Bunk Beds Are Cooler Than Ever

If you're planning a shared bedroom for your children or outfitting a dorm, or simply maximizing your space, bunk beds are versatile and cooler than ever. There are a variety of designs, including twin-overtwins and full over-full options.

Find one that is in line with your budget and your kids' room dimensions, and be aware that some bunks can be able to accommodate beds with trundle beds at the bottom to accommodate sleepovers.

Size

Bunk beds are a staple of childhood bedrooms, offering both comfort and excitement for kids who want to sleep together. They are also popular in shared rooms and vacation homes. bunk bed uk beds are available in a range of styles and materials with options that will fit any budget and space. Our bunk bed picks range from basic twin over twin constructions to more elaborate models that include ladders or stairs and distinctive features like slides.

As we searched the market to select our top choices we weighed a number of factors such as the overall design and safety, and also the value. We also consulted experts -- parents and one who wrote the book on bunk beds to assist us in locating the best bunk choices. Read on to discover our seven top picks.

The size of bunk beds is an important consideration before buying a bed, particularly when it comes to the height of your ceilings. Always measure your space to ensure the bunks you pick are suitable, and leave at least 5 inches of headroom on the top bunk. We also recommend avoid trundle beds with high-hanging mattresses, which can restrict headroom and increase the risk of head bumps.

Another consideration is whether you prefer stairs or ladders for access to the top bunk. Stairs may be easier 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 may feel too steep for children.

You should also be aware of the weight capacity of the top bunk mattress that is listed on the product's page. The information is typically listed next to the dimensions of the mattress. A higher capacity for weight typically indicates the bunk is suitable for older kids or adults, who may require a larger mattress.

A versatile bunk bed option The Shyann bunk bed from Room & Board offers three finishes to complement your kids room decor. White snow brings a vibrant coastal look to a classic children's room and brushed gray or rich walnut add warmth and sophistication to a rustic or farmhouse style.

Safety

When shopping for a bunk bed, it is important to look beyond the price tag and ensure it comes with all the necessary safety features. A reputable seller lists the weight capacity and also explains the structure's durability and strength. This is especially helpful for families who intend to reuse the beds as their children get older.

A good rule of practice is to leave at least 33 to 36 inches between the top of the mattress and the ceiling, according to Rebecca Simon, a designer with Maison Ellie Interiors for Kids. "If you don't have room for that size of space, you might prefer a low-height bunk," she adds. "That's an excellent option for a small space, because it keeps the lower bunk off the floor. That can be uncomfortable as kids get older."

Another consideration is how much space is for ladders or stairs. While a bunk with built-in stairs can save space, it could be more expensive and take more assembly time. If you're short on space, you can opt for an easy ladder that will still allow your kids to safely climb up to the top bunk.

The bunks listed on this list all feature sturdy construction, and they are in compliance with the Consumer Product Safety Commission's requirements for guardrails. These bunks also have passed lead and anti-tip tests and are a welcome relief for parents of children sharing a room. For instance, the metal-and-wood Room & Board model is "built like a tank," says Laura Fenton who is the author of The Bunk Bed Book: The Bunk Bed Book: 115 Bunks, Lofts, and Cozy Nooks. "These are beds used in hotels, and therefore they're made to last."

For shoppers who want a bunk that will grow with their children This trundle-style model from Bed Bath & Beyond converts into two twin beds that are separate for teens and tweens. It's the only non-wood bunk bed on the list, and its sturdy steel frame is extremely light for such a large piece of furniture. It's available in an extensive variety of colors and can be customized with additional accessories, like under-bed storage drawers.

Style

Bunk beds come in different sizes and shapes that you can pick one that suits your family's needs. For example there are traditional twin-over-twin bunks as well as specialized configurations such as queen-over-twin or twin-over-queen beds. Some are made from metal while others are made of wood and have side rails for the top bunk. The design of the frame as well as other features also can vary and you'll need to think about how much storage you need as well as what style you like the most.

When you are considering the price, bear in mind that the greater the cost of a bunk bed the more customizable it will be, Klugh says. This could mean adding additional features like an escalator or ladder. It could also mean the possibility of adding an additional bed for guests or sleepovers. Some models can even be disassembled and used as two separate beds. This is a useful feature to consider if your children will outgrow the bunks or you plan on moving to a different home in the future.

The amount of beds you pick will also influence cost and design. For instance, you could opt for a simple twin over twin bunk bed that makes the most of floor space and is relatively affordable. You could also choose to invest more in a solid-wood bunk bed with a contemporary, robust design that grows with your kids and possibly accommodate adult sleepers in the future.

No matter what size or style you pick regardless of the design and size, you must check the capacity of the bunk beds to make sure they can accommodate the number of people that you'll be using them for. Some bunk beds are made for children and only support the weight of 165 pounds. Others have a higher limit and can be used by the growing needs of adults and children.

It's also important to note that a bunk bed could be a big investment--and therefore a major commitment. If you're not sure whether a bunk bed is right for your family, check out the showroom of a retailer or read reviews of customers on their website. This will give you an idea about the quality of workmanship and the way in which the bunks are built.

Storage

Furniture must be able to serve more than just as an area to sleep, study and relax. childrens bunk beds beds that have built-in storage options meet this need, turning them into multifunctional pieces that champion both function and fashion. Innovative features such as multi-functional staircases and integrated drawers provide an easy access to clothes, toys, bed linens, and other items that could otherwise occupy the space, allowing them to be well-organized and easily accessible.

Loft beds with spacious desk areas can transform the space below them into a productive work area. These clever configurations allow remote workers or young students to balance work, sleep and play without sacrificing valuable space.

Another option to consider is detachable bunks that can be separated into separate twin-size beds, which are ideal to accommodate guests at sleepovers or allowing children to move to single beds as they grow. Bunks that have trundle beds that are removable can be adapted to older kids or adults who prefer sleeping on a large mattress.

Furthermore, bunks that sleep three, four, or more are a good investment for families looking to maximize space in bedrooms with high ceilings. These types of bunks can also fit well into corners, allowing homeowners to make use of awkward nooks that might otherwise be wasted.

The kind of material and the color your bunk bed is made from will affect its overall look and feel. Wood bunks have a classic timeless appeal that fits well into contemporary, coastal, and farmhouse interiors. Steel bunks are on the other side are a more modern option that works well with midcentury and industrial designs.

When you are looking for a bunk bed, consider the height of your home's ceilings and any windows that are nearby or other architectural features. The smaller, more compact designs are simpler to put together. They are great for younger children or teens who are ready to get out of the junior or toddler bedroom. Meanwhile, taller bunks offer an elegant, airier design and are ideal for older children or adults who sleep. Some designs feature side railings, which provide a greater clearance between the beds. This will ensure safety and easy access for everyone.