How to Choose the Best Bunk Beds
Kids bunk beds are a common feature of many homes. They can be effective in saving space and can also be a source of excitement to children.
When buying a bunkbed, it is important to think about the capacity of its weight and safety features. We also looked at beds that could be converted into two beds.
Durability
When choosing a bunk bed it is crucial to consider the durability. "You need to ensure it's built to last so that it doesn't fall over the person or things below," says Nikki Njeri Klugh who is the chief designer and founder of Nikki Klugh Design Group, Inc. The top bunk beds will be assessed to support at least 500 pounds of weight per bed. They'll also be tested to ensure that they meet safety standards like a railing on the top bunk and full-sized mattresses that fit snuggly to avoid any accidents.
When evaluating bunkbeds it is crucial to take into account both the weight capacity of mattresses as well as the ladder or stairs that leads to the top. Fenton suggests that the best rule of thumb to follow is to choose a ladder that has flat surfaces. This will make it easier for kids to climb and won't be too steep. Stairs are, however, are easier to climb, but they take up more space and can be a bit difficult for children to navigate.
A majority of the top bunk beds also have the option of finishing or color that will aid in matching them to the bedroom decor of your child. Pick an elegant white finish or natural wood stain that will complement your furniture, or go with a pink finish for a fun pop of color. Some options even include additional features, like a drawer at the base or trundle bed underneath the bottom bunk, which can increase the utility of the bunk and let you customize it to suit your child's preferences.
Another great feature of this bunk bed is that it can fit two mattresses of the same size in a T-shaped configuration which means you can fit three people comfortably on this model. Its sturdy construction includes a sturdy steel framework and slats of metal spaced 2.5 inches apart to give the mattress proper support. It's also Greenguard Gold certified, which means it complies with the organization's standards for low emissions of volatile organic compounds, ozone depleters and other pollutants.
If you're looking for a bunk bed that will last throughout your child's life and beyond, consider this option from Oeuf. It has a sleek, modern design that doesn't feel "baby" as they grow older. It can also be divided into two twin beds once your children have stopped using the bunk.
Safety
Bunk beds can be useful for saving space and a lot of fun for children However, they do have some safety concerns. To avoid injuries, look for models that have been independently tested to be in compliance with CPSC safety standards and have been verified to be sturdy enough for adults to sleep on too. Be sure that the upper bunk is sturdy enough to hold the weight of the children who will be sleeping on it. Typically, full-over-full-size bunks can accommodate up to 165 pounds per bed, while some variations--particularly those designed for adults--have higher capacities.
Children may be injured by falling off the top deck, tripping over furniture or ladders or playing on the upper level. To minimize these risks, look for a bunk bed that is in line with or surpasses the CPSC's height guidelines and be sure to keep it away from any ceiling fans (which could create dangerous airflow patterns) or any other furniture that is high.

You'll also want to consider whether the bunk bed is made from solid wood or metal. The latter can be lighter and more portable, however it may not last as long as wooden models. Certain wooden alternatives are GreenGuard Gold certified and crafted with sustainably sourced materials so you can feel good about the purchase. If you're worried about safety, be sure to look over the bed for any restrictions or warnings that might apply to the top bunk. These might include an age limit or weight limit.
Finally, make sure to check whether the bunk bed can comfortably fit in your space and is free of sharp corners. Also, test the stability of the bunks by pushing on them in various spots and making sure they don't sag or creak.
The majority of bunk beds have a ladder to climb into the top deck, but you'll also find options with stairs instead. Stairs can take up more room and are more expensive than ladder beds however they're "the safest and most simple to climb, but children should never be left on the top bunk without supervision by an adult," says Fenton.
Space-Saving
Whether you're furnishing the bedroom of a child or the sleeping space in your vacation home bunk beds can be a great fit for many types of living spaces. It can be a challenge to choose the right option. Bunk beds should be secure and fit in your space, and look nice. There are a variety of options available so you can pick the one that is right for your family.
We consulted three experts including two interior designers and one sleep expert and read reviews on websites of retailers and consumer groups to determine the most suitable bunk bed. We looked at the design as well as safety features and the cost of each bunk bed. We narrowed the selection to seven sets with a quality design and construction that will grow with your child's teenage years.
This classic wooden bunk bed from Oeuf boasts an elegant design and sturdy construction, and it's customizable in a variety of colors for the finish, including white for coastal decor or espresso stain to warm rustic rooms. It has guardrails at the bottom bunk, and an trundle that can be pulled out to accommodate extra guests. It's also GREENGUARD Gold Certified, which means that it meets low emission standards for volatile organic compounds, phthalates and a number of other harmful substances.
The bunk bed can be divided into two separate beds once your children outgrow it which makes it a great investment. It's also available in a variety of sizes, ranging from twin over full to full over queen so you can pick the most suitable one for your family.
It's important to consider the capacity of your weight when selecting a bunk bed. It isn't advisable to overload the structure, which can cause collapses that could be dangerous. Look for bunk beds with the capacity to support a lot of weight to ensure that your family is secure at night.
This design is unique from other bunk beds, which use ladders to get to the top bunk. Instead, it features stairs that slide underneath each side of the frame. This design gives more room underneath the bunk beds, and gives them a sleeker appearance. It's also a great option for those who don't have the space to accommodate the ladder.
Storage
Bunk beds come in a variety of configurations. They can be twin over twin or full over full or queen over queen. You can also choose from a variety of materials, including metal, wood and more. The price of a bunk bed will differ based on the type of material and features you select. Typically, higher-priced models are made of sturdy materials, such as solid wood and include additional features, such as trundle beds that pull out from under the mattress on the bottom.
Consider how the bunk bed will be used, and the budget you have when selecting one for your home. If you are planning to use the bunk bed only for kids, a low-cost basic model may be ideal. But, if you'll be sleeping adults or children who will outgrow the bunks, it may be worth investing a little more for a better, longer-lasting frame.
A majority of the top bunk bed brands offer a limited guarantee on their products. Based on the brand, this coverage may include replacement parts or repairs for up to one year from the date of purchase. Some manufacturers also provide white glove delivery or installation services at an additional cost.
While you're shopping for a bunk bed, it's important to read customer reviews. These reviews will help you determine if the product is well-made and sturdy. It is also recommended to check the weight capacity of each bunk, as well as its safety features.
If you're looking for a bunk bed that has lots of storage take a look at the Daxter bunk from Harper & Bright Designs. It's a sleek and modern option with an affordable cost and a variety of color options to match your decor. This bunk bed also has the capacity to support a large weight limit on the top bunk, as well as an optional trundle bed that can accommodate three people. Many buyers were impressed with the quality of the bed and said that it was easy to put together. best convertible bunk beds noticed an unpleasant off-gassing smell when the bunk first emerged from its box. The issue was quickly fixed.