Toddler Bunk Beds

toddler bunk beds diagram of plan
Difficulty
Intermediate
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Build your own toddler bunk beds using 2x4s and crib mattresses.  

 

Collections

It's hard to find a toddler bunk bed system because of safety concerns.  But families still may want a toddler bunk bed - children can sleep on a crib sized mattress well into school years - plenty old enough to use a bunk bed. 

So people everywhere are building their own toddler bunk beds (but not necessarily for toddlers) to meet their family's needs.

Like all bunk beds, the top bunk should not be used by children under six.  Build and use this plan at your own risk.  

Dimensions
toddler bunk beds dimensions
Dimensions diagram for toddler bunk bed

Preparation

Shopping List

8 - 2x2 @ 10 feet long

4 - 2x2 @ 52" - 8 foot sticks are most likely cheapest

6 - 1x3 @ 8 feet long

 

Common Materials
2 inch screws
2 1/2 inch screws
Cut List

4 - 2x4 @ 62-1/2" - legs

8 - 2x4 @ 53-1/2" - rails

4 - 2x4 @ 27" - end rails

4 - 2x4 @ 30" - ladder rungs

4 - 2x2 @ 52" - mattress support cleats

18 - 1x3 @ 27" - mattress slats or can use plywood 

Cutting Instructions

Consider pre-finishing the 2x4 boards before cutting to speed up the building process.

Cut all boards with a compound miter saw.

You can also use a circular saw with straight edge.

 

Tools
Tape Measure
Speed Square
Pencil
Safety Glasses
Hearing Protection
Drill
Circular Saw
Power Sander

Instructions

Step 1

Build two legs sets by screwing the rails to the legs with 2 screws per joint.  Use glue at joints.

 

Step 2

Because of the finished size of this project, you may wish to finish assembly in the room it will be used in.

Attach end rails with 2 screws per joint and glue.

Step 3

Attach ladder rungs with 2 screws per joint as shown.

Do not leave less than 9" spacing in between ladder rungs (neck entrapment safety)

Step 4

Attach cleats to inside of bed rails with screws every 8" and glue.

Step 5

Lay slats out about 3-1/2" appart and screw down with 2" screws.

Project Type