How to Find the Best Bunk Beds
A good bunk bed can make an enormous difference, whether you're trying to reduce space, help siblings to bond or host a large number of guests for an evening of sleepover. Look for safety features that are compatible with your needs such as mattress size, height and the location of stairs/ladders.
Many models come with a choice of straight or angled ladders. The ones with straight ladders are easier to climb but require some more height, whereas the latter require more space, but are safer and easier to reach.
Aesthetics
Bunk beds don't just provide kids with a thrilling experience but it can also be a stylish addition to your home. Bunk beds are becoming increasingly popular in homes of all sizes as designers and manufacturers take on the practicality of bunk beds while maintaining an elegant design. Wooden bunk beds tend to be more durable than metal ones and their natural appearance is compatible with a variety of interior styles.
Bunk beds aren't only attractive they can also be an ideal solution for families that share a home or have limited space. For instance triple-bunk beds can be easily converted into two separate beds and some models have an under-bed trundle that slides out from underneath the bottom bed for sleepovers in the middle of the night.
One of the great things about a bunk bed is that it can turn your children's bedroom into a home-grown treehouse. This Max & Lily set takes this idea one step further by incorporating a slide that can be detached that can send the kids soaring down the slope with friends and sending their favorite animals on the most thrilling ride of their lives.
Other designs, like this set from NE Kids, take a minimalist approach to the design of bunk beds. It's simple clean lines, crisp lines and neutral color palette make it an ideal choice for any room regardless of whether the house is modern or more traditional. It's the most affordable choice, and includes a ladder for storage to make it easier.
Some families opt for a twin-over-double bunk bed to accommodate siblings who will be sharing rooms and need to save space in their shared bedroom. This model is smaller than a full-over-full model and can be paired with dressers and storage pieces to create an integrated bedroom.
Another benefit of a twin over full configuration is that it can fit two full mattresses, so you'll be able to use it as your family expands. It's also the most affordable option on our list. You can pair it with storage drawers to provide additional organization.
Safety
A bunk bed should be as solid as possible, and that starts with the materials it's constructed of. Solid wood is a great option as it's durable and sturdy however it can be pricey. For a less expensive alternative, consider metal, which is just as strong and comes in a range of finishes.
Other features worth looking for are guard rails that extend at least five inches higher than the mattress and ladders or stairs that attach securely to the frame so that they won't be pulled away from the bed, leaving a dangerous gap where kids might fall through or get stuck. Some manufacturers also offer an optional safety treads on ladders which can prevent slips or injury.
Finally, make sure your bunk bed complies with the British Safety Standard BS/EN7472012+A1 and that it has any recommended age restrictions for its use. Also, you should carefully go through the directions provided by the manufacturer on assembly, use and maintenance.
Bunk beds are a favorite among youngsters, but they can be dangerous if not set up properly. Many accidents involving bunk beds happen because children climb over the sides of the bunk above and fall or get trapped. To avoid this, allow your child to sleep on the top bunk until they are six years old. Also, ensure that the ladder is set at the end of the bed, so that children cannot climb it.
The ladder should be secured to the bed frame and angled in a way that it is difficult for children to climb up the sides. Parents must teach their children to use the ladder with caution and to avoid horses on the stairs, and check the ladder regularly and bed frame for loose connections.
In the end, it's an ideal idea to choose a bunk bed that can be separated into two individual beds, which will allow you to reuse the space once your children outgrow the top bunk. The IKEA Mydal bunk bed, for instance is a low-cost option that doesn't compromise on durability or safety. It can easily be divided into two beds when the time comes.
Mattress
A bunk bed would be unfinished without an appropriate mattress. You'll find that many manufacturers provide a mattress in addition to the frame. This can be convenient for you and help you save money. If you want the most comfortable sleep experience from your bunk bed, it's best to purchase a mattress on its own. The mattress you select will have a big impact on how comfortable and supportive your child's or adults mattress feels.
Selecting the best bunk bed mattress is a matter of weighing your budget, level of comfort and sleep preferences. For example, while the memory foam mattress is ideal for side and back sleepers who prefer a more softer option, stomach sleepers may prefer a firmer, more supportive mattress. It is also important to take into consideration the weight capacity of your bunk bed. The presence of too many people could cause the mattress's heaviest parts to slide.
Most bunk beds come with mattresses in twin-overtwin, full-overfull or a smaller size for the trundle. Some bunk beds have innerspring, all-foam or hybrid mattresses. All-foam mattresses are typically priced between $900 and $1,200 for a queen-size model. They come with a high-density foam support core.
In addition to being durable, it's important to look for a mattress for your bunk bed that doesn't produce squeaks or creaks. This can disrupt your kids sleeping environment and could even lead to them waking awake throughout the night. To avoid these issues, select a memory foam or latex mattress that provides an excellent pressure relief, while permitting sleepers to move their positions easily.
If you want your bunk bed to be an eye-catching feature in your space, go for a striking finish such as walnut or gray. You can keep the bunk bed minimalist with the classic white finish which will work well with any colour scheme. Bunk beds that are flat-packed can be assembled with no tools. However, you might require assistance if the bed is heavy. Many manufacturers include instructions and videos on their websites to help make the process simpler.
Storage
Bunk beds with built-in storage are an ideal addition to your child's room. You can build or buy pre-made drawers that attach to bunk beds and offer additional storage space for clothes bedding, toys, and bedding. This is a great option for smaller rooms because it maximizes space and eliminates the need to keep items on the floor. Many of these drawers are also available in a variety of colors and finishes to complement any decor.
Depending on the type of bunk bed you choose it is possible to integrate other storage solutions. For instance, some bunk beds feature shelves and cubbies that can be used for storing things like books or art supplies. This allows children to keep their belongings organized and accessible without taking up too much space. It's a good idea to choose bunk beds with hooks on each side. They can be used to hang bags, or other clothing items.
If you're looking for a more traditional bed There are many shelves and drawers units that can be added to the bunk bed your child is sleeping in. These units are typically placed under the bed's lower part and offer plenty of space to store clothes, blankets as well as toys and other items. They are an excellent choice for both girls and boys rooms, since they can be customised to match each individual's style preferences.
Desks with storage that can be pulled out and study space are available as bunk beds. best bunk beds for low ceilings are perfect for bedrooms with limited space as they allow you use the space underneath the top bunk, while leaving the lower bed available to sleep. These beds also come in a wide range of colors and styles. They can also be customized with accessories like trundles to provide more storage space.
Installing shelves above your bunk beds is another excellent method to maximize storage space. These can be used to store books, toys and other things that you wish to keep away from view. You can even add baskets to these shelves to keep your things organized and neatly arranged.