Bunk Beds Are Cooler Than Ever

Whether you're designing a shared children's bedroom or putting together a dorm room, or just maximizing your space bunk beds are a great choice and cooler than ever. There are a range of styles, including twin-overtwin and full over-full versions.

Find one that is in line with your budget and your children size, and keep in mind that some bunks can be able to accommodate beds that trundle down for sleepovers.

Size

Bunk beds have been a staple of children's bedrooms for a number of years. They offer both effectiveness and excitement to kids who love to sleep together. They are also a common option for shared rooms as well as vacation homes. Bunk beds are available in a variety of styles and materials that can be adapted to any budget and room size. Our selection of bunk beds ranges from basic twin over twin constructions to more elaborate models that include ladders or stairs, and also unique features such as slides.

We considered a variety of factors as we scoured the market for 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 help us source the best kids bunk beds alternatives. Find out our top seven picks by continuing reading.

The size of the bunk beds is an important consideration prior to buying a bed, particularly when it comes to the height of your ceiling. Always check your space to make sure the bunks you select fit and that you have at least 5 inches of headroom on the top bunk. We also suggest not using Trundle beds with mattresses that hang high that can limit headroom and increase the chance of head bumps.

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, but they will take up more space on the floor than ladders. Ladders may be less bulky, but they are also more affordable. They can feel too steep for children.

You should also pay attention to the capacity for weight of the top bunk mattress which is available on the product's page. This information is usually listed next to the dimensions of the mattress. A higher weight capacity typically indicates the bunk bed online is suitable for older kids or adults who require a bigger mattress.

The Shyann Bunk Bed from Room & Board is a flexible option for bunk beds. It comes in three different finishes that complement the design of your child's bedroom. The white of the snow adds a luminous, coastal look to a classic kids' room, while brushed gray or rich walnut add warmth and sophistication to a rustic or farmhouse style.

Safety

When purchasing bunk beds, you should look beyond the price and make sure that it is equipped with all the safety features that are required. A reliable seller will list the capacity for weight and also explains the structure's durability and strength. This is particularly helpful for families who intend to use the beds again as the children get older.

Rebecca Simon, a designer at Maison Ellie Interiors for Kids recommends leaving 33-36 inches between the top of the mattress and the ceiling. If you don't wish to sacrifice this much space, you may prefer a bunk bed with a low-height. "That could be a great solution for a small space because it keeps the bed from the floor, and can be uncomfortable as children become older."

Another factor to consider is how much room there is for ladders or stairs. A bunk with built-in steps could save space, but they can also be more expensive and require longer assembly. If you're short on space, opt for a simple ladder that will still allow your kids to safely climb to the top bunk for adults.

All bunks in this list are made of sturdy materials and meet Consumer Product Safety Commission requirements for guardrails. They also pass the anti-tip and lead test which could be a huge relief for parents with kids sharing rooms. Laura Fenton, the author of The Bunk Bed Book, says that the wood and metal Room & Board model "is built like tanks." "These are beds used in hotels, so they're built to last."

This trundle style from Bed Bath & Beyond is ideal for those looking for a bunk bed that will expand with their children. It can be converted into two twin beds, one for tweens, and the other for teens. It's the only bunk bed that isn't wood bed on this list, and its sturdy steel frame is extremely light for such a sturdy piece of furniture. It is available in a variety of colors, and can be personalized with accessories such as under-bed drawers.

Style

Bunk beds come in a variety of sizes and designs, so you are sure to choose one that best suits your family's requirements. There are numerous configurations, like the traditional twin-over twin bunks or specialized beds like twin-over queen or queen-over twin. Some are made from metal and others are made of wood and include side rails for the top bunk. The design of the frame and other features also can vary and you'll need to consider how much storage you need and what general style you prefer.

Klugh recommends that when evaluating the cost of a bunkbed it is essential to remember that the higher price point, the more customizable the bed will be. This may mean additional accessories such as an escalator or ladder. It could also mean the possibility of adding an extra bed for guests or sleepovers. Certain models can be dismantled 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 that you choose will also affect the cost 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 bed that has a contemporary, robust design that will grow with your kids and possibly accommodate adults in the near future.

It is important to check the weight capacity for the bunk beds you pick to ensure they can accommodate the number of people you intend to use them for. Some bunk beds are made for children and only support the weight of 165 pounds. Others have higher limits and can be used by growing children and adults.

It's also important to note that a bunk bed could be a significant investment, and therefore a significant commitment. If you're not sure whether this kind of 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 for the quality of the craftsmanship and how well the bunks are made.

Storage

Furniture should be able serve more than just as an area to study, sleep or relax. Bunk beds that have built-in storage meet this need, transforming them to multifunctional pieces that are both functional and fashionable. Creative features like multifunctional staircases and integrated drawers offer convenient access to clothing bedding, toys, bed linens, and other items that would otherwise clutter the room, keeping them in order and within reach.

Likewise loft beds that have large desks transform the space underneath them into productive workspaces. These clever configurations let remote workers or young students to balance sleep, work and play without losing the space they need.

Another option to consider is detachable bunks that are separated into separate twin-size beds, ideal for sleeping over guests or allowing children to move to single beds as they develop. Bunks with a removable trundle bed can be adapted to older children and adults who prefer a large bed.

Finally, larger bunks that accommodate three or four people are a smart investment for families who want to maximize space in bedrooms with high ceilings. These models can be tucked away in awkward corners, allowing owners to make the most of space that could otherwise be wasted.

The color and the material of your Bunk Beds Best bed will determine the overall look of your bunk bed. Wood bunks are timeless and classic. They fit well in modern, coastal or farmhouse interiors. Steel bunks are a modern option that goes well with midcentury and industrial designs.

Take into consideration the ceiling's height and windows in the vicinity, as well as other architectural features when looking for bunk beds. Smaller, smaller designs are more straightforward to put together and are suitable for younger teens or children who are ready to move from the junior or toddler bedroom. The taller bunks have a more elegant, airy appearance, and are best suited to older children or adults. Some designs also have side railings that permit a higher clearance between beds, which ensures safety and easy access for all users.