How to Select the Best Bunk Bed
The ideal bunk bed is one that blends sturdy construction and stylish design. It can accommodate standard twin and full-sized mattresses, which help to maximize the number of sleepers the room can accommodate.
Find a bunk bed that has a fixed ladder, instead of stairs that be a waste of floor space. Some models come with angled ladders that are easier to climb, but they aren't as secure for older kids.
Size
It is important to take into account the size of the room and the height. The bed should fit, but also allow room for children to climb safely in and out, as well as space for other bedroom furniture, such as bookcases or decorative objects. If the top bed is set too close to the ceiling, it could cause children to fall on their heads when they roll over or stand up. They could also feel secluded. Ideally, there should be at a minimum of 36 inches between the top of the bed and the ceiling.
Look into best metal bunk beds that can be separated into two separate beds if you're looking for an option for a bunk bed that grows with your children. This option is more expensive than a fixed bunk bed, but can save you money over the long term in the event that your children decide to have separate beds.
For instance, the Perch bunk bed from PB Teen is an investment piece that looks stylish in both traditional and modern rooms, thanks to its clean lines and neutral finishes. It also has an optional trundle below the bunk's bottom to accommodate sleepovers.
If you're on a budget look into the range of affordable bunk beds from brands like RC Willey. They are available in various designs and come with guardrails and a ladder, making them simple to assemble. Some come with slide-out drawers under the bunk to provide additional storage. For your safety, pick the bunk bed that has been tested to meet CPSC requirements. Choose a bunk bed with a low centre of gravity so that it will not tip over.
Style
The style is also a key factor in picking the best bunk bed's design. Most common are twin-over-twin designs however, there are options with full-over-full beds and queen-over-queen bunk beds for older children and adults who want more room to stretch out while they sleep. There are also staggered configurations with the bed lower longer than the top. These are ideal for older kids who want more of a sofa-like space on the bottom that they can sit and relax in or to use as a desk for work or study desk.
Choose a wooden bed with the headboard and footboards slatted to give modern and sleek design that appeals to both boys as well as girls. The open panels in this design from Ikea, for example let light flow across the bunks, enhancing the room while providing safety and security. The bunk bed is easy to use thanks to the ladder that is angled and guardrails.
Loft beds are another alternative for bunk beds. They are suspended from the ceiling and have a T shape which makes them perfect for smaller spaces with small floor space or storage space. They require a larger clearance for the upper bunk, so be sure your ceilings are tall enough prior to purchasing one. Bunks facing the wall won't require much space and can increase the area.
If your children enjoy reading at night, you can add a reading light to their bunk beds. You can also add a shelf for books. Ms. Keenan often includes these elements in her projects when she builds bunks that are over windows, which helps the sleeping space feel more like a homey place to relax. She's seen them paired up with motorized shades, which can be raised and lowered to suit the needs of a room. This allows for easy control of the warmth and amount in a space while still permitting you to read or nap.
Safety
Many parents are worried about the safety of bunk beds However, bunk beds are actually safer than one would think. Because they have guardrails both on the sides of the sleeping area above, bunk beds are less prone to fall than single beds. They've also been tested for safety and anti-tip to ensure that they are safe for children to sleep in. When you're looking for bunk beds take a look at the capacity for weight to ensure it is able to support the weight of your children without sagging. If you plan to host guests or have children who are older the full-overfull bunk is a better choice. It can support adult bodies.
Selecting a bunk bed made of solid wood is another great method to add an extra layer of safety. Solid wood bunks are known to be more durable than metal ones, and they typically have stronger supports. You should also check that the area beneath the bunk bed does not have gaps large enough for the child to be trapped.
When making a bunk bed always follow the manufacturer's instructions and recommendations. To minimize the risk of injury, keep the bunk bed away form curtains and light fixtures that could interfere with climbing up or down the top bunk. Also, make sure to place the beds in the corner whenever it is possible to ensure stability.
Be sure to teach your children the basic bunk bed safety rules and supervise them when they climb onto and off. It is recommended to keep the space around the bunk bed clear of backpacks, clothes and shoes. Kids should also be taught how to use the ladder safely and not hang anything on the bedposts or ladder.
Materials
The best bunk beds will be made of sturdy materials that can be able to withstand the demands of children. Choose wooden frames that can safely hold two sleepers and sturdy ladders and stairs. A lot of brands also have additional features, like shelves, drawers, or trundle beds that offer more sleeping space when needed. Spampanato states that this flexibility is useful for families with children who are likely to outgrow bunk beds or move into their own bedrooms.
It is also important to take into account the style and height of your room when selecting a bunkbed. It is also important to examine how the bunk bed will fit into your home's architecture and any fixed features like closets or windows. A good tip is to apply blue painter's adhesive to trace the silhouette of the bunk bed in your bedroom, and be aware of the way it is situated in relation to fixed structures and how far it is from the ceiling.
These beds could appeal to families who are interested in eco-friendly furnishings. These types of beds are generally more expensive than metal or wood-composite bunk beds.
The most affordable option on our list is a bunk bed that's made from plywood and medium-density fiberboard. The bed is ASTM-certified, durable and available in neutral colors that will blend with furniture of all kinds. Another feature that sets this bunk bed apart is its angled ladder, which makes it easier for kids to climb up and down. It also has sturdy guardrails on the top bunk, as well as an ample storage area beneath.
Ladder
The decision of whether to pick bunk beds with stairs or a ladder is contingent on the space in your home as well as the ages of your children. Stairs take up more floor space and are more expensive than basic ladder alternatives. However, they're generally more secure and comfortable for children to climb. Some models also come with additional safety features, such as side handrails and an locking mechanism.
Ladders can be more affordable than stairs and take up less space However, they can be difficult for small children to use. Look for ladders with hand holes and grooves that are anti-slip. These features help climbers with older children and toddlers. Some bunk bed ladders can also be angled to create an easy climb up to the top bunk.
If you opt for a bunk bed that has stairs, think about adding carpet or a rug with padding on the side of the ladder. This will keep children from crashing into the ladder and getting hurt when climbing up or down. This will also stop them from slipping and sliding, which can be dangerous for young kids.
Bunk beds with ladders are an ideal solution for families that have limited space or low ceilings. They're easy to build and come in a variety of styles, from classic wooden ladders to contemporary metal alternatives. Some bunk beds even have two separate ladders, which is ideal for families that need to accommodate a child who prefers to sleep on the lower bunk. There are ladders that are adjustable that allow you to alter the position of the bunk bed to meet your child's needs as they grow. For instance, if children want to move their desks from one side of the room to the other, a movable ladder for bunk beds will allow them to do so without removing the bed itself.