Bunk Beds Are Cooler Than Ever

Whether you're designing an area for children to share or outfitting a dorm, or just maximizing your space, bunk beds for kids beds are versatile and cooler than ever. There are many styles to think about, including twin-over-twin and full-over-full versions.

Find one that is in line with your budget and your kids room dimensions. Also, keep in mind that certain bunks can accommodate trundle beds on the bottom to accommodate sleepovers.

Size

Bunk beds are a common feature of childhood bedrooms, offering both efficiency and adventure for children who wish to sleep side by side. They are also a common choice for shared rooms and vacation homes. Bunk beds come in a variety of styles and materials, with options that will fit any budget and room size. Our bunk bed picks range from basic twin over twin constructions to more elaborate models that include stairs or ladders and unique features such as slides.

We considered a variety of factors while scouring the market to find our top picks, including overall design, safety, and price. We also enlisted experts--parents and one who literally wrote the book on bunk beds to assist us in locating the best bunk bed alternatives. Find out our top seven picks by continuing reading.

The size of bunk beds is an important factor to consider prior to purchasing a bed, especially when it comes to the height of your ceilings. Always take measurements to ensure that the bunks you select fit and that you have at least 5 inches of headroom on the top bunk. We also suggest avoid trundle beds with high-hanging mattresses which may limit headroom and increase the chance of bumped heads.

Another factor to consider is whether you prefer ladders or stairs to get to the top bunk. Stairs are typically safer and easier to climb, however they can take up more area than ladders. Ladders may be less bulky however they are more affordable. They can feel too steep to younger children.

You'll also want to pay attention to the capacity for the weight of the top bunk mattress which you can find on the page of each product. The majority of manufacturers will list this information in the mattress dimensions. 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 options to match your children' bedroom decor. White snow gives a vibrant coastal look to classic bedrooms for kids and brushed grey or rich walnut create rustic or farmhouse-style appeal.

Safety

When shopping for a bunk bed, it's important to look beyond the price tag and make sure it has all of the safety features that are required. A reliable seller will list the weight capacity, and also explains the structure's durability and strength. This is especially helpful for families that plan to reuse the beds as the children get older.

A good rule of practice is to leave at least 33-36 inches between the top of the mattress and the ceiling, according to Rebecca Simon, a designer with Maison Ellie Interiors for Kids. "If you don't have room for that size of space, you may prefer a low-height bunk," she adds. "That's a great option for a small space, because it keeps the lower bunk off the floor. It can feel cramped when kids grow older."

Another consideration is how much space is for stairs or ladders. While a bunk with stairs built in can save space, it could be more expensive and take more assembly time. If you're limited on space, opt for an easy ladder that allows your children to safely climb up to the top bunk.

The bunks on this list all feature sturdy construction, and they are in compliance with the Consumer Product Safety Commission's requirements for guardrails. These bunks also have passed lead and anti-tip tests and are a welcome comfort for parents with children who share a room. For instance, 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 beds that are used in hotels, and therefore they're built to last."

If you're looking for a bunk that will grow with their kids, this trundle-style design from Bed Bath & Beyond converts into two twin beds that are separate for teens and tweens. It's the only non-wood bunk bed on this list, and its sturdy steel frame is surprisingly lightweight for such a sturdy piece of furniture. It's available in an extensive range of colors and can be customized with other accessories, like under-bed storage drawers.

Style

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

When considering price, keep in mind that the greater the cost of a bunk bed the more customizable it can be, Klugh says. This could include adding additional features such as a staircase, or ladder. This could also be the possibility of incorporating an additional bed for guests or sleepovers. Some models can even be taken apart to function as two separate beds. This is a useful feature to consider if your children will outgrow the bunks or you plan on moving to a different home in the near future.

The number of beds that you choose will also affect the price and design. For example, you might opt for a simple twin over twin bunk bed that maximizes the floor space and is inexpensive. You could also choose to invest more in a solid-wood bunk beds usa bed with a modern, sturdy design that grows with your children and perhaps accommodate adult sleepers in the near future.

Whatever size and style you pick it is important to verify the capacity of the bunk beds to ensure they can accommodate the number of people you'll be using them for. Some bunk beds are only intended for children and only support up to 165 pounds. Others have a higher limit and can be used by adults and children who are growing.

Finally, it's worth noting that a bunk bed could be a significant investment, and therefore an enormous commitment. If you're not sure whether a bunk bed will work for your family, go to a retailer's showroom or read reviews from customers on their website. This will give you a feel about the quality of workmanship and the way in which the bunks are constructed.

Storage

Modern living requires furniture that can be more than merely used as a space to sleep or study. Bunk beds that have built-in storage solutions meet this demand, transforming them into multi-purpose pieces that exemplify both function and fashion. Multifunctional staircases and drawers with storage integrated are innovative features that allow for easy access to clothes, toys and bed linens.

Likewise, loft beds that boast large desks transform the space underneath them into a productive work space. These clever arrangements allow remote workers or young students to balance sleep, work, and play without sacrificing the space.

Another option that is useful is detachable bunks which can be divided into separate twin-sized beds, ideal for sleeping over guests or allowing kids to transition to single beds as they grow. Bunks with trundle beds that can be removed can also accommodate older children or adults who prefer to sleep on a mattress that is large enough.

Additionally, bunks that sleep three or more are a smart investment for families who want to maximize space in small bedrooms with high ceilings. These types of bunks can also fit nicely into corners, allowing homeowners to make use of awkward spaces that might otherwise be wasted.

The type of material and the color your bunk bed is crafted from will influence its overall look and feel. Wood bunks have a classic, timeless style that is well-suited into contemporary, coastal and farmhouse interiors. Steel bunks are, on the other side are a more contemporary choice that pairs beautifully with midcentury and industrial styles.

When shopping for a bunk bed, consider the ceiling height of your house and any windows that are nearby or other architectural features. Smaller, smaller designs may be easier to assemble and are suitable for younger children or teens who are ready to move from the toddler or junior bedroom. Meanwhile, taller bunks offer an elegant, more airy design and are ideal for older children or adults who sleep. Some designs also come with side railings, which allow for an increased space between beds, which ensures safety and easy access for everyone.