Moving an Ikea Hemnes daybed requires a blend of preparation, the right tools, and a methodical approach to navigate tight corners and heavy frames. This substantial piece of furniture, built with durable pine and designed for long-term use, presents unique challenges during relocation. Success hinges on understanding its construction and disassembly options rather than simply trying to muscle it through a doorway.
Preparing for the Move
The initial phase of moving your Hemnes daybed sets the tone for the entire process. Clear a wide perimeter around the bed, removing any rugs, low-hanging artwork, or furniture that could impede your path. You need to visualize the exact route the daybed will take from the bedroom to its exit point, measuring doorways, hallways, and stairwells to confirm the frame will fit.
Proper preparation also involves gathering essential tools to streamline the move. You will likely need a Phillips screwdriver, an Allen key (hex key) set, zip ties, moving blankets or thick moving pads, and sturdy moving straps. Having a helper or two on standby is highly recommended, as the daybed's size makes it difficult and unsafe to maneuver alone.
Step 1: Empty and Clear the Area
Before touching the frame, remove all bedding, pillows, and any items stored underneath the daybed. This reduces weight and prevents items from getting damaged during the move. It also provides you with a clear, unobstructed view of the structure and its attachment points.
Ensure the floor around the daybed is completely clear of any obstacles. A single object left in the path can scratch the finished pine surfaces or cause you to lose your balance while lifting. Taking a few minutes to sweep the area can prevent accidents and damage to your home.
Disassembly for Easy Transport
Attempting to move a fully assembled Hemnes daybed through a standard doorway is almost guaranteed to lead to frustration and potential damage. The key to a successful move is strategic disassembly, which focuses on separating the mattress support frame from the side rails and headboard.
Ikea furniture is designed with specific connectors, making the process intuitive but requiring the correct tools. By removing the connecting bolts and dowels, you transform the daybed into manageable, narrow components that navigate hallways, stairwells, and vehicle interiors with ease.
Step 2: Detaching the Mattress Frame
Begin by positioning the daybed on its side to access the hardware. Use a Phillips screwdriver to loosen and remove the bolts that secure the small wooden frame that supports the mattress. This frame is typically held in place by several bolts running through the side rails.
Once the bolts are removed, carefully lift the mattress frame away from the main structure. Secure the bolts and washers to a small bag and tape it to the side rail for safekeeping during the move and reassembly. Keep these components separate from other hardware to avoid loss.
Step 3: Removing the Side Rails
With the mattress frame cleared, you will see that the headboard and footboard are connected to the side rails using larger bolts and wooden dowels. Your Allen key is the tool needed for this task.
Locate the bolts at each end where the side rail meets the headboard and footboard. Loosen these bolts slightly but do not remove them completely yet. Gently tap the dowels out of the holes using a rubber mallet or the handle of your screwdriver. This releases the side rail, allowing you to slide it free of the headboard and footboard.
Protecting the Finish During the Move
The Hemnes collection features a durable baked enamel finish that is resistant to chipping, but the pine wood is still susceptible to scratches during transport. Taking simple precautions protects the aesthetic and value of your daybed.
Wrap individual components, especially the headboard and footboard, in moving blankets or thick moving pads. Secure the padding with zip ties or strong tape to ensure it stays in place. This protects the finish from dings and scuffs when the pieces are stacked in a truck or dragged through a garage.
| Tool | Purpose |
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Transportation and Reassembly
With the daybed disassembled and protected, you can focus on safe transportation. Load the largest pieces first—the headboard and footboard—placing them upright against the walls of the vehicle. Place the disassembled side rails and mattress frame in the remaining space, ensuring they are stable and will not shift during transit.
Upon arrival at your new location, reverse the process to put the daybed back together. Lay the headboard and footboard on a soft surface, insert the dowels into the appropriate holes, and slide the side rails back into place. Tighten the bolts securely with your Allen key, then attach the mattress frame and reinstall the bedding. The result is a sturdy, ready-to-use daybed that looks as good as new.
