How to Select the Best Bunk Bed
The best bunk beds combine an extremely sturdy structure with a fashionable design. It can be used to accommodate twin- and full-size mattresses, allowing you to maximize the number of people who can sleep in a given room.
Choose bunk beds that have a fixed ladder, not stairs that be a waste of floor space. Some models feature an angled ladder that is easier to climb, but they may not be as safe for older children.
Size
When you are choosing a bunk bed, it is important to think about the size of your room and the size of your ceiling. The bed should be able to fit, but you must also give enough room for your child to climb safely in and out, as well as space for additional bedroom furniture, such as bookcases or decorative objects. If the top of the bed is placed too close to ceiling, it may cause children to fall over when they turn over or stand up. They could also feel claustrophobic. Idealy, there should at least 36 inches between the top of the bed and the ceiling.
Look into a bed that can be divided into two beds if you want a bunk bed that can grow with your children. This is more expensive than a fixed bunk bed, but could save you money over the long term if your kids eventually decide to have separate beds.
For example for instance, the Perch bunk bed from PB Teen is an investment piece that is stylish in both traditional and modern rooms, thanks to its sleek lines and neutral color. There is also an option to add a Trundle beneath the bunk's bottom to accommodate sleepovers.
Check out the affordable bunk beds from brands like RC Willey if you're on a tight budget. They are available in a variety of finishes, and come with ladders and a guardrail. They're simple to put together. Some bunk beds have drawers that slide out from the bottom bunk to provide additional storage. Pick a bed that has been that has been tested to comply with CPSC standards for safety. Also, look for one with a low center of gravity so it doesn't easily tip over.
Style
The style is also a key aspect when selecting the best bunk bed. The most popular types are twin-overtwin. However, you can also find queen-over-queen bunk beds or full-overfull bunk beds for older children who wish to sleep in a larger space. Some designs have staggered beds where the lower bed is bigger than the top. These are ideal for older kids who want more of a sofa-like area at the bottom for them to sit and relax in or to use as an office or study desk.
For a modern, sleek design that is appealing to both boys and girls, try a wooden bunk bed with slatted headboards and footboards. These open panels, like the ones featured on this Ikea option let light stream through the bunks. This helps brighten the space and also provides security and safety. The bunk bed is simple to use due to the ladder that is angled and guardrails.
Loft beds are a different alternative to bunk beds. They are suspended from the ceiling and feature an X-shaped shape, making them ideal for smaller spaces with little storage space or floor space. They require a greater clearance for the upper bunk, so check that your ceilings are high enough before investing in one. Bunks that are set against the wall On contrary, don't require as much clearance and are good for maximizing square footage.
If your kids love reading at night and want to read, you can put the reading light on their bunk beds. You can also include shelves for books. Ms. Keenan often includes these aspects in her designs when she builds bunks that are over windows, which makes the sleeping nook feel more like a homey place to relax. She's also seen them coupled with motorized shades which can be raised or lowered based on the needs and allows you to control the amount of sunlight and warmth in a space while still being able to read or nap.
Safety
Many parents are concerned about the safety of bunk beds however, they're actually more secure than you think. Because they have guardrails both on the sides of the upper sleeping area, bunk beds are less prone to fall than single beds. They also have passed anti-tip and lead tests to ensure they're safe for kids to sleep in. Look at the capacity of a bunk bed to make sure it can accommodate your children's total body weight without sliding. If you have older kids or plan on hosting guests at your home, consider an over-full bunk that is better equipped to support adult bodies.
Selecting a bunk bed built with solid wood is another excellent method to add an extra layer of safety. Solid wood bunks are known to last longer than metal ones, and they typically have stronger supports. Make sure that the foundation of the bed does not have any gaps large enough to entrap children.
When making a bunk bed ensure that you follow the manufacturer's instructions and recommendations. Away from the bunk bed from hanging light fixtures and curtains, which may hinder climbing or exiting the top bunk, is a great way to reduce risk. The bunk beds should be placed in a corner to improve stability.
Make sure to teach your children the basic bunk bed safety rules and monitor them as they climb onto and off. The space around the bunk free of shoes, clothes and backpacks is a good idea as well. The children must also be taught to use the ladder in a safe manner and never hang anything from the bedposts or ladder.
Materials
The best bunk beds will be made from durable materials to endure the abuse of children. Find sturdy ladders and stairs as well as wood frames that are strong enough to hold two people. Many brands also include extra features, such as shelves, drawers or trundle beds that offer more space for sleeping when needed. Spampanato says that this flexibility is beneficial when your children are expected to outgrow bunk beds or into their own bedrooms.
When choosing a bunk bed you'll have to think about the material and color of your existing bedroom furniture, as well as the design and size of the room. You should also examine how the bunk bed fits within the structure of your home and any fixed elements, such as closets or windows. Use blue painter's tap to mark the outline of the bunk bed. Pay attention to the position it will be close to fixed structures and how far away it will be from your ceiling.
These beds might appeal to families who are interested in eco-friendly furnishings. These types of beds are generally more expensive than metal or wood-composite bunk beds.
The cheapest option on our list is a bunk bed that's made from plywood and medium-density fiberboard. The bed is ASTM-certified, sturdy and available in neutral colors that will blend with furniture of all kinds. This bunk bed is also distinguished by its angled ladder, which allows children to climb up and down. It also has sturdy guardrails on the top of the bed and a vast storage area beneath.
Ladder
Whether to go for a bunk bed with stairs or a ladder is a decision that is contingent on the space available to your family and kids' ages. The stairs require more space on the floor and are more costly. They are safer and easier to climb for children. Certain models come with additional safety features, such as side handrails or a locking mechanism.
Ladders are often less expensive than stairs and require less space, but they are difficult for small children to use. Choose ladders with grooved anti-slip steps as well as hand hole cutouts that make climbing easier for toddlers as well as older children. Some bunk bed ladders are angled so that it is easier to climb to the top bunk.
You might want to consider putting a cushioned rug or mat next to the ladder, if you decide to buy a bunkbed that has stairs. This will ensure that children aren't able to accidentally step on it and hurt themselves while climbing up or down. It also helps to prevent them from slipping or sliding which is particularly risky for young children.
Bunk beds with ladders are an ideal solution for families that have little space or have low ceilings. They are easy to build and come in a variety of styles including classic wooden ladders and modern metal options. Some bunk beds come with two ladders. This is useful for families that need to accommodate children who prefer to sleep on the lower bunk. You can even find ladders that are adjustable that let you alter the location of the bunk bed to suit your child's needs as they expand. For instance, if kids want to switch their desks from one side of the room to the other, a flexible ladder for bunk beds can allow them to do it without having to move the bed itself.