How to Rebuild Slats for a Bunk Bed

The mattress on a bed rests on the side rails that form two sides of the frame. Sometimes a headboard or footboard is attached to make the bed stand out for aesthetic appeal. No matter how fancy your bed is or whether it's a twin, full, queen, king or a bunk bed, the mattress needs support between the side rails so it doesn't fall through to the floor. While a metal frame may have the supports welded in, a wooden frame requires slats. If you need slats for a wooden frame, you can either purchase them or make them yourself.

1-by-4-inch boards
Tape measure
Fine-grit sandpaper

Instructions

- 1
  Measure the width of the bed. Write this measurement down in inches.
- 2
  Take another measurement of the width about a foot higher and a foot lower than the original spot to verify the bed is a consistent width. If you get a different measurement, write the number down.
- 3
  Buy 1-by-4-inch boards from the lumberyard in a sturdy type of wood capable of holding a person's weight. For a twin bunk bed, use three slats for each bed for a total of six slats. Take the measurements to the lumberyard with you. Many times someone there will cut the wood for you. If not, measure and cut it yourself.
- 4
  Sand the edges of the slats with a fine-grit sandpaper to eliminate the risk of splinters.
- 5
  Place one slat 18 inches from the top of the bed, another slat 18 inches from the bottom and the third in the middle. Assuming the bunk bed is a twin bed measuring 75 inches long, place the third slat approximately 32 inches from both the top and bottom.

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