How to Choose the Best Bunk Beds for Your Kids’ Room
Bunk beds can add fun and functionality to a kids’ room, especially when you’re limited in space. If you opt for the classic twin-over-full or a loft bed with storage, we have options that will meet your budget and room needs.
Be sure to look for features such as stairs that jut out, angled ladders, and more, which make the bunks more accessible and safer for older children. Other features include storage spaces that can be used as play areas or under-bed trundles.
Size
When looking for a childrens bunk beds bed the size is important. Make sure that the beds fit into the space and provide enough space for you to climb up or down. Think about the dimensions of other furniture pieces, like dressers or desks, should you decide to add them. Remember that the top and bottom bunks can only support the weight of a certain amount when used as furniture for adults.
Another important aspect is the ceiling’s height. “A good rule of thumb is to make sure that there’s at minimum 5 inches of clearance between the ceiling and the base of the bed,” says Klugh. This will ensure that children are able to safely access the upper part of the bed.
Some bunk beds have stairs, while others include ladders. “Stairs are usually easier to use than ladders, but they do take up more space,” says Fenton. There are stairs with built-in drawers for storage which is ideal for those who want to store your toys or bedding. But they’re more expensive than straight ladders.
Bunk bed materials also differ in price. The cheapest sets are typically constructed of medium density fiberboard. The more expensive ones often have a metal frame or solid wood construction. Wood is beautiful and sturdy however it can warp when it comes into contact with water or insects. Some parents opt to stay clear of this type of material.
The majority of the bunks featured in this guide are available in your choice of finish, including a clean white for a modern look and a smoky grey or rich walnut that can fit into any color-clad bedroom. The Sherwin-Williams Shyann Twin over Full Over Queen Bunk Bed for instance, has additional headroom between the top and bottom bunks to reduce the chance of bumping into heads when reading or sitting in bed.
Some of our selections can be converted into two separate beds. This is a great option when you are planning to sell them once your children outgrow them or if you’re planning on moving in the near future. For a more long-term solution, consider this Woodcrest Kids Twin Over Full Low-Profile Bunk Bed with Staircase and Drawers fits both twin-over-twin and full-over-full mattresses and comes in a classic neutral shade that is compatible with any style of interior.
Safety
Bunk beds can be fun and exciting, however there are some safety issues. You should choose a bed frame constructed of strong high-quality wood. Also, make sure that the bunk bed is equipped with guardrails for the top sleeper and meets all safety standards that are applicable. The guardrails must be at least 5 inches high and should be affixed to the entire upper mattress. You should also check for openings, gaps or holes in the guardrails that are large enough to hold the head or torso, limbs, or head.
Most bunk bed manufacturers stipulate weight limits for their products. It is important to follow these guidelines, as overstepping them could cause the bunk bed to collapse, and could pose serious injury risk. Many of these manufacturers have age limits on their bunk beds. Usually children must be at least six years old to sleep in the upper level.
Another thing to take into consideration is the type of ladder that comes with the bunk bed. While some models come with an easy metal ladder some come with more elaborate staircases. Staircases are easier for children to climb, but not as secure as ladders made of solid steel. They can be a challenge to navigate if your children are very tall or have trouble climbing up and down.
You should also ensure that the bunk bed is properly fixed to the floor and wall and isn’t near any windows or items that children could fall on while they’re sleeping. It is also recommended to regularly check the bunk bed for broken or loose parts that may need to be repaired or replaced. It’s a good idea keep additional bolts and screws close by in case any get lost or loose as time passes.
Finally, you should put the bunk bed in a corner of the room so that it has walls on both sides. This will prevent falls from the top or side of the bunk bed and it will also make it more comfortable for your kids to get out and in.
Style
If you’re looking to update your children’s bedroom decor There are plenty of chic bunk beds that offer more than just a place to sleep. Some bunk beds have additional storage space, a built in desk, or even a slide. While it’s important to consider your children’s preferences in design before making a purchase It’s important to consider how the bunk bed will fit with other furniture in the room and the overall layout of the space.
Some of the most popular bunk beds for kids are minimalist in design, featuring modern full-size or twin beds that can be stacked together and coupled with a ladder for stairs. These minimalist designs are ideal for small spaces or rooms with low ceilings. They’re also a great budget-friendly option. A lot of these models are able to be separated into two separate beds, which is ideal if your kids outgrow the bunks or you decide to relocate to a new home.
Some bunk beds are more attractive and can be paired with other furniture in the bedroom. For example this triple bunk from Pottery Barn offers an elegant neutral finish that works with both vibrant and muted hues. Its angular style creates a clean modern, contemporary look. the stairs have open shelves for storage that is out of sight. The stairs also have a elegant slatted railing, and are solid enough to support the weight of an adult, meaning you don’t have to worry about your kids falling off the top bunk.
If your kids are avid fans of the outdoors, this rustic-style bunk bed from Max and Lily could be the perfect ticket. Made from sustainably sourced solid wood that adheres to sustainable forestry practices, this bunk bed is eco-friendly and striking. Wire brushing was employed to create the distinctive texture of this bunk bed. It accentuates the wood’s knots and natural grain and gives it a unique appearance. This bunk bed is ideal 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.
Stores
Bunk beds can be a great way to save space, however some models also have storage, making them more suitable for families or Airbnb guests. There are trundle beds that include a trundle that can be pulled out from underneath the bottom bunk to sleep another person or extra kids and others have drawers for clothes and other items that could clutter small spaces. The Ilariana Heavy Duty Wood Safety Staircase best rated bunk beds Bed, for example, has two under-bed storage drawers and a bookcase with three shelves of various sizes, which can be an ideal addition to a room that has limited closet or shelf space.
When looking for bunk beds, it is important to be aware of whether you prefer stairs or ladders to get to the top. 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 featuring hollow stairs that double as storage drawers.
There are also minimalistic bunk beds that consist of two full or twin mattresses that are simply arranged. They are great for small rooms or rooms with low ceilings and are generally the least expensive option. A lot of them can be dismantled and put up as two separate beds, which is useful when you are planning on changing layouts of rooms or moving your home in the future.
The Walters Twin-Over-Twin Solid Wood Trundle Bunk Bed is a fashionable option that is made of knot-free New Zealand Pine wood. It also comes with elegant slatted headboards and footboards. It also has a built-in ladder as well as sturdy 14-inch guardrails on the upper bunk.
For a more modern option take a look at the Harper & Bright Designs Solid Pine and Plywood Bunk Bed. The modern bunk bed is available in a variety of colors and is able to be split into two separate beds later. It can hold up 300 pounds on the top bunk and twin or full-size beds can be utilized.