Bunk Beds Are Cooler Than Ever

If you're planning an area for children to share or putting together a dorm room, or simply looking to maximize your space bunk beds are a great choice and more stylish than ever. There are many designs to consider, including twin-over-twin and full-over-full models.

Look for one that fits your budget and your children room dimensions. Also, be aware that some bunks can accommodate beds with trundle beds at the bottom to accommodate sleepovers.

Size

Bunk beds have been a mainstay of childhood bedrooms for many years. They offer both efficacy and fun for children who like to sleep together. They are also popular in shared rooms as well as vacation homes. Bunk beds are available in a variety of styles and materials that can be adapted to any budget or size. Our bunk bed picks range from basic twin over twin designs to more elaborate models with stairs or ladders and unique features like slides.

We weighed a range of factors while scouring the market for our top picks, including overall design, safety, and value. We also consulted experts -- parents and one who wrote the book on bunk beds to assist us in locating the best bunk bed ever choices. Check out our seven top picks.

The size of bunk beds is an important consideration prior to purchasing a bed, especially in relation to the ceiling's height. Always take measurements to ensure that the bunks you pick are suitable, and leave at least 5 inches of headroom on the top bunk. We also suggest avoid Trundle beds with mattresses that hang high that can limit headroom and increase the chance of bumped heads.

You should also consider whether you would prefer ladders or stairs to reach the top bunk. Stairs are usually more secure and safer to climb, however they could take up more space than ladders. Ladders aren't as bulky and more cost-effective, but they may feel too steep for children.

On the product page on the product page, you'll find the weight capacity of every top bunk mattress. This information is typically displayed near the dimensions of the mattress. A higher capacity for weight indicates that the mattress is intended for older children or adults who require a bigger mattress.

The Shyann Bunk Bed from Room & Board is a flexible option for bunk beds. It is available in three different finishes that match the decor of your child's room. Snowy white brings a bright coastal look to a classic children's room and brushed gray or rich walnut add warmth and class to a rustic or farmhouse design.

Safety

When purchasing bunk beds it is important to look beyond the price and ensure that it is equipped with all the safety features that are required. A reliable seller will list the weight capacity, and describes the structure's durability and strength. This is particularly helpful for families who plan to reuse the beds as their children get older.

A good rule of the thumb is to leave at least 33-36 inches between the top of the mattress and the ceiling, suggests Rebecca Simon, a designer with Maison Ellie Interiors for Kids. If you don't want sacrifice that much space, you may want to consider a bunk bed with a low-height. "That's ideal for a small space, because it keeps the bunk below off the floor. That can feel cramped when kids get older."

A second consideration is how much room there is for stairs or ladders. A bunk that has built-in steps will save space, but it could also be more expensive and take longer to put together. If you're short on space, go for an easy ladder that allows your children to safely climb to the top bunk.

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

If you're looking for an option that grows with their children, this trundle-style design from Bed Bath & Beyond converts into two twin beds that are separate for teens and tweens. It's the only bunk bed that isn't wood bed on this list, and its sturdy steel frame is surprisingly lightweight for such a heavy-duty piece of furniture. It is available 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 designs, so you are sure to choose one that best built in bunk beds suits your family's needs. There are numerous configurations, like twin-over-twin bunks or the more specialized beds such as twin-over queen or queen-over-twin. Some are made of metal, while others are wood and include side rails for the top bunk. The design of the frame as well as other features also can vary, so you'll want to think about the amount of storage you'll need and the style you like the most.

Klugh advises that when considering the cost of a bunk bed, it is important to keep in mind that the higher price the more customizable the bed will be. This could include adding additional features such as a staircase or ladder. It could also refer to the possibility of adding the trundle bed, which makes it ideal for sleepovers or guest accommodations. Some models can even be disassembled and used as two beds, which is a great feature to consider if your kids will outgrow bunks or you plan on moving to a different home in the near future.

The number of beds that you select will also impact cost and style. For instance, you could choose a basic twin over twin bunk bed, which maximizes the amount of floor space and is affordable. You can also opt to spend more money on a solid-wood bunk bed that has an elegant, sturdy design that can grow with your kids and possibly accommodate adults in the future.

It is important to check the weight capacity of the bunk beds you select to ensure they can accommodate the amount of people you want to use 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.

It is important to remember that a bunkbed can be an expensive investment and thus a significant commitment. If you're unsure if this type of bed will work for your family, go to the showroom of a retailer or read reviews from customers on their website. This will give you an idea of the quality and workmanship of the bunk beds.

Stores

Furniture must be able to serve more than just as an area to study, sleep and relax. Bunk beds with built-in storage can meet this requirement making them multi-functional pieces that are both practical and stylish. Multifunctional staircases and storage drawers that are integrated are innovative features that provide easy access to clothing, toys and bedding linens.

Additionally loft beds with spacious desk areas transform 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.

Another option to consider is detachable bunks which can be separated into separate twin beds, which are ideal for sleeping over guests or allowing kids to change to single beds as they grow. Bunks with a trundle that can be removed beds can be used to be adapted to older children and adults who prefer a large bed.

Families who want to maximize their space in small bedrooms with high-ceilinged ceilings can make smart investments by purchasing bigger bunk beds that can accommodate three or four people. These types of bunks can also fit well into corner spaces, enabling owners to make use of nooks that would otherwise be wasted.

The color and materials of your bunk bed will determine its overall appearance. Wood bunks are timeless and classic. They fit well in contemporary and coastal interiors as well as farmhouse. Steel bunks are a contemporary option that goes well with midcentury and industrial styles.

When choosing a bunk bed, consider the height of your home's ceilings and any windows that are nearby or other architectural features. The smaller, more compact designs are easier to put together. They are great for teens or younger children who are ready to get out of the bedroom for toddlers or juniors. In contrast, higher-end bunks have an elegant, more airy appearance and are more suitable for older children or adults. Some designs also have side railings, which allow for more space between beds, providing security and accessible access for all users.