How to Build a Pedestal Bed

A pedestal bed can be a sleeping accomodation that is both easy to set up and easy to take down. It also eliminates the need for a box spring, making the job of moving the bed much easier than a traditional box spring and mattress. One of the challenges to making a pedestal bed is that standard bed sizes (including mattresses) and standard construction material sizes aren't the same. However, here's one way you can build a pedestal bed using standard materials.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 4 pairs of 4-inch hinges (brass plated is best)
• Hammer and nails or screwdriver and screws
• Saw
• 2 pieces 4' x 8' MDF or plywood (minimum 1/2 thick)
• 4 pieces 2' x 6' lumber

Building the Bed

1. Go to a home improvement store or hardware store and purchase the materials needed to build the pedestal bed.

2. Cut the 2 x 6's to match standard bed dimensions. That means 2 pieces at 54 inches and 2 pieces at 80 inches. This will leave you with 2 pieces of 42 inches and 2 pieces of 16 inches.
   

3. Stand the 2 x 6's on edge and install the hinges at each corner so the hinge pins will be on the outside of the boards. These pieces will form the bed frame. Don't put the hinge pins in just yet.

4. Put together 2 cross braces consisting of 1 long piece (42 inches) and 1 short piece (16 inches) of the leftover 2 x 6's. Overlap the 2 pieces so the total length is 54 inches. These will sit inside the bed frame and provide support for the mattress.

5. Cut (or have the hardware store cut) each of your 4' x 8' sheets so you have 2 pieces that are 80 inches long by 27 inches wide. You may be able to use the leftover pieces as shelving.

Setting Up the Bed

6. Align the bed frame corners and drop in the hinge pins. These will hold the bed frame together but are easily removed when it's time to move it.

7. Lay the cross braces on edge, inside the bed frame, each about 36 inches from an end. Lay your 2 pieces of MDF or plywood on top of the frame so they meet in the middle, and fasten them with a few screws into the frame.

8. Put your mattress on top of the frame and put bedding on the pedestal bed.

Tips & Warnings

• The dimensions used here are for a standard double bed (54" x 80"). However, the idea can be adapted to make a pedestal bed that can be used with any size of mattress.
• This design could also be used as a frame for a waterbed. Just don't put in the cross braces. You might want a larger dimension lumber (such as 2" x 10") for a waterbed frame.