How to Replace the Rails on an Antique Bed

Remove the original bed rails from the antique bed, and examine how the bed rails attached to the bed. Unscrew any screws holding the bed rail in place. Gently lift up on the rails, and angle the top, which lets the metal pop out of the bed frame.

Lay one of the new bed rails flat on the floor. The ends feature curved metal pieces that slide into the slits inside the bed frame. Lift the rail up, and angle it 45 degrees against the headboard. Push the curved edges into the slits, and push down. Apply enough pressure that you hear a small click, indicating that the rail has snapped into place. Repeat the process with the other bed rail on the other side of the headboard.

Insert screws into the holes on the new bed rails, where the rails sit flush with the headboard. Screw each one through, until the screw firmly secures the rail to the headboard. You might have multiple screws on each piece.

Move to the footboard end of the bed. While holding onto the footboard, gently slide the end of the bed rail into the wood, just as you did with the headboard. Push both metal rails into the slits or slots on the end of the bed, and screw into the wood.

Place the shorter piece of metal, or slat, that came with your bed rails between the two longer rails. Slide the piece down until it sits in the middle of the bed, which adds even more support. Depending on the type used, the piece might require screws that hold it against the rails.