20 Things That Only The Most Devoted Bunk Beds Best Fans Know

Bunk Beds Are Cooler Than Ever

Bunk beds are more adaptable and stylish than ever. There are a range of styles, including twin-overtwin and full over-full options.

Choose 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 common feature of children’s bedrooms for a number of years. They provide both efficiency and adventure to children who like to sleep together. They are also common in shared rooms and vacation homes. Bunk beds are available in a variety of styles and materials to suit any budget or size. Our picks for bunk beds range from basic twin-over-twin models to elaborate designs that include stairs or ladders, as well as unique features such as slides.

We weighed a range of factors while scouring the market to find our top picks, including overall design, safety and value. We also asked experts–parents and one who wrote the book on bunk beds — to help us find the top choices. Read on to discover our seven top picks.

The dimensions of bunk beds are an important factor to consider prior to purchasing a bed, especially when it comes to the height of your ceilings. Always check your space to make sure the bunks you pick are suitable, and leave at least 5 inches of headroom on the top bunk. We also recommend staying away from Trundle beds with mattresses that hang high, which can restrict headroom and increase the chance of bumped heads.

You should also think about whether you prefer ladders or stairs to reach the top bunk. Stairs are easier to climb and safer, however they can take up more space on the floor than a ladder. Ladders might be less bulky, but they are also more affordable. They can be too high for younger children.

On the product page you’ll find the weight capacity of every top bunk mattress. This information is usually listed near the dimensions of the mattress. A higher capacity for weight indicates that the bunk was designed for older children or adults who may require a larger mattress.

A versatile bunk bed option, the Shyann bunk bed from Room & Board offers three finishes to complement your kids bedroom decor. White snow brings a vibrant coastal style to a classic kids’ room, while brushed gray or rich walnut add warmth and sophistication to a rustic or farmhouse design.

Safety

When you are buying a bunk bed, you should look beyond the price and make sure that it has all the safety features that are required. A reliable seller will provide the capacity of the bed and provide a description of the structure’s durability and strength which is crucial for families who plan on reusing the beds when their children get older.

A good rule of practice is to leave at least 33-36 inches between the mattress’s top and the ceiling, says Rebecca Simon, a designer with Maison Ellie Interiors for Kids. “If you don’t have enough room to accommodate that much space, you may want to consider an incredibly low-height bunk,” she adds. “That could be a great solution for a small space because it keeps the lower bed off the floor, which can feel cramped as kids become older.”

Another factor to consider is how much space is for ladders or stairs. A bunk with built-in steps will save space, but it could also be more expensive and require a longer assembly. If you’re limited on space, choose a simple ladder that will allow your children to safely climb up to the top of the bunk.

The bunks on this list all feature sturdy construction, and they comply with the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s requirements for guardrails. They also pass anti-tip and lead testing, which can be a great relief for parents who have children sharing rooms. Laura Fenton, the author of The Bunk Beds Store Bed Book, says that the wood and metal Room & Board model “is built like tanks.” These are the identical beds used in hotels so they’re constructed to last for a long time.

For shoppers who want a bunk that will grow with their children This trundle-style model from Bed Bath & Beyond converts into two separate twin beds for teens and tweens. It’s the only bunk bed that isn’t wood bed on this list, and its solid steel frame is light for such a sturdy piece of furniture. It’s available in a wide range of colors and can be customized with other accessories, such as under-bed storage drawers.

Style

Bunk beds come in a variety of sizes and shapes that you can pick one that best fits your family’s space. For example there are traditional twin-overtwin bunks, as well as more specialized designs like twin-over-queen or queen-over-twin beds. Some are made from metal and others are made of wooden and come with side rails for the top bunk. The design of the frame and other features may also differ. You’ll have to think about how much storage space you’ll need and the overall look you prefer.

When you are considering the price, bear in mind that the greater the cost of a bunk bed, the more customizable it will be, Klugh says. This could mean adding extras such as a staircase, or ladder. It could also mean the possibility of adding the trundle bed, which makes it easy for sleepovers or guest accommodations. Some models can be disassembled to become two separate beds. This is a fantastic option for children who will outgrow their bunk beds or if you are planning to move in the near future.

The number of beds you choose will also influence cost and style. You can opt for a simple twin-over-twin bunk bed for maximum floor space. It is also relatively affordable. You can also opt to invest more in bunk beds made of solid wood with a modern, sturdy design that will grow with your kids and possibly accommodate adults in the future.

It’s important that you check the weight capacity of the bunk beds you pick to ensure they can accommodate the number of people you plan to use them for. Some bunk beds are made for children and only support 165 pounds. Others have a higher limit and can be used by adults and children who are growing.

It’s also important to note that a bunk bed could be a major investment and, therefore, an enormous commitment. If you’re not sure whether this kind of bed is suitable for your family, go to a retailer’s showroom or read reviews from customers on their website. This will give you a feel for the quality of the workmanship and the way in which the bunks are built.

Stores

Modern living requires furniture to do more than just serve as a space to sleep, study, and relax. Bunk beds that have built-in storage meet this need, transforming them to multifunctional furniture pieces that are both functional and fashionable. Creative features like multifunctional staircases and integrated drawers provide an easy access to clothes, toys, bed linens and other things that might otherwise crowd the space, allowing them to be neatly tucked away but easily within reach.

Loft beds with large desks can transform the space beneath them into a productive work area. These smart arrangements allow young students or remote workers to balance work as well as play time without sacrificing valuable floor space.

Detachable bunks can be divided into twin-sized beds to accommodate guests at sleepovers or to allow children to mature and then transition to single beds. Bunks with trundle beds that can be removed can be adapted to older adults or children who prefer sleeping on a mattress that is large enough.

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

The color and the material of your bunk bed will determine the overall look of your bunk bed. Wood bunks have a classic timeless appeal that fits well in contemporary, coastal and farmhouse interiors. Steel bunks are a contemporary option that goes well with midcentury and industrial designs.

When shopping for a bunk bed, think about the ceiling height of your house and any windows that are nearby or other architectural features. The smaller, more compact designs are easier to put together. They are ideal for teens or younger children who are ready to get from the toddler or junior bedroom. The taller bunks have a more sophisticated, airier look, and are best for older kids or adults. Some designs have side railings, which provide more space between the beds. This will ensure safety and easy access for everyone.