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

Bunk beds are a great way to add function and fun to a child's room, especially when you're limited in space. Whether you go for the traditional twin-overfull or loft bed with storage, we've got options that fit your budget and space requirements.

Be sure to look for features such as stairs that extend out, angled ladders, and more, which make the bunks easier to climb and safer for kids of older ages. Other options include under-bed trundles for sleepovers and storage spaces which double as play areas.

Size

Size is important when looking for bunk beds. Make sure the beds fit in the room and have enough space to climb up and down. Consider the dimensions of furniture pieces, such as dressers or desks, in the event that you intend to add them. Also, keep in mind the capacity to carry weight for both beds, if you're using the bunks as furniture for your adult bedroom also.

The ceiling's height is also vital. Klugh says that an ideal guideline to follow is to make sure there's five inches between the ceiling and the bottom of the bed. This will ensure that kids are able to safely access the upper portion of the bed.

Some bunk beds have stairs and some include ladders. "Stairs are usually more convenient than ladders, however they take up more space," says Fenton. There are stairs that come with built-in drawers that can be used for storage which is ideal when you need to store toys or bedding. However, they're more expensive than straight ladders.

Bunk bed materials differ in cost as well. The cheaper sets are usually constructed of medium-density fiberboard while the more expensive options typically have a solid wood construction or metal frame. Wood is durable and beautiful, but it can be swollen by water or pests Some parents choose to stay clear of this kind of material.

Most of the bunks in this guide can be purchased in your choice of finishes, including white for a crisp 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 Beds uk Bed for example, has extra headroom between the top and bottom bunks to reduce the chance of bumping into heads when reading or sitting in bed.

Some of our picks can be transformed into two beds. This is great if you plan to sell them after your children outgrow them or if you're planning on moving in the near future. If you want a more durable solution, consider this Woodcrest Kids Twin Over Full Low-Profile bunk beds for kids Bed with Staircase and Drawers can be used with twin-over-twin as well as full-over-full mattresses. It comes in a classic neutral color that can be easily paired with any interior design.

Safety

Bunk beds can be exciting and exciting, but there are a few safety issues. You should select frames for your bed constructed of durable high-quality wood. Also, you should ensure that the bed meets all safety standards and features guardrails on the top of the bed. The guardrails must be at least 5 inches high and should extend across the entire upper mattress. Check for any gaps, openings, or holes which could trap a child's head, limbs, or torso.

Most bunk bed manufacturers have weight restrictions on their products. Following these guidelines is crucial, as exceeding them could cause the bunk bed to collapse and pose a serious risk of injuries. A lot of these manufacturers have age restrictions on their bunk beds. Usually, children must be at least 6 years of age to be allowed to sleep on the upper levels.

The kind of ladder that comes with the bunk beds is another aspect to take into consideration. Some models come with a simple metal staircase, while others have more elaborate staircases. Staircases are generally more accessible for children to climb, but they're not as safe as a solid ladder. They can be a challenge to navigate if your children are very tall or have trouble climbing up and down.

It is also crucial to ensure that the bunk beds are anchored on the wall and the floor and are not situated near windows or other items where children could fall asleep. Also, you should inspect the bunk bed on a regular basis for any loose or damaged parts that might require repair. Keep spare bolts and screws at your home just in case they become lost or become loose after a while.

You should also place the bunk beds in a corner so they have walls on both sides. This will stop your children from falling off the side or top of the bunk bed. It will also make it easier for them to get in 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 come with additional storage, with a built-in desk or even a slide. And, while it's important to consider your children's preference for design when buying a bed It's also a good idea to think about how the bunk bed will work with other furniture pieces and the overall layout of the space.

Some of the most popular bunk beds for children are minimal in design, featuring sleek twin or full-size mattresses that can be stacked together and paired with a stair ladder. These minimalist designs are ideal for small spaces or rooms with low ceilings. They're also a great alternative for those on a budget. These models can be separated into two beds in case you wish to move them if your children outgrow them.

Others are a bit more attractive, such as adding a bunk bed to your child's bedroom with a lively color or finish that matches other bedroom furniture. For instance this triple bunk from Pottery Barn offers an elegant neutral finish that blends well with both vibrant and muted color palettes. The design is angular, giving it a modern, clean appearance. The staircase features open-air shelves to store items away from view. The stairs feature a chic handrail that is slatted and sturdy enough to hold an adult's weight. You don't have to be concerned about your kids falling off the top bunk.

This rustic-style bunkbed from Max and Lily is ideal for kids who enjoy the outdoors. Made of sustainably-sourced solid wood that meets responsible forestry practices, this bunk bed is both eco-friendly and striking. The wire brush technique that was used to create this bunk's unique texture celebrates the wood's natural knots and grain, giving it a one-of-a-kind look. The bottom bunk can be able to accommodate twin mattresses (sold separately), and the upper bunk is designed to fit the full size mattress, so this bed is suitable for older children.

Storage

Bunk beds are already an excellent way to reduce space, but many models include additional storage options, making them even more useful for families and Airbnb guests. Some include a trundle bed that pulls out from underneath the bunk's bottom for with a child or another and others have drawers for clothes and other items that might clutter up the space. The Ilariana Heavy-Duty Safety Staircase bunk bed, for instance, has two under-bed drawers, and a bookcase that has three shelves in various sizes. This is a great option for small rooms with a limited shelf or closet space.

When shopping for bunk beds, you should also consider whether you prefer ladders or stairs to reach the top level. Ladders are more traditional, and may fit better into a room's decor than stairs. However, stairs are more efficient, easier to climb, and are multi-functional -- some models have hollow stairs that double as storage drawers.

There are also minimalist bunk beds made of two full or twin mattresses that can be arranged to fit together. They are the best choice for rooms with small spaces or with low ceilings. They are also usually the least expensive. A majority of these beds can be dismantled and can be used as two separate beds. This is great when you are planning to relocate or change the layout of your room in the near future.

The Walters Twin-Over-Twin Solid Wood Bunk Bed with Trundle is a fashionable option that is made of knot-free New Zealand pine wood and has stylish slatted headboards and footboards. It also comes with sturdy 14-inch guardrails along the edges of the upper bunk, as well as a built-in ladder that is stationary, that isn't movable, but which allows plenty of space on the lower floor for playing.

Check out the Harper & Bright Designs Solid Pine and Plywood Bunk Bed to get a modern option. The modern bunk bed is available in multiple color options and can be separated into two separate beds at a later time. It can accommodate up to 300 pounds on the top bunk, and twin or full-size beds can be used.