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

Bunk beds can add excitement and functionality to a kids room, particularly when you're working with a small space. If you opt for the traditional twin-overfull or loft bed with storage, we've got options that fit your space and budget requirements.

Look for features such as stairs that jut out, angled ladders, and more which make the bunks more accessible and safer for older kids. There are also trundles under the bed for sleepovers, and storage areas that double as play spaces.

Size

When looking for a bunk bed the size of the bed is crucial. Make sure the beds fit in the room and have enough space to climb up and down. If you're looking to add furniture pieces such as a dresser or desk take into consideration their dimensions as well. Be aware that the top and bottom bunks can only support the weight of a certain amount when used as furniture for adults.

The height of your ceilings is also crucial. "A good rule of thumb is to ensure that there's at least 5 inches of clearance between the ceiling and the base of the bed," says Klugh. "This ensures kids can safely access the upper sleep area."

Some bunk beds have stairs, while others have ladders. Fenton says that stairs are easier to use, but they take up more room. There are stairs that come with built-in drawers for storage, which is great if you want to store bedding or toys. They are more expensive than straight ladders.

Bunk bed bedding materials differ in price. The cheaper sets are usually composed of medium density fiberboard, while the more expensive options often feature a solid wood structure or metal frame. Wood is beautiful and durable but it can also be warped when it comes in contact with pests or water. Some parents choose to stay clear of this type of material.

Most of the bunks in this guide are available in your choice of finishes, including white for a modern look and a smoky gray or rich walnut that can fit into any bedroom with a color scheme. The Sherwin-Williams Shyann Twin over Full Over Queen Bunk Bed, for instance, offers extra headroom between the top and bottom bunks, which reduces the possibility of bumping into heads when reading or sitting in bed.

A few of our choices can be made into two beds. This is a great option if you plan to sell them when your children have outgrown them, or if you are thinking of moving in the future. For a more long-term option, this Woodcrest Kids Twin Over Full Bunk Bed that is low-profile with Staircase and Drawers is suitable for twin-over-twin and full-over-full mattresses and comes in a classic neutral hue that pairs easily with any interior design palette.

Safety

Bunk beds can be enjoyable and exciting, however there are a few safety issues. You should choose frames for your bed made of sturdy and high-quality wood. It is also important to ensure that the bunk bed meets all safety standards and has guardrails for the top sleeper. The guardrails must be at least 5 inches in height and should extend across the entire upper mattress. Check for any gaps or holes that could entrap a child's head or torso, limbs, or head.

The majority of bunk bed manufacturers set weight limits for their products. It is essential to follow these guidelines as overstepping them could cause the bunk bed to collapse and create serious injuries risks. Many of these companies offer age restrictions for use of their bunk beds generally requiring that children be at least six years old to be able to lie on the upper level.

The kind of ladder that comes with the bunk beds is a different important aspect to think about. While some models have an ordinary ladder made of metal, others come with more elaborate staircases. Staircases are easy for children to climb but not as secure as ladders made of solid steel. They can also be difficult to navigate when your children are tall or have difficulty getting up and down.

It is also important to ensure that the bunk beds are secured to the floor and wall and are not situated near windows or other items that children might fall on while sleeping. You should also inspect the bunk bed frequently for any loose or damaged parts that may need to be repaired. It's a good idea to keep additional bolts and screws close by in case any get lost or loose over time.

Finally, you should place the bunk bed in a corner of the room so that it has walls on two sides. This will prevent your children from falling off the top or side of the bunk bed. It will also allow them to get into and out of the bed.

Style

There are a myriad of stylish bunk beds that offer more than just a place for you to sleep. Some include additional storage space, an integrated desk, or even a slide. While it's important that you take into account your child's preferences prior to buying a bunk bed, it's also wise to consider the layout of the room and how the bunk bed will integrate with other furniture.

Some of the best bunk beds for kids are simple in design. They are elegant full-size or twin beds that stack together and are accompanied by a ladder. These minimalist designs are ideal for small rooms or rooms with low-ceilings. They're also a great budget-friendly option. Many of these models also come apart into two beds, which is great when your children outgrow the bunks or you decide to move to another home.

Some are more attractive, such as adding bunk beds to your children's room with a fun design or color that complements other furniture for bedrooms. For example, this triple bunk from Pottery Barn offers an elegant neutral finish that works with both muted and vibrant colors. Its angular design gives it a clean modern, contemporary look. the staircase has open-air shelves for storage that is out of sight. The stairs have a stylish handrail that is slatted and sturdy enough to withstand the weight of an adult. There's no need to be concerned about your children falling off the top bunk.

This rustic-style bunk bed from Max and Lily is perfect for kids who love the outdoors. This bunk bed is eco-friendly because it's made of solid wood that was sourced sustainably and meets responsible forest practices. Wire brushing was used to create the distinctive texture of this bunk bed uk bed. It celebrates the wood's knots and natural grain which gives it a unique look. The bottom bunk is able to fit twin mattresses (sold separately) and the top bunk is designed to fit an entire mattress, which means this bed is suitable for older children.

Stores

Bunk beds can be a great way to save space, however some models have extra storage, making them more convenient for families or Airbnb guests. Some models have the option of a trundle that can be removed from beneath the bunk's bottom to accommodate an additional child or a person, and others have drawers that store clothing and other items. The Ilariana Heavy Duty Wood Safety Staircase Bunk Bed is a good example. It has two under-bed storage drawers as well as a bookcase that has three shelves that are different sizes, making it great additions to a room with small shelves or closet space.

When you are looking for bunk beds, you must be aware of whether you prefer ladders or stairs to reach the top level. Ladders are more traditional and could be more suited to the design of a room than stairs. However, stairs are more efficient, easier to climb, and they can be multi-functional. Some models have hollow stairs that can double as storage drawers.

There are also minimalistic bunk beds made up of two twin or full mattresses that can be arranged to fit together. These are the best option for small spaces or rooms with low ceilings. They are also usually the most affordable. A majority of these beds can be disassembled and utilized as two beds. This is a great option when you are planning to move or alter the arrangement of your room in the near future.

The Walters Twin-Over-Twin Solid Wood Bunk Bed with Trundle is a stylish option made of knot-free New Zealand pine wood and includes stylish slatted headboards as well as footboards. It also has a built-in ladder as well as sturdy 14-inch guardrails on the upper bunk.

Take a look at the Harper & Bright Designs Solid Pine and Plywood Bunk Bed to get a modern alternative. The modern bunk bed is available in various colors and is able to be split into two separate beds later. It can support a weight limit of 300 pounds on the top bunk, and can accommodate full-size or twin-sized mattresses, so it's ideal for teenagers and kids bunk bed of all ages.