Bunk Beds Are Cooler Than Ever

If you're designing a shared bedroom for your children, outfitting a dorm or just maximizing your space bunk beds are adaptable and cooler than ever. There are many styles, including twin-overtwin and full over-full models.

Choose the right bunk bed within your budget and the dimensions of your child's room. Some bunk beds can accommodate trundle mattresses in the bottom for sleepovers.

Size

Bunk beds are a common feature of the bedrooms of children, offering both comfort and excitement for kids who want to sleep side by side. They're also a popular option for shared rooms as well as vacation homes. Bunk beds are available in a variety of designs and materials to fit any budget and room size. Our top picks for bunk beds range from basic twin-over-twin models to elaborate designs with ladders or stairs and unique features such as slides.

When we scoured the market to find our top picks we weighed a number of aspects like the overall design and safety as well as the price. We also asked experts--parents and one who literally wrote the book on bunk beds -- to help us find the top alternatives. Find out our top seven picks by going through the article.

Before you purchase bunk beds, it is important to consider the size of the bed. This is especially important when you are considering your ceiling height. Always take measurements to ensure that the bunks you pick fit and that you have at least 5 inches of headroom on the top bunk. We also recommend 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 prefer stairs or ladders to reach the top bunk. Stairs can be more easy to climb and safer, however they may take up more space on the floor than ladders. Ladders may be less bulky, but they are also more cost-effective. They may feel too steep for children.

On the product page on the product page, you'll see the weight capacity of each top bunk mattress. Most manufacturers list this information near the mattress's dimensions. A higher capacity of weight suggests that the mattress is intended for older children or adults who need a larger mattress.

A variety of bunk beds, the Shyann bunk bed from Room & Board offers three finishes to complement your kids room decor. White and snowy give a bright coastal look to classic bedrooms for kids bunk bed while brushed grey and rich walnut give an authentic farmhouse or rustic look.

Safety

When purchasing a bunk bed, you should look beyond the cost and ensure that it is equipped with all the safety features that are required. A trustworthy seller will outline the capacity for weight and give an explanation of the structure's durability and strength, which is especially helpful for families who plan on reusing the beds as their children get older.

A good rule of the thumb is to leave at least 33 to 36 inches between the mattress's top and the ceiling, according to Rebecca Simon, a designer with Maison Ellie Interiors for Kids. "If you don't have room for that amount of space, you may prefer an incredibly low-height bunk," she adds. "That's ideal for a small room, because it keeps the lower bunk off the floor. It can be uncomfortable as kids become older."

Another thing to consider is the amount of space you have for stairs or ladders. While a bunk with built-in stairs can save space, it can be more expensive and take more assembly time. If you're short on space, go for a simple ladder to allow your children to safely climb to the top of the bunk.

The bunks in this list all feature sturdy construction, and they meet the Consumer Product Safety Commission's requirements for guardrails. They also pass the anti-tip and lead test, which can be a big relief for parents who have children sharing rooms. For instance, the metal-and-wood Room & Board model is "built like tank," says Laura Fenton who is the author of The Bunk Bed uk Bed Book: with 115 Bunks Lofts, Lofts, and Cozy Nooks. These are the same beds that hotels use and are therefore constructed to last for a long time.

This trundle design from Bed Bath & Beyond is perfect for shoppers who are looking for an affordable bunk bed that can expand with their children. It can be converted into two twin beds with one for tweens and the other for teens. It's the only bunk bed that isn't wood bed on the list, and its solid steel frame is extremely light for such a heavy-duty piece of furniture. It's available in a broad selection of colors, and can be customized with additional accessories, such as under-bed storage drawers.

Style

Bunk beds come in various shapes and sizes and shapes, so you can pick one that is suitable for your family's space. For example there are traditional twin-overtwin bunks, as well as more specialized designs like queen-over-twin or twin-over-queen beds. Some are made of steel while others are made of wood and have side rails for the top bunk. The design of the frame as well as other features also can vary, so you'll want to consider how much storage you need and what general style you prefer.

Klugh advises that when considering the price of a bunkbed it is crucial to remember that the higher price the more customizable the bed will be. This could include additional accessories like an escalator or ladder. It could also mean the possibility of incorporating an additional bed for sleepovers or guests. Some models can be disassembled to create two beds. This is a great option for children who will outgrow their bunk beds or if you're planning to move in the near future.

The number of beds you select will also impact the cost and design. For example, you might select a basic twin over twin bunk bed that makes the most of floor space and is relatively inexpensive. You might also choose to spend a bit more on a solid wood option that has an elegant design that can expand with the kids, and perhaps even accommodate adults later on.

It's important that you check the weight capacity for the bunk beds you choose to ensure they are able to accommodate the number of people you plan to use them for. Some are designed for children only and can only hold up to 165 pounds, while others have a greater weight limit that allow them to accommodate growing kids and even adults.

It is important to remember that a bunkbed is an expensive investment and consequently a major commitment. If you're not sure if this type of bed is right for your family, go to the showroom of a particular retailer or read reviews from customers on their website. This will give a good idea of the quality and workmanship of the bunk beds.

Storage

Furniture should be able to be more than an area to sleep, study and relax. best rated bunk beds beds that have 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 innovative features that allow for easy access to clothing, toys and bedding linens.

Additionally loft beds with large desks transform the space underneath them into a productive work space. These clever layouts let remote workers or young students to manage sleep, work, and play without sacrificing valuable space.

Another option that is useful is detachable bunks that are separated into separate twin beds, perfect for sleeping over guests or allowing children to move to single beds as they become more mature. Bunks with trundle beds that can be removed can be adapted to older children or adults who prefer to sleep on a mattress that is large enough.

Additionally, best bunk bed beds that can accommodate three, four, or more make a wise purchase for families seeking to maximize space in bedrooms with high ceilings. These models can fit well into corners, allowing homeowners to make use of nooks that would otherwise be wasted.

The color and the material of your bunk bed will determine its overall appearance. Wood bunks are timeless and classic. They are a great fit for modern, coastal or farmhouse interiors. Steel bunks are a contemporary alternative that is a good match for midcentury and industrial designs.

Consider the height of your ceilings, any nearby windows and other architectural features when looking for bunk beds. Smaller, smaller designs may be easier to assemble and are suitable for younger teenagers or children who are ready to graduate from the toddler or junior bedroom. While taller bunks provide an elegant, airier look and are better suited for older children or adult sleepers. Some designs also feature side railings that allow for more space between beds, which ensures safety and easy access for all users.