Converting a Bunk Bed into a Loft Bed

A loft bed in an apartment or dorm room with a brick wall.
What You'll Need
Screwdriver,
Allen wrench, or
Ratchet and sockets - depending on the style of bed
What You'll Need
Screwdriver,
Allen wrench, or
Ratchet and sockets - depending on the style of bed

Whether you’re thinking of converting a bunk bed into a loft bed to create more space or because nobody sleeps on the bottom bunk, the conversion process isn’t too intensive and can be done right at home in a few easy steps. All you need is a few tools and a bit of time to accomplish this task. Once the bottom bunk is removed, you can turn the space underneath the loft bed into an office, a storage area, a play area, a reading nook, or even place a small couch in the space.

Remove the Mattress

The first thing you will have to do is remove the bottom bunk bed’s mattress since it’s no longer needed. Remove the mattress and use it for another twin bed, store it for extra visitors, or donate it to a local thrift store.

Disassemble the Bottom Bunk

This will require using a screwdriver, Allen wrench, or ratchets and sockets to undo the screws or bolts that hold the bed together. To see if you can remove the bottom bunk piece only, use the correct tool for the bolts or screws on your model of the bunk bed. While some beds may allow you to remove the bottom bunk without taking the rest of the bed apart, you may have to disassemble the entire bed frame, including the top bunk.

Locate the Main Support Beams

Before reassembling any of the bed parts, if you took them apart that is, you will need to check carefully to see where the main support beams are for the entire bed. These are the horizontal beams that typically go against the wall and keep the bed sturdy and safe. You’re looking to see if those horizontal support beams are part of the bottom bunk frame, or if the bed is stable and safe on its own. Many bunk beds have an additional support beam at the bottom of the bed that is not attached to the bottom mattress support piece.

Add Extra Support If Needed

If your loft bed seems like it will be wobbly, that is, not completely sturdy and safe without the bottom bunk, you may need to add some additional support to the bed frame. This will most likely require using a saw to cut the bottom bunk mattress support piece apart from the main support beam you located earlier. If this task seems too daunting or you’d prefer not to destroy the option of having a bottom bunk, consider purchasing a loft bed with the proper supports, as unsupported beds can cause serious injury to anyone climbing or sleeping on an unsecured loft bed.

Reassemble the Bunk Bed as a Loft Bed

Once you know your loft bed will be supported, safe, and super stable, now is the time to put anything you took apart back together. The bottom mattress and bed frame should be gone, and all that’s left are the vertical posts and horizontal support beams needed for your awesome loft bed.

Redecorate

With all the new space you have under your loft bed, move things around in your room and reorganize. Be creative and use the space to create a whole new look.