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How To Build A Platform Bed

What holds up a platform bed?

The Pros and Cons. A platform bed is a low profile bed frame with a sturdy base (either solid, metal, or slatted) that holds the mattress up. What makes a platform bed unique is that it doesn’t require a box spring. So, once you buy it, it’s ready to use — no need to purchase any extra accessories.

Is a platform bed too low?

A platform bed is a modern sleep solution that is roughly 18 inches off the floor, including the mattress. Some may consider a platform bed too low because when you’re standing beside it, it will reach to the top of your shin.

Can any mattress go on a platform bed?

Platform beds support all mattress types such as foam, latex, and memory foam mattresses. Though innerspring mattresses may be supported by platform beds, they are better paired with box springs.

Do platform beds squeak?

Solid wood platform beds do not squeak. You don’t have the extra box spring that’s composed of metal springs that can squeak at night. You also eliminate the metal frame that supports the box spring. Platform beds are good for your back and they don’t squeak when getting in and out of bed.

Can plywood be used for platform bed?

Care must be taken when making a bed platform with slats, as mattresses are designed to be used with no more than four inches of space between the slats. Plywood, on the other hand, provides consistent support across the entire dimension of the mattress, which is ideal.

Is plywood good for bed frame?

The designs of some mattresses may not work well with plywood, not allowing it to breathe properly and causing issues with moisture. But if you ensure that your mattress and plywood bed frame are compatible, the ply can actually prolong the life of your mattress.

Is sleeping on plywood good for you?

It lets your body sink down, causing your spine to curve. This can lead to back pain. In fact, if your mattress is too soft, Harvard Medical School recommends placing plywood under your mattress. The institution also suggests putting your mattress on the floor.

Is it cheaper to buy or build a bed frame?

There’s a lot of advantages to building a DIY bed frame. You’ll get to customize it for the size you want and use materials you like. Store-bought bed frames can get really expensive but the price of building one yourself is just a fraction of the cost of a new one.

How thick should a mattress be for a platform bed?

Thickness & Support The best mattresses for platform beds should be at least 12 inches thick, but up to 14 inches is even better. The thickness of a mattress often depends on the number of different layers, but for less expensive mattresses, it could simply just be the cut of the material.

Is 32 inches too high for a bed?

A comfortable total-bed maximum height is 33 inches. A range of 30 to 32 inches for sleeping height makes a visually attractive design statement, supports a traditional theme as well as allows under-bed storage. A high-bed strategy is the largest option for mattress heights.

Why are platform beds so low to the ground?

Platform beds have a very modern, hotel-like feel. Platform beds typically have slats, so they don’t require a boxspring. This is partly why they are lower to the ground. Sometimes the mattress sits level to the edge of the bed, and it can also be more sunken in to the frame.

Are slat beds bad for your back?

Slats should work well for back, stomach, and side sleepers, especially with the right mattress for your sleep position. For stomach sleepers, who tend to sleep better on firmer surfaces, standard planks are a great option.

What is the difference between a regular bed and a platform bed?

The difference between a traditional bed and a platform bed, is that you can place a mattress directly on a platform bed without a box spring or foundation. When using a platform bed your sleep surface will often be lower to the ground than it would be on a traditional bed.

Can you put mattress directly on slats?

Most mattress types can rest directly on the slats. Slats are much more supportive and will ensure your mattress doesn’t sink or slide. Easy assembly: Wooden slats are lightweight and easy to disassemble, making them easier to move than heavy, cumbersome box springs.

How do I stop my platform bed from creaking?

Apply WD-40 spray or a similar silicone lubricant to the joints where the frame parts connect. One coat or so is effective for minimizing squeaks, but you may need to reapply the WD-40 every few months. If you don’t have silicone lubricants, try applying candle wax, paraffin, or beeswax to the joints.

What type of bed is the most sturdy?

When it comes to durability, solid wood bed frames are sturdy and unlikely to break under pressure or force.

Can I put a foundation on a platform bed?

In most cases, you can use any box spring you wish on a platform bed. Low profile foundations or bunkie boards will support the mattress as well as a standard box spring would. A mattress and platform bed combo will usually sit lower than a traditional bed, box spring, and mattress set.

Can I make my own Bunkie board?

You can place a solid piece of plywood below your mattress if you want a diy bunkie board. The thickness of the plywood should be at least 3/4 of an inch and should be a perfect fit for your bed. The mattress and frame size should be exact else wise it won’t fit well.

Will Home Depot cut plywood to size?

Yes, Home Depot is able to cut plywood panels into smaller strips as long as the thickness of the strip is safe to cut.

How much weight can plywood handle?

A 12-by-36-inch piece of 3/4-inch fir plywood can support up to 50 lbs. without problems. Plywood strength drops when thickness diminishes. For example; a 12-by-36-inch piece of 1/4-inch plywood will only support about 5 lbs.