How to Select the Best Bunk Bed

The ideal bunk bed is one that blends sturdy construction and stylish design. It can accommodate twin and full-size mattresses which allows you to increase the number of people that can sleep in a room.

Look for bunk beds that have an adjustable ladder, not stairs that take up floor space. Some models have angled ladders which are easier to climb but may not be safe for older children.

Size

It is important to consider the size of the room and the height. You must ensure that the bed is a good fit however, you need to leave enough room for the child to move in and out safely, as well as for other furniture pieces in the bedroom, such as bookcases and other items of decor. If the bed's top is too close to the ceiling, children sleeping on it might fall on their heads when they get up or lie down and feel confined. Ideally, there should at a minimum of 36 inches between the top of the bed and the ceiling.

If you're looking for a bunk bed that can expand with your children, consider a model that can separate into two beds. This option is more costly than a fixed-size bunk bed but it will save you money in the event that your children decide to sleep separately.

The Perch bunk bed by PB Teen, for example, is a stylish investment piece that looks great in both traditional and modern rooms due to its simple design and neutral color. It also comes with an optional bed that can be trundled underneath the bottom bunk, so it can be used for sleepovers without sacrificing floor space.

Take a look at the cheap bunk bed for kids beds from brands such as RC Willey if you're on a tight budget. These beds come in multiple finishes and include guardrails and a ladder, making them simple to assemble. Some come with slide-out drawers below the bottom bunk to provide additional storage. For safety, choose the bunk bed that has been tested to comply with CPSC regulations. Also, look for one with a low center of gravity so it won't tip over easily.

Style

Style is also a major factor in picking the best bunk bed's design. Most common are twin-over-twin designs, but there are also options with full-over-full beds or queen-over-queen bunks for older children and adults who want more room to stretch out and sleep. Some models also have staggered configurations where the lower bed is taller than the top. These are ideal for older children who prefer more of a sofa-like space at the bottom for them to relax in or make an office or study desk.

Consider a wooden bunk that has slatted footboards and headboards for a sleek and modern look that will appeal to girls and boys. The open panels in this design from Ikea, for example let light be able to flow through the bunks, enhancing the space while providing security and protection. This bunk bed is also simple to use due to the ladder that is angled and guardrails.

Other types of bunk beds include loft beds that hang from the ceiling in a T-shape. They are ideal for smaller spaces where floor and storage are limited. Make sure your ceilings allow for a larger clearance above the upper bunk prior to purchasing one. Bunks that are against the wall don't need much space and can increase the square footage.

If your children love reading at night, you can add the reading light on their bunk beds. You can also include shelves for books. Ms. Keenan includes these elements when she places bunks over windows. This makes the sleeping nook more cozy. She's also seen them paired with motorized shades which can be raised or lowered as needed and allows you to control the amount of sunlight and warmth in a space while being able to read and nap.

Safety

Bunk safety is a concern for many parents, but bunk beds are actually safer than you might think. They're less prone to falling over than single beds because they're equipped with guardrails on both sides of the upper sleep area. They also pass anti-tip and lead tests to ensure that they are safe for children to sleep in. When you're looking for a bunk bed, look at the capacity of weight to make sure it can support the weight of your children without sagging. If you have children who are older or are planning on hosting guests at your home, choose a full-over-full bunk, which is better equipped to support adult bodies.

Solid wooden bunk beds are a different method to increase the safety. Solid wood bunks tend to be more durable than metal and typically have stronger supports. Check that the foundation of the bed is free of gaps large enough to entrap children.

Always follow the instructions and guidelines of the manufacturer when assembling the loft bed. The bunk bed should be kept away from hanging lights and curtains, which may hinder climbing or exiting the top bunk, is a great way to reduce risk. Also, place the beds in a corner when possible to add stability.

Make sure to teach your children the basic bunk bed safety rules and supervise them as they climb on and off. The area around the bunk free of clothing, shoes and backpacks is a good idea, as well. It is crucial to teach children to properly use the ladder and not hang anything from bed posts or the ladder.

Materials

The best bunk beds are constructed of durable materials that can withstand the use of children. Find wooden frames that are able to safely support two people, as well as sturdy ladders and steps. Many brands also include extra features, like shelves, drawers, or trundle beds that offer more sleeping space when needed. Spampanato says that this flexibility is useful for families with children who are likely to outgrow bunk beds or into their own bedrooms.

When selecting a bunk bed, you'll have to think about the material and color of your furniture, in addition to the style and height of the room. It is also important to take into consideration how the bunk bed will integrate into the architectural elements of your home such as fixed fixtures like closets or windows. Make use of a blue painter's tack to mark the outline of the bunk bed. Pay attention to the way it will sit against fixed structures and how far away from your ceiling.

Certain bunk beds made of wooden are constructed of solid, sustainably harvested wood or are GreenGuard Gold certified, which might appeal to families who prioritize eco-friendly furnishings. However, these types of beds are typically pricier than wood-composite and metal models.

The cheapest alternative on our list is the bunk bed made of medium density fiberboard. This bunk bed is ASTM certified, durable and available in neutral colors that match most existing furniture. This bunk bed is also distinguished by its angled ladder, which allows children to climb up and down. It also has sturdy guardrails across the top bunk as well as ample storage space underneath.

Ladder

If you want to opt for a bunk bed that has stairs or ladder is a decision that is contingent on the space available to your family and children's ages. Stairs occupy more space on the floor and are more expensive than simple ladder alternatives. However, they are more secure and comfortable for children to climb. Certain models also have additional safety features, such as handrails on the sides and the locking mechanism.

Ladders are cheaper and require less space than stairs, however they aren't always easy for younger kids bedroom furniture to navigate. Look for ladders that have grooved anti-slip steps and hand hole cutouts, which allow for easier climbing for toddlers and older kids bunk beds. Some bunk bed ladders are designed so that it is simple to climb to the top bunk.

Consider adding a padded mat or rug near the ladder, if you decide to buy a bunkbed that has stairs. This will ensure that kids bunk bed do not accidentally hit it and injure themselves while climbing up or down. It also stops children from sliding or slipping which can be dangerous for young children.

Bunk beds with ladders are a great alternative for families with little space for floor space or have low ceilings. They are easy to assemble and come in a variety of styles including traditional wooden ladders as well as modern metal alternatives. Some bunk beds come with two ladders, which can be helpful for families who have to accommodate children who prefer to sleep on the lower bunk. You can even find ladders that are adjustable, which allows you to change the placement of the childrens bunk beds bed to meet your children's needs as they grow. For example, if your children want to move their desks from one side of the room to the other, a versatile bunk ladder allows them to do it without moving the bed itself.