How to Turn a Regular Bed Frame into a Platform Bed

Are you tired of the same old dull look of a standard bed frame but don’t want to invest in a brand new platform bed?

Are you looking for a sleek, modern piece of furniture to showcase in your bedroom without breaking the bank?

There's no need to buy new furniture when you can simply repurpose what you already have. That's the zero-waste approach we should all be aiming for!

Believe it or not, you can make your own platform bed out of any existing non-toxic bedframe, with just a few tools and basic instructions.

Get ready for some DIY fun as I show you how to turn a regular bed frame into a platform bed…all while being mindful of the planet!

The Plywood Method

This method involves resting a large piece of plywood (or multiple pieces if your frame is large) where your old box spring used to sit.

Materials & Tools

• ¾” Plywood
• Tape measure
• Circular saw (or decent hand saw)
• Screwdriver and screws (optional)

Method

1. You’ll need to remove your mattress and box spring to get started. If you no longer need the box spring, ensure that you dispose of it responsibly.
2. Measure the internal dimensions of your bed frame (the width and the length). Measure in multiple places in case your frame is not square.
3. Subtract ⅛” from the width and the length and cut your plywood accordingly.
4. Rest the plywood on the rails that support the old box spring. If you need to use two pieces of plywood due to the size of your bed frame, try to cut them the same size. If this is not possible, place the larger one at the head end and the smaller one at the foot end.
5. The weight of your mattress should be enough to keep the plywood firmly in place. However, if you want to be sure, screw it to the supporting rail in each corner and at the middle of each length and width.
6. Rest your mattress on the plywood.

You’ve now transformed your traditional bed frame and have a solid and supportive base on which to rest your mattress.

However, due to its solid, gapless nature, the airflow to the mattress is limited.

If airflow (for mattress longevity, temperature regulation, etc.) is important, then you should use the slats method instead.

The Slats Method

This method involves cutting split slats made from supportive wood (I prefer pine) that rest where your box spring used to sit.

Materials & Tools

• 1” x 4” pine planks (other strong wood can be used, especially if you have off-cuts or reclaimed wood to hand)
• Tape measure
• Circular saw (decent hand saw)
• Screwdriver and screws (optional)

Method

1. Remove the mattress and box spring from your bed frame.
2. Measure the internal width of your bed frame and subtract ⅛”.
3. Cut your planks to this length.
4. Starting flush against the head end, lay your planks on the bed frame. Leave a gap of 1”-2”  between each plank.
5. Once all the required planks are laid out, you can secure them with four screws per plank (one in each corner).
6. Rest your mattress on the slats.

No Tools? No Problem!

If you have no tools (and no intention of buying any!), you can still use either of the methods above.

Simply ask your local hardware store to cut all the wood to the sizes you need.

You can then simply rest it in place or secure it with wood glue.

Building a DIY Platform Bed From Scratch

If you feel like taking your DIY skills to the next level, consider making a new DIY platform bed from scratch.

This will complement your new mattress perfectly and give you total control over the finished look of your bed.

There are many tutorials online that can help guide you through the process. This super cool platform bed made from 2” x 4” planks is my favorite.

Remember to ensure that your DIY platform bed supports the weight of not just yourself but also any additional materials (like your mattress and any partner who will share the bed).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Platform Bed?

Platform beds are bed frames with a raised surface to support the mattress. They don’t have box springs or foundations, so are often much lower than other beds.

Many people prefer a platform bed to a traditional bed because they’re incredibly sturdy and durable. They can help to create more space in a room, are easy to build, and are affordable.

Can I Convert Platform Beds to Take Box Springs?

Yes - the simplest option is to purchase a set of additional rails that attach on the side or in the middle of your current platform bed.

These rails will provide extra support and stability, allowing you to safely rest your box spring on top of your platform bed.

Remember that most people don't use box springs anymore these days. There are many box spring alternatives available instead.

Is the Plywood or Slat Method Best for a King Size Bed?

Both will work well for any size of bed and most mattresses. If using the slats method for bigger bed sizes, just ensure that the slats are close enough and provide sufficient support for larger mattresses.

A center support (an extra leg from the center of the platform to the floor) might also be needed for extra support with big beds.

Can a Wooden Platform be Placed on a Metal Frame?

Yes, providing there are rails around the sides, head, and foot that you can rest the platform on. You might have to attach some brackets or a new rail if not.

The Final Word

Overall, there are many factors to consider when deciding which method suits you.

It all comes down to your personal preferences and project requirements.

The plywood method is a more straightforward approach that you can do quickly and cheaply. It’s incredibly sturdy due to its solid nature and creates a sleek and modern look...but you might end up with a smelly or moldy mattress due to lack of airflow.

On the other hand, the slats method is a little more complex (due to the measuring and cutting of multiple planks). However, it creates a better airflow for the mattress and might be considered more sustainable (especially if you can get your hands on reclaimed planks).

If you can’t find reclaimed or offcuts of wood, ensure that any new wood products you buy are certified sustainable by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).

Get In Touch

Do you have any hands-on experience in replacing box springs with platform frames? Do you have any tips to share? Drop me a line and let me know.