How to Replace the Mattresses of a Loft Bed

Research mattresses before purchasing a new one. Loft beds require a foam or coil mattress only, and no box spring. The Consumer Product Safety Commission dictates that air mattresses and water bed mattresses may not be used in loft beds, that only the loft bed's correct mattress size may be used, that the top of the guardrail be at least 5 inches above the top of the mattress, and that any gaps between the mattress and the safety rail be less than 3.5 inches.

Remove the old mattress. With a tall helper or two, gently lift the mattress up off of the bed frame. If the mattress is supported by slats on the loft bed, you can push up on the mattress from underneath. Hold the mattress tightly, pull it toward you and guide it off of the frame, letting it slide gently down onto the floor. Set it aside.

Check all slats, if applicable. If your loft bed has slats, check to see that they have not shifted and that they are straight, uniformly spaced and are securely in place.

Lean the new mattress up against the wall with one long side resting on the floor. As a team, lift the mattress up overhead. Set it on top of the loft bed.

Slide it into place in the loft bed frame, making sure all four corners and sides are inside the frame.

Check that the mattress and bed frame together fit the safety specifications. Make sure there are no gaps between the mattress and the frame, that any gaps between the mattress and the safety rail are 3.5 inches or less, and that the top of the safety rail extends at least 5 inches above the top of the mattress.