How to Select the Best Bunk Bed

The best bunk beds combine a sturdy construction with a stylish design. It can be used with standard twin- and full-sized mattresses, which help to maximize the number of sleepers a room can fit.

Choose a bunk bed with a fixed ladder, instead of stairs that take up valuable floor space. Some models feature an angled ladder that is easier to climb, though these may not be as safe for older kids.

Size

It is crucial to consider the dimensions of the room as well as the height. You must ensure that the bed is suitable but you must also be sure to leave enough room for your child to move in and out safely, as well as for other furniture pieces in the bedroom, such as bookcases and decorative items. If the bed's top is too close to the ceiling, it can cause children to fall over when they roll over or get up. They might also feel secluded. Idealy, there should at least 36 inches between the top of the bed and the ceiling.

Look into a bed that can be divided into two beds if you're looking to get a bunk bed to grow with your children. This option is more expensive than a fixed bunk bed, but can save you money in the long run in the event that your children decide to separate their beds.

The Perch bunk bed from PB Teen, for example, is a stylish investment piece that will look amazing in both traditional and modern rooms thanks to its sleek lines and neutral finish. It also offers an optional Trundle bed beneath the bottom bunk, so it can be used for sleepovers without sacrificing floor space.

Check out the affordable bunk beds available from brands like RC Willey if you're on the tightest budget. These beds are available in different finishes and come with a guardrail and ladder. They're simple to put together. Some come with slide-out drawers beneath the bottom bunk to provide additional storage. For safety, choose a bunk bed that is tested to comply with CPSC regulations. Also, look for one with an extremely low center of gravity so it won't fall over easily.

Style

Style is also a major factor in choosing a bunk bed's style. The most common designs are twin-over-twin, but you can also find queen-over-queen or full-overfull bunks for adults and older children who prefer to have more space for sleeping. Some models also have staggered configurations with the bed lower longer than the top. These are ideal for older kids who like more of a sofa-like space on the bottom that they can sit and relax in or to use as an office or study desk.

Choose a wooden bed with the headboard and footboards slatted to give modern and sleek design that appeals to both boys as well as girls. The open panels in this design from Ikea for instance allow light to be able to flow through the bunks, enhancing the space while also providing safety and security. This bunk bed is also easy to use thanks to the ladder that is angled and guardrails.

Loft beds are another option for bunk beds. They hang from the ceiling and are a T shape which makes them perfect for small rooms with small floor space or storage space. They require a larger clearance on the upper bunk, so be sure your ceilings are high enough prior to purchasing one. Bunks facing the wall don't require as much clearance and can increase the square footage.

If your kids love reading at night, consider adding an illuminated reading light that is recessed and a shelf or ledge for books to their bunks. Ms. Keenan often includes these elements in her designs when she builds bunks that are over windows, which helps the sleeping space feel more like a relaxing place to relax. She's seen them coupled with motorized shades, which can be adjusted to meet the requirements of the room. This allows for simple control of the warmth and amount in a space, while permitting you to relax or read.

Safety

Many parents are worried about bunk bed safety however, they're actually more secure than you think. Because they have guardrails on the sides of the sleeping area above, bunk beds are less prone to fall than single beds. They also pass anti-tip and lead tests to ensure they're safe for kids to sleep in. When shopping for a bunk bed take a look at the weight capacity to ensure it is able to support the combined weight of your kids without sliding. If you have children who are older or plan on hosting guests in your home, opt for an over-full bunk that is a better option for supporting adult bodies.

Solid wood bunk beds are another way to increase security. Solid wood bunks are known to be more durable than metal, and they often have thicker supports. Check that the foundation of the bunk bed isn't sagging or has gaps that are large enough to entrap a child.

Always follow the directions and guidelines of the manufacturer when putting together the loft bed. To minimize the risk, keep the bunk bed free of lighting fixtures and curtains that might hinder climbing into or out of the top bunk. Set the bunk beds in a corner to improve stability.

Be sure to teach your children the basics of bunk bed safety and keep an eye on your children when they climb up and down. It is also a good idea to keep the space around the bunk bed free of clothing, backpacks, and shoes. Children should also be taught how to use the ladder safely and to never hang anything from the bedposts or ladder.

Materials

The best bunk beds are made of sturdy materials that can be able to withstand the demands of children. Choose wooden frames that can safely hold two people, as well as sturdy ladders and stairs. A lot of brands offer extra features, such as drawers or shelving. Trundle beds are also available. This flexibility is beneficial when you are planning on your kids bunk beds growing out of bunk beds or moving into their own rooms, Spampanato says.

When choosing a bunk bed, you'll need to take into consideration the material and color of your furniture, in addition to the style and the height of your room. Also, consider how the bunk bed will fit in with the architectural features of your home such as fixed fixtures like closets or windows. A good suggestion is to use blue painter's tape to mark out the silhouette of the bunk bed in your room, and also pay attention to how it will abut fixed structures and how far it will be from the ceiling.

Some wooden bunk beds are constructed of solid, sustainably harvested wood or are GreenGuard Gold certified, which might appeal to families who prioritize eco-friendly furnishings. However, these types of beds tend to be more expensive than wood-composite and metal models.

The cheapest option on our list is the bunk bed made of plywood and medium density fiberboard. It's a sturdy option that's ASTM-certified and is available in neutral colors that match most existing furniture. This bunk bed is also distinguished by its angled ladder that allows children to climb up and down. It also has sturdy guardrails on the top bunk, and a large storage space beneath.

Ladder

The decision to go with bunk beds with stairs or a ladder is contingent on the space in your home and the ages of your children. Stairs take up more space on the floor and are more expensive than simple ladder alternatives. However, they're generally more secure and comfortable for children to climb. Some models also offer additional safety features such as handrails on the sides and a locking mechanism.

Ladders are often less expensive than stairs and take up less space, but they are difficult for children of small size to use. Look for ladders with grooved anti-slip steps and hand hole cutouts. These make climbing easier for toddlers as well as older children. Some bunk bed ladders may also be angled to create an easy climb up the top bunk.

Consider adding a padded mat or rug near the ladder if you choose a bunk bed with stairs. This will ensure that your children don't accidentally bump into it and hurt themselves when they climb up or down. It also stops them from sliding or sliding which is particularly dangerous for young children.

Bunk beds with ladders are a great alternative for families with small space for floor space or have low ceilings. They are simple to put together, and come in a variety of styles including classic wooden ladders and modern metal options. Some bunk beds come with two separate ladders, which can be helpful for families that need to accommodate a child who prefers to sleep on the bottom bunk. There are ladders with adjustable heights, allowing you to change the positioning of your bunk bed as your children grow. For example, if your children want to move their desks from one side of the room to the other, a movable ladder for bunks can allow them to do this without moving the bunk bed itself.