How to fix weak IKEA bed structure

Mot modern beds have at least one fatal flaw, which most of the time is some sort of structural weakness, caused by cost cutting or by choosing looks over sturdiness.

That's how you end up with weak headboards that move or break during adult activities, major frame flaws and weak ribs.


In this bed's case the ribs were designed for one (skinny) person and keep breaking under most people ... as most people aren't skinny... and most people don't use beds for only one person. Even kids jumping up and down on them will easily damage such structure.

My solution was to put an additional crossbeam across the length of the bed, securing it with two zip ties to each rib. One zip tie per rib should be sufficient, as these nylon things are very strong, but I wanted the least amount of pressure on the wooden ribs and crossbeam.


This bed was from IKEA and came with a foam mattress, so this crossbeam will make it more rigid. If you don't like that, then you can switch to a spring/coil + foam system mattress, which is recommended by doctors anyways, instead of all the foam stuff. Much better for the back.