How to Select the Best Bunk Bed

The best bunk beds combine an extremely sturdy structure with an elegant design. It can accommodate standard twin- and full-sized mattresses, which help to maximize the number of sleepers can be accommodated in a room.

Choose a bunk Beds Adults bed that has a fixed ladder instead of stairs, which can be a waste of space. Some models feature angled ladders that are easier to climb, though these aren't as secure for older children.

Size

When you are choosing a bunk bed, you need to consider the dimensions of your room as well as the ceiling's height. You must ensure that the bed fits, but you also need to allow enough space for your child to get in and out safely, as well as for other bedroom furniture like bookcases and other items of decor. If the bed's top is placed too close to ceiling, it may cause children to hit their heads when they roll over or get up. They may also feel claustrophobic. Ideally, there should be at least be 36 inches between the top of the bed and the ceiling.

Think about a bed that can be separated into two beds if you want an option for a bunk bed that grows with your children. This option is more costly than a fixed-size bunk bed, but it can save you money if your children prefer sleeping separately.

The Perch bunk bed made by PB Teen, for example, is a stylish investment piece that looks amazing in both traditional and modern rooms due to its sleek lines and neutral finish. It also offers an optional Trundle bed beneath the bottom bunk, which means it can accommodate sleepovers without sacrificing any floor space.

Check out the affordable bunk beds offered by brands like RC Willey if you're on the tightest budget. These beds come in multiple colors and also come with guardrails and a ladder, making them easy to put together. Some come with slide-out drawers beneath the bottom bunk to store more items. Select a bunk bed that has been that has been tested to meet CPSC standards to ensure safety. Look for bunk beds with a low center of gravity to ensure it will not tip over.

Style

Style is also a major factor when it comes to choosing the right bunk bed's design. The most popular types are twin-overtwin. However, there are also queen-over-queen or full-overfull bunk beds for adults and older children who want to sleep with more space. There are also staggered designs with the bed lower larger than the top. These are better for older kids who like more of a couch-like space on the bottom that they can relax or make an office or study desk.

Consider a wooden bunk that has headboards and footboards that are slatted for modern and sleek design that will please girls and boys. The open panels of this model from Ikea for instance, allow light to flow through the bunks, enhancing the space while providing safety and security. The angled ladder and guardrails on this bunk bed are another plus, adding to its accessibility.

Loft beds are a different option for bunk beds. They are suspended from the ceiling and feature the shape of a T that makes them suitable for small rooms with small floor space or storage space. Make sure that your ceilings allow for a greater clearance over the bunk above prior to purchasing one. Bunks that are placed against the wall On the other hand, don't require as much clearance and are good for maximizing square footage.

If your children love reading at night, consider adding an illuminated reading light that is recessed and shelves or ledges for books to their beds. Ms. Keenan includes these elements when she installs bunks over windows. This makes the sleeping area more comfortable. She's also seen them coupled with motorized shades which can be raised or lowered as needed, making it easy to control the amount of light and warmth in a room while still having the ability to relax and read.

Safety

Many parents are concerned about the safety of bunk beds, but they're actually safer than one might think. They're less prone to falling over than single beds due to the fact that they have guardrails on both sides of the upper sleep area. They also pass lead and anti-tip tests to ensure they're safe for children to sleep in. Look at the weight capacity of a bunk bed to make sure it is able to accommodate your children's total body weight without sagging. If you have older kids or plan on hosting guests in your home, opt for a full-over-full bunk, which is more suited to support adult bodies.

Choosing a bunk bed that's constructed from solid wood is another great method to add an extra layer of safety. Solid wood bunks tend to be more durable than metal and typically have stronger supports. Verify that the foundation of the bunk bed isn't sagging or has gaps that are large enough to trap children.

When building a bunk bed, ensure that you follow the manufacturer's instructions and guidelines. To reduce the risk, keep the bunk bed away form curtains and light fixtures that could interfere with climbing up or out of the top bunk. Also, place the beds in the corner whenever you can to increase stability.

Make sure you teach your children the basics of bunk bed safety rules and monitor them as they climb on and off. The space around the bunk free of shoes, clothing and backpacks is a good idea, as well. It is essential 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 with durable materials that can stand up to the rigors of children's use. Find wooden frames that can safely hold two people, and sturdy ladders and stairs. Many brands also offer additional features, such as shelves, drawers, or trundle beds, which provide more space for sleeping when needed. This flexibility is beneficial in the event that you expect your children to getting out of bunk beds or relocating into their own rooms, says Spampanato.

It is also important to consider the design and the dimensions of your space when choosing a bunkbed. It is also important to consider how the bunk bed will fit in with the architectural features of your home such as fixed fixtures like windows or closets. Tap the blue painter's brush to draw the outline of the bunk bed. Be aware of the way it will sit next to fixed structures, and how far it is from your ceiling.

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

The cheapest option we've listed is a bunk bed constructed from plywood and medium-density fiberboard. It's a sturdy option that's ASTM-certified and is available in neutral colors that complement most existing furniture. Another feature that sets this bunk bed apart is its angled ladder which makes it easier for kids to climb up and down. It also has sturdy railings across the top bunk as well as an ample storage area beneath.

Ladder

The choice of a bunk bed that has stairs or ladder is a personal choice that is based on the space available to your family and children's ages. They take up more space on the floor and are more expensive than basic ladder alternatives. However, they are generally safer and more comfortable for children to climb. Certain models also have additional safety features, such as side handrails and a locking mechanism.

Ladders are often less expensive than stairs and require less space however they are difficult for toddlers to use. Look for ladders that have hand holes and grooves that are anti-slip. These features allow for easier climbing for older children and toddlers. Some bunk bed ladders can also be angled to allow an easy climb up to the top bunk.

Consider putting a cushioned rug or mat next to the ladder, if you decide to buy a bunk bed with stairs. This will ensure that kids don't accidentally bump into it and injure themselves when they climb up or down. It will also prevent children from sliding or slipping which is particularly dangerous for children in their early years.

Bunk beds with ladders are an ideal solution for families that have small space or low ceilings. They are easy to assemble and are available in a variety of styles including classic wooden ladders and modern metal alternatives. Some bunk beds have two separate ladders. This is useful for families that need to accommodate children who prefer to sleep on the lower bunk. There are ladders with adjustable heights, which allow you to change the positioning of your bunk bed as your children develop. For example, if your children want to move their desks from one side of the room to the other, a flexible ladder for bunks allows them to do so without removing the bunk bed itself.