How to Select the Best Bunk Bed

The most comfortable bunk beds combine solid construction and an elegant design. It can be used with standard twin- and full-sized mattresses. This helps to maximize the number of sleepers a room can fit.

Choose a bunk bed that features a fixed ladder instead of stairs, which can be a waste of space. Some models come with angled ladders that are more comfortable to climb, but could not be safe for older children.

Size

It is crucial to consider the size of the room and the height. The bed should be able to fit, but you must also give enough room for your child to safely climb in and out, as well as room for other furniture, like bookcases or decorative objects. If the top bed is too close to the ceiling, kids sleeping on it might fall on their heads when they get up or roll over and could feel claustrophobic. Ideally, there should be at a minimum of 36 inches between the top of the bed and the ceiling.

If you're looking for bunk beds that will grow with your kids look into a bed that can separate into two beds. This is more expensive than the fixed bunk bed, but can save you money over the long term if your kids eventually decide to separate their beds.

The Perch bunk bed made by PB Teen, for example is a chic investment piece that looks fantastic in both modern and traditional rooms thanks to its neutral finish and clean lines. It also has an optional bed trundle that can be placed below the bottom bunk to accommodate sleepovers.

Check out the low-cost bunk beds available from brands like RC Willey if you're on a tight budget. The beds are available in a variety of finishes, and include ladders and a guardrail. They are easy to put together. Some come with slide-out drawers below the bottom bunk to provide additional storage. To ensure safety, select the bed that has been tested to comply with CPSC regulations. Also, look for one with an extremely low center of gravity so it doesn't easily tip over.

Style

Style is also a significant aspect when choosing a bunk bed's style. The most common types are twin-overtwin. However, there are also queen-over-queen or full-overfull bunk beds for adults and older children who wish to sleep with more space. Some models also have staggered designs with the bed lower longer than the top. These are ideal for children who prefer a more comfortable sofa-like bed at the bottom. It can be used as an office desk or study desk.

For a sleek, modern style that appeals to both boys and girls consider a wooden bunk bed with slatted headboards as well as footboards. The open panels, such as those on this Ikea option, let light flow through the bunks. This helps brighten the space and provides safety and security. This bunk bed is also easy to use thanks to the angled ladder and guardrails.

Loft beds are a different option for bunk beds. They are suspended from the ceiling and feature the shape of a T, making them ideal for small rooms with little storage space or floor space. They require a greater clearance on the top bunk, so be sure your ceilings are high enough prior to purchasing one. Bunks that sit against the wall, on contrary, don't require as much clearance and are ideal for maximizing the square footage.

If your children love reading in bed, add an recessed reading light as well as a shelf or ledge for books to their beds. Ms. Keenan includes these elements when she places bunks that are above windows. This makes the sleeping space more comfortable. She's also seen them coupled with motorized shades that can be adjusted or lowered based on the needs and allows you to regulate the amount of light and warmth in a room while still being able to read or nap.

Safety

Many parents are concerned about the safety of bunk beds However, bunk beds are actually safer than you think. Because they have guardrails on the sides of the upper sleeping area, bunk beds are less likely to fall than single beds. They've also passed anti-tip and safety tests to ensure that they are safe for children to sleep in. When shopping for bunk beds take a look at the capacity of weight to make sure it can hold the weight of your children without sliding. If you have kids who are older or are planning on hosting guests in your home, choose a full-over-full bunk, which is more suited to support adult bodies.

Picking a bed for your bunk that's made of solid wood is another excellent option to add a layer of safety. Solid wood bunks are more durable than metal and generally have slats that are thicker and provide stronger support. Also, make sure that the area beneath the bunk bed is free of gaps that are large enough to allow a child to become trapped.

Always follow the directions and guidelines of the manufacturer when assembling a loft bed. Away from the bunk bed from hanging light fixtures and curtains, which may hinder climbing or exiting the top bunk, is an excellent way to minimize risk. The bunk beds should be placed in a corner to improve stability.

Make sure to teach your children the basics of safety for bunk beds and keep an eye on your children when they climb up and down. It is also a good idea to keep the space surrounding the bunk bed free of backpacks, clothing, and shoes. It is crucial to teach children how to use the ladder correctly and to not hang anything from bedposts or the ladder.

Materials

The best bunk beds are constructed from durable materials that will stand up to the rigors of kids' use. Make sure you choose sturdy ladders and steps, as well as wood frames that are strong enough to hold two people. Many brands have additional features, such as shelves or drawers. Trundle beds are also available. This is a great option if you anticipate your children growing out of bunk beds or moving into their own rooms, according to Spampanato.

It is also important to take into account the design and the dimensions of your room when choosing the right bunk bed. You should also consider how the bunk bed will fit in with your home's architectural features such as fixed fixtures like closets or windows. A good suggestion is to apply blue painter's adhesive to mark out the silhouette of the bunk bed in your room, and also pay attention to the way it will be abutting fixed structures and how far it will be from the ceiling.

Certain bunk beds made of wooden are constructed from solid, sustainably harvested wood or are GreenGuard Gold certified, which may appeal to families who prioritize eco-friendly furnishings. However, these options are generally more expensive than wooden and metal-composite models.

The cheapest option on our list is a bunk bed constructed from plywood and medium-density fiberboard. It's a durable option that is ASTM-certified and is available in neutral colors that match most existing furniture. This bed is distinguished by its angled ladder, which makes it easier for children to climb up and down. It also has strong guardrails on the top of the bed and a vast storage space beneath.

Ladder

Whether to go for a bunk bed that has ladder or stairs is a personal decision that is contingent on your family's size and kids' ages. Stairs take up more floor space and are more expensive than basic ladder alternatives. They are safer and more comfortable to climb for children. Some models include additional safety features such as side handrails or locking mechanisms.

Ladders are cheaper and take up less space than stairs, but they can be difficult for smaller youngsters to navigate. Choose ladders with hand holes and grooves that prevent slips. These features make climbing easier for older toddlers and children. Some bunk bed ladders are angled so that it is easy to climb up to the top bunk.

If you opt for a bunk bed with stairs, think about adding carpet or a rug with padding on the side of the ladder. This will stop children from accidentally bumping into the ladder and causing injury when climbing up or down. It also helps to prevent children from sliding or slipping which is particularly dangerous for children in their early years.

Bunk beds with ladders are a great alternative for families with limited floor space or low ceilings. They're easy to build and come in a variety of styles, ranging from traditional wooden ladders to contemporary metal options. Some bunk beds even have two ladders that could be beneficial for families who have to accommodate a child who prefers to sleep on the bottom bunk. There are ladders that have adjustable heights that allow you to adjust the placement of your bunk bed as your children develop. If your kids want to move their desks around the room, they can use a flexible ladder for the bunk bed without the need to move the bunk bed.