Bunk Beds Are Cooler Than Ever
Bunk beds are more adaptable and stylish than they have ever been. There are many designs to think about, including twin-over-twin and full-over-full options.
Find a model that is compatible with your budget and your kids size, and be aware that some bunks can accommodate trundle beds on the bottom to accommodate sleepovers.
Size
Bunk beds have been a common feature of children's bedrooms for a number of years. They offer both efficacy and fun for children who want to sleep together. They are also popular in shared rooms as well as vacation homes. Bunk beds come in a variety of styles and materials to suit any budget or size. Our choices for bunk beds range from simple twin-over-twin designs to more elaborate models with stairs or ladders and unique features such as slides.
We weighed a range of factors as we scoured the market for our top picks, including overall design, safety and value. We also enlisted experts--parents and one who wrote the book on bunk beds -- to help us find the top alternatives. Find out our top seven picks by reading on.
Before making a purchase of bunk beds, it's important to consider the size of the bed. This is especially true when you're considering your ceiling height. Measure your space before buying bunk beds to ensure they fit. The top bunk should have at minimum five inches of headroom. We also recommend staying away from trundle beds with high-hanging mattresses, which can restrict headroom and increase the risk of head bumps.
You should also consider whether you would prefer ladders or stairs to get to the top bunk. Stairs can be more easy to climb and safer, however they can take up more space on the floor than ladders. Ladders may be less bulky, but they are also more affordable. They can be too high for younger children.
On the product page you'll find the weight capacity of every top bunk mattress. This information is usually listed next to the dimensions of the mattress. A higher capacity for weight indicates that the bunk is intended for older children or adults who may require a bigger mattress.
The Shyann Bunk Bed from Room & Board is a versatile option for bunk beds. It comes in three different colors that match the design of your child's bedroom. The white of the snow adds a luminous coastal style to a classic kids' room, while brushed gray or rich walnut add warmth and class to a farmhouse or rustic design.
Safety
When looking for a bunk bed it's important to look beyond the price and ensure that it is equipped with the necessary safety features. A reputable seller lists the weight capacity, and also explains the structure's durability and strength. This is particularly important for families that plan to use the beds again as their children get older.
A good rule of practice is to leave at least 33 to 36 inches between the top of the mattress and the ceiling, according to Rebecca Simon, a designer with Maison Ellie Interiors for Kids. If you don't want to sacrifice that much space, you might think about the low-height bunk bed. "That's an excellent option for small rooms as it keeps the lower bunk off the floor. It can feel cramped when kids grow older."
A second consideration is how much space is for stairs or ladders. A bunk that has built-in steps could save space, but they can also be more expensive and require a longer assembly. If you're limited on space, consider an easy ladder that allows your children to safely climb to the top bunk.
All bunks in this list are made of sturdy materials and meet the Consumer Product Safety Commission requirements for guardrails. They also have passed lead and anti-tip tests, which is a comfort for parents with children who share a room. For instance, the wood-and-metal Room & Board model is "built like a tank," says Laura Fenton, author of The Bunk Bed Book: with 115 Bunks Lofts, Lofts and Cozy Nooks. These are the same beds that hotels use and are therefore constructed to last for a long time.
For shoppers who want a bunk that will grow with their kids, this trundle-style design from Bed Bath & Beyond converts into two separate twin beds for tweens and teens. It's the only bunk bed that doesn't make use of wood. The solid steel frame is also surprisingly light for a massive piece of furniture. It comes in a variety of colors and can be customized with accessories such as under-bed drawers.
Style
Bunk beds are available in many different sizes and shapes, so you can choose one that best suits your family's requirements. There are numerous configurations, including twin-over-twin bunks, or beds that are specialized like twin-over queen or queen-over-twin. Some are made from metal and others are made of wood with side rails on the top bunk. The design of the frame as well as other features also can vary, so you'll want to consider the amount of storage you require and what style you like the most.
Klugh recommends that when evaluating the cost of a bunkbed it is crucial to remember that the higher price tag the more customizable the bed will be. This could mean adding accessories such as a staircase or ladder. It could also mean the possibility of adding an additional bed for guests or sleepovers. Some models can even be disassembled and used as two beds, which is a great feature to consider if your kids will outgrow the bunk beds or you're planning to move to a new home in the future.
The amount of beds you pick will also influence cost and design. For example, you might select a basic twin over twin bunk bed that makes the most of the amount of floor space and is inexpensive. Or, you might decide to spend a bit more on a sturdy wood option that has a modern design that can be able to grow with your children and possibly accommodate adult sleepers in the future.
Whatever size and design you choose it is important to verify the weight capacity of the bunk beds best to ensure that they are able to support the number of sleepers you'll be using them for. Some are designed for kids only and can only support up to 165 pounds and others have a higher weight limit which allows them to accommodate growing children and even adults.
Finally, it's worth noting that a bunk bed could be a significant investment, and therefore a major commitment. If you're not sure whether a bunk bed is suitable for your family, visit a retailer's showroom or read reviews of customers on their website. bunkbedsstore.uk will give you an idea of the quality and craftsmanship of the bunk beds.
Storage
Furniture should be able be more than a place to study, sleep and relax. Bunk beds with built-in storage fulfill this need making them multi-functional pieces that are both functional and stylish. Innovative features like multi-functional staircases and drawers that are integrated provide an easy access to clothes and bedding, toys and other things that could otherwise occupy the space, allowing them to be neatly tucked away but easily within reach.
Likewise loft beds with spacious desk areas transform the space underneath them into a productive work space. These clever arrangements allow young students or remote workers to combine work, play, and sleep without sacrificing valuable floor space.
Another useful option is the detachable bunks which can be separated into separate twin-size beds, which are ideal for accommodating sleepover guests or allowing children to move to single beds as they develop. Bunks with removable trundle beds can be adapted to older children or adults who prefer to sleep on a large mattress.
Finally, larger bunk beds that can allow for sleeping three or more are a smart investment for families looking to maximize space in small bedrooms with high ceilings. These models can be fitted into awkward corners, allowing owners to make the most of space that would otherwise be wasted.
The type of material and color your bunk bed is constructed from will influence its overall look and feel. Wood bunks have a classic timeless appeal that fits well into contemporary, coastal, and farmhouse interiors. Steel bunks, on the other on the other hand, are a more modern choice that pairs beautifully with midcentury and industrial styles.
When you are looking for bunk beds, take into consideration the ceiling height of your house and any windows that are nearby or other architectural features. Smaller, smaller designs are more straightforward to put together and are ideal for teenagers or children who are preparing to transition from the toddler or junior bedroom. Taller bunks have a more elegant, airy look, and are best for older children or adults. Some designs also have side railings that permit an increased space between beds, which ensures safety and easy access for all users.