Why Is My New Mattress Squeaking? Common Causes and Simple Fixes

If you’re wondering “Why Is My New Mattress Squeaking” after just a few nights of sleep, you’re not alone. A new bed is a big purchase, and unexpected noises can be worrying. The good news: in many cases, the squeak isn’t actually coming from the mattress itself, and simple checks can help you track down the source.

Below, you’ll find clear answers to the most common questions about a squeaky new mattress, including how size, frame fit, and foundation type can affect noise.

Is the Squeak Really Coming From the Mattress?

Before assuming there’s a defect, it helps to isolate where the sound is coming from.

Try this:

  • Place the mattress directly on the floor, without the frame or foundation.
  • Gently press or roll on different areas.
  • Note whether the squeak is louder in certain spots.

If the noise disappears when the mattress is on the floor, the issue is more likely your bed frame, slats, or box spring rather than the mattress itself.

What Parts of a New Mattress Can Squeak?

Different mattress constructions behave differently:

1. Mattresses With Springs

Hybrid and innerspring models can produce noise if:

  • Metal coils rub against each other.
  • Internal components are slightly misaligned from shipping.
  • The mattress is bending or compressed unevenly on a foundation that doesn’t match its size.

New spring mattresses sometimes make faint sounds at first that can lessen as materials settle, but persistent, loud squeaks may signal an issue worth documenting for warranty purposes.

2. All-Foam Mattresses

Foam-only mattresses are usually quiet, since they contain no metal springs. If you hear squeaks with an all-foam model, the sound often comes from:

  • Friction between the mattress cover and the bed frame
  • Slats flexing or rubbing against metal or wood
  • A loose center support bar underneath

In these cases, the mattress itself is typically not the problem.

How Do Mattress Size and Bed Frame Affect Squeaking?

Because this falls under “Mattress Sizes & Dimensions”, it’s important to consider how fit can create or reduce noise.

Common size-related causes

  • Frame too big for the mattress:
    A queen mattress in a slightly oversized queen frame can shift, causing friction and squeaks as it moves against the side rails.

  • Frame too small or tight:
    A mattress that’s compressed or bowed by a tight frame can push unevenly on coils or foam, sometimes leading to noise.

  • Inadequate slat support for larger sizes:
    King and queen mattresses usually need a strong center support. Without it, slats may flex and creak when weight is applied.

  • Mismatched box spring or foundation size:
    Using a full-size foundation under a queen mattress, for example, can create unstable edges and extra movement that sounds squeaky.

📏 Simple rule: The mattress, foundation, and frame should match in size (twin with twin, queen with queen, etc.) and fit snugly but not tightly, with no large gaps or overhang.

How Can I Fix a Squeaky New Mattress Setup?

Here are common checks and adjustments that often help:

  • Tighten all screws and bolts on the frame, headboard, and footboard.
  • Make sure slats are secure and not sliding or bowing.
  • Add non-slip pads or thin fabric between:
    • Mattress and foundation
    • Slats and frame
    • Metal parts that touch each other
  • Confirm that the center support leg(s) are properly adjusted to the floor.
  • Rotate the mattress (if the design allows) to see if the squeak changes location.

If you still wonder “Why Is My New Mattress Squeaking” after these steps and the noise clearly comes from inside the mattress, it may be time to review your warranty terms and keep notes about when and where the squeak occurs.

When Is a Squeak Normal, and When Is It a Problem?

Some sounds can be occasional and minor, especially when:

  • You’re using the bed for the first few weeks
  • Materials are settling, especially in hybrid or innerspring designs
  • The frame and flooring are new and still adjusting

It may be more concerning if:

  • The squeak is very loud or getting worse
  • You hear it from a specific area of the mattress every time you move
  • You’ve confirmed the frame and foundation are properly sized, tightened, and stable

In those cases, it’s helpful to document what you hear and where in case you need support from the place you bought it.

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points consumers should understand about “Why Is My New Mattress Squeaking”

  • Check the setup first: Many “squeaky mattress” issues are actually caused by the bed frame, slats, or box spring, not the mattress.
  • Size and fit matter: A mattress that doesn’t match the frame size or sits on weak or uneven slats is more likely to squeak.
  • Know your mattress type:
    • Spring and hybrid models can sometimes squeak from coils or internal components.
    • Foam-only mattresses are generally quiet; noises usually come from the base or frame.
  • Simple fixes help: Tightening hardware, adding non-slip padding, and confirming proper center support can often reduce or eliminate noise.
  • Pay attention to persistent sounds: Ongoing, localized squeaks from inside the mattress, after checking everything else, may be worth documenting for warranty review.

Understanding these basics can make it easier to identify why your new mattress is squeaking and what steps to take for a quieter, more comfortable sleep setup.