How to Select the Best Bunk Bed

The best bunk beds blend solid construction and a fashionable design. It can accommodate twin- and full-size mattresses, allowing you to maximize the number of people who can sleep in a room.

Choose a bunk bed that has an adjustable ladder, rather than stairs that can take up floor space. Some models come with angled ladders that are easier to climb but might not be suitable for older children.

Size

It is important to take into account the dimensions of the room as well as the height. The bed should fit, but also allow room for children to climb safely in and out, and also space for other bedroom furniture, like bookcases or decorative items. If the top bed is set too close to the ceiling, it can cause children to fall on their heads when they turn over or get up. They may also feel confined. Ideally it should be at least 36 inches between the top of the mattress and the ceiling.

Think about a bed that can be separated into two beds if you're looking to get an option for a bunk bed that grows with your children. This option is more expensive than a fixed bunk bed, but can save you money over the long term if your kids eventually decide to sleep separately.

For example the Perch bunk bed from PB Teen is an investment piece that is stylish in both modern and traditional rooms, thanks to its sleek lines and neutral color. It also has an optional trundle below the bottom bunk to accommodate sleepovers.

If you're on a budget, check out the selection of affordable bunk beds from brands like RC Willey. They come in a variety of colors and also come with a ladder and guardrails, making them easy to build. Some bunk beds come with drawers that slide out from the bottom bunk to offer additional storage. Choose a bunk bed that has been tested to meet CPSC standards for safety. Also, you should look for a bed with a low center of gravity so it won't tip over easily.

Style

In addition to size the design is a major aspect to take into consideration when selecting the best bunk bed. The most popular are twin-over-twin designs but there are options that have full-over-full beds, or even queen-over-queen bunks for older children and adults who need more space to stretch out while they sleep. Some models also have staggered beds in which the lower bed is longer than the top. These are best for older kids who like more of a sofa-like space at the bottom to relax or use as a desk for work or study desk.

Consider a wooden bunk that has headboards and footboards that are slatted for an elegant and contemporary look that will please boys as well as girls. The open panels in this design from Ikea for instance allow light to be let through the bunks, brightening the space while providing security and protection. The ladder that is angled and the guardrails on this bed are a further plus that adds to its convenience.

Other types of bunk beds include loft beds that hang from the ceiling in a T-shape. They are ideal for smaller areas where storage and floor space are not available. Check that your ceilings will allow for a greater clearance over the bunk above before purchasing one. Bunks that face the wall don't require as much clearance and can increase the area.

If your children love reading in bed, you can add an recessed reading light as well as a shelf or ledge for books to their beds. Ms. Keenan often includes these aspects in her designs when installing bunks over windows, which helps the sleeping space feel more like a relaxing space. She's seen them paired up with motorized shades that can be adjusted to meet the requirements of the room. This allows for simple control of the warmth and amount in a space while still permitting you to relax or read.

Safety

Bunk bed safety is a major concern for many parents However, bunk beds are actually safer than you imagine. Because they have guardrails both on the sides of the upper sleeping space, bunk beds are less prone to fall than single beds. They've also been tested for safety and anti-tip to ensure they're safe for children to sleep in. When you're looking for bunk beds take a look at the capacity of weight to make sure it can hold your children's combined weight without sagging. If you have children who are older or are planning to host guests at your home, consider an over-full bunk that is better equipped to support adult bodies.

Solid wood bunk beds are another option to improve security. Solid wood bunks are known to last longer than metal, and they often have thicker supports. You should also check that the foundation area of the bunk bed is free of gaps large enough for the child to be trapped.

When assembling a bunk bed, always follow the manufacturer's instructions and recommendations. To minimize the risk of injury, keep the bunk bed clear of light fixtures and curtains which could hinder the climb up or out of the top bunk. Also, make sure to place the beds in a corner whenever it is possible to ensure stability.

Make sure to teach your children the basics of bunk bed safety. Also, supervise your children as they climb up and down. Keep the space around the bunk free of clothing, shoes and backpacks is a good idea as well. It is important to teach children to properly use the ladder and to not hang anything from bed posts or the ladder.

Materials

The most effective bunk beds are made using durable materials that stand up to the rigors of kids' use. Choose wooden frames that are able to safely support two sleepers, and sturdy ladders and stairs. Many brands also offer additional features, such as shelves, drawers or trundle beds that provide additional sleeping space when required. Spampanato says that this flexibility is useful if your children are likely to outgrow Bunk Beds Store beds, or even move into their own bedrooms.

You'll also have to take into account the style and size of your room when selecting a bunk bed. Also, think about how the bunk bed will fit into your home's architectural features such as fixed fixtures like windows or closets. A good tip is to apply blue painter's adhesive to trace the silhouette of the bunk bed in your bedroom, and also pay attention to the way it is situated in relation to fixed structures and how far it is from the ceiling.

These beds could appeal to families who are looking for eco-friendly furniture. However, these options are generally more expensive than wood-composite and metal models.

The most budget-friendly option we've listed is a bunk bed that's constructed of plywood and medium density fiberboard. It's a durable option that is ASTM-certified and comes in neutral colors that match the majority of furniture. The bunk bed is distinguished by its angled ladder, which allows children to climb up and down. It also has sturdy railings on the top bunk, and a large storage space beneath.

Ladder

The decision to pick a bunk bed that has stairs or a ladder will depend on the space in your home as well as the ages of your children. Stairs require more floor space and are also more expensive. However, they are generally safer and more comfortable for children to climb. Some models have additional safety features such as side handrails or a locking mechanism.

Ladders are more affordable and take up less space than stairs, but they can be difficult for small children to navigate. Choose ladders with hand holes and anti-slip grooves. These features help climbers with older toddlers and children. Some bunk bed ladders are designed so that it is simple to climb to the top bunk.

Consider adding a padded mat or rug near the ladder if you choose a bunkbed with stairs. This will keep children from accidentally stepping on the ladder and getting injured while climbing up or down. It also stops them from sliding or sliding, which is especially dangerous for young children.

Bunk beds with ladders are a great option for families who have limited area for flooring or low ceilings. They're easy to build and are available in various styles, ranging from traditional wooden ladders to modern metal alternatives. Some bunk beds come with two ladders, which could be beneficial for families who have to accommodate children who prefer to sleep on the bottom bunk. You can even find ladders that can be adjusted that allow you to alter the position of the bunk bed to suit your children's needs as they develop. If your children wish to move their desks around the room, they can use a flexible ladder for their bunks without the need to move the bunk bed.