Bunk Beds Are Cooler Than Ever
Bunk beds are more versatile and stylish than they have ever been. There are many designs to consider, including twin-over-twin and full-over-full versions.
Look for one that fits your budget and your children' room dimensions, and keep in mind that some bunks can be able to accommodate beds with trundle beds at the bottom to accommodate sleepovers.
Size
Bunk beds are a common feature of childhood bedrooms, offering both efficiency and adventure for children who wish to sleep side by side. They are also common in shared rooms and vacation homes. Bunk beds come in a range of styles and materials with options that will fit any budget and room size. Our top picks for bunk beds range from simple twin-over-twin designs to more elaborate models with stairs or ladders and unique features like slides.
We considered a variety of factors when we searched the market to find our top picks, including overall design, safety and price. We also enlisted experts--parents and one who wrote the book on bunk beds--to assist us in locating the best options. Find our top seven choices by continuing reading.
The size of the bunk beds is an important consideration before making a purchase, especially when it comes to the height of your ceiling. Make sure you measure your space prior to buying bunk beds to make sure they are sized correctly. The top bunk should have at 5 inches of headroom. We also suggest staying away from trundle beds with high-hanging mattresses which may limit headroom and increase the possibility of bumped heads.
Another consideration is whether you prefer stairs or ladders to access the top bunk. Stairs may be easier to climb and safer, but they may take up more space on the floor than a ladder. Ladders aren't as bulky however they are more affordable. They may feel too steep to younger children.
You should also be aware of the capacity for weight of the top bunk mattress which is available on the page of each product. Most manufacturers list this information on the mattress dimensions. A higher weight capacity usually indicates that the mattress is suitable for older kids or adults who require a larger mattress.
A variety of bunk beds, the Shyann bunk bed from Room & Board offers three finishes to complement your kids room decor. White snow gives a vibrant coastal look to classic rooms for kids, while brushed grey or rich walnut create rustic or farmhouse-style appeal.
Safety
When looking for a bunk bed it is crucial to look past the price tag and make sure it is equipped with the safety features you need. A reliable seller will list the capacity for weight and also explains the structure's durability and strength. This is particularly helpful for families that plan to re-use the beds as the children get older.
Rebecca Simon, a designer at Maison Ellie Interiors for Kids, recommends leaving 33-36 inches between the top of the mattress and the ceiling. If you don't want sacrifice that much space, you might want to consider a low height bunk bed. "That is a great option for rooms that are tight because it keeps the bed off the floor, which can be uncomfortable as children get older."
A second consideration is how much space there is for stairs or ladders. A bunk with built-in stairs will save space, but it could also be more expensive and require longer assembly. If you're limited on space, opt for a simple ladder that allows your children to safely climb to the top of the bunk.
All bunks listed are constructed of durable materials and meet the Consumer Product Safety Commission requirements for guardrails. These bunks also have passed lead and anti-tip tests, which is a comfort for parents with children sharing a room. Laura Fenton, the author of The Bunk Bed Book, states that the metal and wood Room & Board model "is constructed like tanks." "These are the beds that are used in hotels, so they're made to last."
This trundle design from Bed Bath & Beyond is ideal for those looking for a bunk bed that will expand with their children. It can be transformed into two twin beds with one for tweens and the other one for teenagers. It is the only bunk bed that does not utilize wood. The solid steel frame is also surprising light for such a large piece of furniture. It comes in a variety of colors and can also be customized with accessories like under-bed drawers.
Style
Bunk beds come in a variety of sizes and designs, so you are sure to find one that fits your family's requirements. For instance there are traditional twin-over-twin bunks, as well as more specialized designs like twin-over queen or queen-over -twin beds. Some are made from metal and others are made of wooden and come with side rails for the top bunk. The design of the frame and other features can vary. You'll want to consider how much storage space you require, as well as the style you prefer.
Klugh suggests that when looking at the cost of a bunk bed it is crucial to keep in mind that the higher price point, the more customizable the bed will be. This could include additional accessories such as a ladder or stairs. It could also refer to the possibility of adding an trundle bed that makes it easy for guests to stay over or for sleepovers. Some models can be disassembled and used as two beds, which is a great feature to consider if your children will outgrow the bunks or you plan to move to a new home in the future.
The number of beds you choose will also affect cost and style. For instance, you could choose a basic twin over twin bunk bed, which maximizes the floor space and is inexpensive. You could also choose to invest more money in a solid-wood bunk bed that has a contemporary, robust design that grows with your kids and possibly accommodate adult sleepers in the near future.
No matter what size or style you pick regardless of the design and size, you must check the capacity of the bunk beds to ensure that they are able to support the number of sleepers you'll be using them for. Some bunk beds are made for children and only support the weight of 165 pounds. Others have higher limits and can be used by growing children and adults.
It is important to remember that a bunk bed can be an investment that is costly, and therefore a significant commitment. If you're unsure about whether this type of bed is the right fit for your family, take the time to visit a showroom or read reviews on retailer websites from actual customers. This will give you an idea about the quality of construction and the quality of the bunks are built.
Storage
Furniture should be able serve more than just as a place to sleep, study and relax. Bunk beds that have built-in storage solutions meet this need, turning them into multifunctional pieces that champion both function and fashion. Innovative features such as multi-functional staircases and drawers that are integrated provide convenient access to clothing bedding, toys, bed linens and other items that might otherwise crowd the room, and keep them in order and within reach.
Loft beds that have spacious desks can turn the space below 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. best queen over queen bunk bed with a removable trundle bed can accommodate older children and adults who prefer a full-size bed.
Furthermore, bunk beds that can allow for sleeping three or more make a wise investment for families who want to maximize space in small bedrooms with high ceilings. These types of bunks can also be a great fit in corners, allowing owners to make use of awkward spaces which would otherwise be unused.
The color and materials of your bunk bed will determine the overall look of your bunk bed. Wood bunks have a classic, timeless look that blends well into contemporary, coastal and farmhouse interiors. Steel bunks are a contemporary option that goes well with midcentury and industrial designs.
When choosing bunk beds, take into consideration the ceiling height of your home and the proximity of windows or other architectural features. The smaller, more compact designs may be easier to assemble and are ideal for children or teens who are preparing to transition from the junior or toddler bedroom. Meanwhile, taller bunks offer an airier, more sophisticated design and are ideal for older children or adult sleepers. Some designs also feature side railings that allow for a higher clearance between beds, which ensures safety and easy access for everyone.