Bunk Beds Are Cooler Than Ever

Whether you're designing a shared bedroom for your children or putting together a dorm room, or simply looking to maximize your space, bunk beds are versatile and more stylish than ever. There are many designs to think about, including twin over twin and full-over-full models.

Pick the right bunk bed within your budget and the dimensions of your child's bedroom. Some bunk beds can accommodate trundle mattresses in the bottom for sleepovers.

Size

Bunk beds have been a staple of childhood bedrooms for many years. They provide both efficiency and adventure to kids who love to sleep together. They are also common in shared rooms and vacation homes. Bunk beds come in a variety of styles and materials, with options to suit every budget and size of room. Our bunk bed picks range from basic twin over twin models to more elaborate models with ladders or stairs and distinctive features such as slides.

We weighed a range of factors when we searched the market for our top picks including overall design, safety and value. We also asked parents and a person who wrote the book on bunk beds to help us find the most suitable choices. Find our top seven choices by continuing reading.

The size of bunk beds is an important consideration before purchasing a bed, especially in relation to the ceiling's height. Always check your space to make sure the bunks you select are suitable, and leave at least 5 inches of headroom on the top bunk. We also recommend avoid trundle beds that have mattresses with a high hanging that can limit headroom and increase the risk of head bumps.

Another consideration is whether you prefer ladders or stairs for access to the top bunk. Stairs are easier to climb and safer, but they will take up more space on the floor than ladders. Ladders aren't as bulky however they are more affordable. They may feel too steep to younger children.

It is also important to pay attention to the capacity for weight of the top bunk mattress, which is available on the page of each product. This information is usually listed next to the dimensions of the mattress. A higher capacity of weight suggests that the bunk is designed for older children or adults who require a larger mattress.

A variety of bunk beds The Shyann bunk bed from Room & Board offers three finishes to complement your kids' bedroom decor. Snowy white gives a bright coastal style to classic kids' rooms while brushed grey and rich walnut add an authentic farmhouse or rustic look.

Safety

When you are buying a bunk bed, you should look beyond the cost and ensure that it comes with all the necessary safety features. A reliable seller will provide the capacity of the bed and provide details about the structure's durability and strength which is particularly helpful for families who plan to reuse the beds as their children grow up.

Rebecca Simon, a designer at Maison Ellie Interiors for Kids recommends leaving 33-36 inches between the top of the mattress and the ceiling. "If you don't have room for that amount of space, you might prefer a low-height bunk," she adds. "That is a great option for a tight room because it keeps the lower bed off the floor, and can feel cramped as kids grow older."

A second consideration is how much space is for ladders or stairs. While a bunk with built-in stairs could save space, it could also be costly and require more assembly time. If you're limited on space, opt for a ladder that is simple and allows your children to safely climb up to the top bunk Beds Best.

All bunks listed are constructed of durable materials and meet the Consumer Product Safety Commission requirements for guardrails. These bunks also pass lead and anti-tip testing, which is a relief for parents of children sharing a space. For instance, the wood-and-metal Room & Board model is "built like tanks," says Laura Fenton, author of The Bunk Bed Book: 115 Bunks Lofts, Lofts, and Cozy Nooks. These are the same beds that hotels use and are therefore built to last.

For shoppers who want an option that grows with their kids, this trundle-style design from Bed Bath & Beyond converts into two twin beds that are separate for teens and tweens. It's the only bunk bed that isn't wood bed on this list, and its sturdy steel frame is light for such a sturdy piece of furniture. It's available in a broad range of colors and can be customized with other accessories, like under-bed storage drawers.

Style

Bunk beds are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, so you will be able to choose one that best solid wood bunk beds suits your family's requirements. There are numerous configurations, like the traditional twin-over twin bunks or the more specialized beds such as twin-over queen or queen-over twin. Some are made from metal and some are made of wood with side rails on the top bunk. The design of the frame and other features may also differ. You'll need to consider the amount of storage space you need and the style you prefer.

When you are considering the price, bear in mind that the best bunk beds higher the price of a bunk bed the more customizable it can be, Klugh says. This could include adding additional features like a staircase or ladder. It could also refer to the ability to add the trundle bed, which makes it ideal for sleepovers or guest accommodations. Some models can be disassembled to become two separate beds. This is a fantastic option if your kids are growing out of their bunk beds or if you plan to move in the future.

The number of beds you select will also influence cost and style. You could opt for a basic twin-over-twin bunk bed to maximize the amount of floor space. It's also inexpensive. Or, you might decide to spend a bit more for a durable wooden option with an elegant design that can expand with the kids and maybe even accommodate adults sleeping down the road.

Regardless of the size and style you pick, it's important to check the capacity of the bunk beds to ensure that they are able to support the number of sleepers you'll use them for. Some bunk beds are intended for children and only support the weight of 165 pounds. Others have a higher capacity and can accommodate adults and children who are growing.

It's important to note that a bunkbed is an investment that is costly, and thus a significant commitment. If you're not sure if this type of bed is the right choice for your family, take the time to visit an exhibit or read reviews on retailer websites from actual buyers. This will give you an idea of the quality and workmanship of the bunk beds.

Storage

Modern living demands furniture to serve more than as a place to rest or study. Bunk beds that have built-in storage meet this need making them multi-functional furniture pieces that are both functional and stylish. Multifunctional staircases and integrated storage drawers are innovative features that allow for easy access to toys, clothing and bed linens.

Loft beds with spacious desks can turn the space below them into a productive working space. These thoughtful configurations enable young students or remote workers to manage work with play and sleep without sacrificing valuable floor space.

Detachable bunks can be divided into twin beds to accommodate guests at sleepovers or to let children grow up and transition to single beds. Bunks with trundle beds that can be removed can also accommodate older children or adults who prefer sleeping on a full-size mattress.

Families looking to maximize their space in tiny bedrooms with high ceilings can benefit from investing in larger bunk beds that sleep three or four people. These models can fit into small spaces, allowing owners to make the most of space that would otherwise be wasted.

The type of material and the color your bunk bed is constructed from will affect its overall appearance and feel. Wood bunks have a classic timeless look that blends well into contemporary, coastal and farmhouse interiors. Steel bunks, on the other side are a more contemporary option that is a great match with midcentury and industrial styles.

Consider the ceiling's height, any nearby windows and other architectural elements when shopping for bunk beds. The smaller, more compact designs are easier to assemble. They are ideal for children who are teens or who are ready to get from the bedroom for toddlers or juniors. Meanwhile, taller bunks offer an elegant, airier design and are ideal for older children or adults who sleep. Some designs have side railings that allow for a greater clearance between the beds. This ensures safety and easy access for everyone.