Bunk Beds Are Cooler Than Ever

If you're designing a shared bedroom for your children or outfitting a dorm, or just maximizing your space, bunk beds are versatile and cooler than ever. There are many designs to consider, including twin-over-twin and full-over-full options.

Find one that is in line with your budget and your children' room dimensions, and be aware that some bunks can be able to accommodate beds that trundle down for sleepovers.

Size

Bunk beds have been a common feature of bedrooms for children for many years. They offer both effectiveness and excitement to children who like to sleep together. They're also a popular choice for shared rooms and vacation homes. Bunk beds are available in a range of styles and materials, with options to fit every budget and size of room. Our top picks for bunk beds range from basic twin-over-twin constructions to elaborate models with ladders or stairs and unique features such as slides.

We considered a variety of factors when we searched the market to find our top picks, including the overall design, safety, and value. We also asked parents and a person who wrote the book on bunk beds to help us identify the most suitable choices. Check out our seven top picks.

Before you purchase bunk beds, it's important to consider the size of the bed. This is especially important when you're evaluating your ceiling height. Take measurements of your space prior to purchasing bunk beds to make sure they fit. The top bunk should have at 5 inches of headroom. We also recommend not using Trundle beds with mattresses that hang high that can limit headroom and increase the possibility of bumped heads.

Another factor to consider is whether you prefer ladders or stairs for access to the top bunk. Stairs are easier to climb and safer, however they will take up more space on the floor than a ladder. Ladders aren't as bulky and more affordable, but they can be too steep for children.

You'll also want to be aware of the capacity for weight of the top bunk mattress which is available on the page of each product. The information is typically listed next to the dimensions of the mattress. A higher capacity for weight indicates that the bunk is made for older children or adults who might require a bigger mattress.

A versatile bunk bed option The Shyann bunk bed from Room & Board offers three options to match your children room decor. Snowy white brings a bright coastal look to a classic children's room while brushed gray and rich walnut add warmth and class to a farmhouse or rustic style.

Safety

When buying a bunk bed it is important to look beyond the cost and ensure that it has all the safety features you need. A trustworthy seller will outline the weight capacity and provide a description of the structure's strength and durability which is particularly helpful for families who intend 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 mattress and the ceiling, suggests Rebecca Simon, a designer with Maison Ellie Interiors for Kids. "If you don't have room to accommodate that much space, you might prefer a low-height bunk," she adds. "That's an excellent option for a small room as it keeps the lower bunk off the floor. That can be uncomfortable as kids grow older."

A second consideration is how much space there is for stairs or ladders. While a bunk with built-in stairs could save space, it could also be costly and require more assembly time. If you're limited on space, go for an easy ladder that allows your children to safely climb up to the top of the bunk.

The bunks in this list have solid construction and are in compliance with the Consumer Product Safety Commission's requirements for guardrails. They also have passed anti-tip and lead tests, which could be a huge relief for parents who have children sharing rooms. For instance, the metal-and-wood Room & Board model is "built like tanks," says Laura Fenton who is the author of The best futon bunk bed Bed Book: 115 Bunks Lofts, Lofts, and Cozy Nooks. "These are beds used in hotels, and therefore they're made to last."

For those looking for a bunk that will grow with their kids, this trundle-style bed from Bed Bath & Beyond converts into two separate twin beds for teens and tweens. It's the only non-wood bunk bed on the list, and its solid steel frame is extremely light for such a large piece of furniture. It's available in an extensive range of colors and can be customized with additional accessories, such as under-bed storage drawers.

Style

Bunk beds are available in a variety of shapes and sizes and shapes, so you can pick one that is suitable for your family's needs. There are numerous configurations, including the classic twin-over-twin bunks, or beds that are specialized like twin-over queen or queen-over-twin. Some are made of metal, while others are best wooden bunk beds and come with side rails for the top bunk. The frame design and other features can vary. You'll need to think about how much storage space you'll need and the style you like.

When you are considering the price, bear in mind that the greater the cost of a bunk bed, the more customizable it will be, Klugh says. This could mean adding extras such as a staircase or ladder. This could also be the ability to add an additional bed for guests or sleepovers. Certain models can be dismantled to make two beds. This is a fantastic feature if your children will outgrow their bunk beds or if you are planning to move in the near future.

The number of beds you select will also influence cost and style. For example, you might opt for a simple twin over twin bunk bed that makes the most of the floor space and is affordable. Or, you might decide to spend a little more on a solid wood option that has modern designs that will be able to grow with your kids and maybe even accommodate adults down the road.

It is essential to verify the weight capacity for the best double bunk beds beds you select to ensure they are able to accommodate the amount of people you want to use them for. Some are designed for children only and can only hold up to 165 pounds and others have a higher limit on weight that allows them to accommodate growing children and even adults.

It's also important to note that a bunk bed can be a significant investment, and therefore a significant commitment. If you're uncertain about whether this kind of bed is a good option for your family, take the time to visit a showroom or look up reviews on the websites of retailers from actual buyers. This will give you an idea about the quality of workmanship and the way in which the bunks are made.

Stores

Modern living requires furniture that can be more than merely used as a best place for Bunk beds to sleep, study, and relax. Bunk beds that have built-in storage options can meet the need to transform into multi-purpose pieces that promote both function and style. Multifunctional staircases and integrated storage drawers are creative features that make it easy to gain access to clothes, toys and bed linens.

Likewise, loft beds that boast large desks transform the space underneath them into a productive work space. These clever arrangements allow young students or remote workers to manage work, play, and sleep without sacrificing valuable floor space.

Detachable bunks can be divided into twin-sized beds to accommodate guests during sleepovers or to let children grow up and transition to single beds. Bunks with removable trundle beds can be adapted to older adults or children who prefer sleeping on a large mattress.

Finally, larger bunk beds that can sleep three, four, or more are a smart purchase for families seeking to maximize space in small bedrooms with high ceilings. These models can fit well into corner spaces, enabling owners to make use of awkward nooks which would otherwise be unused.

The type of material and color your bunk bed is crafted from will impact its overall look and feel. Wood bunks are timeless and classic. They fit well in modern, coastal or farmhouse interiors. Steel bunks are on the other hand are a more modern option that is a great match with midcentury and industrial styles.

Be aware of the ceiling's height as well as any windows that are nearby and other architectural features when looking for bunk beds. Smaller, smaller designs may be easier to assemble and are ideal for children or teens who are ready to move from the toddler or junior bedroom. While taller bunks provide an elegant, airier appearance and are more suitable for older children or adults. Some designs also have side railings, which allow for an increased space between beds, which ensures safety and easy access for all users.