Are Bed Risers Safe?

As long as you install them correctly and choose the ones suited for you and your bed, bed risers are very safe. Also, elevating your bed has many health benefits and can significantly improve your quality of life and sleep.

Raising your bed to the correct height for you makes it easier to get in and out of bed. This is especially important for older sleepers who can’t lower themselves into a low bed or climb into a high bed anymore.

Finding the proper risers for your bed depends on what kind of bed you have, how high you need to raise your bed, and how much weight is placed on the risers.

When Are Bed Risers Unsafe?

Bed risers can be a practical solution for elevating your bed to create storage space or adjust its height, but they can become unsafe in certain situations. Understanding these risks and taking the necessary precautions is essential to maintain stability and prevent accidents.

1. Mismatch Between Bed Frame and Riser

One of the most common safety issues arises when the bed frame legs do not fit securely into the risers. If the risers are too large or too small for the legs, the bed may wobble, tilt, or even collapse under pressure. This mismatch is particularly dangerous for sleepers who move frequently during the night, as the instability increases the risk of injury.

To avoid this, always measure the dimensions of your bed frame legs and compare them with the riser’s specifications before making a purchase. Choosing risers with adjustable or universal fit designs can also help ensure a snug and stable connection.

2. Exceeding Weight Capacity

Every set of bed risers has a maximum weight capacity that includes the combined weight of the bed frame, mattress, bedding, and sleepers. Overloading risers, especially those made of lightweight plastic, can cause them to crack or collapse, potentially leading to serious accidents.

To mitigate this risk, it’s crucial to check the weight rating of the risers and choose ones made from durable materials such as solid wood, metal, or heavy-duty plastic. For heavier beds, opt for risers explicitly labeled as “heavy-duty.”

3. Unstable Surface

Bed risers can become unstable when placed on uneven or slippery surfaces, such as carpets with deep piles or hardwood floors without traction. An unstable surface may cause the bed to tilt or slide, increasing the risk of collapse.

To ensure stability, always install risers on flat, even flooring. If the surface is prone to slipping, consider using anti-slip pads or mats beneath the risers to keep them firmly in place.

4. Using Damaged or Poor-Quality Risers

The structural integrity of bed risers plays a significant role in their safety. Cracked, chipped, or worn risers can compromise their ability to support the bed’s weight. Poor-quality risers, particularly those made from low-grade plastic, are more prone to breaking under stress.

To avoid these issues, inspect your risers regularly for signs of damage and replace them if needed. Investing in risers made from high-quality materials will ensure long-term durability and safety.

5. Improper Installation

Installing bed risers incorrectly can lead to uneven weight distribution, making the bed wobbly or unstable. For instance, if one riser is not aligned properly with the others, it can cause the bed to tilt.

Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions during installation and ensure that each riser is properly aligned and securely placed. Taking the time to double-check the stability of the setup can prevent accidents down the line.

6. Over-Stacking Adjustable or Stackable Risers

While adjustable or stackable risers offer flexibility in bed height, using too many stacked pieces can create a top-heavy setup that is prone to tipping. This is especially dangerous if the bed is frequently used for sitting or standing.

To prevent this, adhere to the manufacturer’s recommended stacking limit. If you require a significant height increase, consider switching to taller, single-piece risers instead of stacking multiple units.

7. Moving or Pushing the Bed

Moving a bed with risers can cause them to shift or dislodge, especially if the bed frame has wheels or casters. This movement can compromise the stability of the entire setup. To avoid accidents, refrain from pushing or pulling the bed once the risers are installed. If the bed needs to be relocated, remove the risers first and reinstall them after the move.

8. Inclined or Sloped Risers Misuse

Inclined bed risers, often used for medical purposes, are designed to elevate only one side of the bed. Using them incorrectly, such as on all four corners, can create an unsteady surface.

This setup may cause the mattress to slide or tilt unexpectedly. To use inclined risers safely, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and ensure the mattress is securely anchored to prevent shifting.

9. Children or Pets Climbing the Bed

The extra height added by risers can make beds less accessible for children and pets, increasing the risk of falls or injuries during climbing. Additionally, playful or active behavior on a bed with risers can strain the setup, leading to instability.

In households with young children or pets, it’s important to prioritize safety by choosing risers with a broad, stable base and discouraging rough activities on the bed.

10. Misuse of Materials

The material of the risers plays a critical role in their safety. Lightweight or low-quality plastic risers are not suitable for heavy-duty applications and can crack under stress.

For beds with substantial weight, such as those with thick mattresses or multiple occupants, it’s essential to choose risers made from robust materials like reinforced metal or solid wood. This ensures they can handle the load without compromising safety.

Different Kinds of Bed Risers

There are many different types of beds, which means there are several different types of risers. Risers are made from a variety of materials, including plastic, wood, rubber, and metal.

There are also a variety of ways these risers are designed and installed. The best set of bed risers for you are sturdy and fit your bed frame.

We recommend buying risers in sets whenever possible. This ensures they are the same size and height, preventing your bed from being at a tilt.

Below we cover the three most common kinds of bed risers and explain the pros and cons of each. The three varieties below are made out of a range of materials and each has different height options.

a. Screw-In Bed Risers

Screw-in bed risers are designed to replace the legs the bed initially had. You install these by unscrewing the original legs, then screwing in the taller bed risers. These screw-in versions are most often solid wood bed risers. This version is sturdy and easy to install.

b. Stackable Bed Risers

This type of bed riser got its name because you can stack each riser on top of each other when you aren’t using them. To install, place one riser under each of the legs of your bed frame. They have a broad base that tapers to a size that fits the legs of your bed.

As long as the legs of the bed frame fit snugly into the risers, this is a very safe and secure way to increase the height of the bed.

c. Adjustable Bed Risers

For sleepers who need to raise or lower the height of their bed, adjustable bed risers are a great fit. They look similar to stackable risers, with a broad base to provide stability. Unlike the stackable risers, a set of these risers has eight pieces, not just four.

The first set of four pieces are the base pieces, and each has a broad bottom. The second set of four pieces fit securely into the four base pieces, giving you the option of increasing your bed’s height if necessary.

With adjustable risers, the material they are made of is essential. We recommend avoiding plastic versions unless the plastic is very heavy-duty and has a high weight rating.

d. Clamp-On Bed Risers

Clamp-on bed risers attach directly to the legs of your bed frame using a clamp mechanism. These risers are ideal for frames without standard legs or for adding height without removing or replacing existing legs. They provide a secure fit and can often support substantial weight. However, installation may require careful adjustment to ensure a snug and stable fit.

e. Inclined Bed Risers

Inclined risers are designed to elevate just one side of the bed, creating an angle. These risers are often used for medical purposes, such as relieving acid reflux or improving circulation. They are usually made of heavy-duty materials to ensure stability. Be cautious, as the incline might shift the mattress slightly if not securely placed.

f. Under-Bed Storage Risers

These risers are designed specifically for creating space underneath the bed for storage. They often include built-in compartments or shelving, adding functionality beyond simple elevation. These risers are perfect for dorm rooms or small apartments where maximizing storage is essential.

h. L-Shaped or Corner Risers

These risers are crafted to fit snugly around the corners of bed frames, providing added support and stability. They are often made of metal or reinforced wood and are ideal for heavier frames or beds with unusual leg designs. Their shape ensures a tight fit and prevents sliding.

i. Caster-Friendly Bed Risers

If your bed frame has wheels or casters, caster-friendly risers are a perfect choice. These risers have grooves or recessed areas that securely hold the casters in place, preventing movement. They are often made of rubber or high-friction material to keep the bed steady.

j. Heavy-Duty Bed Risers

Heavy-duty risers are specifically designed for larger or heavier beds, such as king-size frames or beds with thick mattresses. These risers are usually made of metal or reinforced materials like solid wood and can handle significantly more weight than standard risers.

k. Decorative Bed Risers

For those who prioritize aesthetics, decorative bed risers offer both function and style. These risers come in various designs, such as carved wood or ornate metal, blending seamlessly with bedroom décor while adding height. They’re an excellent choice for luxury or themed bedrooms.

Choosing Bed Risers for Your Bed Frame

When picking bed risers, it’s essential to assess the unique requirements of your bed frame. Different frames come with varying compatibility and weight-bearing capacities. Here’s how to select the perfect bed risers:

• Consult the Manufacturer: Contact the bed frame manufacturer for advice on which bed risers work best with their frames and any specific weight limitations.
• Assess Weight Capacity: Factor in the combined weight of the bed frame, mattress, occupants, and other items. Opt for risers designed to handle the total load safely and stably.
• Evaluate Material and Design: Look for durable materials that ensure stability and features like anti-slip pads or rubber feet to prevent movement.
• Measure Frame Legs: Accurately measure the bed frame legs to ensure the risers fit securely, minimizing the risk of instability.

DIY Bed Risers: Are They Worth the Risk?

While crafting DIY bed risers might save money, they may not be the safest option. Before taking this route, consider these crucial factors:

• Height Uniformity: All risers must be the same height to maintain bed stability.
• Unverified Weight Capacity: DIY risers may lack tested weight limits, increasing the risk of failure under excessive load.
• Lack of Locking Mechanisms: Without proper locks, the bed frame might slide off, posing injury risks.

For safety and durability, investing in high-quality bed risers from trusted manufacturers is generally a better choice.

Determining the Perfect Bed Height

Finding the ideal bed height is vital for comfort and ease of use. Here’s what to consider:

• Comfortable Sitting Position: When sitting on the edge of the bed, your feet should rest flat on the floor, and your knees should align with your hips.
• Height Alignment: Your mattress should be at knee height when standing beside the bed, ensuring effortless access.
• Health Needs: For conditions like arthritis or mobility challenges, a higher bed may reduce strain and enhance accessibility.
• Frame Recommendations: Follow the manufacturer’s height guidelines to ensure ergonomic and safety standards are met.

Are Adjustable Beds Alternative To Bed Risers?

Adjustable beds provide a flexible solution for modifying your bed’s height and position. These beds come with several benefits:

• Customizable Elevation: Adjust the mattress height to suit individual needs, offering relief for conditions like acid reflux or sleep apnea.
• Enhanced Comfort: Multiple positions support activities like reading or sleeping, ensuring optimal relaxation.
• Additional Features: Many models include perks like massage settings, USB ports, or under-bed lighting.

Though adjustable beds offer unmatched versatility, they are more expensive than bed risers. Carefully evaluate your budget and requirements before making a decision.

Using Mattress Toppers for Added Height

If you want to increase your bed’s height while enhancing comfort, mattress toppers are an excellent option. While not designed specifically for height adjustment, they can add a few inches. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Thickness Options: Choose toppers with the desired thickness, typically ranging from 1 to 3 inches.
• Material and Comfort: Select a topper that aligns with your comfort preferences, such as cooling features or extra plushness.
• Compatibility: Ensure the topper fits snugly on your mattress without sliding or shifting.

For significant height adjustments or medical requirements, bed risers or adjustable beds remain more suitable options.

Lofted Bed Frames: Maximizing Space and Utility

Lofted bed frames elevate your bed, creating extra storage or functional space beneath. This can be particularly useful in small rooms. Consider the following:

• Safety First: Look for frames with guardrails and sturdy ladders, especially for children or individuals with mobility challenges.
• Weight Capacity: Ensure the frame supports the combined weight of the mattress, occupants, and stored items.
• Space Efficiency: Evaluate your room’s dimensions to confirm the lofted frame fits seamlessly into your layout.

A lofted bed frame offers a creative way to optimize limited space, but always prioritize safety and sturdiness when making your choice.

Bed Riser Safety for Different Bed Frames

If you have a bunk bed or a platform bed, the safety procedures are different from standard bed frame sizes and dimensions. So let’s take a closer look at these different bed styles and how you can safely use risers with each of them.

1. Bunk Beds

Because the dimensions and sizes of bunk beds are taller and less steady than a standard bed frame, choosing the proper risers for them is incredibly vital. A sturdy foundation is fundamental, so look for risers made of metal or solid wood. Also, make sure your risers have a broad base and the legs of the bed frame fit securely in the top of the risers.

2. Platform Beds

Platform beds are usually lower to the ground than standard bed frames, so bed risers don’t pose much risk for them. However, it is still important to find risers that are well suited to this frame.

Screw-in risers are the best choice for a platform bed: they are aesthetically pleasing and secure. Adjustable or stackable risers would work with this frame, as long as they are the right size and are made of sturdy materials.

3. Canopy Beds

Canopy beds are elegant and often have unique frames that may make using bed risers a bit trickier. To safely use risers with a canopy bed, prioritize stability and balance.

Since these beds often have taller posts, ensure the risers are made from durable materials like solid wood or metal and have a wide, stable base. Adjustable risers can work well, but double-check the weight limit to accommodate the heavier frame of a canopy bed.

4. Adjustable Beds

Adjustable beds require special care when choosing bed risers, as the frame must remain stable while the head or foot of the bed moves. Look for risers specifically designed for adjustable bases, as they often have secure slots to hold the legs of the bed frame firmly.

Rubberized or slip-resistant materials are excellent choices to prevent movement, and make sure the risers are compatible with the unique weight distribution of an adjustable bed.

5. Daybeds

Daybeds combine seating and sleeping functions, so the frame must be extra sturdy when using risers. Opt for risers made of reinforced plastic, metal, or hardwood that can support the dual-purpose design.

Ensure the risers fit securely under the legs of the daybed and have a non-slip base to prevent movement, especially if the daybed will be used frequently for sitting or sleeping.

6. Trundle Beds

Trundle beds often include a lower, pull-out frame underneath the main bed. If you’re adding risers to the primary bed, ensure the added height doesn’t interfere with the trundle’s ability to slide in and out smoothly.

Low-profile risers made of durable materials work best. Double-check that the risers allow sufficient clearance for the trundle and that the bed remains stable during use.

What to Consider When Shopping for Bed Risers?

We’ve seen how the different styles of risers and beds affect your safety. Now, let’s take a look at what else you need to consider while shopping for bed risers. The three primary considerations are:

• Mattress size
• Bed height
• Weight capacity

Once you understand these aspects of your bed frame, finding the perfect set of risers should be easy!

1. Bed Size

The larger the bed size, the sturdier the risers have to be because they have to carry more weight. King size mattresses and larger beds may require six risers instead of four because the frame needs center supports. For big beds especially, it is crucial to invest in risers made of sturdy materials that can support large amounts of weight.

2. Bed Height

Increasing your bed height can be helpful if you’re an older person or living with a condition like arthritis and want to slide more easily out of bed.

How much higher do you want your bed frame? If you need to increase your bed’s height by 6 inches, a 3-inch riser set won’t be tall enough. Keep in mind that the taller the riser, the less steady the bed frame becomes.

3. Weight Capacity

Some materials aren’t sturdy enough to bear heavy weights for extended periods. So when looking for risers, it’s vital to pay attention to their weight limit and what materials they are. The best materials for risers are metal, heavy-duty plastics, and wood.

4. Floor Type

The type of flooring in your room plays a significant role in the stability and functionality of your bed risers. For rooms with hardwood, tile, or laminate floors, it’s essential to choose risers with rubberized or non-slip bottoms to prevent the bed from sliding or scratching the floor.

These features not only protect your floors but also enhance safety by keeping the bed stable. For carpeted floors, risers with a broad base are crucial as they help distribute the weight evenly and prevent the risers from sinking into the carpet. Taking floor type into account ensures a stable and secure setup, no matter the surface.

5. Adjustable Features

If you’re unsure about how much height your bed needs, risers with adjustable or stackable designs are a fantastic option.

These risers allow you to customize the height incrementally, offering flexibility for various purposes like creating extra storage space or adjusting the bed’s height for ergonomic reasons.

Adjustable risers are especially helpful in multi-functional spaces or for growing children, as they adapt to changing needs. When selecting these, check for secure stacking mechanisms to avoid instability at higher configurations.

6. Aesthetic Appeal

While functionality is important, bed risers can also influence the visual appeal of your room.

Consider risers that match or complement your bed frame and room decor for a cohesive look. Wooden risers, for example, pair beautifully with rustic or traditional furniture, adding warmth and charm to the space.

For a sleek, modern bedroom, metal or plastic risers with a minimalist design may be a better fit. Some risers come in various colors or finishes, allowing you to find a style that blends seamlessly into your bedroom’s aesthetic while maintaining their practicality.

7. Ease of Installation

Not all bed risers are created equal when it comes to setup. Some are designed for quick and easy placement under the legs of the bed, making them a great choice for people who want a hassle-free installation.

Others, like screw-in risers, may require tools and extra effort but offer enhanced stability and a more permanent solution.

Consider how often you may need to adjust or move the risers when selecting a type. If portability or frequent rearrangement is a factor, opt for risers that are lightweight and simple to install while still providing the necessary support.

8. Mobility Needs

For those who frequently move or rearrange furniture, lightweight and portable risers are a practical choice. These risers can be easily transported and repositioned, making them ideal for people who relocate often or enjoy switching up their bedroom layout.

However, mobility should not compromise durability—ensure the risers can handle the bed’s weight and remain stable during use. Look for risers with handles or stackable designs for added convenience when moving them from one room to another.

9. Storage Considerations

If you’re adding risers to create extra storage space under your bed, it’s essential to measure the available space and your intended storage items before purchasing. Consider the height of storage bins, boxes, or containers and ensure the risers provide sufficient clearance.

Risers can transform the space under your bed into a functional storage area for out-of-season clothes, bedding, or other items. Choose risers that not only lift your bed to the desired height but also accommodate the specific dimensions of the storage solutions you plan to use.

Things Not to Do for Extra Bed Height

While increasing your bed height can be practical, it’s equally important to avoid certain methods that may compromise safety or durability. Here are the key things to avoid.

1. Avoid Using Non-Specialized Items as Risers

It might be tempting to use household items like books, bricks, or cinder blocks as makeshift risers.

However, these items are not designed to bear the weight of a bed frame and mattress and can lead to serious safety hazards.

They may crack, shift, or collapse under pressure, causing the bed to become unstable. Always invest in purpose-built bed risers that are tested for durability and designed to handle weight distribution properly.

2. Don’t Stack Risers Beyond Their Limit

While stackable risers offer versatility, over-stacking them to achieve excessive height can significantly reduce their stability. Most risers have a recommended height or number of stacks; exceeding this limit increases the risk of tipping or collapsing. If you need extra height, opt for taller risers specifically designed for higher elevation rather than over-stacking multiple smaller ones.

3. Never Ignore Weight Capacity

One of the most critical aspects of bed risers is their weight capacity. Using risers that cannot support the weight of your bed frame, mattress, and occupants is a recipe for disaster.

Overloading the risers can lead to cracks, instability, and even accidents. Always check the manufacturer’s weight guidelines and choose risers made from sturdy materials like metal, reinforced plastic, or hardwood.

4. Avoid Uneven Placement

Placing risers unevenly under the bed legs can lead to a lopsided frame, making it uncomfortable and unsafe. This is especially true for larger beds, which may require center supports in addition to risers for the four corners.

Always ensure that all risers are of equal height and securely placed to maintain an even and stable bed surface.

5. Don’t Skip Checking Floor Compatibility

Using risers on incompatible flooring, such as smooth tiles or hardwood, without anti-slip features can result in the bed sliding or shifting during use. This not only compromises safety but may also damage your flooring.

Always choose risers with rubberized or non-slip bases for slippery surfaces and ensure they are compatible with your specific floor type.

6. Avoid Modifying the Bed Frame

Altering your bed frame to fit risers, such as sawing off legs or drilling holes, can weaken the structural integrity of the frame. Such modifications void most warranties and may lead to long-term damage.

If your frame doesn’t fit standard risers, consider custom risers or adjustable-height beds instead of altering the original frame.

7. Don’t Ignore Safety Features

Some risers come with built-in safety features like locking mechanisms or anti-slip surfaces. Ignoring these features when purchasing risers can result in reduced stability and increased risk of accidents.

Prioritize risers with added safety features, especially if the bed is for children, elderly individuals, or heavy use.

8. Don’t Stack Mattresses

Stacking multiple mattresses to increase bed height may seem like a quick solution, but it’s far from safe or practical. Mattresses are not designed to provide structural support for one another, and stacking them can lead to uneven weight distribution, making the bed wobbly and unsafe.

Additionally, stacked mattresses can slide against each other, increasing the risk of injury during use. If you need more height, focus on solutions like risers or taller box springs instead of compromising the integrity of your sleep surface.

9. Don’t Stack Box Springs

Similar to mattresses, stacking box springs is not a safe method for increasing bed height. Box springs are designed to support the mattress, not to be piled on top of each other. Stacked box springs can become unstable and pose a risk of tipping or collapsing, especially under heavy weight.

This method can also damage the box springs themselves, reducing their lifespan and supportiveness. Instead, opt for a single high-profile box spring or use risers to safely elevate your bed frame.

Pros and Cons of Bed Risers

Pros

• Increased Storage Space
  Bed risers elevate your bed, creating additional space underneath. This is perfect for storing bins, boxes, or seasonal items, especially in smaller bedrooms where storage is limited.
• Improved Accessibility
  Raising the bed height can make it easier for individuals with mobility issues, such as seniors or people with arthritis, to get in and out of bed.
• Customizable Height
  Adjustable or stackable bed risers allow you to modify your bed’s height based on your needs, whether for storage, aesthetics, or accessibility.
• Cost-Effective Solution
  Compared to purchasing a new bed frame or furniture, bed risers are an affordable way to enhance the functionality of your existing setup.
• Versatility
  Bed risers come in various styles and materials, making them compatible with different bed frames, including platform beds, bunk beds, and standard frames.
• Improved Air Circulation
  Elevating the bed can enhance air circulation around and under the mattress, reducing the risk of moisture buildup and mold growth.
• Temporary and Non-Permanent
  Bed risers can be easily removed or adjusted, making them ideal for renters or individuals who frequently move.

Cons

• Reduced Stability
  Improperly installed risers or those not designed for your bed frame can make the bed less stable, posing safety risks like tipping or collapsing.
• Weight Limitations
  Some risers, especially those made of plastic, may not support heavier mattresses or larger bed frames, such as king or queen-sized beds.
• Aesthetic Concerns
  Bed risers may not blend seamlessly with your room’s decor, especially if they’re visible and clash with the bed frame’s design or material.
• Compatibility Issues
  Certain bed frames, like those with unique leg designs or non-standard sizes, may not fit securely into standard risers.
• Potential Floor Damage
  If risers lack anti-slip or protective bottoms, they may scratch hardwood floors or cause dents in softer surfaces like carpet.
• Difficulty with Tall Beds
  Over-elevating a bed can make it difficult to climb in and out, especially for shorter individuals or children, and may require an additional step stool.
• Noise and Movement
  Elevated beds on risers may creak or shift more than a bed on a standard frame, particularly if the risers are not securely placed or are of poor quality.

FAQs

How high should your bed be off the floor?

The best height for your bed frame depends on the height of the sleeper. You can find out if your bed frame is the right height for you by sitting down on the edge of your bed with your feet resting flat on the floor. If your knees are level with your hips, your bed is a good height for you.

However, if your knees are higher or lower than the level of your hips, your bed frame is not the right height. An excellent standard bed frame height for most sleepers is between 16 and 24 inches.

Can you put a bed frame with wheels on risers?

There are bed risers specially designed for bed frames with wheels. These risers have a rectangular top instead of a square top—this allows the wheel to fit snugly into the riser.

For those wanting to increase the height of their bed frame on wheels, it is vital to find risers explicitly made for this kind of bed frame. Do not make do with just any set of risers.

Can you use bed risers without a frame?

It is not a good idea to use bed risers without a bed frame. The main reason for this is that there is nowhere to secure the risers without a frame. For instance, if you place risers under the four corners of your box spring, the risers may shift as you get in and out of bed or as you shift positions at night. To be safe, secure the risers directly to your bed or bed frame.

Can you use bed risers with a headboard?

You can use bed risers to increase the height of your headboard. This works best with free-standing headboards—this means your headboard is not directly attached to the bed frame. Simply find risers that are compatible with your headboard and bring the frame to your desired height.

How many risers do you need for a king-size bed?

King beds are quite large and heavy, meaning they need more support than smaller beds. Therefore, most king beds require six bed risers instead of four.

First, place a riser at each corner of the bed. Then place two more towards the middle of the mattress, each between the centerline and the edges. The extra risers fully support the weight of the mattress and create a stable base.

Are Bed Risers the Right Choice for You?

Sleepers who have beds that are too short for them should consider getting bed risers. Having a tall enough bed for your height is easier on your joints and improves your overall sleep quality.

Another reason to consider investing in a set of risers is it creates additional storage space under your bed. This is especially valuable if you are in a dorm room or just have a small room in general. As long as you purchase bed risers that are appropriate for your bed style and install them correctly, risers are a very safe solution to having a bed frame that is too short for you.