How to Select the Best Bunk Bed
The best bunk beds blend solid construction and an elegant design. It can accommodate standard twin and full-sized mattresses, which helps increase the number of people sleeping in can be accommodated in a room.
Choose best childrens bunk beds that have a fixed ladder, rather than stairs that can be a waste of floor space. Some models have angled ladders which are more comfortable to climb, but could not be safe for older children.
Size
When selecting a bunk bed, you need to consider the size of your room and the ceiling's height. You want the bed to be able to fit, but you must also leave room for a child to be able to safely climb inside and out, as well as room for other furniture, such as bookcases or decorative objects. If the top of the bed is too close to the ceiling, children who sleep on it may be struck on the head when they rise or roll over and could feel confined. Ideally you should have 36 inches or more between the top of the mattress and the ceiling.
Look into a bed that can be separated into two beds if you want an option for a bunk bed that grows with your children. This is more expensive than a fixed bunk bed, but can save you money in the long run in the event that your children decide to sleep separately.
For instance, the Perch bunk bed from PB Teen is an investment piece that is stylish in both traditional and modern rooms due to its clean lines and neutral finish. There is also an option to add a Trundle beneath the bottom bunk to accommodate sleepovers.
If you're looking to save money look into the range of affordable bunk beds from brands like RC Willey. These beds are available in various finishes, and include a guardrail and ladder. They're easy to assemble. Some bunk beds feature drawers that slide out of the bottom bunk to offer additional storage. To ensure safety, select the bed that has been tested to meet CPSC regulations. Also, look for one with an extremely low center of gravity to ensure that it won't tip over easily.
Style
Style is also a major factor when it comes to choosing a bunk bed's style. The most popular are twin-over-twin designs but there are options with full-over-full beds and even queen over queen bunk beds for older children or adults who want more room to stretch out and sleep. Some designs feature staggered beds, in which the lower bed is more spacious than the top. These are best for older kids who want more of a sofa-like area at the bottom to relax or make an office or study desk.
Choose a wooden bed with slatted footboards and headboards for modern and sleek design that will please girls and boys. The open panels, such as the ones featured on this Ikea option, let light flow through the bunks. This helps brighten the space and offers security and safety. The angled ladder and guardrails on this bed are another benefit which adds to the convenience.
Loft beds are another alternative to bunk beds. They are suspended from the ceiling and have the shape of a T which makes them perfect for small rooms with limited storage or floor space. These require a higher clearance for the upper bunk, so make sure your ceilings are high enough before you purchase one. Bunks that are set against the wall On the other hand, do not require as much clearance and are great for maximising square footage.
If your kids love reading at night, you can add a reading light to their bunk beds. You can also add shelves for books. Ms. Keenan often includes these aspects in her designs when installing bunks over windows, making make the sleeping area feel like a relaxing space. She's seen them paired up with motorized shades, which can be raised and lowered to meet the requirements of the room. This allows for simple control of the amount and warmth in a space, while giving you the ability to relax or read.
Safety
Many parents are worried about the safety of bunk beds However, bunk beds are actually safer than you think. Because they have guardrails both on the sides of the sleeping area above, bunk beds are less likely to fall than single beds. They also pass lead and anti-tip tests to ensure they're safe for kids to sleep in. Take a look at the capacity of bunk beds to make sure it can support your children's body weight without sagging. If you intend to host guests or have older children then a full-overfull bunk bed is the better option. It can be able to support adult bodies.
Solid wooden bunk beds are a different way to increase security. Solid wood bunks are more durable than steel and typically have thicker slats which offer more support. You should also check that the area beneath the bunk bed has no gaps large enough for the child to be trapped.
Always follow the guidelines and recommendations of the manufacturer when assembling the loft bed. Keeping the bunk bed away from hanging lights and curtains, which could interfere with climbing or exiting the top bunk, is a good way to minimize risk. Also, make sure to place the beds in a corner when possible to add stability.
Make sure to teach your children the basic bunk bed safety rules and monitor them as they climb onto and off. Keeping the area around the bunk free of shoes, clothes and backpacks is a good idea, as well. Kids must also be taught to make use of the ladder in a safe way and not hang anything from the bedposts or ladder.
Materials
The top bunk beds are built from durable materials that will be able to withstand the demands of children's use. Find wooden frames that can safely support two people, as well as sturdy ladders and stairwells. Many brands have additional features like drawers or shelving. Trundle beds are also available. This is a great option when you are planning on your kids growing out of bunk beds or moving into their own rooms, according to Spampanato.
You'll also need to take into account the design and the height of your space when choosing a bunkbed. It is also important to take a closer look at how the bunk bed will fit to the architecture of your home, including any fixed features like closets or windows. Use blue painter's tap to draw the outline of the bunk bed. Be aware of the position it will be next to fixed structures, and how far from your ceiling.
Some bunk beds made of wood are constructed of solid, sustainably sourced wood or are GreenGuard Gold certified, which might appeal to families who prioritize eco-friendly furnishings. However, these types of beds are typically pricier than wooden and metal-composite models.
The most affordable alternative on our list is the bunk bed that is made of plywood and medium density fiberboard. It's a sturdy option that's ASTM-certified and comes in neutral colors that match the majority of furniture. The bunk bed is distinguished by its angled ladder, which makes it easier for children to climb up and back down. It also has strong guardrails on the top bunk, and a large storage space underneath.
Ladder
The choice of whether to go with a bunk bed that has stairs or a ladder depends on the space in your home as well as the ages of your children. Stairs take up more floor space and are also more expensive. However, they are generally more secure and comfortable for children to climb. Some models have additional safety features like side handrails, or a locking mechanism.
Ladders can be more affordable than stairs and take up less space, but they are difficult for small children to use. Look for ladders that have grooved steps that are anti-slip and hand hole cutouts that make climbing easier for toddlers and older kids. Some bunk bed ladders are angled to ensure that it is simple to climb up to the top bunk.
You might want to consider putting a cushioned rug or mat next to the ladder if you opt for a bunk bed with stairs. This will ensure that children aren't able to accidentally step on it and get hurt while climbing up or down. It also helps to prevent children from sliding or slipping, which is especially dangerous for young children.
Bunk beds with ladders are a great option for families who have limited space for floor space or have low ceilings. They're easy to build and are available in various styles, ranging from traditional wooden ladders to contemporary metal alternatives. Some bunk beds even have two ladders that can be helpful for families that need to accommodate a child who prefers to sleep on the bottom bunk. You can even find ladders that can be adjusted, which allows you to alter the location of the bunk bed to meet your child's needs as they expand. For example, if your kids want to switch their desks from one side of the room to the other, a movable ladder for bunks can allow them to do this without removing the bunk bed itself.