How to Choose the Best Bunk Beds for Your Kids' Room
Bunk beds can add fun and functionality to a kids room, particularly when you're working with a small space. There are a variety of options that will fit your budget and space needs regardless of whether you opt for the classic twin-over full, or an loft with storage.
Check for features such as angled ladders, stairs that protrude and more. These features make bunk beds more accessible for older children and more secure. There are also trundles under the bed for sleepovers and storage spaces that double as play spaces.
Size
When shopping for a bunk bed, size matters. Be sure that the beds fit into the space and provide enough space to climb up or down. Think about the dimensions of other furniture pieces, like a desk or dresser, if you plan to add them. Be aware that the top and bottom bunks can only hold a certain amount of weight in the event that they are used as adult bedroom furniture.
The ceiling's height is also crucial. Klugh says that a good rule of thumb to adhere to is to ensure there's a minimum of 5 inches between the ceiling and bottom of the bed. "This makes sure that kids are able to safely access the upper sleep area."
Some bunk beds have stairs Some have ladders. "Stairs are usually more user-friendly than ladders, but they take up more space," says Fenton. There are stairs that have built-in storage drawers. They are particularly useful if you need extra space for toys or bedding. They are more expensive than straight ladders.
Bunk bed materials can differ in cost. The cheaper sets are usually constructed of medium density fiberboard. The more expensive ones often include a metal frame or solid wood construction. Wood is beautiful and durable however it can warp when it comes in contact with pests or water. Some parents prefer to avoid this material.
The majority of the bunks featured in this guide are available in your choice of finish, including white for a clean, crisp look and a smoky gray, or rich walnut that will fit into any bedroom with a color scheme. The Sherwin-Williams Shyann Twin over Full Over Queen Bunk Bed, for example, has extra headroom between the bottom and top bunks to reduce the chance of bumping heads when reading or sitting in the bed.
Some of our picks even can be converted into two separate beds, which may be ideal if you expect to sell the bunks when your children outgrow them or are planning to move at some point in the near future. This Woodcrest Kids Low-Profile Twin Over Full Bunk Bed with Staircase & Drawers is a durable solution that fits both twin-over-twin and full-over-full mattresses. It also comes in a classic neutral color that is compatible with any interior design scheme.
Safety
Bunk beds can be fun and exciting, however there are some safety issues. It is crucial to find the right bed frame material that should be made of high-quality, sturdy wood. Also, you should ensure that the bed meets all safety standards and features guardrails on the top of the bed. The guardrails must be at least 5 inches high and continuous on all sides of the upper mattress. Also, you should look for openings, gaps or holes in the guardrails that are large enough to hold a child's head, limbs or torso.
Most bunk bed manufacturers stipulate weight limits for their products. It is crucial to adhere to these guidelines, as over-weighing them can lead to bunk bed to collapse and create serious injury risks. Many of these companies have age restrictions for use of their bunk beds generally requiring that children have to be at least 6 years older to be able to sleep on the upper level.
The type of ladder that comes with the bunk beds is a different factor to consider. While some models come with an easy metal ladder, others come with more elaborate staircases. Staircases can be easier for children to climb but they're not as safe as a sturdy ladder. It's not easy for children who are tall or who have difficulty climbing up and down.
It is also important to ensure that the bunk bed is fixed to the floor and wall, and that it's not near any windows or objects that kids might fall on while they're sleeping. You should also inspect the bunk bed on a regular basis for any damaged or loose parts that could require repairs. Keep additional screws and bolts in your home just in case they are lost or become loose over time.
It is also recommended to place the bunk beds in a corner, so that they have walls on both sides. This will help prevent any falls from the top or side of the bed and will make it easier for your children to get in and out of bed.
Style
There are many elegant bunk beds that provide more than just a place for you to sleep. Some come with additional storage, a built-in desk, or even a slide. While it's important that you consider your child's preferences before purchasing a bunk bed it's also important to think about the arrangement of the room as well as how the bunk bed will be able to fit with the furniture.
The best bunk bed designs for kids are simple in design. They are elegant full-size or twin beds that stack together and are accompanied by a ladder. These minimalist styles are great for small rooms or rooms with low ceilings. They're also a great budget-friendly option. Many of these designs are able to be separated into two beds which is a great option for when your children grow out of the bunks or you decide to move to a different home.
Some bunk beds are more attractive and can be paired with other furniture in the bedroom. For instance this triple bunk from Pottery Barn offers an elegant neutral finish that is well-suited with both muted and vibrant color palettes. The angular design gives it a modern, sleek look. The staircase features open-air shelves to store items away from view. best bunk beds for low ceilings are fitted with a stylish handrail with slats and are sturdy enough to withstand an adult's weight. You don't have to be concerned about your kids falling off the top bunk.
This rustic-style bunk bed from Max and Lily is ideal for kids who love the outdoors. Made from sustainably-sourced solid wood that meets responsible forestry practices The bunk bed is eco-friendly and striking. Wire brushing was used to create the unique texture of this bunk bed. It accentuates the wood's knots and natural grain and gives it a unique appearance. This bunk bed is perfect for older children as the bottom bunk can fit a twin-size mattress (sold separately) and the top bunk is designed to fit a full size mattress.
Storage
Bunk beds can be a great way to save space, however certain models come with additional storage, making them ideal for families or Airbnb guests. Some include a trundle bed that pulls out from underneath the bottom bunk to sleep another person or extra kids and others have drawers for clothes and other items that might clutter up small spaces. The Ilariana Heavy Duty Wood Safety Staircase Bunk Bed For instance, it includes two storage under-bed drawers and a bookcase with three shelves that are different sizes. It can be an ideal addition to a room with little space for shelves or closets.
Another consideration when shopping for a bunk bed is whether you'd like stairs or ladders to reach the top level. Ladders are more traditional, and could be more suited to a room's decor than stairs. Stairs are more efficient and easier to climb. They can also be multi-functional with some models sporting hollow stairs that double as storage drawers.
There are also bunk beds that are minimalist that simply have two stylish twin or full mattresses that can be arranged. They are the best choice for rooms with small spaces or with low ceilings. They are also usually the most affordable. Many of these beds can be dismantled and used as two separate beds. This is ideal if you plan to move or alter the arrangement of your bedroom in the near future.
The Walters Twin-Over-Twin Trundle Bunk made of Solid Wood Bed is a fashionable option that is made of knot-free New Zealand Pine wood. It also comes with stylish slatted footboards and headboards. It also comes with sturdy 14-inch guardrails along the edges of the upper bunk and a stationary built-in ladder, which is not movable, but which allows plenty of space on the lower level to play.
Check out the Harper & Bright Designs Solid Pine & Plywood Bunk Bed to get a modern option. The modern bunk bed is available in a variety of colors and can be split into two beds later. It can support up to 300 pounds on the top bunk and twin or full-size beds can be used.