How to Find the Best Bunk Beds
If you're looking to reduce space, encourage siblings to bond or to accommodate a large group of guests, the right bunk bed can make all the difference. Find safety features that match your needs such as dimensions, height, and ladder/stairway placement.
There are many models that offer a choice of straight or angled ladders--the ones with straight ladders are easier to climb, but require a certain more height, whereas the latter require more room but are safer and easier to access.
Aesthetics
Bunk beds are not only for children. They can be stylish additions in your home. Bunk beds are becoming increasingly more sought-after in homes of all sizes, as designers and manufacturers recognize their utility while providing a contemporary aesthetic. Wooden bunk beds tend to be more durable than steel models and their natural look can be incorporated into a variety of designs for interiors.
In addition to their aesthetics, bunk beds can also provide practical benefits for families that share a home or have a limited space. For example triple-bunk beds can easily be converted into two separate beds and some models have an under-bed trundle that slides out from underneath the bed's bottom to accommodate sleepovers on the fly.
One of the great things about a bunk bed is that it can transform your child's room into an in-home treehouse. This Max & Lily set takes this idea one step further by incorporating a slide that can be detached that can send the kids soaring down the slope with friends and sending plush animals for the ride of their lives.
Other styles, like this set from NE Kids take a minimalistic style to the design. Its simple, clean lines and neutral colors make it an excellent option for any room either traditional or modern. It's the most affordable option, and it includes a ladder for storage to make it easier.
best double bunk beds choose a twin-over-double bunk bed for siblings who will be sharing a room and need to make space in their shared bedroom. This type of design is less bulky than a full-overfull model and can be combined with dressers and other furniture pieces to create a cohesive bedroom.
A twin-over-full bed configuration has the added benefit of accommodating two full mattresses. This allows you to use it whenever you need even as your family grows. It's the most affordable option on our list, and it can be paired with storage drawers to provide additional organization.
Safety
A bunk bed should be as sturdy as possible and that begins with the materials it's made of. Solid wood is a good choice--it's sturdy and durable, though it can be pricey. If you want a cheaper alternative, consider metal, which can be just as strong and comes in a range of finishes.
Other features worth looking for are guard rails that are at least five inches above the mattress, and stairs or ladders that attach tightly to the frame, to ensure they don't pull away from the bed, leaving an unsafe gap through which children could fall through or get stuck. Some manufacturers include a safety tread on ladders to stop falling and causing injury.
Finally, make sure your bunk bed complies with the British Safety Standard BS/EN7472012+A1 and that it includes any recommended age restrictions for the use of the bed. Also, you should carefully review the instructions provided by the manufacturer for installation, use and maintenance.
Bunk beds are popular with youngsters, but they can be dangerous if not properly set up. Many accidents that involve bunk beds occur because kids climb over the side of the upper bunk and fall or be trapped. To avoid this it is recommended that children sleep on the top bunk until they're at least six years old. Ensure that the ladder is positioned on the bottom of the bunk so that children cannot climb over it.
The ladder should be attached firmly to the bed frame and angled to the point that it is difficult for children to climb up the sides. Parents should teach children how to use the ladder properly and avoid horseplay. They should also regularly examine the ladder and bed frame for loose connections.
Lastly, it's recommended to select a bunk bed that can be separated into two individual beds, which allows you to reuse the space after your children outgrow the top bunk. IKEA's Mydal bunk beds, for instance, are a budget-friendly option that does not sacrifice safety or durability. They can also be separated into two beds when your children have outgrown the top bunk.
Mattress
A bunk bed is insufficient without a mattress. There are many manufacturers that provide a mattress in addition to the frame. This can be convenient for you and save money. If you're looking for the most comfortable sleep experience from your bunk bed, it's best to buy separately. The mattress you select will have a significant impact on how comfortable and accommodating your child's or parents bed feels.
When selecting the ideal bunk bed mattress, you should consider your budget, the desired degree of comfort, and your preferred sleeping position. For example, a memory foam mattress may feel great for back and side sleepers however stomach sleepers may prefer a more firm mattress with better pressure relief. It is also important to take into consideration the weight capacity of your bunk mattress. Too many people can cause the mattress's most hefty parts to slide.
Most bunk beds offer mattresses in twin-overtwin, full-overfull or smaller sizes for the trundle. Certain bunk beds include hybrid, innerspring or all-foam mattresses. All-foam mattresses typically cost between $900 and $1,200 for a queen-size model. They come with a high-density foam support base.
It is also essential to select the mattress for your bunk bed that is durable and doesn't rattle or squeak. This can disrupt your kids' sleeping environment and may even cause them to wake awake throughout the night. To avoid these issues, select a memory foam or latex mattress that provides excellent pressure relief while still permitting sleepers to move their positions easily.
If you're planning to make your bunk bed the center area of the room, pick a striking finish like gray or walnut. You can keep the bunk bed simple with an elegant white finish that will go well with any colour scheme. Bunk beds that are flat-packed are generally simple to put together and require no tools, but you'll probably need help lifting them into the right place, particularly if they're heavy. Many manufacturers will include instructions and videos on their websites, which can make this process much easier.
Storage
Bunk beds that have built-in storage is a great option to add more function and space to your children' room. You can purchase or build drawers that easily attach to bunk beds, offering extra storage for clothes, bedding, and other toys. This is a great option for smaller rooms, as it maximizes unused space and eliminates the need to store items on the floor. Many of these drawers are available in various colors and finishes that will match any style.
You may be able depending on the style you select, to incorporate creative storage solutions. For example, some bunk beds feature shelves and cubbies that can be used to store things like books and art equipment. This lets kids keep their possessions neatly organized and easily accessible without taking up too much space. It's also a good idea to choose bunk beds with hooks on either side which can be used for hanging bags or other clothing items.
There are numerous drawers and shelving units you can incorporate into your child's bed if you prefer a more traditional style. They are usually placed under the bottom bed and provide plenty of space for storage of clothes, blankets, toys, and other items. These units are ideal for both boys and girls' bedrooms, as they can easily be customized to suit each individual's preferences.
Pull-out desks with storage and study space are available as bunk beds. They are ideal for small bedrooms, as they let you make the most of the space under the top bunk, while leaving the lower bed free to sleep. These beds also come in a variety of colors and can be customized with accessories like trundles to provide more storage space.
Another excellent way to maximize storage space is to install shelves on the wall above your bunk bed. They can be used to store books, toys, and other items that you would like to keep away from view. You can also add baskets to the shelves to keep everything neatly arranged and organized.