7 Tips About Bunk Beds Best That Nobody Will Share With You

Bunk Beds Are Cooler Than Ever

Whether you're designing a shared bedroom for your children, outfitting a dorm or simply maximizing your space, bunk beds are versatile and more fashionable than ever. There are a range of designs, including twin-overtwins and full over-full options.

Find a model that is compatible with your budget and your children size, and keep in mind that certain bunks can accommodate beds that trundle down for sleepovers.

Size

Bunk beds are an essential part of childhood bedrooms, offering both efficiency and adventure for children who prefer to sleep side-by-side. They are also popular in shared rooms as well as vacation homes. Bunk beds are available in a variety of styles and materials with options that will fit any budget and size of room. Our selection of bunk beds ranges from basic twin over twin designs to more elaborate models that include ladders or stairs, and also unique features such as slides.

We considered a variety of factors as we scoured the market for our top picks including the overall design, safety, and price. We also consulted experts -- parents and one who literally wrote the book on bunk beds -- to help us source the best bunk beds options. Discover our seven favorites by going through the article.

The size of the bunk beds is an important consideration prior to making a purchase, especially in relation to the ceiling's height. Take measurements of your space prior to purchasing bunk beds to ensure they fit. The top bunk should have at least five inches of headroom. We also suggest not using trundle beds with high-hanging mattresses which may limit headroom and increase the chance of head bumps.

You should also consider whether you would prefer ladders or stairs to get to the top bunk. Stairs are usually safer and easier to climb, however they can take up more space than a ladder. Ladders aren't as bulky but they're also more affordable. They may feel too high for younger children.

On the product page you'll find the weight capacity of each top bunk mattress. This information is typically displayed next to the dimensions of the mattress. A higher weight capacity typically indicates that the mattress is suitable for older children or adults, who might require a larger mattress.

A versatile bunk bed option, the Shyann bunk bed from Room & Board offers three finishes to complement your kids room decor. Snowy white gives a bright coastal look to classic rooms for kids bunk beds while brushed grey and rich walnut give an authentic farmhouse or rustic look.

Safety

When you are looking for a bunk bed it is crucial to look past the price tag and ensure it comes with all the safety features you need. A reliable seller will provide the capacity for weight and also explains the structure's durability and strength. This is especially helpful for families that plan to reuse the beds as the children grow older.

A good rule of thumb is to leave at least 33-36 inches between the top mattress and the ceiling, according to Rebecca Simon, a designer with Maison Ellie Interiors for kids bedroom furniture (content). If you don't wish to sacrifice this much space, you may think about a low height bunk bed. "That's ideal for a small room as it keeps the bunk below off the floor. That can feel cramped when kids get older."

Another factor to consider is how much space you have for stairs or ladders. While a bunk with built-in stairs can save space, it could also be pricier and require more assembly time. If you're short of space, consider a simple ladder that can still allow your children to safely climb to the top of the bunk.

All bunks in this list are made of durable materials and meet the Consumer Product Safety Commission requirements for guardrails. They also have passed anti-tip and lead tests which could be a huge relief for parents who have kids sharing rooms. For instance, the metal-and-wood Room & Board model is "built like tank," says Laura Fenton who is the author of The Bunk Bed Book: The Bunk Bed Book: 115 Bunks Lofts, Lofts, and Cozy Nooks. These are the same beds that hotels employ, so they are constructed to last.

This trundle model from Bed Bath & Beyond is perfect for shoppers who are looking for an affordable bunk bed that can expand with their children. It converts into two twin beds with one for tweens and the other for teens. It's the only non-wood bunk bed on this list, and its solid steel frame is light for such a heavy-duty piece of furniture. It comes in a range of colors, and can be personalized with accessories such as under-bed drawers.

Style

Bunk beds come in many different sizes and shapes, so you will be able to find one that is suitable for your family's requirements. For instance there are traditional twin-overtwin bunks and specialized configurations like twin-over queen or queen-over -twin beds. Some are made of steel and others are made of wooden and come with side rails for the top bunk. The design of the frame and other features can also vary, so you'll want to consider the amount of storage you'll need and the style you like the most.

When considering price, keep in mind that the higher the cost of a bunk bed, the more customizable it will be, Klugh says. This could mean adding additional features such as an escalator or ladder. It could also mean the possibility of adding an extra bed for guests or sleepovers. Certain models can be dismantled to create two beds. This is an excellent feature if your children are growing out of their bunk beds or if you're planning to move in the future.

The amount of beds you pick will also affect the cost and design. You might choose a simple twin-over-twin bunk to maximize the floor space. It is also relatively inexpensive. You could also decide to spend a little more for a durable wood option that has an elegant design that can be able to grow with your children and possibly accommodate adults in the future.

Whatever size and design you choose regardless of the design and size, you must check the capacity to bear weight of the bunk beds to make sure they can accommodate the number of people that you'll be using them for. Some are designed for kids only and can only support up to 165 pounds and others have a greater weight limit which allows them to accommodate growing kids and even adults.

Also, it's important to remember that a bunk bed can be a big investment--and therefore a major commitment. If you're not sure whether this kind of bed is suitable for your family, visit a retailer's showroom or read reviews from customers on their website. This will give you a feel for the quality of the construction and the quality of the bunks are built.

Storage

Modern living demands furniture to be more than merely used as a space to sleep or study. bunk bed for kids beds with built-in storage can meet this requirement making them multi-functional pieces that are both practical and fashionable. Multifunctional staircases and storage drawers that are integrated are creative features that provide easy access to clothing, toys and bedding linens.

In the same way loft beds that have large desks transform the space below them into a productive workspace. These clever arrangements permit remote workers or students to balance work, sleep and play without losing the space.

Another useful option is the detachable bunks that are separated into separate twin-size beds, perfect to accommodate guests at sleepovers or allowing kids to change to single beds as they develop. Bunks that have removable trundle bed can be adapted to older children and adults who prefer a large bed.

Families that want to maximize the space in their tiny bedrooms with high ceilings can make a smart investment by buying larger bunk beds that can sleep three or four people. These models can be a great fit in corners, allowing homeowners to make use of awkward spaces that might otherwise be wasted.

The type of material and color that your childrens bunk beds bed is crafted from will influence the overall appearance and feel. Wood bunks are timeless and classic. They work well with modern and coastal interiors as well as farmhouse. Steel bunks are a contemporary alternative that is a good match for midcentury and industrial designs.

Consider the ceiling's height, any nearby windows and other architectural features when looking for bunk beds. The smaller, more compact designs are easier to put together. They are great for younger children or teens who are ready to move from the bedroom for toddlers or juniors. Taller bunks have a more elegant, airy look, and are best bunk bed suited to older kids or adults. Some designs include side railings which allow for an increased space between the beds. This provides the safety of everyone.