How to Find the Best Bunk Beds
You may want to reduce space, encourage sibling bonding or accommodate a sleepover crowd, the right bunk bed will make all the difference. Consider safety features that are appropriate for your needs. This includes mattress size and ladder position, as well as the height.
A lot of models offer a choice between straight or angled ladders. The former are easier to climb, but they require a certain amount of height. The latter are more substantial but safer and easier to use.
Aesthetics
A bunk bed doesn't just give kids a thrill, it can also be an elegant addition to your home. The bunk beds are becoming more popular in homes all sizes as designers and manufacturers recognize the functionality of bunk beds, while retaining an elegant design. Wooden bunk beds are generally the best option for homeowners due to their tendency to be sturdier than metal beds and their natural wood finish adapts well to a variety of styles.
Aside from their aesthetic bunk beds can offer practical benefits for families who share a home or have a limited space. For instance a triple-bunk design can easily be converted into two separate beds, and some models have an under-bed trundle that slides out from beneath the bed to allow for sleepovers at the drop of a hat.
One of the most appealing aspects about bunk beds is that it can transform your child's bedroom into an in-home treehouse. This set from Max & Lily takes this idea to the next level by incorporating a detachable slide, which will have them zipping down the slide with their friends and taking their favorite animals on the adventure of their life.
Other designs, such as this set from NE Kids, take a minimalist approach to the design of bunk beds. Its simple, clean lines and neutral shades make it an ideal choice for any home, whether modern or traditional. It's our most affordable choice, and includes a ladder for storage for convenience.
A few families choose a twin-over-double bunk bed to accommodate siblings sharing the same room and want to reduce space in their bedroom. This model is smaller than a full-overfull model and it can be paired with dressers and other storage pieces to create a room that is cohesive.
A twin-over-full-bed configuration offers the added benefit of accommodating two full mattresses. This allows you to utilize it as you require, even if your family expands. It's the most cost-effective option on our list, and it can be combined with storage drawers for extra organization.
Safety
A bunk bed should be as sturdy as is possible and that starts with the materials it's made of. Solid wood is a good option as it's durable and sturdy however it's expensive. For a less expensive alternative, think about metal, which can be equally strong and comes in a range of finishes.
Other important things to look for are guard rails that extend at least five inches above the mattress, and ladders or stairs that attach securely to the frame so that they won't be pulled away from the bed, creating an unsafe gap that children could fall through or get stuck. Some manufacturers have a safety tread on ladders to avoid falling and causing injury.
Lastly, ensure that your bunk bed conforms to the British Safety Standard BS/EN7472012+A1 as and any age limitations suggested for the use of it. It is also important to read the instructions from the manufacturer on assembly, use and maintenance.
Bunk beds are very popular with youngsters, but they can be dangerous if they are not set up properly. Many accidents involving bunk beds occur because kids climb over the sides of the upper bunk, where they can fall or become trapped. To prevent this, you should only let children sleep on the top bunk when they are at least six years old and ensure that the ladder is set on the bottom of the bunk so kids can't reach over it.
The ladder should be secured to the bed frame and angled so that it is difficult for children to climb up the sides. Parents should instruct their children to use the ladder with caution and avoid horseplay on the stairs and regularly inspect the ladder and bed frame for loose connections.
It's also a good idea when you can, to choose a bed that can be divided into two beds. This will allow you to reuse the space after 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 and can easily be divided into two single beds when the time comes.
Mattress
A bunk bed would be insufficient without an appropriate mattress. You'll see that many manufacturers offer a mattress along with the frame. This can be convenient for you and save money. However, it's best to shop on your own if want to have the best possible sleep experience from your bunk bed. The mattress you choose will have a significant impact on how comfortable and supportive your child's or adults mattress feels.
When choosing best bunk bed ever be sure to consider your budget, the desired degree of comfort, and your preferred sleeping position. For example, while an memory foam mattress could be ideal for back and side sleepers who prefer a more softer mattress, stomach sleepers could prefer a firmer, more supportive mattress. You should also consider the weight capacity for your bunk bed. Too many people can cause the mattress's most hefty parts to slide.
Most bunk beds come with mattresses in full-overfull, twin-overtwin and a smaller size for the trundle. Some bunk beds have hybrid, all-foam or innerspring mattresses. All-foam models typically cost about $900 to $1,200 for the size of a queen and include an inner support core comprised of high-density polyfoam.
It is also essential to select the mattress for your bunk bed that is durable and doesn't rattle or squeak. This can disrupt your kids sleep environment and could cause them to wake awake throughout the night. To avoid these issues choose a memory foam or latex mattress that offers an excellent pressure relief but allows sleepers to reposition themselves easily.
If you want your bunk bed to be a focal point of the room, opt for an eye-catching finish such as walnut or gray. The classic white finish will go with any color scheme. Bunk beds that are flat-packed can be assembled without any tools. However, you may require assistance if the bed is heavy. A lot of manufacturers have videos and instructions on their websites to help make the process simpler.
Storage
Bunk beds with built-in storage could be an excellent addition to the room of your child. You can buy or build drawers that attach easily to bunk beds, giving additional storage for bedding, clothes and other toys. This option is perfect for smaller rooms as it maximizes space and eliminates the need to store items on floors. A lot of these drawers are available in a range of colors and finishes that will complement any style.
It is possible, depending on the type you pick, to incorporate creative storage solutions. Some bunk beds have shelves and cubbies that can be used to store items like art supplies and books. This lets children keep their belongings organized and accessible without taking up too much room. It's also recommended to pick bunk beds that have hooks on either side which can be used for hanging bags or other clothing items.
If you're seeking a more traditional bed, there are also plenty of drawers and shelving units that can be added to your child's bunk bed. They are usually placed under the bed's lower part and offer plenty of space to store blankets, clothes, toys, and other items. They are a great choice for both boys and girls rooms as they can be customized to meet the needs of each person's personal style preferences.
Desks that fold out with storage and study space are available as bunk beds. They are ideal for smaller bedrooms since they let you make use of the space under the top bunk while leaving the lower bed to sleep. These beds also come in a wide range of colors and can be customized with accessories such as trundles for more storage space.
Installing shelves above your bunk beds is another fantastic method of maximizing storage space. You can use them to store toys, books, and other items you want to hide. You can also add baskets to the shelves to keep everything neatly placed and organised.