Using Pallets as a Bed Frame

Would you like to add something original and innovative to your bedroom?
Using Pallets as a Bed Frame

Last update: 15 November, 2018

We have a great idea for you on how to make a bed frame with pallets.

There are many times when we feel the need to change the decor or tweak our home in some way. It’s not easy, as not everyone can successfully find a balance between novelty and comfort.

However, you can use the latest techniques using trendy materials. A good example is pallets.

Measurements and quantity

Pallets are often used in transportation, construction, industry, and other heavy-duty jobs. Consequently, they can be tricky to get our hands on, especially ones that are still in good condition.

So, you have to find a way to obtain pallets that aren’t worn out. Broken, chipped or uneven pallets could have a negative impact on our rest.

Logically, the number that you need will depend on the length and width of your bed. For example, a .90 x 1.90 meter bed would need at least two pallets.

On the other hand, a 1.35 x 1.90 or 1.50 x 1.90 queen-sized bed would need four pallets to ensure that no side hangs off of the frame.

While considering how many you’ll need, you should also consider that if you want a taller bed, you’ll need to set up two layers of pallets. Doing this will give you elevation, distancing you from the ground.

Wood treatment for pallets

Once you know your bed’s measurements and how many pallets it’ll require, you need to clean the pallets and treat them. You can’t use them as you find them for your bedroom or just a mattress on top.

To ensure a safe level of hygiene while you rest, you’ll need to apply a fungus and mold treatment to the pallets to prevent wood damage.

Using fungicide  will help the wood last longer, be more resistant and cleaner. We’re not only aiming to make a bed that can support our weight, but something that can make our bedroom a safe atmosphere as well.

If you live in a coastal area, or where humidity is a factor, treating the wood is a crucial step. In fact, you should still do the treatment even if you live in a drier area.

Pallet treatment

Wood preparation

Next, you need to sand the wood for a smooth surface, free of splinters that could hurt both you and your mattress.

After sanding down the pallets, make sure you seal the pores with a primer. As a result, you’ll enjoy smooth, clean wood that’s ready for a coat of paint or, thanks to the perfect and beautiful finish, just as it is.

When painting the wood, you can use whatever colors that you please. If you’re looking for something more rural, the original color of the wood, or any brown tone, can create a countryside feel.

Painting pallets

On the other hand, if you want to use other colors, feel free to use them as long as you remember that they’ll really steal the show. Especially because color has a huge impact on our vision.

We’d like to mention that wearing down a color is an interesting technique that you can use. After painting the pallet, wipe it with bleach, which will wear the color down and thus, create a unique, homey affect– just as if time had worn it out.

How can you set up the bed?

Once your pallets are treated and painted, you can arrange them in the area where you want your bed to be. We recommend placing them in the center of your room, not in a corner, so that they make an impact.

Of course, make sure that they don’t take up too much space or block walkways. The pallets will first and foremost provide a support for the mattress.

We can join the pallets together by using splints or corner clamps; they’re the most efficient ways to construct the bed frame. Try to join the pallets together without allowing the connectors to show as they could ruin the overall look.

Lastly, you have to check to see if the pallet measurements fit with the bed. You shouldn’t have extra mattress hanging over the edge. On the contrary, your bed frame should have a little extra pallet space for a comfortable, sturdy bed.

Pallet bed construction

Conclusion

We’ve shown you the best way to construct a bed frame using pallets. In addition to the instructions, we’ve also given you several innovative ideas. Try this original bed frame in your home.