Bunk Beds Are Cooler Than Ever

If you're planning a shared bedroom for your children or putting together a dorm room, or simply looking to maximize your space, bunk beds are versatile and cooler than ever. There are a variety of styles to consider, including twin-over-twin and full-over-full versions.

Pick a bunk bed that fits within your budget and the dimensions of the room your child will be sharing. Some buy bunk beds beds can accommodate trundle mattresses at the bottom for sleepovers.

Size

Bunk beds are a staple of bedrooms for children, providing both comfort and excitement for kids who want to sleep side-by-side. They are also popular in shared rooms and vacation homes. Bunk beds are available in a variety of styles and materials, with options to suit every budget and space. Our bunk bed picks range from basic twin over twin designs to more elaborate designs with ladders or stairs, and also unique features such as slides.

As we searched the market to select our top choices we looked at a variety of factors, including overall design and safety, and also the value. We also asked parents and a person who wrote the book about buy bunk beds beds to help us identify the best childrens bunk beds options. Find out more about our seven top picks.

The size of bunk beds is an important consideration before making a purchase, especially in relation to the ceiling's height. Take measurements of your space prior to purchasing bunk beds to ensure they fit. The top bunk should have at 5 inches of headroom. We also suggest not using trundle beds with high-hanging mattresses that can limit headroom and increase the risk of bumped heads.

It is also important to consider whether you would prefer ladders or stairs to reach the top bunk. Stairs are typically more secure and safer to climb, but they can take up more floor space than a ladder. Ladders may be less bulky, but they are also more affordable. They can be too steep to younger children.

On the product page you'll find the weight capacity of each top bunk mattress. This information is typically displayed near the dimensions of the mattress. A higher capacity for weight typically indicates the bunk is suitable for older kids or adults, who might require a larger mattress.

A versatile bunk bed option, the Shyann bunk bed from Room & Board offers three finishes to complement your kids room decor. White snow brings a vibrant coastal look to a classic children's room and brushed gray or rich walnut add a touch of warmth and elegance to a farmhouse or rustic style.

Safety

When shopping for a bunk bed, it is important to look beyond the price and ensure that it comes with all the safety features you need. A reputable seller lists the weight capacity and also explains the structure's durability and strength. This is particularly helpful for families who plan to re-use the beds as the children get older.

A good rule of the thumb is to leave at least 33-36 inches between the top mattress and the ceiling, says Rebecca Simon, a designer with Maison Ellie Interiors for Kids. If you don't want to sacrifice the space, you might prefer a low height bunk bed. "That's an excellent option for a small space as it keeps the lower bunk off the floor. It can be uncomfortable for kids as they get older."

Another consideration is deciding the amount of space you have available for stairs or ladders. While a bunk with stairs built in can save space, it could also be costly and require more assembly time. If you're short of space, consider a simple ladder that allows your children to climb safely to the top of the bunk.

The bunks on this list have solid construction and are in compliance with the Consumer Product Safety Commission's requirements for guardrails. They also have passed anti-tip and lead tests, which could be a huge relief for parents with kids sharing rooms. For example, the metal-and-wood Room & Board model is "built like tank," says Laura Fenton who is the author of The Bunk Bed Book: The Bunk Bed Book: 115 Bunks, Lofts, and Cozy Nooks. These are the same beds that hotels employ so they're built to last.

This trundle design from Bed Bath & Beyond is ideal for those looking for a bunk bed that will grow along with their children. It can be transformed into two twin beds one for tweens and the other for teens. It's the only bunk bed that isn't wood bed on this list, and its sturdy steel frame is light for such a sturdy piece of furniture. It's available in an extensive variety of colors and can be customized with other accessories, such as under-bed storage drawers.

Style

Bunk beds come in various shapes and sizes that you can pick one that suits your family's space. For example, there are traditional twin-over-twin bunks as well as specialized configurations such as twin-over-queen or queen-over-twin beds. Some are made of metal and others are made of wooden and come with side rails for the top bunk. The design of the frame and other features also can vary so you'll need to consider the amount of storage you'll need and the style you like the most.

When considering price, keep in mind that the higher the price point of a bunk bed, the more customizable it will be, Klugh says. This could include adding additional features such as a staircase or ladder. It could also mean the possibility of adding an extra bed for sleepovers or guests. Some models can even be disassembled to function as two separate beds--a convenient option if you think your kids will outgrow the bunk beds or you are planning to move to a new home in the future.

The amount of beds you pick will also influence cost and design. For instance, you could choose a basic twin over twin bunk bed that makes the most of floor space and is relatively inexpensive. You can also opt to invest more money in a solid-wood bunk bed with a contemporary, robust design that can grow with your kids and possibly accommodate adult sleepers in the future.

No matter what size or style you pick it is important to verify the capacity to bear weight of the bunk beds best childrens bunk beds to make sure they can support the number of sleepers you'll be using them for. Some bunk beds are intended for children and only support 165 pounds. Others have a higher limit and can be used by growing children and adults.

Finally, it's worth noting that a bunk bed could be a significant investment, and therefore an enormous commitment. If you are unsure whether a bunk bed will work for your family, visit the showroom of a retailer or read reviews from customers on their website. This will give you an idea of the craftsmanship and quality of the bunk beds.

Storage

Furniture should be able be more than a place to study, sleep and relax. Bunk beds that feature built-in storage options can meet this need, turning them into multi-purpose pieces that exemplify both function and design. Multifunctional staircases and storage drawers that are integrated are creative features that provide easy access to clothes, toys and bed linens.

Additionally loft beds with spacious desks turn the space below them into a productive work space. These clever configurations permit remote workers or students to manage sleep, work and play without losing the space they need.

Detachable bunks can be divided into twin-size beds to accommodate guests for sleepovers or to let children grow older and move to single beds. Bunks with removable trundle beds can be adapted to older children or adults who prefer sleeping on a full-size mattress.

Additionally, bunk beds that can sleep three or four people make a wise investment for families who want to maximize space in small bedrooms with high ceilings. These models can even fit well into corners, allowing owners to make use of awkward spaces that might otherwise be wasted.

The type of material and the color your bunk bed is made from will affect its overall look and feel. Wood bunks are timeless and classic. They work well with modern and coastal interiors as well as farmhouse. Steel bunks are on the other hand, are a more modern option that works well with midcentury and industrial styles.

When shopping for a bunk bed, consider the ceiling height of your home and any nearby windows or other architectural features. Smaller, smaller designs are simpler to put together. They are perfect for teens or younger children who are ready to step from the bedroom for toddlers or juniors. Meanwhile, taller bunks offer an airier, more sophisticated design and are ideal for older children or adult sleepers. Some designs also have side railings, which allow for an increased space between beds, providing security and easy access for everyone.