
Pallets for a bed can be a game-changer for those on a budget or looking to add some rustic charm to their bedroom.
You can repurpose an old pallet to create a one-of-a-kind bed frame, and with some creativity, you can turn it into a unique headboard.
Pallets are often made of solid wood, which can be durable and long-lasting if properly maintained.
Consider the size of your pallet before deciding on a bed frame design, as pallets can vary in size and shape.
To ensure stability and safety, you'll want to secure the pallet to the wall, especially if you're using it as a bed frame.
Properly assembling the pallet is crucial to its structural integrity and overall appearance.
With a little bit of creativity and some basic tools, you can transform an old pallet into a beautiful and functional bed frame.
Broaden your view: Pallets Vertical Garden Ideas
Planning and Preparation
To start building your pallet bed, you'll want to begin with planning and preparation. This involves selecting pallets that are clean and haven't transported hazardous materials.

For a sturdy bed, you'll need to consider the height of the bed and how many layers of pallets you need. Spreading the pallets on the floor can help you visualize the bed's structure and size.
You'll also want to prepare the pallets themselves by sanding their surfaces to smooth them out. This involves starting with 60 grit sandpaper and finishing with 120 grit.
You might like: Pallets for Planting
Industrial Loft
When planning an industrial loft style, consider the use of pallets to create a solid platform bed, as seen in the example where very sturdy pallets are stacked on top of one another.
Industrial lofts often feature exposed brick or concrete walls, which can be a great backdrop for a minimalist decor.
To create a cohesive look, choose a few statement pieces like a vintage metal lamp or a reclaimed wood coffee table.
This style is all about embracing the raw, unfinished look of industrial materials, so don't be afraid to leave some things as is, like the original wooden beams in a loft.
In an industrial loft, it's not uncommon to see metal pipes or ductwork exposed, adding to the edgy, urban vibe.
Materials Needed

To start your project, you'll need to gather the necessary materials. You can use clean, chemical-free pallets as the base material.
You'll also need various tools, including sandpaper (60 grit and 120 grit) and a rotary sander to smooth out the pallets.
A saw will come in handy if you need to cut the pallets to size. For added support and a storage lid, you can use plywood.
To assemble the pallets, you'll need screws and L-brackets. The storage lid will require hinges and a gas piston mechanism.
To seal any gaps or holes, use a sealant like polyurethane. If you want a rustic look, consider using a burnishing torch.
Here's a list of the materials you'll need:
- Clean, chemical-free pallets
- Sandpaper (60 grit and 120 grit)
- Rotary sander
- Saw (for cutting pallets if necessary)
- Plywood (for support and storage lid)
- Screws and L-brackets
- Hinges and gas piston mechanism (for the storage lid)
- Sealant (Polyurethane in this guide)
- Burnishing Torch (optional for a rustic look)
- Drill
Alternatively, you can use 4 identical pallets and extra pallet boards to fill in gaps if needed. You'll also need connector plates, wood screws, and industrial castors for a different type of project.
Preparing
Preparing for a DIY project requires some careful planning. Start by selecting pallets that are clean and haven't transported hazardous materials.

You'll also want to spread the pallets on the floor to visualize the bed's structure and size, considering the height of the bed and how many layers of pallets you need.
Before assembling the pallets, smooth the surfaces with a rotary sander using 60 grit sandpaper and finish with 120 grit.
To create storage space, remove the center part of the pallets using a saw to make precise cuts.
It's essential to attach pallet layers and sections using screws to ensure a robust structure that supports the weight evenly.
To prevent splinters, sand all edges and places where skin may contact.
Design and Ideas
You can create a fabulous bed with pallets, and it's not just about aesthetics. The pallet bed design I saw was a computer-generated image, but it showed how you can use pallets to create a unique queen-sized bed.
Pallet beds use recycled materials, making them a sustainable choice for your bedroom décor. You can also customize the design to fit your style, from simple platforms to elaborate patterns.
To make a pallet bed, you'll need to take the pallets apart and find ones in good shape, which might mean buying new pallets instead of used ones.
25 Ideas and Projects

You can create a fabulous bed with pallets, and for that, you'd need to take the pallets apart first. It's also a good idea to find pallets in good shape, which might mean buying new pallets instead of distressed, cracked and stained used pallets.
A pallet bed can be a good idea, especially if you're looking for a cost-effective and adaptable DIY furniture alternative. Pallet beds provide a unique eco-friendly appeal to your bedroom décor because they are made from recycled materials.
You can use 8 pallets to create a queen-sized bed, which is a great option for small apartments or rooms. Pallet beds and pallet furniture ideas generally offer design options ranging from simple platforms to elaborate patterns.
Pallet beds are a sustainable choice, making them a great option for those who care about the environment.
Simple Low
A simple low pallet bed is a great option for those who want a no-fuss solution. It takes pretty much no time to build.

This type of bed is not the prettiest thing you've ever seen, but it gets the job done. You can find a great design and step-by-step instructions in a video on building a DIY pallet bed.
One of the benefits of a simple low pallet bed is that it's easy to assemble. Just align the single pallet skids together and you're good to go.
To add a comfortable touch, simply add a bed mattress to the finished bed frames. Your wooden pallet bed is now ready to use.
Scandinavian-Style
Scandinavian-Style is all about simplicity and functionality. It's a design aesthetic that's gained popularity in recent years.
The use of light-wood pallets can create a beautiful Scandinavian-style bed, as seen in one example. This style is characterized by clean lines and minimal ornamentation.
A simple Scandinavian-style bed can look great with impeccable pallets, as shown in another example. The choice of pallets is crucial in achieving this look.

The Scandinavian-style is not just limited to furniture, but also extends to the overall aesthetic of a room. It's about creating a sense of calm and serenity through minimalism.
A Scandinavian-style bed with pallets can be a great DIY project, requiring some creativity and elbow grease. The end result is a unique and functional piece of furniture.
White Painted with Blue Lighting
Painting wood pallets is a great way to give them a new life, and it makes for a much better piece of pallet furniture.
Using blue lights against white painted pallets creates a great visual effect, as seen in the example of a white painted pallet bed with blue lighting.
You can achieve this look by adding built-in lighting to your pallet bed, making it a unique and functional piece of furniture.
The standard wood pallet dimensions can be useful to know when working with pallets, but for this specific design, the focus is on the aesthetic appeal of white paint and blue lighting.
Painting old and rough pallets can make them look better, and in this case, the white paint provides a clean and crisp background for the blue lights to shine against.
Twin

The twin size is perfect for small bedrooms, making it an ideal choice for kids' rooms.
You can repurpose materials and make a one-of-a-kind piece of furniture with a twin pallet bed.
This DIY pallet bed plan is a great way to create a robust and comfy bed for your child.
It's made by building four layers of reused pallet skids, then adding a mattress.
This approach is reasonably priced and can be a fun project to work on.
Natural Wood in White
Using natural wood in a white bedroom is a great interior design combo. It creates a clean and crisp look that's perfect for a minimalist style.
Pallets can be a great way to add a natural wood element to your bedroom, as seen in the example of a rustic pallet bed in a stark white bedroom. The natural color of the wood adds warmth and texture to the space.
Painting or staining pallets can also enhance their natural beauty, as mentioned in Example 2. This can be a great way to give new life to old pallets and make them look like a high-end piece of furniture.

Pallets are adaptable and low-cost materials that can be used to make a wide range of furniture items, including beds, as seen in Example 1. This makes them a great option for DIY projects and budget-friendly decor.
Adding a mattress to a pallet bed frame is all it takes to complete the look, as mentioned in Example 1. You can also add lights or other decorative elements to give your pallet bed a more polished effect.
Enclosed Bunks
Enclosed bunks are a great way to create cozy sleeping spaces while also maximizing floor space. They're perfect for small rooms or apartments where every inch counts.
Enclosed pallet bunk beds can be made in part from reclaimed pallet wood, adding a touch of rustic charm to the space. The end of these bunk beds often features built-in shelving for storage.
These enclosed bunks can be a great DIY project for the handy homeowner.
Check this out: Raised Garden Beds Out of Pallets
How to Make a Good One

To make a good pallet bed, start by selecting suitable pallets. Find decent wood pallets, like the 6 foot long shipping pallets from the hardware store, and load them up.
Cutting the pallets to the right size is crucial. If the pallets are too small, like the 53″x74″ mattress in the example, you'll need to make adjustments. Cutting each pallet in half alongside the second brace in the center will create the perfect size for a double bed.
Use a jigsaw to make the cuts, just like the DIYer did, and make sure to flip the pallet over to chop the underside rails. This will leave you with just over a half of a pallet.
Join the pallets together at the center braces with screws to ensure they don't move around. This will give you a sturdy frame for your mattress.
Add a well-fitted mattress and improve its comfort and design with pillows, blankets, and bedding accessories.
Tips and Safety

Choosing the right pallets is crucial for a safe and sturdy bed frame. Select pallets that are in good condition and avoid those with visible damage, such as cracks or splinters.
When it comes to materials, look for pallets marked with "HT" (heat-treated), which indicates they've been treated without harmful chemicals. This is especially important for a bed frame where you'll be sleeping.
To prevent splinters, sand the wood thoroughly, paying extra attention to edges and corners. This simple step can make a big difference in the safety and comfort of your bed.
Here are some key things to keep in mind when building your pallet bed frame:
Underside Lights
You can make a stylish and adaptable daybed or sleeping bed with white-painted wooden pallets, a foam bed top, and under-bed lighting. Simply stack the wooden pallets to the height you like, then add a foam mattress top for comfort.
The empty spaces between the pallets can be filled with LED lights to create an enticing ambient glow. This is a great way to add some warmth and coziness to your bedroom.

You can stack well-painted and stained pallets to the appropriate height, then fill the empty spaces with LED lights. This will create a warm and pleasant atmosphere in your bedroom while also lighting your way at night.
It's also a good idea to install lighting beneath those empty spaces to create an ambient glow. This can be done by stacking pallets to the desired height and then adding a foam mattress top for comfort.
You can make a beautiful and functional pallet bed with built-in under-bed lighting in just a few simple steps.
Tips
Pallet furniture can make a room appear rustic, but you can tone down the look by painting it white, which makes it more restrained and lighter in appearance.
Adding lamps to the pallet bed creates interesting plays of light, making the pallet bed glow from within and enhancing the atmosphere.
You can use one or two pallets as a headboard, standing them vertically against the wall, adding cushions and decorations as desired.

Pallet furniture often looks best when combined with minimalist and self-made materials, furnishings, and furniture.
Using pallet wood to make nightstands or picture frames with wooden frames made of pallet boards continues the look of the pallet bed in the bedroom.
The spaces between pallets can be used to store smaller items like books or textiles, making the bed multifunctional without losing its visual appeal.
Bright and pure colours like blue, green, or red are less commonly used on pallet furniture, as they can make the bed appear too dominant and bulky.
Safety Tips for DIY Construction
When working on a DIY project, it's essential to prioritize safety. Here are some key tips to keep in mind.
First and foremost, choose materials that are safe for use. For example, select pallets that are marked "HT" (heat-treated) as they've been treated without harmful chemicals.
When handling materials, always sand the wood thoroughly to prevent splinters, paying extra attention to edges and corners.

To ensure a sturdy construction, use appropriate fasteners like screws or bolts rather than nails for better stability. This will help prevent the bed frame from collapsing.
Regularly inspect your DIY project for any loose components or signs of wear and tear. This will help you catch any potential issues before they become major problems.
Here are some specific safety tips to keep in mind:
- Choose pallets in good condition, avoiding those with visible damage like cracks or splinters.
- Use pallets marked with "HT" (heat-treated) and avoid those marked with "MB" (methyl bromide), a toxic pesticide.
- Design the bed frame to evenly distribute weight, adding additional support beams or legs if necessary.
By following these safety tips, you can create a durable and secure DIY project that will provide peace of mind and a good night's sleep.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Maintenance and Troubleshooting is crucial to ensure your pallet bed frame remains sturdy and comfortable. Regularly check the connections between pallets and tighten any loose screws.
If you notice your pallet bed frame is squeaking, use a level to check its evenness and sand down any high spots. Adding shims under the pallets can also help level out the frame.

To prevent splinters and future damage, sand the wood thoroughly before assembly, especially around edges and corners. Applying a sealant can also protect the wood.
Here are some common issues and their solutions:
- Loose Boards or Squeaking: Check connections, tighten screws, and add brackets if necessary.
- Uneven Frame: Use a level, sand high spots, and add shims under pallets.
- Splinters: Sand wood thoroughly before assembly and apply a sealant.
- Sagging Frame: Reinforce with additional support beams, especially in the center.
- General Issues: Review instructions, ensure necessary tools and materials, and ask for help if needed.
Maintenance and Care
Regular cleaning is essential to prevent dirt buildup on your DIY pallet bed frame. Use a soft, dry cloth to dust and clean the frame regularly.
To avoid soaking the wood, use a damp cloth with mild soap for deeper cleans. However, be cautious not to soak the wood, as this can cause damage.
Inspect your bed frame periodically to check for splinters. Sand down any rough areas to maintain a smooth surface.
Screws and bolts can loosen over time, so check and tighten them every few months to ensure the bed frame's stability.
To prevent strain on the wood and fasteners, avoid placing excessive weight on the bed. This will help extend the life of your DIY pallet bed frame.

Here are some key maintenance tips to keep in mind:
Is It Worth It?
Buying a ready-made pallet bed might save you effort, but it's not worth the extra cost. The material costs of building your own pallet bed are significantly lower.
You should consider buying only the bed system and investing in a separate, ergonomic mattress that suits your needs. This way, you can return it if needed, and focus on finding the perfect mattress and pillow combination.
Buying a pallet bed with built-in drawers can increase the price substantially, making it a less appealing option.
DIY and Customization
You can get creative with your pallet bed frame by choosing a style that suits your taste, such as a rustic charm or modern edge. This will guide your design choices and finishes.
To add a personal touch, consider incorporating a headboard made from pallets, or get creative with patterns and designs for a more artistic look. A footboard can also be added to give your bed frame a finished look.
You can also incorporate built-in storage compartments or drawers under your bed to maintain a clutter-free bedroom. Staining or painting your pallet bed frame can also bring out the natural beauty of the wood or allow for more color variety and creativity.
Here are some DIY pallet bed ideas to get you started:
Remember, the key to a successful DIY project is to have fun and let your creativity shine.
What Options Exist?
You can build a pallet bed in any size you need, whether it's a queen-size bed or a king-size bed. The desired lying surface depends on the size of the bedroom and your sleeping habits.
Active sleepers, for example, need more space to move around comfortably. A larger surface area can lead to a better quality of life in the bedroom.
The size of the pallet bed also affects the overall look and feel of the room, making it more homely.
Rustic Accent Wall

You can create a rustic accent wall using pallet wood, as seen in the example of a pallet wood headboard doubling as an accent wall and even accent ceiling. This unique design is a great way to add some personality to a room.
Pallet wood is a great material to work with because it's often free or low-cost and can be easily repurposed. In the case of the pallet wood headboard, two pallets standing on end were used to create a one-of-a-kind piece of furniture.
Using pallet wood for an accent wall can also add a touch of rustic charm to a room, making it perfect for a country or farmhouse-style decor. This style of decor is all about embracing the imperfections of natural materials.
By incorporating pallet wood into your accent wall design, you can create a unique and eye-catching feature that adds visual interest to the room. The pallet wood headboard and accent wall design is a great example of how to do this.
Odd Platform

The Odd Platform is a great example of how creativity can sometimes lead to unconventional designs. This pallet bed platform is a perfect illustration of that.
The varied orientation of the pallets in this design makes it stand out. It's not your typical symmetrical design, which can be a bit jarring for some people.
I've seen this type of design used in other projects, and it's amazing how it can add character to a space.
Clever Large with Built-in Lighting
You can create a clever large pallet bed with built-in lighting by stacking pallets to the desired height, leaving space for lights to shine through the gaps in the boards.
The clearance between the pallet layer and its legs provides sufficient space for lighting, making it a great design.
To make a stylish and adaptable daybed or sleeping bed, stack white-painted wooden pallets to the height you like, then add a foam mattress top for comfort.

Under-bed lighting can be installed beneath the empty spaces to create an enticing ambient glow.
You can also make a pallet bed with a lighted headboard by attaching a pallet skid with white LED lights stuffed within, creating a lovely headboard.
The pallet bed design can be customized with different lighting colors, such as blue lights, which look great against white-painted pallets.
Standard wood pallet dimensions can be found online to help you plan your project.
Durable hardware can be used to provide a strong and long-lasting bed.
Four-Post Tree
The 4-Post Tree Pallet Bed is a unique and eco-friendly option for a bedroom. It's made from pallets and features small tree trunks as the four posts.
This bed can serve as a double bed without needing extra bed frames. It's a great way to repurpose old pallets and create a one-of-a-kind piece of furniture.
You can add a thin canopy draped over the posts to give it a cozy and intimate feel. It's a simple way to add some style to your bedroom without breaking the bank.

Pallets are a low-cost and adaptable material that can be used to make a wide range of furniture items, including beds. They're perfect for DIY projects and can be stained or painted to match your home decor.
With a 4-Post Tree Pallet Bed, you can enjoy a comfortable night's sleep while also reducing waste and living more sustainably. It's a win-win!
White Painted Wheels
Painting wood pallets can make them look better, even when they're old and in rough shape.
Using large castor wheels can make it easy to move pallet furniture around.
Painting pallets can transform them into a much better piece of furniture.
DIY: Easy Wood
You can create a DIY wood pallet bed frame that's not only budget-friendly but also visually appealing. Pallets are adaptable and low-cost materials that can be used to make a wide range of furniture items, including beds.
For a more polished effect, you can paint or stain the pallets or attach lights below your DIY bed frame. This will add a touch of elegance to your rustic pallet bed.

Whether you're looking for a queen-size bed or a king-size bed, pallet beds can be built for any size. The desired lying surface usually depends on the size of the bedroom and the sleeping habits.
To find suitable pallets, you can drive around to hardware stores and ask if they have any extras. Some stores, like Canadian Tire, may even let you take pallets from the back of the building for free.
Renovating and decorating a room on a budget can force you to be creative, but with a little bit of DIY magic, you can achieve a relaxed, rustic, and bohemian vibe without breaking the bank.
Underneath Storage
Underneath storage is a game-changer for small bedrooms. With creative designs like the pallet bed with underneath crate storage, you can say goodbye to clutter concerns.
This type of storage is not only functional but also elegant, making it a great addition to any bedroom. You can quickly build a pallet bed with underneath storage using dismantled pallets.
The simplicity of the design makes it a great option for those who want to add storage without breaking the bank.
Library Headboard
A library headboard is a great way to add some personality to your bedroom. It can be created by decorating a headboard with attached open books, as seen in a two-level 8-pallet furniture platform bed.
This unique design is perfect for book lovers who want to showcase their favorite novels. You can use old books or even print out your favorite quotes to create a one-of-a-kind design.
You can also consider using a pallet bed with a library headboard, which combines functionality with a touch of whimsy. This design can be a great conversation starter in any room.
Repurposed Painted Platform
Repurposed Painted Platform beds are a great way to get creative with your bedroom decor. You can make a simple and attractive platform bed out of a couple uncut pallets and paint it whatever color fits your bedroom style.
Painting the pallets is a great way to add some personality to your bed. You can choose any color you like, from bold and bright to soft and subtle.
To assemble the bed, you'll need to align the single pallet skids together. This will form the base of your bed frame.
Adding a comfortable bed mattress is the final step in creating your repurposed painted platform bed. You're ready to go after that!
DIY Finishing Touches
If you're looking to give your DIY project a polished look, it all starts with even coats of stain, paint, or varnish. This will prevent drips and ensure a smooth finish.
Applying thin, even coats is key to achieving a professional look. It's also essential to lightly sand the surface between coats for better adhesion and a flawless finish.
Using high-quality brushes or rollers can make a big difference in the final result. These tools will help you avoid bristle marks and achieve a smooth, even finish.
Here are some tips for choosing the right brushes or rollers:
- Look for brushes or rollers with synthetic bristles, which are less likely to leave marks.
- Choose brushes or rollers with a soft, flexible edge for a smooth finish.
Customization for DIY
You can choose your style, deciding on the overall look you want for your DIY pallet bed frame. This will guide your choices in design elements and finishes.
A headboard can be a statement piece, and you can use pallets to make a simple, classic headboard, or get creative with patterns and designs for a more artistic touch.

Incorporating a footboard adds a finished look to your bed frame, and it can be matching or contrasting in style, depending on your preference.
Built-in storage is a great idea, utilizing the space under your bed by adding storage compartments or drawers. This is not only practical but also helps maintain a clutter-free bedroom.
To stain or paint your pallet bed frame, choose a color that complements your bedroom's color scheme. Staining brings out the natural beauty of the wood, while painting allows for more color variety and creativity.
Personal touches like carved initials, stenciled designs, or even upholstered sections can make the bed frame truly your own.
Here are some creative ideas to make your bed frame uniquely yours:
- Choose a stain or paint color that complements your bedroom's color scheme.
- Add a personal touch like carved initials or stenciled designs.
- Use pallets to make a simple, classic headboard or get creative with patterns and designs.
- Incorporate a footboard for a finished look.
- Utilize the space under your bed with built-in storage compartments or drawers.
Pallet Checklist and Evaluation
To build a pallet bed, you'll need to gather the right tools and materials. You'll need a drill, ink rollers, a jigsaw, a random orbit sander, chalk paint, and a chisel to cut wooden blocks and individual boards from the pallets.
A Euro pallet is the best option for building a bed, with dimensions of 120 cm x 80 cm x 15 cm. The base area is 0.96 m² and the weight is about 25 kg.
Euro pallets can be bought from various suppliers, including DIY stores and online mail-order companies. You can choose from heat-treated and chemical-free options, or untreated pallets.
What Matters?
A good pallet bed is not just about aesthetics, but also about comfort. The feeling of sleeping on a pallet is not the point, as a person spends a third of their life on a mattress.
The right thickness of the mattress is crucial to ensure that the user doesn't feel the pallet when lying down. A good mattress can make a big difference in everyday life, either by making you feel tired or refreshed.
Every person finds a different degree of firmness comfortable, so the mattress must be ergonomically adapted to the personal needs of the user. Long-term effect: The mattress should be tested in everyday use within the familiar four walls over several weeks.

Natural materials have a positive effect on the sleeping climate, making them a good choice for a pallet bed mattress. Materials define the quality of the mattress.
Ergonomically adjustable mattresses are the most effective way to find the best mattress for personal comfort. They can be varied in their degree of firmness and body support according to preference.
Pallet Checklist: What to Build a Pallet
To build a pallet bed, you'll need the right tools and materials.
You'll need Euro pallets, which come in standard dimensions: 120 cm x 80 cm x 15 cm. Their base area is 0.96 m² and they weigh about 25 kg.
A Euro pallet can carry around 1500 kg, making them sturdy enough for a bed.
You'll also need a drill, ink rollers, a jigsaw, and a random orbit sander.
Additionally, you'll need chalk paint and a chisel to cut wooden blocks and individual boards from the pallets.
Finally, you'll need a mattress to complete your pallet bed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many pallets do I need for a bed?
For a single-level bed, you'll need at least 4 pallets, depending on the bed size. Check the product details for specific pallet requirements.
Where can I get pallets for free?
You can often find free pallets at local hardware stores, construction sites, and equipment stores, as well as through online classifieds and community groups. Check with these businesses and organizations to see if they have any pallets available for free or low-cost pickup.
Is it safe to sleep on wooden pallets?
Sleeping on wooden pallets can be hazardous due to splinters and potential health risks. Consider alternative, splinter-free options for a safe and comfortable sleeping surface.
Can I make a bed from pallets?
Yes, you can make a bed from pallets, and it's a creative and eco-friendly DIY project that requires some basic preparation and assembly. Start by cleaning and arranging the pallets to create your desired bed size and style.
Featured Images: pexels.com