Bunk Bed Steps with Built-In Drawers
Build your own bunk bed stairs with hidden drawers using off-the-shelf 1x boards and simple tools! These DIY bunk bed steps are designed to maximize space with built-in storage, using easy construction techniques—no pocket holes required. The “pancake” style design keeps things low-profile while offering full-depth drawers inside each step. Whether you're upgrading a shared bedroom or just looking to add smart storage to a bunk setup, this project is both functional and beginner-friendly. and diagrams included. Perfect for anyone wanting a quick weekend project with big impact! Related: Heavy Duty Bunk Bed Plans with Stair Opening
Specifications
| Project type | Beds and Bed Frames |
|---|---|
| Room | Bedroom |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
Dimensions
Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.
Shopping List
- 4 - 1x10x10'**
- 1 - 1x12x12'*
- 4 - 1x3 x8'
- 3- 1x6x10'
- 1 - sheet of 1/4" plywood
- 3/4" and 1-1/4" brad nails
- wood glue
- 1-1/4" self tapping star bit wood screws
- 3 - 24" white euro drawer slides
- 1 - 20" white euro drawer slide
- wood stain
- wood filler
- medium grit sandpaper
- wood poly coat
*If the width of the stairs was reduced by 1/4", you could use a 1x12 x 10' instead of 12'.
** Cut longest boards to for best wood efficiency
Cut List
Side Panels
- 2 - 1x10 @ 21-3/4" - top row of sides
- 2 - 1x10 @ 32-3/4" - second row of sides
- 2 - 1x10 @ 43-3/4" - third row of sides
- 2 - 1x10 @ 54-3/4" - bottom row of sides
- 4 - 1x3 @ 37"
- 2 - 1x3 @ 27-3/4"
- 2 - 1x3 @ 18-1/2"
- 2 - 1x3 @ 9-1/4"
Treads/Framing
- 4 - 1x10 @ 24" - rip 1-1/2" off for the cross framing pieces and reserve remaining piece for drawer faces
- 5 - 1x12 @ 24" - stair treads/landing
Drawers
- 6 - 1x6 @ 24" - bottom three drawer sides
- 2 - 1x6 @ 20" - top drawer sides
- 8 - 1x6 @ 18-1/2" - drawer front and backs, all drawers
- 3 - 1/4" plywood @ 20" x 24" - bottom three drawers, bottoms
- 1 - 1/4" plywood @ 20" x 20" - top drawer bottom
- Drawer faces are the leftover 1x10 @ 24"
Tools
- measuring tape
- square
- pencil
- safety glasses
- drill
- compound miter saw
- table saw
- nailer
- sander
Step-by-step Instructions
Step 1
Layout the 1x10 pieces with the longest on the bottom, stacking upward. Apply glue in between boards. Attach 1x3s on top, outside edges are flush, with glue and 1-1/4" brad nails. Build two in mirror.
Measure down 7" from top of each row and mark.
Attach drawer slides so the holes in the drawer slides are centered on the 7" lines, and the screws are started in the lines. the top drawer slide is the 20" slide. Add blocking if needed. Here is a video of installing these drawer slides:
Cut the 1x10 pieces at 24".
Rip off pieces at 1-1/2". Reserve the scrap as a drawer face in later steps. Attach 1x2s as shown to the two sides of the bunk bed stairs, use glue and brad nails.
Add the 1x12 treads with glue and brad nails, making sure the outside edges are flush.
Make sure you apply glue and attach from the 1x2 at the back as well. I also added some screws for increases support.
Step 5
Attach the back 1/4" plywood with 3/4" brad nails and wood glue, keeping outside edges flush.
Build the drawer boxes with 1-1/4" brad nails and wood glue.
Attach drawer bottoms with 3/4" brad nails and wood glue. Install the drawer slides on the drawers. Make sure the drawers slide smoothly. Then add the drawer faces first with brad nails, followed by 1-1/4" screws from the insides. If needed, sand drawer face edges for a perfect slide. After drawer are installed, additional blocking can be added to reinforce if needed. Tip on side and note where the drawers are located, and add the blocking (if needed).
Finishing
Sand all surfaces, starting with a medium grit and finishing with fine. Wipe off the dust, fill any holes or gaps with wood filler, and sand smooth once dry. Apply primer if you're painting, then finish with your choice of paint or stain and seal with a durable clear topcoat. For outdoor projects, use exterior-rated primer, paint or stain, and sealer so the piece stands up to the weather.
Source (temporary): https://www.ana-white.com/woodworking-projects/diy-bunk-bed-steps-built-drawers-easy-build-free-plans