Best Bunk Bed: 11 Thing You're Leaving Out
How to Select the Best Bunk Bed
The best bunk beds combine an extremely sturdy structure with a fashionable design. It can accommodate standard twin and full-sized mattresses. This helps increase the number of people sleeping in a room can fit.
Choose a bunk bed that has an adjustable ladder, rather than stairs that can take up valuable floor space. Some models come with angled ladders that are easier to climb, but might not be suitable for older children.
Size
It is important to consider the dimensions of the room and the height. You want the bed to fit, but allow room for children to safely climb in and out, and also space for other bedroom furniture, like bookcases or decorative items. If the bed's top is too close to the ceiling, children who sleep on it may be struck on the head when they rise or lie down and feel confined. Ideally it should be at least 36 inches between the top of the mattress and the ceiling.
If you're looking for bunk beds that can adapt to your children's needs look into a bed that can separate into two beds. This is more expensive than a fixed-size bunk bed, but it can save you money if your children choose to sleep in separate beds.
For example, the Perch bunk bed from PB Teen is an investment piece that is stylish in both traditional and modern rooms due to its clean lines and neutral finishes. It also comes with an optional Trundle bed beneath the bunk's bottom, so it can be used for sleepovers, without sacrificing any floor space.
Take a look at the cheap bunk beds from brands like RC Willey if you're on a tight budget. These beds are available in different finishes and come with a guardrail and ladder. They're easy to assemble. Some have slide-out drawers beneath the bottom bunk to store more items. Pick a bed that has been that has been tested to meet CPSC standards to ensure safety. Choose a bed with a low centre of gravity to ensure it will not tip over.
Style
Style is also a significant aspect when picking the best bunk bed's design. The most popular designs are twin-over-twin, but you can also find queen-over-queen bunk beds or full-overfull bunks for adults and older children who want to have more space for sleeping. Some designs have staggered beds where the lower bed is bigger than the top. These are ideal for older children who prefer more of a couch-like space on the bottom that they can relax in or make an office or study desk.
Choose a wooden bed with the headboard and footboards slatted to give an elegant and contemporary look that will please girls and boys. The open panels, such as those on this Ikea option let light through the bunks. This makes the space more inviting and also provides security and safety. The angled ladder and guardrails on this bunk bed are another benefit which adds to the accessibility.
Other types of bunk beds include loft beds that hang from the ceiling in a T-shape. ideal for smaller spaces where space for floor and storage are not available. These require a higher clearance on the top bunk, so be sure your ceilings are tall enough before you purchase one. Bunks that are set against the wall, on the other hand, do not require as much clearance and are good for maximizing square footage.
If your children love reading in bed, add an illuminated reading light that is recessed and shelves or ledges for books to their bunks. Ms. Keenan often includes these elements in her projects when installing bunks over windows, making the sleeping nook feel more like a homey retreat. She's also seen them with motorized shades that can be raised or lowered as needed and allow you to regulate the amount of light and warmth in a space while being able to relax and read.
Safety
Bunk bed safety is a concern for many parents, but bunk beds are more secure than you might think. They're less prone to falling over than traditional single beds because they have guardrails on both sides of the upper sleeping area. They've also passed anti-tip and safety tests to ensure they're safe for children to sleep in. Look at the weight capacity of a bunk bed to ensure it can accommodate your children's total body weight without sliding. If you have kids who are older or are planning on hosting guests at your home, consider a full-over-full bunk, which is a better option for supporting adult bodies.
Picking a bed for your bunk that's built with solid wood is another excellent method to add an extra layer of safety. Solid wood bunks are more durable than metal and generally have slats that are thicker and give more support. It is also important to ensure that the area beneath the bunk bed does not have gaps that are large enough for a child to become trapped.
Always follow the instructions and guidelines of the manufacturer when assembling the loft bed. Away from the bunk bed from hanging lights and curtains, which may hinder the climb or exit of the top bunk, is a great way to reduce risk. Also, place the beds in the corner whenever possible to add stability.
Make sure you teach your children basic bunk bed safety rules and supervise them when they climb on and off. Keep the space around the bunk free of shoes, clothes and backpacks is a good idea, as well. Children should also be taught to use the ladder in a safe manner and to never hang anything from the bedposts or ladders.
Materials
The best bunk beds are constructed with durable materials that can stand up to the rigors of children's play. Find wooden frames that can safely hold two sleepers and sturdy ladders and steps. A lot of brands also have additional features like drawers, shelving, or trundle beds that offer more sleeping space when needed. Spampanato says that this flexibility is beneficial if your children are likely to outgrow bunk beds or into their own bedrooms.
When choosing a bunk bed, you'll need to consider the materials and colors of your existing bedroom furniture, in addition to the style and size of the room. It is also important to take into consideration how the bunk bed will integrate into the architectural features of your home such as fixed fixtures like closets or windows. Tap the blue painter's brush to mark the outline of the bunk bed. Pay attention to the way it will sit close to fixed structures and how far it is from your ceiling.
Certain bunk beds made of wooden are made from solid, sustainably-sourced wood or are GreenGuard Gold certified, which might appeal to families who prefer eco-friendly furniture. However, these beds tend to be more expensive than metal and wood-composite models.
The most affordable option we've listed is a bunk bed that's constructed of plywood and medium density fiberboard. It is a durable option that is 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 children to climb up and down. It also has strong guardrails on the top of the bed, and a large storage space underneath.
Ladder
The choice of whether to pick a bunk bed that has stairs or a ladder depends on the space in your home as well as the ages of your children. Stairs take up more space on the floor and are more expensive than basic ladder options. However, they're generally safer and more comfortable for children to climb. Some models also come with additional safety features like side handrails and an locking mechanism.
Ladders are often less expensive than stairs and take up less space However, they can be difficult for children of small size to use. Choose ladders with grooved anti-slip steps and hand hole cutouts. These allow for easier climbing for toddlers as well as older children. Some bunk bed ladders can also be angled for an easy climb to the top bunk.
If you opt for a bunk bed that has stairs, consider adding an upholstered mat or rug next to the ladder. This will prevent kids from accidentally stepping on the ladder and getting hurt when climbing up or down. It will also prevent children from sliding or slipping which can be dangerous for children in their early years.
Bunk beds with ladders are a great option for families who have little floor space or low ceilings. They're simple to put together and come in various styles, ranging from traditional wooden ladders to modern metal alternatives. Some bunk beds have two ladders that can be helpful for families who need to accommodate children who prefer to sleep on the lower bunk. There are ladders with adjustable heights that allow you to adjust the placement of your bunk bed as your children get older. For instance, if your children wish to change their desks from one side of the room to the other, a movable ladder for bunks will allow them to do it without having to move the bunk bed itself.