Bunk Beds Are Cooler Than Ever
Bunk beds are more versatile and fashionable than ever. There are many designs, including twin-overtwins and full over-full models.
Look for one that fits your best budget bunk beds and your children room dimensions. Also, keep in mind that certain bunks can be able to accommodate beds that trundle down for sleepovers.
Size
Bunk beds are a common feature of the bedrooms of children, offering both convenience and excitement for children who wish to sleep side-by-side. They are also common in shared rooms and vacation homes. Bunk beds come in a wide range of designs and materials to fit any budget or room size. Our picks for bunk beds range from basic best twin over full bunk bed-over-twin designs to more elaborate models that include stairs or ladders, as well as unique features like slides.
When we scoured the market to select our top picks we weighed a number of factors like the overall design and safety, as well as value. We also asked experts--parents and one who wrote the book on bunk beds--to help us find the top choices. Discover our seven favorites by going through the article.
Before making a purchase of bunk beds, it's important to think about the dimensions of the bed. This is especially important when you are considering the height of your ceiling. Measure your space before buying bunk beds to ensure they are sized correctly. The top bunk should have at minimum five inches of headroom. We also suggest not using Trundle beds with mattresses that hang high which may limit headroom and increase the chance of head bumps.
Another thing to consider is whether you prefer stairs or ladders to get to the top bunk. Stairs are easier to climb and safer, but they will take up more space on the floor than ladders. Ladders may be less bulky but they're also more cost-effective. They may feel too high for younger children.
It is also important to pay attention to the weight capacity of the top bunk mattress, that is listed on each product's page. The majority of manufacturers include this information in the mattress's dimensions. A higher capacity of weight suggests that the bunk was intended for older children or adults who may require a larger mattress.
The Shyann Bunk Bed from Room & Board is a flexible option for bunk beds. It comes in three finishes that will fit in with the decor of your child's bedroom. White snow gives a vibrant coastal style to classic bedrooms for kids, while brushed grey or rich walnut give an authentic farmhouse or rustic look.
Safety
When you are looking for a bunk bed it is important to look beyond the price and ensure that it has all of the safety features that are required. A reputable seller will list the capacity for weight and give a description of the structure's durability and strength, which is especially helpful for families that plan on reusing the beds as their children grow up.
A good rule of practice is to leave at least 33 to 36 inches between the top mattress and the ceiling, according to Rebecca Simon, a designer with Maison Ellie Interiors for Kids. If you don't wish to sacrifice that much space, you might want to consider the low-height bunk bed. "That's a great option for small rooms as it keeps the bunk below off the floor. It can be uncomfortable for kids as they become older."
Another consideration is deciding the amount of space you have for stairs or ladders. While a bunk with built-in stairs could save space, it can be more expensive and take more assembly time. If you're short on space, choose a simple ladder that will allow your children to safely climb to the top bunk.
All bunks in this list are constructed of durable materials and meet the Consumer Product Safety Commission requirements for guardrails. They also have passed lead and anti-tip tests which is a great relief for parents of children sharing a room. Laura Fenton, the author of The Bunk Bed Book, states that the metal and wood Room & Board model "is built like a tank." These are the same beds that hotels employ so they're constructed to last for a long time.
This trundle design from Bed Bath & Beyond is ideal for those looking for an affordable bunk bed that can expand with their children. It converts into two twin beds, one for tweens, and the other for teenagers. It's the only bunk bed that does not use wood. The solid steel frame is surprisingly light for such a heavy piece of furniture. It's available in an extensive range of colors and can be customized with additional accessories, such as under-bed storage drawers.
Style
Bunk beds are available in many different sizes and shapes, so you can find one that is suitable for your family's requirements. There are many different configurations, such as twin-over-twin bunks, or beds that are specialized like twin-over queen or queen-over twin. Some are made from metal, while others come in wood with side rails that are placed on top of the bunk. The design of the frame as well as other features also can vary so you'll need to consider the amount of storage you'll need as well as what are the best bunk beds general style you prefer.
Klugh recommends that when evaluating the price of a bunkbed it is essential to remember that the higher price tag the more customizable the bed will be. This could mean adding additional features like an escalator or ladder. It could also mean the possibility of adding a trundle bed, which makes it easy for sleepovers or guest accommodations. Some models can even be taken apart to function as two separate beds. This is a useful feature to consider if your kids will outgrow bunk beds or you are planning on moving to a different home in the future.
The number of beds you select will also influence cost and style. You can opt for a simple twin-over-best twin over full bunk bed bunk to maximize floor space. It is also relatively affordable. You can also opt to spend more money on a solid-wood bunk bed with an elegant, sturdy design that can grow with your children and perhaps accommodate adults in the future.
Whatever size and style you select it is important to verify the capacity to bear weight of the bunk beds best to make sure they can support the number of sleepers you'll be using them for. Some bunk beds are intended for children and only support up to 165 pounds. Others have higher limits and can be used by growing children and adults.
It is important to remember that a bunkbed is an expensive investment, and thus a significant commitment. If you're unsure about whether this type of bed is a suitable option for your family, spend the time to go to an exhibit or review reviews on websites of the retailer from actual buyers. This will give you an idea of the quality and workmanship of the bunk beds.
Storage
Modern living requires furniture that can do more than just serve as a place to sleep or study. Bunk beds that have built-in storage meet this need, transforming them to multifunctional furniture pieces that are both functional and fashionable. Multifunctional staircases and storage drawers that are integrated are innovative features that allow for easy access to clothes, toys and bedding linens.
Additionally loft beds that have spacious desks turn the space underneath them into productive workspaces. These smart arrangements allow young students or remote workers to manage work with play and sleep without sacrificing valuable floor space.
Detachable bunks can be divided into twin-size beds to accommodate guests during sleepovers or to allow children to mature and then transition to single beds. Bunks with a trundle that can be removed beds can be used to be adapted to older children and adults who prefer a large bed.
Furthermore, bunk beds that accommodate three or more are a good investment for families who want to maximize space in small bedrooms with high ceilings. These models can be tucked away in small spaces, allowing owners to make the most of space that could otherwise be wasted.
The color and materials of your bunk bed will determine its overall appearance. Wood bunks are timeless and classic. They are a great fit for modern rustic, coastal or farmhouse designs. Steel bunks are on the other hand are a more modern option that is a great match with midcentury and industrial designs.
When shopping for bunk beds, take into consideration the ceiling height of your house and the proximity of windows or other architectural features. Lower, more compact styles are more straightforward to put together and are suitable for children or teens who are ready to graduate from the junior or toddler bedroom. Taller bunks have a more elegant, airy appearance and are ideally suited to older kids or adults. Some designs feature side railings which allow for a greater clearance between the beds. This provides the safety of everyone.