How to Find the Best Bunk Beds
The best bunk bed can make an enormous difference, whether you're looking to save space, encourage siblings to bond or accommodate a large group of people for a sleepover. Find safety features that are compatible with your needs, including mattress size, height and stairs/ladder placement.
There are many models that offer a choice of straight or angled ladders--the former are simpler to climb, but require a certain extra height, whereas the latter take up more space, but are safer and easier to access.
Aesthetics
Bunk beds don't just give kids a thrill but can also be a stylish addition to your home. Bunk beds are becoming increasingly more sought-after in homes of all sizes, as designers and manufacturers recognize their functionality while offering a contemporary aesthetic. Wooden bunk beds tend to be more durable than metal ones and their natural finish is compatible with many styles of interiors.
Bunk beds are not only attractive, but they can also be an ideal solution for families that share a home or have limited space. For instance triple-bunk beds can easily be converted into two separate beds and some designs have an under-bed trundle that slides out from beneath the bed to allow for sleepovers in the middle of the night.
A bunk bed can turn your child's bedroom into a treehouse. This set from Max & Lily takes this idea to the next level with an unattachable slide that will see kids soaring down it with friends and sending their plush animals on the most thrilling ride of their lives.
Other designs, such as this set from NE Kids, take a minimalist approach to the design of bunk beds. Its clean, simple lines and neutral colors make it a great option for any room either traditional or modern. It's our cheapest choice, and includes a ladder for storage for added convenience.
Some families opt for a twin-over double bunk bed for siblings who share the same room and want to save space in their shared bedroom. This design is more compact than a full-over-full design, and it can be paired with dressers and other furniture pieces to create a cohesive bedroom.
A twin-over-full bed configuration offers the added benefit of accommodating two full mattresses. This will allow you to utilize it as you require even as your family expands. It's the most affordable option on our list, and it can be combined with storage drawers for extra organization.
Safety
The materials used in the construction of a bunk bed are crucial. Solid wood is a durable and sturdy choice, but it can be costly. For a less expensive alternative, you can consider metal, which is just as strong and comes in a range of finishes.
Other important things to look for are guard rails that are at least five inches higher than the mattress, and ladders or stairs that are attached firmly to the frame so that they won't be pulled away from the bed, creating a dangerous gap where kids could fall through or get stuck. Some manufacturers also offer an optional safety treads on ladders which could prevent slips or getting injured.
Also, ensure that your bunk bed conforms to the British Safety Standard BS/EN7472012+A1 as in addition to any age restrictions recommended for its use. Also, you should carefully go through the directions provided by the manufacturer for installation and use as well as maintenance.
Bunk beds are a favorite among children, but they can also be dangerous if not properly set up. Many accidents that involve bunk beds occur because kids climb over the sides of the bunk that is higher and fall over, or be trapped. To prevent this the risk, only let children sleep on the top bunk at the age of six years old. Ensure that the ladder is placed at the end of the bunk so kids aren't able to climb over it.
The ladder must also be securely secured to the bed frame and angled in a manner that makes it difficult for children to climb up on the sides. Parents should instruct their children to use the ladder in a safe manner and to avoid horses on the stairs, and regularly inspect the ladder and bed frame for loose connections.
In the end, it's an ideal idea to choose a bunk bed that can be separated into two individual beds, which allows you to reuse the space after your children outgrow the top bunk. IKEA's Mydal bunk beds for example are an affordable option that doesn't sacrifice safety or durability. They can also be easily separated into two beds as your children grow out of the top bunk.
Mattress
A bunk bed is incomplete without a mattress. You'll often find that the sales strategy of a manufacturer includes offering a mattress in addition to the frame which can be helpful and can save you money. If you're looking to have the most comfortable sleep experience from your bunk bed, it's recommended to purchase the mattress separately. The mattress you choose will make a significant difference in how comfortable and supportive the bed will feel to your child or adult.
When selecting the ideal bunk bed mattresses be sure to consider your budget, the desired degree of comfort, and your preferred sleep position. For instance, a memory foam mattress may feel great for side and back sleepers, but stomach sleepers might prefer a firmer option with more pressure relief. You should also think about the weight capacity of your bunk bed. A large number of people could cause the mattress's largest parts to sag.
Most bunk beds come in twin-over full and full-over-full dimensions, as well as a smaller option for the trundle below. Some bunk beds offer all-foam, innerspring or hybrid mattresses. All-foam mattresses typically cost between $900 to $1,200 in queen sizes and come with a support core made of high-density polyfoam.
In addition to durability in addition to durability, you should look for a bunk bed mattress that doesn't make squeaks or creaks. This can disrupt your kids sleeping environment and could even cause them to wake up throughout the night. To avoid these problems, select a memory-foam or latex mattress which provides great pressure relief, yet allows sleepers to move easily.
If you want to make your bunk bed the focal point of the room, pick a striking finish like walnut or gray. The classic white finish is a good fit with any colour scheme. Bunk beds that are flat-packed can be assembled with no tools. However, you might require assistance if your bed is heavy. Many manufacturers provide videos and instructions on their websites to help make the process simpler.
Storage
Bunk beds that have built-in storage is a great way to add more functionality and space to your child's' room. You can build or purchase ready-made drawers that can be easily attached to bunk beds, and provide additional storage space for clothes, bedding, and toys. This option is ideal for smaller rooms, as it maximizes space and eliminates the need to keep things on the floor. A lot of these drawers are available in a variety of colors and finishes that will match any decor.
Depending on the kind of bunk bed you pick it is possible to integrate other storage solutions. For example some bunk beds have cubbies and shelves that can be used for storing things like books and art tools. This lets children keep their personal belongings organized and easily accessible without taking up too much space. It's a good idea select bunk beds with hooks on each side. These hooks can be used to hang bags, or other clothing items.
There are a variety of drawers and shelving units you can add to your child's bedroom if you prefer a traditional style. These units are typically placed under the bed's lower part and provide ample space for storage of blankets, clothing as well as toys and other items. They are an excellent choice for both boys and girls rooms, since they can be customised to match each individual's style preferences.
Desks with storage that can be pulled out and study space are available as bunk beds. They are ideal for bedrooms with small spaces, since they allow you to make the most of the space under the top bunk while keeping the lower bed open to sleep. best bunk bed brands are also available in a wide range of color options and can be customized with accessories like trundles for more storage space.
Installing shelves above your bunk beds is another excellent way to maximize storage space. They can be used to store books, toys and other items you would like to keep out of sight. You can also add baskets to the shelves to keep everything neatly placed and organised.