood sliding against metal can easily create the squeaking sounds.

5. Spray WD-40 in every joint, around every bolt, and near every hook hole. If any part of your box spring is capable of movement, give it a good spray. Be careful not to drip excess oil onto the floor.

6. Wipe any excess WD-40 with a paper towel and replace the mattress on the bed. If the problem persists, you may wish to invest in a new box spring.

Tips & Warnings

• Lay an old sheet under the bed before the procedure to catch any falling rust or excess WD-40.

• You may need to ask for assistance when removing and replacing the mattress. Failure to do so may result in back injury.

References

• Good Housekeeping: Quieting a Squeaky Mattress
• The Boston Globe: Silencing a Squeaky Bed Calls for a Well-Orchestrated Attack
• Improving Your World: How to Fix A Squeaky Bed Frame

Resources

• Amazon: Buy a New Box Spring