5 Methods to Lift Up a Sleigh Bed and Raise It

Sleigh beds can be gorgeous focal points in almost any type of bedroom, but they are not always suitable for small apartments. Many simply lack the storage space other types of beds may offer. Buying a storage sleigh bed is an excellent way to make the most of your bedroom space, but you can also consider lifting up your sleigh bed to create under-the-bed storage. If you want to make your sleigh bed higher to get in and out of it more easily, or you need extra storage space, we have got you covered. Here are some quick and easy tips to lift up a sleigh bed and raise it.

To lift up a sleigh bed use bed risers, a box spring, a bed lift, or install a mattress topper. To raise a sleigh bed about 3-15 inches, use bed risers, or a mattress topper. To raise a sleigh bed about 4-9 inches, insert a box spring under your mattress.

It is also possible to raise the mattress on a sleigh bed, without increasing storage space, which can benefit those who don’t want to sleep close to the floor or who struggle with back and knee issues. Read our guide on raising the height of a memory foam mattress for steps to elevate your mattress.

There are also some sleigh beds designed specifically with storage compartments, and these can be ideal for small bedrooms that don’t have enough storage space. Read our article on tips to use a sleigh bed in a small apartment for more space-saving ideas.

Use bed risers to lift up a sleigh bed and raise it

Can You Raise a Sleigh Bed?

If your mattress is not a comfortable height for you, or if you want to raise the bed frame to create storage space under the bed, there are various simple techniques you can try that don’t require too much effort. Sleigh beds are not usually an exception to this, although some sleigh bed designs can limit your options. If it is not comfortable getting into your sleigh bed at its current height or the under-the-bed space is inconvenient to access, you can lift up your bed to increase its height.

It is possible to raise a sleigh bed by either lifting up the entire bed or raising just the mattress. Raise the sleigh bed mattress by using a box spring or mattress topper to make it easier to get in and out of bed. Lift up the entire bed using bed risers or a bed lift to create a storage area under the bed.

It all depends on why you need to raise your sleigh bed. If you just want to increase the height of your sleigh bed to make it easier for you to get in and out of bed, raising the mattress will work just fine. You can put a box spring under the mattress, increase the height of the mattress with a mattress topper, or use bed risers. On the other hand, if you want to create a storage area under the bed, you need to lift the whole bed up. In this case, you can use sleigh bed risers or their alternatives. You can also use mechanical bed lifts to access the area under the mattress platform to transform your sleigh bed into a storage sleigh bed. Note that this will not increase the height of the sleigh bed. It will just add some storage space to it.

When raising the sleigh bed mattress, you should also pay attention to the height of the headboard and footboard. Read our sleigh bed height guide to learn more about the various heights of different sleigh bed designs. If you raise the mattress too much, you may hide the attractive features of your sleigh bed components—the very things that made your sleigh bed aesthetically pleasing in the first place. When raising the mattress height, make sure the result is proportionally balanced and the headboard and footboard of your sleigh bed are not hidden.

Whether you have decided to raise your mattress or lift up the entire sleigh bed, you should always keep safety factors in mind. If your sleigh bed becomes too high, it might no longer be convenient to get in and out of it, and you might injure yourself. Injuries from falling out of bed are especially common in younger children, so make sure their sleigh beds are at an appropriate height. This article from PMC Europe discusses the likelihood of injuries to children when they fall out of bed.

Method 1. Bed Risers

Bed risers are commonly used when a bed is not high enough for an individual to get in and out of it easily or when there is not enough space in a bedroom to store essential belongings.

Use bed risers to lift up a sleigh bed and create storage space underneath. Bed risers are supportive structures that can be attached under the legs of a sleigh bed. There are three main types of sleigh bed risers, screw-in bed risers, stackable bed risers, and adjustable bed risers. Sleigh bed risers can raise the entire sleigh bed by 3-15 inches.

Stackable bed risers to lift up sleigh beds

Although the main use for bed risers is to lift the bed up to provide easier movement in and out of the bed, bed risers that are relatively high can be used to add extra storage space under the bed.

To use screw-in bed risers, you will need to remove sleigh bed legs first and replace them with these bed risers. Screw-in bed risers like these from Amazon are attached directly onto the sleigh bed frame.

Stackable bed risers are placed under each sleigh bed leg. They have a broader base than the original sleigh bed legs and provide a solid and stable foundation for the bed. These stackable bed risers are heavy-duty and anti-slip so they won’t damage your floors.

Adjustable sleigh bed risers come with a couple of height options that allows you to modify the height of your sleigh bed whenever needed. These adjustable bed risers can increase the height of your sleigh bed by up to 12-inches. Increasing your sleigh bed height with bed risers is a win-win situation because you not only lift up your bed but also create under-the-bed storage.

Although sleigh bed risers are convenient to use, you should assess their safety based on the design of your sleigh bed. Consider various factors, such as the structure, weight, and design of your sleigh bed before you raise your bed with bed risers. Keep in mind that taller bed risers (10-inches and above) can be more dangerous than shorter options and you should be cautious when using them. For some safety tips on how to use different types of bed risers, read our comprehensive bed riser safety guide.

Method 2. Make a Mattress Higher With a Box Spring

Many people have difficulty getting in and out of a bed that is too low. For these people, raising the mattress of their sleigh bed can provide immense relief. Others simply enjoy having a bed that is higher. After certain types of surgery, it is beneficial and assists the patient’s recovery if the bed is raised. This article from The National Library of Medicine explains how elevating a bed improves comfort and recovery in post-operative patients.

Adding a box spring can raise the mattress on a sleigh bed from four to nine inches. To raise a mattress on a sleigh bed, choose a low-profile box spring. To raise a mattress further, use a standard box spring that is seven to nine inches tall. Note that using a box spring will not add any storage space to a sleigh bed.

Add a box spring to raise a sleigh bed mattress

A box spring is a type of mattress foundation that supports the mattress and offers a stable surface to sleep on. Box springs absorb motion and are ideal for pressure point relief and weight distribution. Although the primary purpose of a box spring is to provide support for a mattress, it can also be used to raise the mattress up to a more convenient and comfortable height.

Box springs are typically made of a sturdy wooden frame with springs inside and then entirely wrapped in fabric. Box springs are placed directly on top of the bed frame mattress platform and are used in tandem with the same-sized mattress.

Traditional sleigh beds are typically built like a box, meaning that they already have a platform that supports the mattress. In such cases, there is no need to use a box spring, as we explain in our article about whether you need a box spring for a sleigh bed. However, sleigh beds with no platform which have a slatted support system do require a box spring to support the mattress. In either case, you can choose to use a box spring to raise your mattress.

Our article about choosing a suitable box spring height explains that your choices about what box spring suits your needs also depends on the height of your sleigh bed headboard and footboard. When selecting a box spring, make sure that it is not so thick that the headboard will be hidden once the mattress is added on top. A sleigh bed footboard is almost always shorter than the headboard—their heights are often overlooked when choosing the thickness of the box spring and mattress. Our sleigh bed dimensions guide is a handy resource that will help you determine what mattress and box spring will compliment your sleigh bed. Keep in mind that you can also adjust the height of the bed by using a thinner or thicker mattress on top of your box spring.

Method 3. Use Bed Lifts to Make A Storage Sleigh Bed

While bed lifts do not alter the overall height of a sleigh bed, they are ideal for adding storage right under the mattress. Lift-up storage sleigh beds are among the best bed options for small apartments and bedrooms that lack storage space.

Bed lifts can be used to add accessible storage space under the mattress platform of a sleigh bed. They do not increase the height of a sleigh bed, but they do make it easy to access the empty space under the bed.

Bed lifts can be installed to add storage space under a sleigh bed

Although lift-up storage sleigh beds are available in various furniture stores and online shops, you can also make your own storage sleigh bed using bed lifts. If you are good at woodworking, you can DIY your own lift-up storage sleigh bed with the use of a lift kit like this one. However, you can also refer to a professional woodworker to have bed lifts installed flawlessly.

Our guide to choosing the right sleigh bed lift kit has detailed information about the ways you can lift your bed. Hydraulic bed lifts offer easy access to storage space underneath the mattress of your sleigh bed because the lift mechanisms help to raise the heavy mattress effortlessly. Ottoman bed lifts also enable you to create hidden storage space under your sleigh bed mattress. The lifting mechanism of an ottoman sleigh bed is similar to those in hydraulic sleigh beds. Last but not least, pull-up bed lifts have an integrated lift-up mechanism that is made of a gas piston and spring system. Such bed lifts also prevent back strain as they are easy to pull up and down.

Method 4. Use a Mattress Topper

A mattress topper is the easiest way to slightly increase the height of the mattress on a sleigh bed. With the wide variety of mattress toppers available, there are ones to suit every budget, and they are easy to install.

A mattress topper can increase the height of the mattress on a sleigh bed by 2-4 inches. It improves the comfort level of the mattress but does not add storage space to the sleigh bed.

Add a mattress topper to increase the height of a sleigh bed sleep surface

If you want to increase the height of your sleigh bed by just a couple of inches—about two to four inches—consider using a mattress topper. You can even find extra-thick mattress toppers that will raise the mattress by five inches or more. Simply select the suitable material, density, and thickness of your mattress topper, and you are ready to go. Our mattress topper density guide will help you choose the right mattress topper for your specific needs.

Along with increasing the mattress height, a mattress topper offers extra cushioning, comfort, and support for your entire body. Mattress toppers are especially useful for those suffering from pains and aches in various body parts, including the back, shoulders, and hips. Our ultimate guide covers the many different types of mattress toppers, so you can easily select the right one specifically for you.

Mattress toppers, like this one from Amazon, prolong the lifespan of a mattress, delaying your need to replace the mattress. Instead of purchasing a new mattress, you can simply get a new mattress topper once in a while to keep your bed fresh and comfy.

Method 5. Use Alternatives Such As Cinder Blocks or Wooden Pallets

Perhaps you don’t need to raise the mattress and the conventional methods of raising your sleigh bed are not suitable. You might want to consider an alternative way to raise the bed to the height that you want.

Sleigh bed riser alternatives can raise a sleigh bed by almost any height, depending on what you put under the bed. Bookshelves or dressers, cinder blocks, and wooden pallets are just a few of the possible alternatives.

Although commercial bed risers are convenient to use and create storage space right underneath a sleigh bed, they might not always be aesthetically pleasing. Since sleigh beds feature lovely curves, scrolls, and various ornaments, those plastic bed risers are not always suitable. Instead, you might want to consider ordering custom-made bed risers to match the overall design of your sleigh bed. There are also other alternatives to using regular sleigh bed risers, including bookshelves, dressers, cinder blocks, and wooden pallets.

If you want to lift up your sleigh bed and use the space under it as a storage area, you could consider putting your sleigh bed on top of bookshelves, like these, or dressers, provided that the bed is designed in a way to allow raising it in this way. Whatever is used to support the bed needs to be extremely stable, well-made, evenly matched, and firmly secured to support the bed safely. In this way, you can increase the overall height of your sleigh bed and get additional shelves or drawers right under your bed.

Cinder blocks can be used as your sleigh bed risers, but you might not get enough storage space under the bed. You can store some of your belongings in the open spaces of individual cinder blocks. Keep in mind that this option will not be suitable for traditional ornate sleigh beds. Using cinder blocks as your sleigh bed risers is a budget-friendly option, whether as a temporary or a permanent solution.

Last but not least, you can put your sleigh bed on top of some wooden pallets. Although you will not get storage space under the bed, this is an easy way to lift up your entire sleigh bed. Wooden pallets are not that expensive and you can always repurpose them if you no longer want to raise your sleigh bed. Wooden pallets would be most suitable for minimalist or Nordic-style sleigh beds like this one from Amazon.

If you are curious about exploring some other bed riser alternatives, read our guide to bed riser alternatives and learn how to raise a bed with them.

Summary of Different Methods to Raise a Sleigh Bed

Methods of Raising a Sleigh Bed	How Much Can It Raise a Sleigh Bed?	Advantages / Disadvantages	Example from Amazon	Price
Sleigh Bed Risers	3-15 inches	Advantages: Sleigh bed risers are inexpensive and come in a variety of height and style options. Bed risers increase the overall height of a sleigh bed and add storage space under the bed. Disadvantages: If not used properly, sleigh bed risers can be dangerous, especially for younger children. Besides, regular bed risers do not match the overall look of a sleigh bed. You might have to invest in custom-made sleigh bed risers to match the sleigh bed design.	Home-it Adjustable Bed Risers	~$15
Box Spring	4-9 inches	Advantages: A box spring increases the height of a mattress and makes it easier to get in and out of the sleigh bed. A box spring also provides a solid foundation for a mattress and offers sturdy support for your body. Disadvantages: Using a box spring will not lift up the entire sleigh bed, so you will not get added storage area under the bed. Box springs may be quite expensive.	ZINUS Smart Metal Box Spring	~$85
Bed Lifts	Will not raise a sleigh bed	Advantages: Bed lift mechanisms can be used to create hidden storage under the mattress platform. Bed lifts make it possible to access the storage without too much effort. Disadvantages: Bed lifts need to be installed correctly, and you might need to hire professionals to do it. Bed lifts will not raise the sleigh bed itself.	ECLV Hydraulic Bed Lift Mechanisms	~$30
Mattress Topper	2-4 inches	Advantages: Mattress toppers are affordable and provide extra comfort for the sleeper. A mattress topper can raise the mattress by just a couple of inches simply by putting it on top of any mattress. Disadvantages: A mattress topper will not significantly increase the height of your sleigh bed. It will not add storage space or lift up the entire sleigh bed.	Linenspa Gel Infused Memory Foam Mattress Topper	~$45
Sleigh Bed Riser Alternatives	6-15 inches	Advantages: Sleigh bed riser alternatives, such as bookshelves or dressers, lift up the entire sleigh bed, and can provide lots of extra storage shelves and drawers underneath the bed. With careful selection, old furniture can be repurposed to raise a sleigh, for an affordable solution. With creativity, these alternatives can make your bed truly eye-catching. Disadvantages: Sleigh bed riser alternatives might not be suitable for some sleigh bed designs. If you do not already have the pieces to use to raise the bed, you might have to spend extra money.	Sauder Beginnings 5-Shelf Bookcase Recycled Wood Pallet	~$65 ~$20

Can You Raise a Sleigh Bed by Three Feet or More?

Lofting a sleigh bed is entirely possible but requires careful planning and construction. In essence, all you need are some sturdy supports for the bed, and those can be provided by a range of items. Read our article about loft beds and ceiling heights to find out if this option for raising your sleigh bed is feasible.

To raise a sleigh bed by three feet or more, hire professional help to build dressers or bookshelves under the sleigh bed. It is also possible to use a lofting kit.

You can add a lot of storage space if you loft your bed

Lofting your sleigh bed using these methods is relatively inexpensive and you may be able to use items you already have. However, you should be extremely careful about safety as sleigh beds are heavy and bulky. Lofting other bed types may be easier, but you need to be especially cautious when you are dealing with a sleigh bed.

To ensure your safety, you should always check the sturdiness of items that will be used to raise a sleigh bed. They must provide a solid foundation for your sleigh bed and be firmly secured. Otherwise, you can damage the bed or severely injure yourself or others. The best way to keep everyone safe when raising a sleigh bed by three feet or more is to have bed risers professionally installed. Read our quick guide on the cost of loft beds for more information.

Key Takeaways

Methods to Elevate a Sleigh Bed

Raising a sleigh bed can be achieved through various methods like utilizing bed risers, inserting a box spring, employing a bed lift, or placing a mattress topper. Among these, bed risers and box springs are the most common methods for lifting the bed to a significant height, allowing easier access and potentially creating additional under-bed storage space.

Additional Storage Possibilities

By elevating the entire sleigh bed, you can potentially create an additional storage area beneath the bed. This is beneficial for those with limited space in their bedrooms. Besides commercial bed risers, alternative DIY methods like using bookshelves, dressers, or cinder blocks under the bed can also serve the purpose of raising the bed and adding extra storage space.

Enhancing Comfort and Accessibility

For individuals finding it challenging to get in and out of a low bed, or those recovering from surgeries, raising the mattress using a box spring or mattress topper can provide immense relief. These methods not only elevate the bed but also add a comfort layer to the mattress, making the bed more accommodating.

Safety Precautions

When lifting a sleigh bed, safety should be a primary concern. Ensure that the methods used for raising the bed provide a stable and secure foundation to prevent accidents. Moreover, while aiming for added height, the aesthetic appeal of the sleigh bed, especially the headboard and footboard visibility, should not be compromised.

Customization and Professional Assistance

For significant elevation or customized solutions, professional assistance might be necessary to ensure the bed is safely and securely lifted. This is especially true if the goal is to loft the sleigh bed to heights of three feet or more, where precise construction and sturdy supports are crucial for safety.

How to Lift Up a Sleigh Bed and Raise It