Are you looking for a guide on how to replace slats on bed? Bed slats providing essential support for our mattresses and ensuring comfort throughout the night. Over time, however, wear and tear can can break, or simply become less supportive. However, with a few simple tools and some patience, you can replace them easily.
We have the ultimate guides on how to replace bed slats. Whether you are looking for a single, double, or queen-size bed guide, we have you covered. Our guides are easy to follow and help you quickly and easily replace bed slats. Follow our step-by-step guide below on how to replace it.
Quick Steps to How To Replace Slats On Bed
Here’s a quick, simple guide on how to replace those bed slats:
1. Understand Bed Slats ( materials, structure,…)
2. Gather Your Supplies ( Tape measure, new slats , screwdriver, drill,…)
3. Measure the Old Slats
4. Remove the Mattress and Old Slats
5. Clean and Place the New Slats
6. Secure the Slats ( screws or other fasteners )
Why Should You Replace Bed Slats On Bed?
Old and/or damaged bed slats can lead to several problems, such as poor sleeping posture. Sleeping on an uncomfortable bed might cause you to discomfort in different parts of your body while attempting restful sleep! To enjoy better nights’ rest with increased comfortability, use new bunkie boards to upgrade the look and improve night-time relaxation.
Improve sleeping posture
One of the most important reasons to replace is to improve your posture. When you sleep on old or damaged ones, your body can sink into the mattress, leading to poor posture and back pain. Proper replacement can help keep your body in a good position and improve your posture.
Comfort
Another reason to replace it is for comfort. If your bed is uncomfortable, it might be because the bed slats are old or damaged. Replacing it can give you a more comfortable sleeping surface and help you to get a better night’s sleep.
Extend the life of your mattress
Repairing them can also help extend your mattress’s life. When you have old or damaged ones, they can put pressure on your mattress, which can cause it to wear out prematurely. By replacing it, you can help to protect your mattress and extend its life.
So, if you’re looking for a way to improve your sleep and comfort or you want to extend the life of your mattress, replacing it is a good option. Another alternative is using a bunkie board or box spring.
How To Replace Slats?
It is important to replace it correctly so that your base will be sturdy and look great. Here are guides on how to replace it:
Replacing Bed Slats On a Twin-Size Bed
Step 1: Remove the old ones
Using a screwdriver, remove the screws that are holding the old boards in place. If they are placed with nails, use a hammer to pry them gently. Be careful not to damage the bed frame.
Step 2: Measure and cut the new ones
Measure the length of the bed frame and cut the new bed slats to size. The length of the bed should be the width of the twin ones. The measurement should be from the inside of the frame to the other inside. You may want to sand the edges using wooden slats to make them smooth.
Step 3: Attach the new slats
Using screws or nails, attach the new ones to the bed frame. Be sure to space them evenly so that they will support the mattress properly.
Step 4: Test it out
Before you put your mattress back on, please test it out by putting a few blankets on it and lying down on it. Be sure that the new ones are sturdy and that they do not creak or wobble. Once satisfied, put your mattress back on and enjoy your new, sturdy bed!
Tips
If you are using wooden slats for the new ones, use a sealant or varnish so they will not warp over time. The wooden slats are very easy to fix by using strong glue. You may want to add an extra support layer by attaching a board to the bed frame and then attaching the new slats to the board. It will give your bed extra stability.
If you have a futon or other type of bed that does not have traditional slats, you can still use this method to replace the support system. Just be sure to measure correctly and cut the new pieces to size. You may also want to use a board for extra support.
Be sure to check the new ones periodically to ensure they are still securely attached to the frame. Over time, the screws or nails may come loose and need to be tightened.
If you are not comfortable cutting them yourself, you can always have them cut at a hardware store or lumberyard. Just be sure to bring the bed frame measurements with you so that they can cut them to the correct size.
Replacing Slats In Full And Queen-Size Beds
To replace them in full and queen-size beds, you will need a measuring tape, a saw (if cutting is necessary), L brackets, wood screws, and a drill (found at most hardware stores).
Step 1: Measure the width of your bed frame
The first thing you should do is measure the width of your frame. It will determine how many pieces you need and the size of the L brackets. The measurement should be around 60 inches for a full-size and around 66 inches for a queen-size bed.
Step 2: Cut the slats (if necessary)
If you are using new bed slats, you may need to cut them to size to fit your bed frame. Use a saw to make any cuts, and measure twice before cutting!
Step 3: Attach the L brackets
Next, you must attach the L brackets to the frame. It is what will hold them in place. Place the L bracket at each end of the frame and use wood screws to secure them.
Step 4: Add the slats
Once the L brackets are in place, you can add many more of them. Place each of them on top of the L brackets and use wood screws to secure them. Be sure to space it out evenly to support your mattress properly.
Step 5: Drill holes for the bolts (optional)
If your bed frame has bolt holes, you can drill holes in the slats so that they will line up with the bolts. It is unnecessary, but it will help keep them from moving around.
Step 6: Add the mattress
Once they are in place, you can add your mattress and make the bed. Enjoy your new, sturdy bed!
Tips
If you are using the old ones, check them for splinters or other sharp edges before putting them back in place. It is also a good idea to add support in the middle of the frame if you use old or weak slats. It can be done by adding an extra L bracket or two in the middle of the bed frame.
It is easier to replace metal bed frames, you need a screw and metal brace brackets. If your bed has metal bed frames, you may need to use different screws than what is listed above. Check with a hardware store employee to see what type of screws you need. If you have questions, ask a hardware store employee for help. They should be able to help you with anything you need.
Replacing Slats With Plywood
Here, we will show you the way to use plywood instead:
Step 1: Remove the old slats
The first step is to remove the old slats. To do this, you will need to use a screwdriver to remove the screws. Once the screws are removed, you can pull them out.
Step 2: Cut the plywood
Next, you will need to cut the plywood to size. To do this, you will need to measure the width and length of your bed frame. Once you have these measurements, you can cut the plywood to fit.
Step 3: Attach the plywood
Now, it is time to attach the plywood to the frame. To do this, you will need to use screws and nails. First, you will need to screw the plywood into place. Next, you will need to nail it down.
Step 4: Add the mattress
Finally, you can add the mattress and enjoy your new sleep! That’s it! You’ve now successfully replaced your ones with plywood.
Tips
When cutting the plywood, be sure to use a saw that is designed for cutting wood. If you are having trouble attaching the plywood, you can always ask for help from a friend or family member. Be sure to measure the bed frame before cutting the plywood. It will ensure that the plywood fits properly. Ensure the screws and nails are properly secured before adding the mattress. Otherwise, the plywood could come loose and cause injury.
Lifespan Of Typical Bed Slats
From the data, it’s evident that metal slats offer the most extended durability, potentially lasting up to 20 years, making them a viable option for those seeking longevity. Conversely, solid and sprung slats, while commonly used, tend to have shorter lifespans, with solid slats being the most susceptible to wear and tear.
| Type of Bed Slats | Estimated Lifespan | Notes |
| Solid Slats (Flat) | 5-10 years | Lifespan can vary depending on material quality and usage. |
| Sprung Slats (Curved) | 6-12 years | They can wear out faster, especially if subjected to heavy loads. |
| Adjustable Slats | 8-15 years | Ability to adjust, they tend to be more durable but can depend on the mechanism’s quality. |
| Metal Slats | 10-20 years | They might need tightening or adjustments over time. |
| Laminated Slats | 7-14 years | The quality of lamination plays a vital role in the lifespan. |
| Reinforced Slats | 10-18 years | These slats are designed for durability, especially under heavier loads. |
What Are Signs of Bed Slat Replacement
Several signs can indicate that your bed slats may be in need of attention or replacement:
Visible Damage or Breaks: One of the most apparent indicators is cracks, splits, or complete breaks in the wood or metal.
Creaking or Noisy Sounds: A bed that makes creaking or other noises when you move around could be signaling weak or broken slats.
Frequent Displacement: If you find that the slats often slip from their position or fall through the frame, it’s a clear sign that they aren’t fitting correctly and may need replacement.
Sagging Mattress: If you notice that your mattress is sagging in certain areas, especially in the middle, it’s a clear sign that the slats below aren’t doing their job.
Expert’s Tips on Protect Your Bed Slats from Wear and Tear
With some care and attention, you can prolong their lifespan, ensuring they continue to offer the support you need. One of the simplest yet most effective strategies is to regularly check your slats for signs of wear. Look for cracks, splits, or any signs of weakening in both wooden and metal slats.
The second tip is that Rotate and Flip Bed Slats every few months. This method redistributes the stress points, especially if certain areas of the bed are used more frequently than others.
Last but not least, this tips is focus on wooden slats, due to vulnerability to moisture. Ensure good ventilation in your bedroom and consider using dehumidifiers in humid climates. For added protection, you can treat wooden slats with a moisture-resistant sealant.
Conclusion
Replacing slats on a bed is not as difficult as it may seem. In most cases, you will need a screwdriver to remove the old ones and replace them with new ones. Measure the spacing between them before purchasing new ones to ensure they fit correctly. If you have any questions or concerns, consult with a professional before attempting this project on your own.
FAQs
How do I measure for new slats?
To measure it, you will need to know the width of your window and its depth of them. Then, subtract the depth of the old ones from the width of your window to get the number of new ones needed.
Do I need a power drill to replace the bed slats?
No, a power drill is unnecessary. A hand screwdriver will work just fine. You can also use a power drill, but it is unnecessary.
What type of screws do I need to replace?
You will need to use wood screws when replacing them. The screws should be 3/4 inch in length. You can also use 1-inch screws, which may be too long and cause them to break.
How to fix bed frame slats if broken?
If one of yours is broken, you can fix it by using a wood screw and some wood glue. First, remove the broken bed slats. Then, use a drill to make a hole in the middle of it. The hole should be big enough for the wood screw to fit through. Next, put some wood glue on the end of the screw and insert it into the hole. Finally, screw the screw into the platform bed flats broke until it is tight.
