How to Select the Best Bunk Bed

The best bunk beds combine solid construction and a stylish design. It can accommodate twin- and full size mattresses and allows you to maximize the number of people who can sleep in a given room.

Select a bunk bed that features a fixed ladder instead of stairs, which could take up valuable space. Some models feature angled ladders that are easier to climb, but they may not be as safe for older children.

Size

When you are choosing a bunk bed, you need to take into consideration the size of your room and the ceiling's height. It is important to ensure the bed is a good fit but you must also be sure to allow enough space for the child to get into and out of the bed without danger, and also for other furniture in the bedroom like bookcases and other items of decor. If the top of the bed is too close to the ceiling, children sleeping on it could be struck on the head when they stand up or roll over and could feel confined. Ideally, there should be 36 inches or more between the top of the mattress and the ceiling.

Look into a bed that can be separated into two beds if you're looking to get a bunk bed that can grow with your children. This option is more costly than a bunk bed that is fixed in size but it will save you money in the event that your children prefer sleeping separately.

For example, the Perch bunk bed from PB Teen is an investment piece that looks stylish in both traditional and contemporary rooms due to its clean lines and neutral color. It also comes with an optional Trundle bed beneath the bottom bunk, so it can accommodate sleepovers without sacrificing floor space.

Check out the affordable bunk beds from brands like RC Willey if you're on a tight budget. They come in a variety of finishes and include a ladder and guardrails, making them easy to put together. Some bunk beds come with drawers that slide out of the bottom bunk for additional storage. For your safety, pick the bunk bed that has been tested to comply with CPSC standards. Find a bed with a low centre of gravity so that it will not fall over.

Style

In addition to the size the design is a major aspect to take into consideration when selecting a bunk bed. The most common designs are twin-over-twin, but there are also queen-over-queen or full-overfull bunk beds for adults and older children who wish to sleep in a larger space. There are also staggered designs in which the lower bed is larger than the top. These are ideal for older children who prefer more of a sofa-like space on the bottom that they can relax or use as an office or study desk.

Choose a wooden bed with the headboard and footboards slatted to give an elegant and contemporary look that will please boys as well as girls. The open panels of this option from Ikea for instance, allow light to flow through the bunks, brightening the room while providing safety and security. The angled ladder and guardrails on this bunk bed are another plus which adds to the accessibility.

Loft beds are a different alternative to bunk beds. They hang from the ceiling and are an X-shaped shape, making them ideal for smaller spaces with small floor space or storage space. These require a higher clearance on the top bunk, so be sure your ceilings are high enough prior to purchasing one. Bunks that face the wall don't need as much clearance, and they maximize the area.

If your children enjoy reading in bed, you can add the reading light on their bunk beds. You can also include a shelf for books. Ms. Keenan often includes these aspects in her designs when installing bunks over windows, which helps make the sleeping area feel like a homey retreat. She's also seen them with motorized shades that can be raised or lowered as needed and allow you to regulate the amount of sunlight and warmth in a space while being able to read or nap.

Safety

Many parents are concerned about bunk bed safety, but they're actually safer than you think. They're less likely to tip over than single beds because they're equipped with guardrails on both sides of the upper sleeping area. They've also passed anti-tip and safety tests to ensure they're safe for children to sleep in. Look at the weight capacity of a bunk bed to make sure it is able to accommodate your children's total body weight without sliding. If you intend to host guests or have older children then a full-overfull bunk bed is a better option. It can support adult bodies.

Solid wood bunk beds are another method to increase the safety. Solid wood bunks tend to be more durable than metal ones, and they typically have stronger supports. It is also important to ensure that the area beneath the bunk bed has no gaps that are large enough for the child to be trapped.

When making a bunk bed always follow the manufacturer's instructions and recommendations. To reduce the risk that could occur, keep the bed free of lighting fixtures and curtains that might hinder climbing up or down the top bunk. The bunk beds should be placed in a corner to increase stability.

Make sure to teach your children the basics of bunk bed safety and be sure to supervise your children as they climb up and down. It is recommended to keep the area surrounding the bunk bed free of clothing, backpacks and shoes. The children should also be taught how to use the ladder in a safe manner and not hang anything on the bedposts or ladders.

Materials

The best bunk beds are made of sturdy materials that can endure the abuse of children. Look for wood frames that can safely hold two people, and sturdy ladders and steps. A lot of brands offer extra features, such as shelves or drawers. Trundle beds are also available. This is a great option in the event that you expect your children to growing out of bunk beds or moving into their own rooms, Spampanato says.

You'll also have to take into account the design and the size of your room when selecting the right bunk bed. You should also consider how the bunk bed will integrate into the architectural elements of your home such as fixed fixtures like windows or closets. A good suggestion is to use blue painter's tape to trace 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.

These beds may be appealing to families interested in eco-friendly furnishings. However, these types of beds are generally more expensive than wood-composite and metal models.

The cheapest option we've listed is a bunk bed that's constructed of plywood and medium density fiberboard. It is a durable option that is ASTM-certified and comes in neutral colors that go well with the majority of furniture. Another feature that sets this bed apart is the angled ladder which allows kids to climb up and down. It also has sturdy guardrails on the top bunk and a huge storage space underneath.

Ladder

The choice of whether to choose a bunk bed that has stairs or a ladder depends on the space you have in your home and the ages of your children. Stairs require more floor space, and are more expensive. However, they are generally more secure and comfortable for children to climb. Certain models also have additional safety features such as side handrails and an locking mechanism.

Ladders are less expensive than stairs and require less space However, they can be difficult for toddlers to use. Look for ladders that have hand holes and grooves that are anti-slip. These features help climbers with older children and toddlers. Some bunk bed ladders can also be angled to allow an easy climb up the top bunk.

If you decide to get a bunk bed with stairs, consider adding carpet or a rug with padding near the ladder. This will stop children from accidentally bumping into the ladder and getting hurt while climbing up or down. This will also prevent children from sliding and sliding, which can be dangerous for kids in the early years.

Bunk beds with ladders can be an ideal option for families with limited space or low ceilings. They're simple to put together and are available in various styles, from classic wooden ladders to modern metal alternatives. Some bunk beds have two separate ladders, which could be beneficial for families who have to accommodate children who prefer to sleep on the bottom bunk. There are ladders that are adjustable that let you alter the location of the bunk bed to suit your children's needs as they grow. For instance, if children want to move their desks from one side of the room to the other, a movable bunk ladder allows them to do it without moving the bunk bed itself.