Installing a gorgeous headboard can instantly elevate the style of any bedroom. But when it comes to large, heavy, or wide headboards that go beyond the width of your bed, securely mounting them to the wall is essential. Though it may seem daunting, you can firmly affix even the widest headboard using the right hardware and techniques.
Choose Hardware Strong Enough for the Job
The key to securely mounting a heavy, wide headboard is using robust hardware designed to bear the weight. For attaching to drywall, we recommend using heavy-duty toggle bolts or hollow wall anchors rated to handle up to 100 lbs or more. Look for hardware specifically made for mounting headboards and shelves. For concrete, brick, or wood stud walls, choose heavy lag screws and masonry anchors or wood screws for the strongest hold.
| Wall Material | Recommended Hardware |
| Drywall | Toggle bolts, hollow wall anchors |
| Concrete/Brick | Masonry anchors, tapcon screws |
| Wood Studs | Lag screws into studs |
Follow the weight limits and installation instructions on the hardware packaging. Using the properly rated anchors and screws is crucial for keeping that wide headboard firmly planted on the wall.
Measure Carefully and Level Precisely
Before mounting your broad headboard, taking careful measurements is a must. Note the exact width and height of your headboard, bed frame, and mattress. Ensure the headboard is centered over the bed and mattress.
Using a bubble level , check that your headboard is perfectly level and plumb. Adjust the legs or shims under the headboard as needed to get it sitting even. If the headboard is tilted or slanted, it will not mount squarely on the wall. Taking the time to level properly will ensure a sturdy, professional mounting job.
Mark Mounting Locations Accurately
Once the headboard is leveled, mark exact locations for your mounting hardware. Place the marks directly on the wall, centered over the headboard’s cleats or mounting plates. Use a stud finder to locate studs behind the drywall if possible. For drywall only mounting, space the marks evenly across the mounting area.
If using French cleats, mark where the wall cleat will go using the headboard cleat as a guide. Follow the hardware instructions for recommended spacing between mounting screws.
Allow Room to Work
When mounting a wide headboard, it’s important to leave room to maneuver behind it. Pull the bed away from the wall a few feet before installation. This allows space to drill holes, toggle anchors, and drive screws into the wall without everything pressed right against the headboard.
Attach Securely to Studs or Drywall
With your measurements made and hardware ready, it’s time for the fun part – mounting the headboard! For attaching to studs, use your drill to drive long wood screws directly into the center of the studs. For extra strength, consider using 3-4″ wood screws and washers.
For drywall mounting, use a drill bit sized for your wall anchors to drill pilot holes. Insert the anchors and use a phillips head screwdriver to mount the headboard screws into the anchors. Be sure to tighten until the anchor toggles flip inside the wall.
Consider Reinforcement Brackets
For heavyweight headboards, adding reinforcing brackets provides an extra layer of security. L-brackets at the top edges and corner braces under the bottom securely tie the headboard into the wall at multiple points. This prevents racking, wobbling, or leveraging that can loosen hardware over time.
Now that the solid mounting job is complete, a few finishing touches can help conceal hardware and cords. Adhesive cord channels are great for organizing wires behind the headboard for a clean look.
For hiding wall mounting fasteners, consider these attractive options:
- Decorative metal plates or rosettes
- Plastic caps and covers
- Molding trimmed to fit around the hardware
- Filler putty painted to match the wall
Even the widest, heaviest headboard can be securely mounted to create a bedroom focal point.
