How to Build a Platform Bed

Enjoy superior back support while saving money by building a platform bed yourself. Take a simple wooden box and turn it into a platform bed in an afternoon. Easily moveable, practical and inexpensive, a homemade platform bed avoids the cost and problems presented by box springs. Say goodbye to a sagging, creaking bed and hello to a good night's sleep.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Paper for sketch or purchased plan
• Measuring tape
• Wood saw or power saw if wood is not pre-cut by store
• Screwdriver, power screwdriver, power drill with screwdriver bit or hammer if using nails
• Stain or wood sealant
• Cloth for applying stain or sealant
• Sandpaper (coarse and fine)
• Carpenter's square (optional)
• Wood saw or power saw if wood is not pre-cut by store
• Sawhorses, workbench or other support for sawing wood if not pre-cut by store
• Screws, nails and/or hinges

1. Decide on the features of platform bed you want to build. Factors to consider: 1) Are you going to attach a headboard and/or footboard? 2) Do you want a rim around the edge to keep the mattress from sliding? 3) Do you need a more flexible bed or a very firm bed capable of supporting more weight? Sketch your design, or purchase a plan online if you prefer (see Resources).

2. Determine the size of your platform bed. Measure the length and width of the mattress you want to use. Then add 4 inches to the length. The width will depend on whether you are using a rim; add the width of the rim to the width of the mattress. Decide on the finished height of the bed including the mattress. Then subtract the thickness of the mattress from the total height; this measurement is the height of the platform. Remember to consider your headboard and footboard, if any, in your calculations.

3. Choose your materials. 3/4-inch plywood is a good option because it is cost effective and provides some flexibility. Particleboard offers a good value but is stiffer. Consult your purchased plan for the suggested materials.

4. Cut your materials, or have them cut at your lumber yard or home products store. Refer to your plan, or subtract the thickness of the top surface material from the desired height of the platform; the resulting measurement is the height of the 2 side supports from the floor. The length of the side supports equals the measurement for the length of the platform bed.

5. Sand the wood, if necessary, in the direction of the grain.

6. Stain or seal the wood before assembly. After the platform bed you build is put together, you can go over any raw wood with a cloth coated with stain or sealant.

7. Assemble the platform bed where you want it to be located. You are basically building a box to support the mattress. Follow your sketch or the instructions on your plan, if you have one.

8. Attach your headboard and/or footboard, if any. Use 2 sets of L-brackets at each attachment to avoid shifting, which could damage the headboard and/or footboard, or follow the directions on your purchased plan.

Tips & Warnings

• If you prefer screws on the corners, L-brackets provide a simple and sturdy way to join the wood. Use at least 2 brackets on each corner.
• Ask your hardware or home improvement store sales associate to recommend the best screws, nails, brackets or hinges for your particular materials.
• Find the direction of the grain of the wood by looking at the surface pattern. Sand in the same direction as the long, wavy lines in the wood. You can also tell the direction of the grain by feel when you are sanding. Going against the grain will feel rough, and you'll need more force to make any progress.
• Use the coarse sandpaper first. Then finish with the fine grade.
• Measure the width of your mattress carefully. A platform that is wider than the mattress will be uncomfortable when entering or exiting the bed; the wood will dig into your legs.
• Particleboard, an inexpensive material, can crumble or deteriorate over time and contains adhesive that releases harmful formaldehyde fumes. Therefore, you must wear a mask when sawing or sanding particleboard and properly dispose of sawdust immediately in a tightly-sealed plastic bag.
• Apply stain or sealant after assembly. Cover the floor with sheets of plastic in the area where you are staining or sealing, and wear protective gloves.