How to Find the Best Bunk Beds
If you're looking to reduce space, encourage sibling bonding or allow for a sleepover, the right bunk bed can make all the difference. Look for safety features that meet your requirements such as the size of the mattress, height and ladder/stairway placement.
A lot of models offer the option of straight or angled ladders. The former are easier to climb, but require a certain height. The latter are more substantial but are safer and easier to use.
Aesthetics
Having a bunk bed doesn't just provide kids with a thrilling experience, it can also be a stylish addition to your home. Bunk beds are becoming increasingly more sought-after in homes of all sizes as designers and manufacturers embrace their utility while providing an elegant design. Wooden bunk beds are more durable than metal models and their natural finish can be incorporated into a variety of designs for interiors.
Apart from best bunk beds for teenagers , bunk beds can also offer practical benefits for families that live together or have limited space. For instance a triple-bunk design can easily convert into two separate beds and some models have an under-bed trundle that slides out from under the bottom bed for sleepovers in the middle of the night.
A bunk bed can transform your child's bedroom into a forest. This Max & Lily set takes this idea one step further by incorporating a slide that can be detached that will have children soaring down with their friends and sending their favorite animals on the most thrilling ride of their lives.
Other styles, like this set from NE Kids, take a minimalist approach to the design of a bunk bed. Its clean, simple lines and neutral colors make it an excellent option for any room, whether modern or traditional. It's the least expensive choice on our list, and it even comes with the option of a free storage ladder to make it easier.
Some families choose a twin over double bunk bed for their siblings who are sharing in a bedroom and want to make space. This design is smaller than a full over full model and can be set up with dressers and storage pieces to create an integrated bedroom.
A twin-over-full configuration of a bed offers the added benefit of accommodating two full mattresses. This will allow you to utilize it as you require, even if your family expands. It's also the most affordable option on our list. It can be paired with storage drawers to provide an extra level of organization.
Safety
A bunk bed should be as solid as possible and that begins with the materials it's made of. Solid wood is a great option as it's durable and sturdy however it can be costly. Consider metal as a possible alternative. It's less expensive and can be just a sturdy.
Be sure to look for guard rails that are at least 5 inches higher than the mattress, and steps or ladders that are secured to the frame. This prevents them from being ripped away. This creates a risky gap where children could fall or get stuck. Some manufacturers include a safety tread on ladders to prevent falling and causing injury.
Make sure that your bunk bed complies with the British Safety Standard BS/EN7472012+A1 and that it has any age-restrictions that are recommended for the use of the bed. It's also a good idea to carefully read the instructions provided by the manufacturer on assembly, usage, and maintenance.
Children enjoy bunk beds, but they can be dangerous when not properly set up. Many accidents involving bunk beds occur when children climb up the sides of the bunk above, where they can fall or become trapped. To avoid this, allow your child to sleep on the top bunk once they are six years old. Also, make sure the ladder is placed near the end of the bed, so that children cannot climb it.
The ladder must be securely attached to the bed frame, and angled to the point that it is difficult for children to climb up the sides. Parents should show children how to use the ladder safely and also discourage horseplay. Frequently check the ladder and the bed frame for loose connections.
It's also recommended to select a bunk bed that can be separated into two individual beds, which will allow you to make use of the space once your children outgrow the top bunk. The IKEA Mydal bunk bed, for example is a budget-friendly option that doesn't skimp on durability or safety. It can easily be divided into two beds at the time of need.
Mattress
A bunk bed is unfinished without a mattress. You'll see that many manufacturers offer a mattress along with the frame. This is a great option for you and can save money. But, it's better to shop on your own if want to have the best possible sleep experience from your bunk bed. The mattress you pick will make a significant difference in how comfortable and supportive it feels to your child or adult.
When choosing the right bunk bed mattresses, you should consider your budget, desired level of comfort and preferred sleeping position. For instance, while a memory-foam mattress may be ideal for back and side sleepers who prefer a softer mattress, stomach sleepers could prefer a more firm, supportive option. You should also think about the weight capacity of your bunk bed. The presence of too many people could cause the mattress's heaviest parts to sink.
Most bunk bed mattresses come in twin-over-twin or full-over-full sizes and an option that is smaller for the trundle below. Some bunk beds have innerspring, hybrid or all-foam mattresses. All-foam mattresses typically cost between $900 to $1,200 for the size of a queen and include support cores made of high-density polyfoam.
In addition to the durability, it's important to look for a bed mattress that doesn't make squeaks or creaks. This could disrupt your children sleep environment and could even cause them to wake up in the middle of the night. To avoid these issues opt for a memory foam or latex mattress which provides excellent pressure relief and still allows sleepers to reposition themselves easily.
If you want your bunk bed to be a focal point in the room, opt for a bold finish like walnut or gray. You can also keep the bunk bed simple by choosing an elegant white finish that will go well with any colour scheme. Bunk beds that are flat-packed are usually fairly easy to put together and don't require tools, but you'll probably require assistance to lift them into place, especially if they're heavy. Many manufacturers will include instructions and videos on their websites, which will simplify the process.
Stores
Bunk beds that have built-in storage are an excellent way to add more functionality and space to your kids rooms. You can build or buy pre-made drawers that attach to bunk beds and provide additional storage for clothing, bedding, and toys. This is a great option for smaller rooms because it maximizes space and removes the need for storing items on the floor. Many of these drawers come in a variety of colors and finishes that will complement any decor.
You might be able depending on the kind of bed you select to incorporate innovative storage solutions. Some bunk beds come with shelves and cubbies that can be used to store things like art supplies and books. This allows children to keep their possessions neatly organized and accessible without taking too much space. It's also an excellent idea to select bunk beds with hooks on either side that can be used to hang bags or other clothing items.
There are a variety of shelves and drawers you can add to your child's bed if you prefer a traditional style. These units are usually placed under the bunk bed's bottom and provide ample storage space for blankets, clothes and toys. These units are ideal for both girls' and boys bedrooms, since they can easily be customized to suit each individual's preferences.
Other options for bunk beds include pull-out desks that combine storage space and study space. They are perfect for bedrooms with small spaces, since they allow you to make use of the space underneath the top bunk while keeping the lower bed open to sleep. These beds are available in many colors and can be customized with accessories such as trundles to make more storage space.
Installing shelves above your bunk beds is another excellent method of maximizing storage space. These can be used to store toys, books and other items you wish to keep out of sight. You can add baskets on the shelves to keep everything neatly arranged and organised.