Bunk Beds Are Cooler Than Ever

Whether you're designing a shared bedroom for your children, outfitting a dorm or simply maximizing your space, bunk beds are versatile and more fashionable than ever. There are a variety of styles to think about, including twin-over-twin and full-over-full options.

Choose a bunk bed that fits within your budget and the dimensions of your child's bedroom. Some bunk beds can accommodate trundle mattresses in the bottom to accommodate sleepovers.

Size

Bunk beds are a common feature of the bedrooms of children, offering both convenience and excitement for kids who want to sleep side by side. They are also common in shared rooms and vacation homes. Bunk beds are available in a wide range of styles and materials to suit any budget and room size. Our bunk bed picks range from basic twin over twin constructions to more elaborate models with ladders or stairs, and also unique features such as slides.

We weighed a range of factors as we scoured the market for our top picks including the overall design, safety, and price. We also asked parents and a person who wrote the book about bunk beds to help us find the most effective alternatives. Discover our seven favorites by going through the article.

The size of the bunk beds is an important factor to consider prior to making a purchase, especially when it comes to the height of your ceilings. Always take measurements to ensure that the bunks you choose fit and that you have at least 5 inches of headroom on the top bunk. We also advise against trundle bed trundles that have a high-hanging mattress, as they can restrict headroom.

Another consideration is whether you prefer ladders or stairs to get to the top bunk. Stairs are generally safer and easier to climb, but they may take up more area than ladders. Ladders are less bulky and cost-effective, however they can be too steep for younger children.

On the product page you'll find the weight capacity of each top bunk mattress. This information is typically displayed close to the dimensions of the mattress. A higher capacity for weight typically indicates the bunk is suitable for older kids or adults who require a bigger mattress.

The Shyann Bunk Bed from Room & Board is a versatile option for bunk beds. It comes in three different finishes that fit in with the decor of your child's bedroom. White and snowy give a bright coastal style to classic bedrooms for kids, while brushed grey or rich walnut give an authentic farmhouse or rustic look.

Safety

When looking for a bunk bed, it is important to look beyond the price tag and ensure it is equipped with the safety features you need. A reliable seller will provide the capacity for weight and give an explanation of the structure's strength and durability which is particularly helpful for families who plan on reusing the beds as their children get older.

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

Another factor to consider is how much space you have for stairs or ladders. While a bunk with built-in stairs can save space, it can also be costly and require more assembly time. If you're short of space, consider a simple ladder that can still allow your children to safely climb to the top of the bunk.

All bunks listed are made of sturdy materials and meet Consumer Product Safety Commission requirements for guardrails. They also have passed anti-tip and lead tests and can be a big relief for parents with children who share rooms. For instance, the wood-and-metal Room & Board model is "built like tank," says Laura Fenton, author of The Bunk Bed Book: 115 Bunks Lofts, Lofts, and Cozy Nooks. These are the same beds that hotels use, so they are built to last.

For shoppers who want a bed that can grow with their children, this trundle-style bed from Bed Bath & Beyond converts into two separate twin beds for tweens and teens. It's the only bunk bed that does not make use of wood. The solid steel frame is also surprisingly light for a massive piece of furniture. It comes in a range of colors and can also be customized with accessories like under-bed drawers.

Style

Bunk beds are available in many different sizes and designs, so you are sure to find one that fits your family's needs. For instance, there are traditional twin-over-twin bunks and specialized configurations like twin-over-queen or queen-over-twin beds. Some are made of 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 think about 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 essential to keep in mind that the greater price point, the more customizable the bed will be. This could mean adding accessories such as a staircase, or ladder. It could also mean the ability to add an trundle bed that allows for easy guests to stay over or for sleepovers. Certain models can be dismantled to create two beds. This is an excellent option for children who are growing out of their bunk beds or if you plan to move in the near future.

The number of beds you choose will also impact the price and design. You could opt for a basic twin-over-twin bunk bed for maximum the floor space. It's also affordable. You might also choose to spend a bit more for a durable, solid-wood option with a modern design that can expand with the kids, and perhaps even accommodate adult sleepers in the future.

No matter what size or style you pick, it's important to check the capacity to bear weight of the bunk beds best to ensure that they are able to accommodate the number of people you'll use them for. Some bunk beds are only designed for children and can only support 165 pounds. Others have a higher limit and can accommodate adults and children who are growing.

It's also important to note that a bunk bed can be a major investment and, therefore, a major commitment. If you're unsure whether a bunk bed will work for your family, visit the showroom of a particular retailer or read reviews of customers on their website. This will give a good idea of the craftsmanship and quality of the bunk beds.

Storage

Furniture should be able serve more than an area to study, sleep or relax. Bunk beds with built-in storage fulfill this need and transform them into multi-functional pieces that are practical and stylish. Multifunctional staircases and drawers with storage integrated are creative features that make it easy to gain access to toys, clothing and bedding linens.

Loft beds with spacious desk areas can transform the space below them into a productive work area. These smart arrangements allow young students or remote workers to manage work as well as play time without sacrificing floor space.

Detachable bunks can be divided into twin-size beds to accommodate guests at sleepovers or to let children grow up and transition to single beds. Bunks with a removable trundle beds can be used to accommodate older children as well as adults who prefer a full-size bed.

Additionally, bunks that sleep three, four, or more are a good investment for families who want to maximize space in bedrooms with high ceilings. These models can fit into tight corners, allowing homeowners to make the most of the space that would otherwise be wasted.

The color and material of your bunk bed will determine the overall look of your bunk bed. Wood bunks are timeless and classic. They are a great fit for modern, coastal or farmhouse interiors. Steel bunks are on the other hand, are a more modern option that is a great match with industrial and midcentury-inspired styles.

Be aware of the height of your ceilings, any nearby windows and other architectural elements when shopping for bunk beds. Smaller, smaller designs are more straightforward to put together and are suitable for younger teens or children who are preparing to transition from the junior or toddler bedroom. These bunks are taller and have a elegant, airy appearance, and are best triple sleeper bunk beds suited to older children or adults. Some designs also have side railings that permit more space between beds, which ensures safety and easy access for all users.