How to Find the Best Bunk Beds
The best bunk bed can make an enormous difference, whether you're looking to make space, encourage siblings to bond or accommodate a large group of people for a sleepover. Look for safety features that are compatible with your needs in terms of the size of the mattress, height and the location of stairs/ladders.
Many models come with a choice between straight or inclined ladders. The former are simpler to climb, but require a certain amount of height. The latter are more substantial but are safer and easier to use.
Aesthetics
Bunk beds are not only for kids. They can be stylish and attractive to your home. Bunk beds have become increasingly popular in homes all sizes as designers and manufacturers embrace the functionality of bunk beds, while retaining modern aesthetics. Wooden bunk beds are more durable than steel models and their natural look is compatible with many designs for interiors.
Apart from their aesthetics bunk beds also provide practical benefits for families that live together or have a limited space. For example triple-bunk beds are easily transformed into two separate beds. Some designs also have hidden trundles that slide out from beneath the bunk on the bottom for short sleepovers.
One of the best things about bunk beds is that it transforms your children's bedroom into a treehouse in your home. This set from Max & Lily takes this idea to the next level by incorporating the ability to detach a slide, which will see them cruising down it with friends and taking their favorite animals on the adventure of their life.
Other designs, like this set from NE Kids, take a minimalist approach to the design of bunk beds. Its clean, simple lines and neutral colors make it an excellent fit for any home, whether modern or traditional. It's the cheapest option on our list and comes with a free storage ladder to make it easier.
Some families opt for a twin over double bunk bed for siblings who are sharing a bedroom and need to reduce space. This design is more compact than a full-over-full design, and it can be paired with dressers and other furniture pieces to create a cohesive bedroom.
A twin-over-full bed configuration offers the added benefit of accommodating two full mattresses. This will allow you to use it whenever you need, even if your family grows. It's the most affordable option on our list, and it can be paired with storage drawers to provide additional organization.
Safety
A bunk bed should be as strong as is possible, and that starts with the materials it's made of. Solid wood is a durable and strong option, however it can be expensive. For a less expensive alternative, think about metal, which is as durable and comes in a range of finishes.
Other important features to look for are guard rails that extend at least five inches above the mattress, and stairs or ladders that attach firmly to the frame to ensure they don't pull away from the bed, creating an unsafe gap through which children may fall through or become stuck. Some manufacturers also offer an optional safety treads on ladders which can prevent slips or getting injured.
Finally, make sure that your bed conforms to the British Safety Standard BS/EN7472012+A1 as and any age limitations recommended for its use. It is also a good idea to carefully read the manufacturer's instructions regarding assembly, use and maintenance.
Bunk beds are a favorite among children, but they can also be dangerous if they are not set up properly. Many accidents involving bunk beds occur when children climb over the side of the bunk above and fall over, or get trapped. To avoid this, only let your child sleep on the top bunk when they reach the age of six. Also, ensure that the ladder is located at the bottom of the bed, so that kids cannot reach it.
The ladder must be securely attached to the bed frame, and angled so that it is difficult for children climb up the sides. Parents should instruct children on how to use the ladder correctly, discourage horseplay and regularly inspect the ladder and bed frame for loose connections.
It's also a good idea, should you be able to, pick a bed that is able to be divided into two beds. This will allow you to use the space once your children are no longer in the top bunk. The IKEA Mydal bunk bed, for example is a budget-friendly alternative that doesn't sacrifice durability or safety. It can be easily split into two single beds when the time comes.
Mattress
A bunk bed isn't complete without an appropriate mattress. It is common to see a manufacturer's sales strategy includes the mattress as well as the frame which can be helpful and can save you money. But, it's better to shop on your own if want to get the most comfortable sleep possible from your bunk bed. The mattress you select will have a significant impact on how comfortable and comfortable your child's or adult's bed feels.
When choosing the best bunk bed mattress take into consideration your budget, desired level of comfort and preferred sleep position. For best budget bunk beds made of memory foam can be great for those who sleep on their sides and back however stomach sleepers may prefer a firmer option with better pressure relief. It is also important to think about the capacity of your bunk bed as too many sleepers could cause the mattress to sag under its largest areas.
Most bunk bed mattresses come in twin-over-twin and full-over-full sizes as well as an option that is smaller for the trundle below. Some bunk beds come with innerspring, hybrid or all-foam mattresses. All-foam mattresses typically cost between $900 and $1,200 for a queen-sized model. They have an extremely dense foam support core.
It is also essential to select a mattress for your bunk bed that's sturdy and doesn't creak or squeak. This could disrupt your child's sleep and cause them to wake during the night. To avoid this, select a memory-foam or latex mattress which provides great pressure relief, yet allows sleepers to move easily.
If you want your bunk bed to be a focal point of the room, choose a striking finish such as walnut or gray. You can keep the bunk bed minimalist with the classic white finish which is a good match for any design. Bunk beds that come flat-packed are generally easy to put together and don't require tools, but you'll require assistance to lift them into position, particularly in the case of heavy beds. A lot of manufacturers provide instructions and videos on their websites, which can help you with the process.
Stores
Bunk beds that have built-in storage are an excellent way to add more functionality and space to your child's' room. You can buy or build drawers that can be easily attached to bunk beds, providing additional storage space for clothes, bedding, and other toys. This is a great option for smaller spaces, since it maximizes unused space and eliminates the need to store items on the floor. Many of these drawers are available in different colours and finishes to match any decor.
It is possible depending on the style you pick to create unique storage solutions. Some bunk beds have shelves and cubbies which can be used to store things like art supplies and books. This allows kids to keep their belongings neatly arranged and easily accessible without taking up too much space. It is a good idea to select bunk beds with hooks on both sides. They can be used to hang bags, or other clothes items.
If you're looking for a more traditional design There are plenty of drawers and shelving units that can be added to your child's bunk bed. They are usually placed beneath the bed's bottom and provide plenty of space to store clothes, blankets, toys, and other items. These units are ideal for both girls' and boys bedrooms as they are easily customizable to fit the individual's needs.
Desks that fold out with storage and study space are available as bunk beds. They are ideal for smaller bedrooms since they let you make use of the space beneath the top bunk while leaving the lower bed open to sleep. They are available in a variety of colors and can be customized by adding accessories such as trundles to make more storage space.
Installing shelves above your bunk beds is another fantastic method of maximizing storage space. You can use them to store toys, books as well as other items that you would like to keep out of sight. You can even add baskets to these shelves to keep your things organized and neatly arranged.