Bunk Beds Are Cooler Than Ever

If you're planning a shared bedroom for your children, outfitting a dorm or simply looking to maximize your space bunk beds are adaptable and more stylish than ever. There are a variety of styles to think about, including twin over twin and full-over-full options.

Choose a bunk bed that fits within your budget and the dimensions of the room your child will be sharing. Some bunk beds can accommodate trundle mattresses on the bottom to accommodate sleepovers.

Size

Bunk beds have been a common feature of childhood bedrooms for many years. They offer both effectiveness and excitement to children who want to sleep together. They are also common in shared rooms and vacation homes. Bunk beds come in a variety of designs and materials to fit any budget and room size. Our top picks for bunk beds range from basic twin-over-twin designs to more elaborate models with ladders or stairs and unique features such as slides.

We considered a variety of factors when we searched the market for our top picks, including overall design, safety, and value. We also asked experts--parents and one who wrote the book on bunk beds -- to help us source the best bunk beds for small spaces options. Discover our seven favorites by reading on.

Before you purchase bunk beds, it's important to consider the size of the bed. This is especially true when you're considering your ceiling height. Make sure you measure your space prior to buying bunk beds to make sure they fit. The top bunk should have at least five inches of headroom. We also advise against trundle bed trundles with high-hanging mattress as they may limit headroom.

You should also think about whether you would prefer ladders or stairs to get to the top bunk. Stairs may be easier to climb and safer, however they will take up more space on the floor than a ladder. Ladders might be less bulky however they are more cost-effective. They can feel too steep for children.

You'll also want to be aware of the capacity for the weight of the top bunk mattress, which is available on the product's page. The information is typically listed close to the dimensions of the mattress. A higher weight capacity indicates that the bunk is designed for older children or adults who require a bigger mattress.

A versatile bunk bed option, the Shyann bunk bed from Room & Board offers three options to match your children' bedroom decor. White snow gives a vibrant coastal look to classic kids' rooms and brushed grey or rich walnut give an authentic farmhouse or rustic look.

Safety

When you are buying a bunk bed, you should look beyond the price and make sure that it has all the safety features that are required. A reliable seller will provide the capacity for weight and give an explanation of the structure's durability and strength which is crucial for families who intend on reusing their beds as their children grow up.

Rebecca Simon, a designer at Maison Ellie Interiors for Kids suggests leaving 33-36 inches between the mattress's top and the ceiling. "If you don't have enough room for that size of space, you might prefer an incredibly low-height bunk," she adds. "That's a great option for small rooms as it keeps the bunk below off the floor. That can be uncomfortable for kids as they become older."

Another factor to consider is how much space there is for ladders or stairs. A bunk with built-in stairs will save space, but it could also be more costly and take longer to put together. If you're short on space, choose an easy ladder that allows your children to safely climb up to the top of the bunk.

The bunks listed on this list have sturdy construction, and they are in compliance with the Consumer Product Safety Commission's requirements for guardrails. These bunks also pass the lead and anti-tip test and are a welcome relief for parents of children who share a room. For instance, the wood-and-metal Room & Board model is "built like a tank," says Laura Fenton who is the author of The Bunk Bed Book: with 115 Bunks, Lofts, and Cozy Nooks. "These are the beds used in hotels, and therefore they're made to last."

For shoppers who want an option that grows with their children This trundle-style model from Bed Bath & Beyond converts into two separate twin beds for tweens and teens. It is the only bunk bed that doesn't use wood. The sturdy steel frame is also surprisingly light for such a heavy piece of furniture. It comes in a variety of colors and can be customized with accessories such as under-bed drawers.

Style

Bunk beds come in a variety of sizes and shapes, so you will be able to find one that is suitable for your family's needs. For instance, there are traditional twin-over-twin bunks and specialized configurations like twin-over queen or queen-over -twin beds. Some are made of steel and some are made of wood with side rails that are placed on top of the bunk. The design of the frame as well as other features can vary. You'll have to consider the amount of storage space you need, as well as the style you like.

When evaluating price, keep in mind that the higher the cost of a best futon bunk bed bed, the more customizable it can be, Klugh says. This could mean adding additional features such as an escalator or ladder. It could also mean the possibility of adding an additional bed for sleepovers or guests. Some models can be disassembled to create two beds. This is a fantastic option for children who are growing out of their bunk beds or if you're planning to move in the future.

The amount of beds you pick will also influence cost and style. You might choose a simple twin-over-twin bunk bed for maximum the amount of floor space. It's also affordable. You could also decide to spend a bit more on a solid wood option that has a modern design that can expand with the kids, and perhaps even accommodate adults sleeping later on.

No matter what size or style you pick it is important to verify the weight capacity of the bunk beds best to make sure they can support the number of sleepers you'll use them for. Some bunk beds are only intended for children and only support the weight of 165 pounds. Others have higher limits and can accommodate the growing needs of adults and children.

It is important to remember that a bunk bed can be an expensive investment and therefore a significant commitment. If you're uncertain about whether this type of bed is a good option for your family, spend some time to visit the showroom or review reviews on websites of the retailer from actual buyers. This will give a good idea of the craftsmanship and quality of the best convertible bunk beds beds.

Storage

Furniture should be able serve more than a place to study, sleep or relax. Bunk beds with built-in storage can meet this requirement, transforming them to multifunctional furniture pieces that are both practical and stylish. Innovative features like multi-functional staircases and integrated drawers provide easy access to clothing, toys, bed linens and other things that could otherwise occupy the room, and keep them in order and accessible.

Likewise loft beds that have spacious desks turn the space beneath them into a productive workspace. These smart arrangements allow young students or remote workers to combine work, play, and sleep without sacrificing valuable floor space.

Detachable bunks can be divided into twin-size beds to accommodate guests at sleepovers or to allow children to grow up and transition to single beds. Bunks with trundle beds that can be removed can also accommodate older adults or children who prefer sleeping on a full-size mattress.

Furthermore, bunk beds that can accommodate three or more are a good purchase for families seeking to maximize space in bedrooms with high ceilings. These types of bunks can also fit well into corner spaces, enabling owners to make use of awkward spaces that might otherwise be wasted.

The color and materials of your bunk bed will determine the overall look of your bunk bed. Wood bunks are timeless and classic. They are a great fit for modern rustic, coastal or farmhouse designs. Steel bunks, on the other side are a more contemporary option that is a great match with midcentury and industrial styles.

When you are looking for a bunk bed, think about the height of your home's ceilings and any nearby windows or other architectural features. Lower, more compact styles may be easier to assemble and are ideal for teenagers or children who are ready to graduate from the toddler or junior bedroom. Meanwhile, taller bunks offer an elegant, airier design and are ideal for older children or adults. Some designs include side railings that allow for a greater clearance between the beds. This provides the safety of everyone.