Open the box and parts bags and consult the instruction manual to ensure that all parts are present. Contact the manufacturer or the retailer immediately if any parts are missing to ensure that you are still covered by warranty. Return all small parts to their bags or place them in an empty project storage container, keeping them separate from other tools and parts.
Read the instructions thoroughly. Pay specific attention to all warnings, tips and tools needed. Study the instructions until you have a firm understanding of the installation process and the appearance of the final product.
Assemble the head and foot of the bed. Use any included Allen wrenches or your own, or use a screwdriver or drill, depending on the type of fittings used. Attach all the support pieces and frame pieces of the head and foot of the bed separately, then lean them against the wall.
Assemble each mattress support section carefully, attaching all the horizontal mattress support sections to the long supports with the shorter pieces on top of the longer pieces. Complete both sections and set them aside.
Hold the head and foot of the bed upright with the help of two assistants. The sides are designed to join the support boards facing inward. Attach the mattress support sections to the headboard first, keeping the installation screws, bolts or pegs loose. Attach the mattress support sections to the footboard as well, then tighten all the attachments.
Position the guard rails and ladders, if desired or included, and attach them in place with the included attachment method. Tighten them securely, as children will often leaned on and probably jumped on guard rail and latter attachments.