How to Assemble a Sleigh Bed

A sleigh bed takes center stage as a focal point for the bedroom with its classic tall headboard and matching, shorter foot board. The entire bed structure is a bit on the large side, so a new sleigh bed requires assembly.

Choose the location for your sleigh bed before assembly for best results.

While the specifics may vary from brand to brand or style to style, the basic setup method remains the same for many sleigh beds. Perform the assembly where you want the bed to stay, because moving it after putting it together is a bit more difficult and may loosen the headboard or foot board.

  1. Clear the space designated for the bed, moving furniture or obstructions for several feet surrounding the space. This way you have unobstructed access to all areas around the bed as you work.
  2. Lean the headboard against at wall with its front facing forward. Set the side rails at each side and rest the footboard at the end of the side rails, opposite the headboard. If the footboard is curved, make sure the curve faces outward.

Things You Will Need

Tip

Some beds include the wrench you need for assembly. Save the tool and any spare parts in a zippered bag, along with assembly instructions and warranty information, for future use. Some sleigh bed models feature a hook-type assembly instead of rods or bolts. The hooks are already attached to side rails and link into place in slots within the headboard and foot board posts.

Kathy Adams is an award-winning journalist and freelance writer who traveled the world handling numerous duties for music artists. She writes travel and budgeting tips and destination guides for USA Today, Travelocity and ForRent, among others. She enjoys exploring foreign locales and hiking off the beaten path stateside, snapping pics of wildlife and nature instead of selfies.