How to Select the Best Bunk Bed
The best bunk bed is one that blends solid construction and a stylish design. It can be used with standard twin- and full-sized mattresses. This helps increase the number of people sleeping in the room can accommodate.
Look for a bunk bed with an adjustable ladder, instead of stairs that can take up floor space. Some models have angled ladders, which are more comfortable to climb, but might not be suitable for older children.
Size
When choosing a bunk bed, you need to think about the dimensions of your room as well as the height of your ceiling. You must ensure that the bed is a good fit, but you also need to leave enough room for the child to move into and out of the bed safely, as well as for other furniture pieces in the bedroom, such as bookshelves and other decorative items. If the bed's top is set too close to the ceiling, it could cause children to fall over when they lie down or get up. They might also feel claustrophobic. Ideally, there should be 36 inches or more between the top of the mattress and the ceiling.
Look into a bed that can be divided into two separate beds if you're looking to get a bunk bed that can grow with your children. This is more expensive than a fixed-size bunk bed but it will save you money if your children choose to sleep in separate beds.
For instance, the Perch bunk bed from PB Teen is an investment piece that looks elegant in both traditional and contemporary rooms, thanks to its clean lines and neutral finish. It also comes with an optional bed that can be trundled underneath the bottom bunk, so it can accommodate sleepovers without sacrificing floor space.
If you're looking to save money look into the range of affordable bunk beds from brands like RC Willey. They come in a variety of colors and also come with guardrails and a ladder making them easy to build. Some bunk beds feature drawers that slide out of the bottom bunk to offer additional storage. For safety, choose the bunk bed that has been tested to be in compliance with CPSC standards. Choose a bunk bed with a low center of gravity to ensure it won't topple over.
Style
Style is also a significant factor when it comes to picking the best bunk bed's design. The most popular are twin-over-twin designs however, there are options that have full-over-full beds, or queen-over-queen bunk beds for older children and adults who need more space to stretch out while they sleep. Some designs have staggered beds, where the lower bed is larger than the top. These are ideal for older kids who like more of a sofa-like area at the bottom to relax or make an office or study desk.
For a modern, sleek look that will appeal to both boys and girls consider a wooden bunk bed with slatted headboards as well as footboards. The open panels in this design from Ikea, for example, allow light to be let across the bunks, enhancing the space while providing safety and security. The bunk bed is easy to use thanks to the ladder that is angled and guardrails.
Other types of bunk beds include loft beds that hang from the ceiling in a T-shape, perfect for small spaces where space for floor and storage are limited. Make sure that your ceilings allow for a higher clearance over the bunk above prior to purchasing one. Bunks that are against the wall don't require much space, and they maximize the area.
If your kids bunkbed love reading in bed, you can add an illuminated reading light that is recessed and shelves or ledges for books to their beds. Ms. Keenan includes these elements when she puts bunks above windows. This makes the sleeping area more cozy. She's seen them paired up with motorized shades that can be adjusted to suit the needs of the room. This allows for easy control of the amount of warmth of a space while giving you the ability to read or nap.
Safety
Many parents are concerned about bunk bed safety, but they're actually safer than one would think. They're less prone to falling over than standard single beds because they're equipped with guardrails on both sides of the sleeping area above. They also pass anti-tip and lead tests to ensure that they are safe for kids to sleep in. When choosing a bunk bed take a look at the capacity of weight to make sure it is able to support the combined weight of your kids without sliding. If you are planning to host guests or have older children the full-overfull bunk is a better choice. It can accommodate adult bunk beds bodies.
Choosing a bunk bed that's made of solid wood is another great method to add an extra layer of security. Solid wood bunks are more durable than metal bunks and often have thicker slats that offer more support. Check that the foundation of the bunk bed is free of gaps that are large enough to entrap the child.
When assembling a bunk bed (from this source), always follow the manufacturer's instructions and guidelines. The bunk bed should be kept away from hanging light fixtures and curtains, which may interfere with climbing or exiting the top bunk, is an excellent method to reduce the risk. The bunk beds should be placed in a corner to increase stability.
Make sure you teach them the basic rules of safety for bunk beds and keep an eye on your children as they climb up and down. Keeping the area around the bunk clear of shoes, clothing and backpacks is a good idea as well. Kids should also be taught to make use of the ladder in a safe way and to never hang anything on the bedposts or ladders.
Materials
The best bunk beds will be made from durable materials to endure the abuse of children. Find sturdy ladders and steps, as well as wood frames that can withstand the weight of two people. Many brands also offer additional features like shelves, drawers or trundle beds that provide more sleeping space when needed. Spampanato says that this flexibility is helpful if your children are likely to outgrow bunk beds or into their own bedrooms.
You'll also need to consider the style and height of your room when choosing a bunk bed. It is also important to take a closer look at how the bunk bed fits within the structure of your home, including any fixed elements, such as closets or windows. One good idea is to apply blue painter's tape to trace the silhouette of the bunk bed in your room and be aware of the way it is situated in relation to fixed structures and how far it is from the ceiling.
Certain bunk beds made of wooden are constructed from solid, sustainably-sourced wood or are GreenGuard Gold certified, which may appeal to families who are adamant about eco-friendly furniture. These options are usually more expensive than wood-composite or metal bunk beds.
The most affordable alternative on our list is the bunk bed adults bed that is made of plywood and medium density fiberboard. It's a durable option that's ASTM-certified and comes in neutral colors that go well with most existing furniture. Another feature that sets this bed apart is the angled ladder which makes it easier for kids to climb up and down. It also has sturdy railings across the top bunk as well as an ample storage area beneath.
Ladder
The decision of whether to pick a bunk bed with stairs or a ladder depends on the space you have in your home and the age of your children. Stairs take up more space on the floor and are more expensive than basic ladder options. However, they are safer and more comfortable for children to climb. Some models have additional safety features, such as side handrails or a locking mechanism.
Ladders are often less expensive than stairs and require less space, but they are difficult for children of small size to use. Look for ladders with hand holes and grooves that are anti-slip. These features make climbing easier for older children and toddlers. Some bunk bed ladders are designed so that it is easier to climb to the top bunk.
If you choose a bunk bed that has stairs, think about adding a padded mat or rug next to the ladder. This will ensure that your children aren't able to accidentally step on it and hurt themselves while climbing up or down. This will also prevent them from slipping and sliding which could be dangerous for young kids.
Bunk beds with ladders can be a great solution for families that have little space or have low ceilings. They are simple to put together, and come in a variety of styles including traditional wooden ladders as well as modern metal alternatives. Some bunk beds come with two ladders. This can be useful for families who need to accommodate children who prefer sleeping on the lower bunk. There are ladders that can be adjusted, which allows you to change the placement of the bunk bed to suit your children's needs as they expand. For example, if your kids want to switch their desks from one side of the room to the other, a movable ladder for bunk beds can allow them to do this without removing the bunk bed itself.