Do you have a bunk bed that you’re not using? Maybe your kids have outgrown it, or you don’t have the space for it anymore. Well, that is a resource lying around, and for your information, you can turn that bed into a loft bed. It’s actually relatively easy to do, and in this step-by-step guide, we will show you how! Let’s get going.
Converting a Bunk Bed into a Loft Bed
To achieve this you need to follow some few steps. They are simple and straightforward and require a minimum to have everything done. Follow these steps to the latter and you’re good to go.
Gather The Accessories
To start, you need to gather the necessary accessories. This includes:
- A ladder
- Some boards
- Nails or screws
- A drill
- A saw (if needed)
Remove the Mattress and the Ladder
The first thing you need to do is to remove the mattress and the ladder. You can set these aside or donate them if you like. This process is simple: lift the mattress and remove it from the bed frame. To remove the ladder, unscrew it from the bed frame.
Measure and Cut the Bed Frame

The next step is to measure and cut the bed frame. First, you need to decide how high your loft bed is and then measure and mark that height on the bed frame. Then, use a saw to cut along that line. If you’re unsure how to measure this, a general rule of thumb is to cut the legs so they are about two-thirds of their original height.
Paint or Stain the Bed Frame
Now is an excellent time to paint or stain your bed frame if you want to change its color. This is optional but can give your loft bed a whole new look! This is where you get creative, so have fun with it. Figure out something unique or that your kids love; suppose you’re creating a loft bed for them.
Attach New Lumber for Support Beams
After cutting your bed frame, you will need to attach new lumber to create support beams. These can be attached using screws or nails. However, you’ll for whichever option you go for, ensure they are sturdy enough to support the loft and don’t pose risk to the user. You can use two-by-fours or four-by-fours for this part.
Reattach the Ladder to the Loft Bed
Now you can reattach the ladder to the loft bed. Do this by screwing it into the new support beams. Again, ensure it is secure and will not move around when someone is climbing up or down it.
Enjoy Your New Loft Bed!

You’re almost done! The last step is to add a mattress to your loft bed and enjoy it! You can use the same mattress you had before or get a new one. Either way, you now have an excellent new space-saving piece of furniture in your home!
Safety Tips for Using a Bunk Bed
Now that you know how to turn a bunk bed into a loft bed, here are some safety tips to keep in mind:
- Always use the proper mattress size for your bunk bed. A full-size mattress is typically too big for a bunk bed and can be dangerous.
- Ensure the area around the bunk bed is clear of any furniture or other items that could be knocked over.
- Never allow children to jump on or off the bunk bed, as this can lead to serious injury.
- Inspect the bunk bed regularly for any loose screws or nails. Tighten them if necessary.
FAQs
Can I make a bunk bed into a loft bed?
Yes, you can easily convert your bunk bed into a loft bed with just a few tools and basic carpentry skills.
Is it safe to use a bunk bed as a loft bed?
If you follow the safety tips in this guide, it is safe to use a bunk bed as a loft bed. Always use the proper mattress size and never allow children to jump on or off the bunk bed. Inspect the bunk bed regularly for any loose screws or nails.
Do I need extra accessories when converting a bunk bed to a loft bed?
You will need a ladder, some boards, nails or screws, and a drill. You may also need a saw if you cut the bed frame to resize it.
Conclusion
We hope you found this guide helpful and can now quickly turn a bunk bed into a loft bed! Just follow the safety tips in this guide to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Loft beds are great space savers and can add a touch of fun and creativity to any room. You can easily convert your bunk bed into a loft bed with just a few simple steps. So what are you waiting for? Get started right away!