Raising the bed allows you to obtain a large space to store many things or, simply, to get up or lie down with more comfort. Raising the bed is a fairly simple procedure; just buy some extensions or make them in custom-made wood. Once you have purchased or made the risers, ask someone for help to assemble them and enjoy your new bed!
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Buying the Bed Risers
Step 1. Choose between metal, plastic or wooden risers
These are the three main materials with which they are made. Plastic is typically the cheapest option, but not always the most durable. The metal and wooden risers are able to withstand a considerable weight. Wooden risers are generally more aesthetically pleasing, but they could also be more expensive.
Step 2. Choose the height risers you are looking for
The risers for the bed can vary in size, typically between 2.5cm and 30cm. Use a measuring tape to understand how much you want to raise the bed and choose the elevations that best suit your needs.
Some plastic risers can be stacked on top of each other, in order to reach the desired height in case you do not find those of the right size
Step 3. Get some risers that support the weight of the bed
The supported weight should be indicated on the package. Remember to add the weight of the people who will sleep in it to the weight of the bed. The wider the mattress, the sturdier the risers should be.
Typically a set of four risers will support a weight of over 450kg. So, in most cases, it shouldn't be difficult to find suitable rises
Step 4. Choose risers that match the bedroom if they are visible
It's easy to hide them with long sheets or a bedspread. If you don't want to cover them, make sure they are aesthetically pleasing. Many of the risers are made in neutral colors in order to better match any environment. However, you can choose to give a touch of color to your room, opting for those in bright colors such as pink, red or yellow.
Part 2 of 3: Making Artisan Risers
Step 1. Get four wooden blocks
You could start a new DIY project and make your own risers. The most reliable and easy to work material is wood. The cedar wood blocks are particularly suitable and elegant.
You can purchase wooden blocks from home improvement stores, such as OBI or Leroy Merlin
Step 2. Cut the blocks to the same height
Decide how high you want to raise the bed and make sure all blocks are the same size. Always cut them from the side you want to use as the top end. In this way, if by mistake the cut should not be even, you can rest the side that is more level on the floor.
When buying wooden blocks, ask the shopkeeper to cut them to the same height. It should be able to do this using a professional chainsaw, in case you don't have one
Step 3. Apply felt to the underside of the risers
The felt will prevent the risers from scratching the floor. To do this, simply apply glue to one side of the felt and then press it onto the underside of each riser.
Step 4. Create a cavity in each riser with a depth of 1.3cm to 1.9cm to fit the foot of the bed
Measure your feet to determine their width. Choose a drill bit that can create a narrow enough cavity at the top of each riser for your feet to enter. In this way the bed frame will be stable and safe.
Part 3 of 3: Assembling the Risers
Step 1. Get help from a friend or relative
You will need to raise both the mattress and the bed frame to be able to insert the risers. With someone's help, this procedure will be easier and safer.
Step 2. Remove the mattress from the frame
With the help of another person, lift the mattress and move it, leaning it against a wall so that it is then easier to lift it and reposition it on the structure once finished.
Step 3. Raise a corner of the frame and slide the foot into the riser
One person will be responsible for lifting the structure, while the other is responsible for positioning the riser. Once the foot is aligned with the slot on the riser, lower the bed frame slightly. Make sure the foot is secure.
Step 4. Repeat the same process for all the feet of the bed
Once done, shake the bed frame slightly to make sure it is secure. Check that all rises are stable, otherwise the structure would risk collapsing.
Step 5. Put the mattress back into the frame
Make sure the risers are secure and support the weight of the mattress. If the structure is stable, you will be ready to sleep on your new raised bed. If necessary, you can use the space created under the bed to store items.
Warnings
- Be very careful if you decide to cut the wood risers. Never put your hands close to the blade when it is in use and always wear protective eyewear.
- When lifting the mattress and frame, keep your back straight and bend your knees to avoid tearing and stretching.