Bunk beds are great for rooms for children and come in a broad variety of designs. There are triple bunks or futon bunks for small spaces, as in the traditional twin-over-twin design.
When choosing a bunkbed be sure to consider the weight capacity. Most bunk beds are designed with an upper limit of 400 pounds for each mattress. However there are some options with heavier weight limits for older children and teenagers.1. Amazon
Bunk beds are an excellent option for parents looking to make space in a small bedroom or children who want to add a fun touch to their room. There are many options to choose from, from twin-over-twin to full-over-full designs. Some bunk beds have slides. You could consider a twin over twin that has guard rails if your children are under six years old, or a toddler bunk beds.
In addition to choosing the best bunk bed design, you'll also be thinking about whether you need storage space or should you have concerns regarding safety or durability. "The most important thing to look for in bunk beds is durability," says Nikki Njeri Klugh who is the chief designer and founder of Nikki Klugh Design Group Inc. The structure must be constructed from wood or metal and should be sturdy enough to hold a full-size mattress, she says.
If you are considering a bunk bed, it's also important to consider the size of your room and how tall you want the upper bed to be. For instance, if you have low ceilings, search for a loft bed that is positioned closer to the floor, or choose one with stairs instead of a ladder. Dr. Mehrin Ahmed, a pediatric emergency doctor at Weill Cornell Medicine/New York-Presbyterian recommends that the top bunk is fitted with side rails so that the person sleeping there won't fall.
If you're searching for a budget-friendly bunk bed, consider this option from IKEA It comes with an easy frame and a ladder that mounts on either side of the bed. It also meets CPSC and safety standards of the industry. You can upgrade to a bigger model at a higher cost that sleeps two people and includes built-in under-bed storage drawers.
2. Target
Bunk beds and lofts are great space savers for children's rooms and make the room more fun. Target offers a range of designs, finishes, and configurations. Look for options with shelving, storage or other options besides sleeping quarters. You can also find options that can accommodate twin trundle beds underneath which is ideal for sleepovers.
Target offers twin-overtwin bunk beds as well as a full-overfull option for rooms that are larger. It is important to take into account the height of your ceiling when choosing the size of your bunk bed. Dr. Colleen K. Kraft, pediatric emergency medicine specialist at Weill Cornell Medicine/New York-Presbyterian, advises that you should ensure that the bunks will fit in the space you have, and that there's enough room to safely climb up and down. If you have a ceiling that is low you might want to choose a model that has ladders specifically designed for this type space.
Another thing to keep in mind when shopping for a loft or bunk bed is the weight limit for the upper bunk. The Daxter bunk beds from Pottery Barn Kids, for example, are designed to support up to 165 pounds of weight per bed, which is less than other brands. The Oeuf Perch bunk bed, on the other hand is constructed from Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) sustainable Baltic birch plywood and eco-friendly medium-density fiberboard and has a weight limit of 250 pounds on the top bunk, which is higher than some other choices.
Bunk and loft beds can be made of wood or steel. Steel beds are more durable, but can be more noisy and more frigid than wood. Certain bunk beds made of wood are GreenGuard Gold certified.
3. Wayfair
Bunk beds are sturdy and versatile. They can be used by adults and children to make the most of space. From twin-over-twin models to full-size lofts that include the lower bed in an L-shaped shape, a myriad of options are available. Some come with additional features, such as storage or a sofa bed underneath (like the Crate & Barrel Babyletto White and Washed Wood Kids Bunk Bed).
While deciding on the kind of bunk bed that's suitable for you might be the most difficult aspect, there are several other aspects to take into consideration. For example, you'll want to determine if there's enough enough space for a full-size bottom bunk, and what type of ladder you'd prefer. You'll need to consider the weight capacity of your beds. Since bunk beds are heavy, you'll want to make sure that the top and the bottom beds can support at least two people.
We asked three experts, including a writer and author of the book on bunk beds to weigh in. They recommended a selection of their favorite frames including budget-friendly twin-overtwin models to more expensive ones that include a slide and even a futon.
Look for bunk beds made of solid materials, like plywood or dried kiln-dried wood. Don't forget the security features, such as guardrails both on the sides of the frame and a sturdy ladder that is non-slip. Also, think about the amount of storage you'd like in your bunk beds, since some feature under-bed trundles that pull out to accommodate extra guests who want to sleep over.
4. Crate & Barrel
Bunk and loft beds are ideal for securing space in tiny rooms and creating enjoyable places to sleep and play. These beds are great for shared bedrooms, cottage/coastal decor, rustic log cabins, farmhouse and log Barnwood styles. Find wooden loft and bunk beds in a variety of sizes, including twin-over-twin and full-over-full models. Some bunk beds come with storage options, such as under-bed drawers or a trundle that can roll out. A lot of them include a ladder or staircase that must be strong and durable enough to withstand the weight of the children who climb it.
Some kids' bunk and loft bed options include desks that allow kids to do their homework or participate in other activities. Some bunk beds and loft beds come with built-in wardrobes that can be used for clothing storage. Many bunk and loft beds for kids come with a range of vibrant paint finishes, so parents can choose the one that best suits their kids' rooms. Bunk and loft beds for kids can be customized with a variety of features, such as ladders or stairs as well as storage drawers and an upholstered headboard.
Kids bunk beds and loft beds are great for rooms with high ceilings, but they can be difficult to move around in smaller bedrooms. Choose beds with a minimum ceiling height of eight feet to ensure your child's safety when climbing the frame. Most loft and bunk beds are designed for kids who are 6 years old and older, who can safely follow the correct bedtime rules sleeping on the top floor.
Crate and Barrel's housewares and furniture stores carry loft beds and bunk beds for kids that are a perfect match for modern and traditional home decor. Crate and Barrel stores in New York's Soho and Manhasset offer a wide selection of kid's furniture, decor and toys. Add the crib to the baby's registry if expecting to get free design services and 10% off the crib once it's completed.
5. IKEA
If you're looking for a classic twin-over-twin bunk bed or a more unique one, IKEA offers a variety of options. The Daxter cottage style bunk bed from IKEA is a great choice for families on a tight budget. It features angled ladders, guardrails and plenty of space for storage options, but it's a bit shorter than other options on our list and might not be suitable for children younger than six years old.
Another option that is worth considering is the Mydal Bunk Bed that can be placed in rooms with lower ceilings thanks to its compact design and a short ladder height. It's also cheaper than other models and comes with the most versatility thanks to its removable side panels and drawers. It's only downside is the lack of built-in storage under the bed. There's plenty of space to add your own.
For more traditional bunk beds, Pottery Barn Kids has an excellent selection of twin-over-full designs that are an excellent option for siblings who live together but prefer their own space. These beds are typically equipped with an ordinary ladder or staircase, and rails on the top of the bed to ensure safety. They are available in a variety of designs that can be matched to any decor.
If you're looking to save space and give your kids an area to be social, you should consider bunk beds that have extra features such as an office or stairs that can be converted into a storage area. Some bunk beds have the option of a trundle which can be removed from underneath the bottom. This lets you sleep three or four people within the same room.
