How to Find the Best Bunk Beds
You may want to reduce space, encourage siblings to bond or even accommodate a sleepover crowd, the right bunk bed can make all the difference. Find safety features that match your needs in terms of mattress size, height and ladder/stairway placement.
Many models come with an option of straight or angled ladders. The ones with straight ladders are easier to climb but requires some height, while the latter take up more space but are more secure and easier to access.
Aesthetics
Bunk beds aren't only for kids. They can be stylish and attractive in your home. Bunk beds are becoming more sought-after in homes of all sizes, as designers and manufacturers embrace their functionality while offering modern design. Wooden bunk beds are generally a better choice for homeowners due to their tendency to last longer than metal models and their natural wood finish is able to adapt well to a variety of styles.
Bunk beds aren't only attractive, but they can also be an ideal solution for families that share a house or have limited space. For example triple-bunk beds can be easily converted into two separate beds. Some designs also include hidden trundles that slide out from underneath the bottom bunk to allow for quick sleepovers.
A bunk bed can turn your child's bedroom into a treehouse. This set from Max & Lily takes this idea to the next level by incorporating the ability to detach a slide, which will see them cruising down the slide with their friends and taking their favorite animals on the adventure of their lives.
Other styles, like this set from NE Kids, take a minimalist approach to the design of a bunk bed. Its simple, clean lines and neutral colors make it a great option for any room, whether modern or traditional. It's the least expensive option on our list and it comes with a free storage ladder to make it easier.
Some families will choose a twin-over double bunk bed for siblings who will be sharing rooms and need to reduce space in their shared bedroom. best bunk bed for teens is smaller than a full-over-full model and can be paired with dressers and other storage pieces to create a unified bedroom.
A twin-over-full configuration of a bed offers the added benefit of accommodating two mattresses. This allows you to use it whenever you need even as your family expands. It's also the least expensive option on our list. It can be paired with storage drawers to provide additional organization.
Safety
A bunk bed should be as strong as it can be, and that starts with the materials it's made of. Solid wood is a great choice because it's strong and durable however it can be pricey. For a less expensive alternative, consider metal, which can be equally strong and comes in a variety of finishes.
Other important features to look for are guard rails that rise at least five inches above the mattress, and ladders or stairs that are attached securely to the frame so that they won't be pulled away from the bed, leaving an unsafe gap that children could fall through or get stuck. Some manufacturers offer safety treads for ladders, which can prevent slips or causing injury.
Also, ensure that your bunk bed conforms to the British Safety Standard BS/EN7472012+A1 as and any age limitations suggested for the use of it. It is also important to go through the directions provided by the manufacturer regarding installation, use and maintenance.
Children love bunk beds, however they can be dangerous when not properly set up. Many accidents that involve bunk beds occur when children climb up the sides of the upper bunk and fall or be trapped. To prevent this from happening it is recommended that children sleep on the top bed when they are at least six years old and ensure that the ladder is set on the bottom of the bunk so that children can't reach over it.
The ladder should also be firmly connected to the frame of the bed and angled in a way that makes it difficult for children to climb up on the sides. Parents should instruct children on how to use the ladder correctly and avoid horseplay. They should also regularly check the ladder and the bed frame for loose connections.
It's also a good idea, if you can, to select a bed that can be divided into two beds. This will allow you to reuse the space when your children are no longer in the top bunk. IKEA's Mydal bunk beds, for instance, are a reasonable alternative that doesn't sacrifice quality or safety. They can also be easily divided into two beds when your children have outgrown the top bunk.
Mattress
A bunk bed is incomplete without an appropriate mattress. You'll often find that manufacturers' sales strategies include providing a mattress along with the frame which can be helpful and save you some money. If you're looking for the best sleep experience with your bunk bed, it's recommended to purchase the mattress separately. The mattress you choose will make a big difference in how comfortable and supportive the bed is for your child or adults.
When choosing the best bunk bed mattresses be sure to consider your budget, the desired level of comfort and sleep position. For example, a memory foam mattress may feel great for those who sleep on their sides and back but stomach sleepers may prefer a more firm option with more pressure relief. It is also important to take into consideration the weight capacity of your bunk bed, since too many sleepers can cause the mattress to sink beneath its heaviest areas.
The majority of bunk beds have mattresses in twin-overtwin, full-overfull or a smaller size for the trundle. Some bunk beds come with hybrid, all-foam or innerspring mattresses. All-foam models typically cost about $1,200 to $900 in a queen size and have an inner support core comprised of high-density polyfoam.
It's also important to choose the mattress for your bunk bed that is durable and doesn't creak or squeak. This can disrupt your kids sleep environment and could even cause them to wake up throughout the night. To avoid these issues opt for a memory foam or latex mattress that offers excellent pressure relief and still allows sleepers to change positions easily.
If you're looking to make your bunk bed the center area of the room, choose a bold finish like walnut or gray. The classic white finish is a good fit with any colour scheme. Bunk beds that are flat packed can be assembled with no tools. However, you might require assistance if the bed is very heavy. A lot of manufacturers have videos and instructions on their websites to help make the process simpler.
Stores
Bunk beds that have built-in storage is a great option to add more function and space to your kids their room. You can purchase or build drawers that easily attach to bunk beds, offering additional storage for bedding, clothes, and other toys. This is an ideal solution for smaller rooms, as it maximizes unused space and removes the need for storing items on the floor. A lot of these drawers are available in a variety of colors and finishes that will complement any style.
You might be able depending on the kind of bed you select to create unique storage solutions. Some bunk beds come with shelves and cubbies that can be used to store items like art supplies and books. This lets kids organize their belongings in a neat manner and accessible without taking too much space. It's also an excellent idea to select bunk beds with hooks on both sides, which can be used to hang bags or additional clothing items.
There are a variety of shelves and drawers you can add to your child's bed if prefer a more traditional look. They are usually placed under the bed's lower part and provide plenty of space for storage of clothes, blankets toys, and other items. They are a great choice for both boys and girls rooms as they can be customized to match each individual's style preferences.
Other options for bunk beds include pull-out desks, which combine storage space and study space. These are great for bedrooms with limited space, as they let you make use of the space under the top bunk, while leaving the lower bed open for sleeping. These beds are also available in a wide range of color options and can be customized with accessories like trundles for additional storage space.
Another way to maximize storage space is to build shelves on the wall above your bunk bed. They can be used to store books, toys and other things that you want to keep out of view. You can also add baskets to the shelves to keep your belongings organized and neatly arranged.