DIY Shelf for the Bottom Bunk

A bunk bed is a great space saver for families.

Installing a shelf in the bottom bunk of a wooden bunkbed is an ideal way to increase storage area in a room with minimal space. Using minimal materials and straightforward design allows the shelf to be built simply and quickly, but also allows for easy adaptation and customization for a more elaborate and personalized final product. Whether complicated or simple, a storage shelf will help the occupant of the bottom bunk customize his living space and make it more personal.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Carpenter's level
• Drill
• Drill bits
• Wood screws
• Level
• Pencil
• 3-foot-by-6-inch-by-1/2-inch board
• 2 wood brackets
• Saw

Instructions

1. Measure the distance from the outside of the two wooden supports to which the shelf will be attached, ideally the corner posts at the foot of the bottom bunk. Cut the shelf board to fit well within this distance.

2. Measure the distance between the center of the two wooden supports to which the shelf will be attached and position the brackets on the shelf board with their centers the same distance apart. Mark the bracket holes using the pencil. Predrill the holes using a drill bit slightly smaller than the wood screws. Attach the brackets to the shelf board using the wood screws.

3. Position the completed shelf at the desired location and place the carpenter's level on top of it, parallel with the shelf. Adjust the position of the shelf until it is level, then mark the bracket holes in the bunk bed supports with the pencil. Predrill the holes, being careful not to let the drill bit poke out the opposite side. Attach the brackets to the wood supports with wood screws, ensuring that the wood screws do not poke out the opposite side of the wood.

Tips & Warnings

• Bunkbed shelves may be stained or painted to match the style of the bunkbed. This is most effectively done prior to assembly but after the board has been cut to the appropriate length.

• Shelving can be mounted effectively to metal bunkbeds by either drilling holes in the metal and using bolts, or clamping the shelving around the metal supports with woodworking clamps.

• Do not let children climb on the shelf or use it as an additional step, as it is not intended to bear that type of force.

• Leave an appropriate amount of space between the shelf and the above mattress, so that the shelf can be effectively used, but be careful not to mount the shelf too low so that it interferes with sleeping movement. The shelf should be at least six inches from the top mattress, and two and a half feet from the bottom mattress to satisfy this requirement.

References

• Woodwork City: Free Bunk Bed Plans
• Jen Grant Morris: Bunk Bed Shelf
• Our Little Net: Build Your Own Loft Beds