How to Raise a Platform Bed

On this page (10 sections)

1. How do you raise a platform bed safely?
2. What kind of platform bed do you have?
3. How do you choose bed risers for a platform frame?
4. Can you use taller replacement legs or extensions?
5. How do you keep the mattress and frame stable?
6. How can you make a platform bed higher without risers?
7. How do you cover the gap under a raised bed?
8. How high should you raise a platform bed?
9. What should you avoid when raising a platform bed?
10. How do you decide the best way to raise a platform bed?

Raise a platform bed with stable supports suited to its frame construction, and make sure every leg and center support stays level at the new height. Measure the space you need, check the maker’s instructions, and avoid loose stacks under the legs.

A higher bed can make getting in and out easier or create more room underneath. The right approach depends on how the frame carries weight: through separate legs, a solid base, a center rail, or a combination.

How do you raise a platform bed safely?

Use leg extensions or furniture risers only when they fit the frame and the maker allows them. Every support point must be raised evenly, including center legs and posts.

Start by checking the frame manual for limits on extensions or changes to the base. If the instructions are missing, contact the maker before adding height to an unfamiliar frame.

Measure the current floor-to-frame height and the height you want to gain. Also check the ceiling, bedside furniture, outlets, and any storage containers that need to fit below.

Move the mattress off before adjusting the frame. Once the supports are installed, check that each leg sits fully in its support and that the bed does not rock when you press gently on different corners.

What kind of platform bed do you have?

Identify how the frame touches the floor before choosing supports. The support method that fits a bed with four legs may not suit one with a center rail or a continuous base.

A bed with separate legs may work with risers shaped for those legs, if the frame maker permits them. Match the riser’s cup or socket to the leg so it cannot slip sideways.

A frame with a center rail or extra support posts needs those points raised too. If the outer legs sit higher while the center remains on the floor, the frame can twist or sag.

A platform with a broad, continuous base may not accept standard leg risers. Check the manual for approved extensions, or consider a taller frame designed for that base style.

This simple guide to types of platform beds explains common frame forms.

How do you choose bed risers for a platform frame?

Choose risers that match the leg shape, have enough load capacity, and support the whole bed evenly. Count every leg and center post before buying, then check the riser’s fit and use instructions.

Include the frame, mattress, bedding, and sleepers when considering the load. Follow the riser and frame makers’ stated limits rather than estimating from the number of risers alone.

Check that a riser’s top opening securely holds the leg and that its base sits flat on the floor. A tight fit matters more than adding several inches of height.

Avoid stacking risers or combining mismatched supports. If the bed moves or creaks after installation, remove the added supports and return the frame to its original setup.

Can you use taller replacement legs or extensions?

Purpose-made replacement legs or extensions can be an option if they fit the frame’s attachment points and are approved for its design. The connection needs to be as secure as the original leg.

Check the thread size, mounting plate, or other attachment method against the frame before ordering. Do not force a part that seems close but does not screw in or sit flush.

Replace legs as a matching set so the bed stays level. If the frame has center legs, make sure compatible supports are available for those as well.

The ZINUS Vivek Deluxe Wood Platform Bed Frame has a wood frame with steel interior framework and wood slat support, so check its instructions before changing its legs or adding risers.

If you're comparing sizes, see best platform bed frame king options or best platform bed frame queen options. Choose a replacement whose stated height and support design suit your needs.

How do you keep the mattress and frame stable?

Keep the frame level and the mattress supported across the surface after raising it. A height change should not leave slats, rails, or the mattress edge unsupported.

Check that the frame’s slats or base remain in their intended positions. Review how a platform bed supports a mattress if you need to understand how its base carries weight.

After reassembly, press down gently at each corner and along the center. Listen for movement, look for gaps at joints, and confirm the mattress does not slide on the raised frame.

A box spring is a separate way to add height, but it changes the bed’s support setup. Compare the tradeoffs in platform bed vs box spring and check whether your mattress and frame allow a box spring.

How can you make a platform bed higher without risers?

A taller frame is often the clearest option when risers do not fit or the frame maker does not approve them. It avoids adding a new joint between the legs and floor.

You can also consider a box spring only if the frame and mattress are designed to work with one. Measure its height and confirm that the combined setup will stay stable.

A thicker mattress changes the sleeping surface height, not the frame height or space below the bed. It may help if your goal is a higher place to sit, but it won’t create more under-bed clearance.

The Zinus Vivek Deluxe Wood Platform Bed Frame is a full-size option with wood slat support and a headboard, described for use without a box spring.

Before switching frames, measure your mattress and room, then confirm the new frame’s dimensions and support arrangement.

How do you cover the gap under a raised bed?

Measure the floor-to-frame distance and choose a bed skirt with a matching drop. Leave enough clearance so the fabric doesn’t drag or catch beneath the bed.

The Utopia Bedding Queen Size Pleated Bed Skirt has a 16 in drop and is made from brushed microfiber. Its pleated design can cover under-bed storage on a queen-size bed.

Measure from the top edge where the skirt sits to the floor, then compare that distance with the skirt’s drop. Check that the fabric clears cords, vents, and stored items.

How high should you raise a platform bed?

Raise it only as much as you need for easier access or the intended storage, while keeping the frame stable. If comfort is part of your decision, see whether platform beds are comfortable.

There is no single ideal height for every room or sleeper.

Measure the bed’s current height and try sitting on the edge before choosing a target. If the goal is storage, measure the tallest item you plan to keep underneath and allow extra room to slide it in and out.

For easier access, think about the mattress top as well as the frame. A thicker mattress or topper can add height without altering the frame, but it also changes the sleeping surface.

People choosing a bed for easier entry may find platform beds for seniors useful for comparing options. Consider room layout, support design, and the height that feels manageable.

What should you avoid when raising a platform bed?

Avoid loose blocks, stacked supports, uneven leg heights, and any change the frame maker does not approve. These can let the bed tilt, slide, or put extra stress on joints.

Don’t raise only the outer legs if the frame has center supports. Don’t use a riser that is too wide, too narrow, or unstable on your floor.

Don’t drag a raised bed across the room while it is loaded. Lift it with help, following the frame instructions, and recheck each support after moving it.

How do you decide the best way to raise a platform bed?

For anyone deciding how to raise a platform bed, match the method to the frame and the reason you need more height. Use approved risers or extensions when they fit every support point; choose a taller frame when the existing design cannot safely accept them.

Measure first, keep all supports level, and check stability after setup. If your goal is under-bed storage, confirm both the clearance and the container dimensions before choosing a height.

Frequently asked questions

How can I make a platform bed higher?

Use leg extensions or risers that fit the bed’s leg shape and are rated for the load, if the frame maker permits them. Raise every support point evenly, including center legs, and check that the frame stays level and does not shift when gently tested.

Can I put bed risers under a platform bed?

Sometimes, if the risers are designed for the frame’s legs and can carry the combined load of the bed, mattress, and sleepers. Check the frame manual first, support each leg and center post, and avoid risers that leave a narrow or unstable contact point.

Is it safe to stack wood under bed legs?

Loose wood blocks can slide, split, or tilt under shifting weight, so they are not a dependable way to raise a platform bed. Use supports designed for furniture legs and approved for the frame, or choose a taller frame that provides the needed height.

How do I hide the space under a raised bed?

Measure from the floor to the bed frame’s edge, then choose a skirt with a drop that covers the open space without dragging. Keep fabric clear of vents, cords, and anything that could catch beneath the bed.