DIY Foam Bed
Tossing and turning all night and waking up with an aching back is often due to a worn-out mattress. While a high-quality memory foam-type mattress may be on your wish list, it may not be the best choice for you, especially if you need firm support. A frugal option is building your own mattress using high-density foam, an "egg-crate" topper and a zippered mattress cover. A foam bed provides a good night's sleep that won't leave you worrying about your budget. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Measuring tape
- High density foam, 4 to 5 inches thick
- Yardstick
- Permanent marker
- Carving knife or electric knife
- Egg-crate topper
- Memory foam topper (optional)
- Zippered mattress cover
- Box spring
- Needle
- Thread
- Gloves
- Safety glasses
- Breathing mask
Instructions
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Measure the box springs or platform. Determine the mattress size before purchasing elements of the bed. Standard mattress sizes are California king at 72-by-84 inches; king at 76-by-80 inches; queen at 60-by-80 inches; full or double at 54-by-75 inches; and twin or single at 39-by-75 inches.
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Lay the high density foam on a flat surface. Mark the measurements directly onto the foam using a yardstick and permanent marker.
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3
Cut the foam with the carving knife. Use a yardstick or long straight edge to cut evenly. Do not try to cut all the way through the foam with one stroke. Instead, make several long strokes until the knife breaks through to the bottom of the foam.
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Place the egg-crate topper on top of the high-density foam. Align the edges carefully and smooth it out so the egg-crate topper lies flat. If you prefer a smooth top, simply turn it over with the flat side up.
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Slide the layered foam pads into the zippered mattress cover. Zip it closed and place your foam mattress on top of the box springs or platform bed. Add a memory foam topper if desired.
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Tips & Warnings
High density foam is available online and at some fabric stores. Look for a store coupon to save 40 to 50 percent on your purchase.
Test the various densities of foam at the fabric store before purchasing. Generally, the higher density foam is the better choice, as soft foam pads do not provide enough back support.
Allow the foam to air for 48 hours so it expands to its full size and any smell dissipates.
An electric carving knife speeds up the cutting process.
Recruit someone to help slide the foam mattress into the mattress cover.
If making a custom-size mattress, use two sheets to make a duvet-type mattress cover. Sew together around three sides, slide the mattress in and whip-stitch the end closed.
Wear gloves, safety glasses and a breathing mask when cutting foam, especially if using an electric knife.
Purchase a quality mattress cover wince cheap vinyl tends to tear.
Keep all foam, plastic bags and tools away from children. Dispose of bags and foam scraps immediately to avoid choking and suffocation hazards.
References
Resources
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