How Do I Turn a Small Bed Frame to Fit a Big Bed?

Resizeable bed frames eliminate the need to buy new furniture when you get larger mattresses.

Stand-alone adjustable bed frames are easy-to-assemble metal platforms that can be resized for different mattress types. Because beds come in standard sizes, adjustable bed frames can be used for most mattress sets. Universal frames can accommodate all mattresses from small twin-sized products to large California king mattresses. Resizing a bed frame to accommodate a larger mattress is simply a matter of locking the rails into new positions.

Things You'll Need

• Two or three stacks of books the height of your bed frame
• Helper
• Measuring tape

Instructions

1. Remove the existing mattress set from the top of the frame and clear away any items that were stored under the bed. You may need to stand inside the framework to reconfigure it.

2. Use stacks of books or other sturdy, blocky objects to prop up the frame in the middle while you work. If you have a second person helping you, hold up the frame; you do not need to prop it.

3. Locate a horizontal bar that has keyhole-shaped holes with fitted pegs locked into it. There may be two or three of these, depending on how large the bed can be made.

4. Hold the bar with one hand on either side of the seam where the two rails--the one with the holes and the one with the pegs--come together.

5. Slide the two rails in opposite directions so the pegs move into the larger, rounder part of the keyhole slots. You will now be able to detach the two rails from each other.

6. Place the two rail ends on top of the stack of books or have your helper hold them so you do not damage your floor.

7. Disassemble the remaining bar or bars.

8. Measure the larger mattress to determine how wide the new frame needs to be if you aren't sure about mattress type or width. This will save you from guessing and having to redo the configuration if it's incorrect.

9. Fit the rails together at the larger sizing by butting the two arms together, pushing the pegs through the larger part of the keyhole and sliding the pegs snug to the narrower part. It will be easier if you and a helper can fit both or all rails simultaneously.

10. Place the larger mattress on the bed frame. The rails that run vertically should be snug against the sides of the mattress, otherwise the mattress will wiggle. If it is not snug, remove the mattress and take all the horizontal rails in a notch.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear safety gloves while disassembling and reassembling the rails so you do not accidentally pinch or tear your skin while working.

• Never place a mattress on top of a frame that cannot be expanded wide enough to accommodate it. The mattress may slide off when you sit on it or the frame may damage the mattress by poking into its bottom.

References

• CGS Network: Standard Bed Sizes Table