How to Choose the Best Bunk Beds

Kids' bunk beds are a common feature of many homes. They can save space and also give children an excitement.

When you are looking for a bunk bed, it's important to consider the weight capacity and safety features. We also considered beds that could be converted into two beds.

Durability

A bunk bed is a major investment, so it's important to consider the durability of the bed when you are shopping for one. Nikki Njeri Klugh, founder and chief designer of Nikki Klugh Design Group, Inc. She says you should ensure that the bed is sturdy so nothing falls onto the person or things below. The most comfortable bunk beds will be evaluated to support at least 500 pounds per bed. They'll also be tested to ensure that they comply with safety standards for example, a guardrail on the top bunk, and full-sized mattresses that are comfortable to avoid accidents.

When evaluating bunk beds, it is important to take into consideration the weight capacity of the mattress and the ladder or stairs that take you to the top. A best practice is to select an elevated ladder that has an even surface for safer climbing and isn't too high or steep, says Fenton. Stairs are easier to climb, however they take up more room and can be difficult for children to maneuver.

A lot of the top bunk beds also have a choice of finish or color that can aid in matching them to your child's bedroom decor. Choose an elegant white finish or natural wood stain that will complement the furniture you already have or opt for a pink finish for a refreshing pop of color. Some bunk beds come with additional features, such as an trundle or drawer below the bottom bunk. These can increase the functionality of the bed and allow you to customize the bunk to suit the needs of your child.

Another excellent feature of this bunk bed is that it can accommodate two full-size mattresses in a T-shaped layout which means you can fit three people comfortably on this model. Its sturdy construction features an extremely sturdy steel frame and secured slats made of metal that are spaced 2.5 inches apart for proper mattress support. It is also Greenguard Gold certified1, which means that it complies with the requirements of the Greenguard Organization for low emission of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), Ozone depleters, and other pollutants.

If you're looking for a bunk bed that will last through your children's childhood and beyond, you should consider this option from Oeuf. Its sleek, modern design will not make it appear "babyish" as your children grow older. It can also be divided into two twin-size beds when your children stop using the bunk.

Safety

Bunk beds are practical space-savers and are a great activity for kids, but they come with certain safety issues. To avoid injuries, look for models that have been tested independently to be in compliance with CPSC safety standards and have been proven to be sturdy enough for adults to sleep on, too. Make sure that the upper bunk is sturdy enough to withstand the weight of children sleeping on it. Typically, full-over-full-size bunks can accommodate up to 165 pounds per bed, while some variations--particularly those designed for adults--have higher capacities.

While the primary cause of bunk bed injuries is falls, children could also get injured playing on the upper deck, or by slipping over ladders or furniture. To minimize these risks choose a bunk bed that meets or exceeds the height guidelines of the CPSC and ensure that you keep it out of the reach of ceiling fans (which can cause dangerous airflow patterns) or other tall furniture.

You'll also want to consider whether the bunk bed is made out of solid wood or steel. Metal is lighter, more portable, but it may not last as long as a wooden model. You can feel good about buying some wooden alternatives that are GreenGuard Gold-certified and made using sustainably sourced materials. If you're worried about safety, be sure to check the bed for any restrictions or warnings that might apply to the top bunk. These might include the weight or age restriction.

Make sure you ensure that the bunk bed can comfortably fit your space and is free of sharp corners. Also, test the stability of the bunks by putting pressure on them in various locations and ensuring they don't sag or creak.

Most bunk bed for kids beds offer the option of a ladder that allows you to climb onto the top deck, but there are some that use stairs instead. Fenton says that stairs may be more expensive and take up more space, but they are "the most secure and safest to climb," despite the fact that children should not be left alone on the top bunk.

Space-Saving

If you're decorating a child's bedroom or maximizing the sleeping space in your vacation home, bunk beds make sense for all kinds of living spaces. It can be a challenge to decide on the best option. Bunk beds should be safe, fit your space, and look good as well. There are a variety of options available to choose from, so you can pick the best one for your family.

To identify the most comfortable bunk beds, we consulted three experts --two interior designers and a sleep expert. They also read reviews on retailer sites and at consumer organizations. We considered the design as well as safety features and the cost of each bunk bed. We narrowed our choices to seven sets with a top-quality design and build that will continue to grow with your child into their teenage years.

This classic wooden bunk bed from Oeuf boasts an elegant design and sturdy construction. It's available in a variety of colors for the finish, including white for coastal decor, or espresso stain to warm rustic rooms. It also includes guardrails on the bottom bunk and an trundle pullout so that you can fit in more guests. It is also GREENGUARD gold certified, which means that it has low emission standards for volatile organic compounds, phthalates, and a myriad of other harmful substances.

Another benefit of this bunk bed is that it can be divided into two beds that can be free-standing when your children outgrow it and it's a great investment. This bunk bed is available in various sizes, including twin over full and full over queen.

When choosing a bunk bed, it's important to take the weight capacity into consideration. It is not necessary to overload the structure, as this could lead to dangerous collapses. Look for bunk beds with large capacity for weight to ensure that your family is secure during the night.

Unlike most bunk beds, that use ladders to get to the top bunk, this one includes stairs that slide underneath each side of the frame. This design gives more room underneath the bunk beds and gives them a sleeker appearance. This is a great solution for those who don't have enough space for a ladder.

Storage

Bunk beds are available in a variety of configurations. They can be twin-over-twin, full-over-full, or even queen over queen. You'll also have the option to choose between different types of materials, ranging from natural wood to sturdy metal and more. The price of the bunk bed will differ based on the type of material and features you choose. Higher-priced childrens bunk bed beds are usually constructed from durable materials such as solid wood and include additional features such as a trundle bed that can be pulled out from under the bottom mattress.

When choosing a bunk bed for your home, take into consideration the way it will be used and the amount you can afford. If you are planning to use the bunk bed exclusively for kids, a low-cost basic model could be a good choice. If you intend to use the bunk beds for children or adults who will grow out of them, it may be worth investing in a better-quality frame.

A majority of the top bunk bed brands offer a limited warranty on their products. This warranty could include replacement parts or repairs for up to a year after purchase, based on the brand. Certain manufacturers also offer white glove shipping or installation services for an additional cost.

While you're shopping for a bunk bed it's essential to read reviews. These reviews will allow you to judge if a product is sturdy and well-constructed. It's also a good idea to consider the weight capacity of each bunk as well as the safety features.

If you're looking for a bunk bed with ample storage space look into the Daxter bunk from Harper & Bright Designs. It's a low-cost, sleek option that comes in a variety of colors to complement the interior decor of your home. This bunk bed also has the capacity to support a large weight limit on the top bunk and an optional trundle bed that can accommodate three people. Many customers praised the quality of this bunk bed and claimed that it was simple for them to assemble. Some reviewers noticed an unpleasant off-gassing smell when the bunk first emerged from its box. The problem was quickly resolved.