Best Bunk: 11 Things You're Not Doing

How to Choose the Best Bunk Beds for Your Kids' Room

Bunk beds can add excitement and function to a kid' 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.

Check for features such as angled ladders, stairs that protrude and more. These features make bunk beds easier to climb for older children and safer. There are also trundles under the bed for sleepovers as well as storage spaces which double as play areas.

Size

Size is crucial when shopping for bunk beds. Make sure the beds fit into the space and provide enough space for you to climb up or down. If you're planning on adding furniture pieces like desks or a dresser, consider their sizes as well. Be aware that the bunks on top and bottom can only hold some weight in the event that they are used as adult bedroom furniture.

The ceiling's height is also important. "A good rule of thumb is to make sure that there's at least 5 inches of clearance between the ceiling and the bed's bottom," says Klugh. This will ensure that kids can safely reach the upper portion of the bed.

Some bunk beds have ladders, whereas others have stairs. Fenton states that stairs are more convenient to use, but they also take up more space. There are stairs with built-in drawers to store things, which is great for those who want to store your toys or bedding. They are more expensive than straight ladders.

Bunk bed materials also vary in price. The less expensive sets are typically made of medium density fiberboard. The more expensive ones often feature frames made of metal or a solid wood construction. Wood is beautiful and sturdy, but can be warped when it comes into contact with water or insects. Some parents opt to avoid this material.

The majority of the bunks listed in this guide are available in your choice of finishes, including white for a clean, crisp look and a smoky gray, or rich walnut that will fit into any color-clad bedroom. The Sherwin-Williams Shyann Twin over Full Over Queen Bunk Bed, for instance, has additional headroom between the bottom and top bunks to reduce the chance of hitting heads while sitting or reading in bed.

Some of our picks even convert into two separate beds which may be ideal if you expect to sell the bunks after your children outgrow them or you plan to move them at some point in the future. For a more long-term solution, this Woodcrest Kids Twin Over Full Low-Profile Bunk Bed with Staircase and Drawers fits both twin-over-twin and full-over-full mattresses. It comes in a classic neutral color that pairs easily with any interior design.

Safety

Bunk beds can be exciting and exciting, however there are a few safety issues. It is recommended to choose frames for your bed constructed of durable, high-quality wood. It is also important to ensure that the bunk bed has proper guardrails for the top sleeper and meets all safety standards applicable. The guardrails must be at least 5 inches in height and should be affixed to the entire upper mattress. You should also look for gaps, openings or holes in the guardrails that are large enough to trap the child's head or torso, limbs, or head.

The majority of bunk bed manufacturers have weight limits on their products. Following these guidelines is essential, as a violation of them could cause the bunk bed to collapse and pose the risk of serious injury. Many of these manufacturers impose age restrictions on their bunk beds. In general, children must be at least 6 years old older to be able to sleep on the upper levels.

The type of ladder that comes with the bunk beds is another important aspect to think about. While some models come with a simple metal ladder, others come with more elaborate staircases. Staircases can be easier for kids to climb but they're not as secure as a ladder made of solid steel. They can also be difficult to navigate if your children are very tall or have difficulty climbing up and down.

It is also crucial to ensure that the bunk beds are fixed to the wall and the floor and that they aren't situated near windows or other objects that children might fall on when they sleep. It is also recommended to check the bunk bed regularly for any damaged or loose parts that may need to be repaired. Keep spare bolts and screws in your home in case they become lost or loosen over time.

Then, you must place the bunk bed in the corner of the room so that it has walls on two sides. This will prevent falls from the top or side of the bed and will make it easier for your kids to get out and in.

Style

There are a variety of stylish bunk beds that offer more than just a place to sleep. Some bunk beds include additional storage space, an integrated desk, or a slide. While it's important to think about your child's design preferences before making a purchase It's an excellent idea to consider how the bunk bed will integrate with other furniture in the room and the overall layout of the space.

Some of the most popular bunk beds for kids are minimal in style, featuring modern full-size or twin beds that stack and are combined with a stairway ladder. These minimalist styles can be perfect for cramped spaces or rooms with low ceilings. They are a budget-friendly choice. Many of these designs can be split into two beds, which is great if your kids outgrow the bunks or you decide to relocate to a new home.

Some are more attractive, such as adding a bunk bed to your children's room with a fun color or finish that matches furniture in the bedroom. The triple bunk bed from Pottery Barn, for example has a neutral finish that is compatible with both vibrant colors and subtle ones. The design is angular, giving it a modern, sleek style. The staircase features open-air shelves that can be used to store things that are not visible. The stairs also feature a elegant slatted railing that is sturdy enough to support the weight of an adult, meaning you don't have to fret about your kids falling off the top bunk.

If your children are lovers of the outdoors, this rustic-style bunk bed from Max and Lily could be the perfect ticket. This best rated bunk beds bed is environmentally friendly since it's constructed from solid wood that has been harvested sustainably and is in compliance with sustainable forestry practices. The wire brush technique used to create this bunk's unique design highlights the wood's natural knots and grain, giving the bunk a unique appearance. The bottom bunk is able to fit twin mattresses (sold separately), and the upper bunk is designed to accommodate an entire mattress, which means this bed is ideal for older children.

Stores

Bunk beds are a great space-saver, but certain models come with additional storage options that make them more suitable for families or Airbnb guests. There are trundle beds that include a trundle, which pulls out from under the bunk's bottom to sleep an additional child or a couple and others have drawers for clothes and other items that could clutter a smaller room. The Ilariana Heavy Duty Wood Safety Staircase Bunk Bed is a good example. It has two under-bed storage drawers and a bookcase with three shelves in different sizes. It can be an ideal addition to a room that has small shelves or closet space.

Another thing to consider when buying bunk beds is whether you'd like stairs or ladders to get to the top level. Ladders tend to be more traditional and can be incorporated into the decor of a room better than stairs, which may appear less stylish. Stairs are more efficient and easy to climb. They can also be multi-functional with some models sporting hollow stairs that double as storage drawers.

There are also minimalist bunk beds made up of two twin or full mattresses that can be arranged to fit together. They are great for small rooms or rooms with low ceilings and are typically the most affordable option. A majority of them can be dismantled and set in two beds, which is useful when you are planning on changing layouts of rooms or relocating your home in the future.

The Walters Twin-Over-Twin Solid Wood Bunk Bed with Trundle is a chic option made of knot-free New Zealand pine wood and has stylish slatted headboards and footboards. It also comes with solid 14-inch guardrails on the edges of the upper bunk as well as a built-in ladder that is stationary, which cannot be moved however it provides plenty of space on the lower level for play.

For a more modern option take a look at the Harper & Bright Designs Solid Pine and Plywood Bunk Bed. The stylish bunk bed comes in many colors and can be divided into two beds later. It can accommodate up 300 pounds on the top bunk and twin or full-size beds can be utilized.