Bed Risers

What Are Bed Risers?

Sometimes sold as bed lifts, bed risers are support pieces placed beneath each leg of a bed frame to make the bed taller. Most risers come in heights ranging from 2 inches to 12 inches. There are also customizable versions that allow sleepers to adjust their bed height without having to buy a new set of risers. 

Bed risers are typically made of plastic, wood, or metal. Regardless of what they are made of, risers are designed to avoid causing damage to bedroom floors when used as intended. Both the height and construction should be determined by the sleeper’s needs, the style of bed, and the overall weight capacity. 

Are Bed Risers Safe?

Safety is an important factor to consider when making adjustments to a bed frame. Generally, bed risers up to 12 inches are considered safe. This is especially true if they are broader than the legs of the bed frame, which helps provide additional stability. When considering whether bed risers are safe, sleepers should make sure that the risers are the correct size for the bed frame leg and can be placed on flat, even flooring. They should also check that the risers can handle the combined weight of the frame, mattress, and sleepers. 

Bed risers are considered unsafe if the bed frame legs do not securely fit the riser. For example, if the legs shift within the risers and make the bed wobble or if the risers move or rock on the floor, you may need different size risers. 

Types of Bed Risers

Bed risers come in different materials, heights, and types, including stackable, screw-in, and adjustable. We’ll cover the differences between each type. 

Stackable

When using stackable risers, one riser is placed under each leg of the bed frame, providing a set height. This is the most common and simple to use of all riser types. 

Some companies offer stackable risers in packs. Each riser measures 1 to 3 inches in height and can be stacked together under the bed frame legs, increasing the height incrementally for a custom height. Typically, stackable bed risers can be stored in a stack when they are not being used. 

Screw-In

Unlike other riser types that supplement the existing bed frame, screw-in risers are intended to replace the legs of a bed frame. They often come in taller heights than other risers, but the advertised height can be misleading. For example, a riser may be 12 inches, but if the leg being replaced is 7 inches, then the added height is only 5 inches. It can also be difficult to find screw-in risers that match the style and color of the bed frame. 

Shoppers should note that sometimes risers that do not replace the bed frame leg and instead use screws to secure the riser to the leg are marketed as screw-in risers.

Adjustable

Adjustable risers come in packs of eight, with four taller risers and four shorter ones. Each set of four can be used alone, and both sets can be combined to create a taller profile. Most adjustable risers allow sleepers to raise their bed by 3, 5, or 8 inches.

Benefits of Bed Risers

People use bed risers for a number of reasons. While bed risers can create additional storage space underneath a bed, they can also be beneficial for comfort and health. Some people also prefer the aesthetics of a taller bed. 

• Storage space: Increased storage space is the most common reason for using bed risers. This is why they are often seen in dorm rooms and apartments. However, additional storage space can be useful in many settings. Under the bed is an excellent space for keeping extra bedding, out-of-season clothing, and children’s toys.
• Getting in and out of bed: Having a bed that is the correct height makes getting in and out of bed easier and safer for sleepers. A bed that is too low can make standing up difficult and even painful. Risers help to alleviate this issue by lifting the bed to a more comfortable level. 
• GERD: Some sleepers with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can benefit from propping up the top of their bed. Though bed risers are typically placed under all four legs of a bed frame, it is possible to have risers just at the head of the bed. Adjustable or stackable risers are the best option for sleepers with GERD since the risers can be raised or lowered. This allows sleepers to find an angle that provides relief. 

Where to Shop for Bed Risers

Because of their popularity and variety of uses, bed risers are found in many online and in-person stores. Stores that focus on storage solutions, bedding, and furniture typically have the largest selections. Risers can also be found in general houseware and hardware stores. Some in-person medical supply stores have staff that can help determine what bed risers may work best for individuals with health concerns, though sleepers should talk with their doctors to discuss if risers are right for them.

When shopping for bed risers, sleepers should make sure the bed frame leg fits securely and that the risers can support the weight of the sleepers. The right size and shape is important for safety, which means sleepers may need to try several risers before finding a set that works.