How to Find the Best Bunk Beds
Whether you want to reduce space, encourage siblings to bond or even to accommodate a large group of guests, the right bunk bed makes all the difference. Consider safety features that are appropriate for your needs. This includes the size of the mattress as well as ladder placement and height.
Many models offer a choice between straight or angled ladders. The former are easier to climb, but require a certain amount of height. The latter are bigger but are safer and easier to use.
Aesthetics
Bunk beds aren't only for kids. They can be a stylish addition in your home. Bunk beds are becoming increasingly popular in homes all sizes as designers and manufacturers take on the benefits of bunk beds while maintaining modern aesthetics. Wooden bunk beds are more durable than metal models and their natural appearance is compatible with a variety of interior styles.
Bunk beds aren't only attractive, but they can also be an ideal solution for families who share a house or have limited space. For instance triple-bunk beds can be easily converted into two separate beds. Some designs also have hidden trundles that slide out from underneath the bunk on the bottom for short sleepovers.
A bunk bed can turn your child's bedroom into a treehouse. This Max & Lily set takes this idea a step further by incorporating a slide that can be detached, which will send children soaring down with their friends and sending their favorite animals on the ride of their lives.
Other styles, such as this set from NE Kids take a minimalistic approach to the design. Its simple clean lines, crisp lines and neutral colors make it a great fit for any space regardless of whether your home is contemporary or more traditional. It's our cheapest option, and it comes with a storage ladder to make it easier.
Some families opt for a twin over double bunk bed for their siblings who share in a bedroom and want to save on space. This type of design is less bulky than a full-over-full design, and can be combined with dressers and other storage pieces to create a harmonious bedroom.
Another advantage to a twin-over-full configuration is that it can fit two full mattresses, so you'll have the flexibility to use it as your family expands. It's also the most affordable option on our list. You can pair it with storage drawers to add additional organization.
Safety
The materials used to construct bunk beds are important. Solid wood is a durable and solid choice, however it can be costly. Consider using metal as an alternative. It is cheaper and can be just a sturdy.
Other important features to look for are guard rails that rise at least five inches higher than the mattress and ladders or stairs that attach securely to the frame to ensure they don't pull away from the bed, leaving an unsafe gap that children may fall through or become stuck. Some manufacturers offer a safety tread on ladders to prevent slipping and injury.
Finally, make sure your bunk bed complies with the British Safety Standard BS/EN7472012+A1 and that it has any age-restrictions that are recommended for its use. It's also a good idea to read carefully the manufacturer's instructions regarding assembly, use and maintenance.
Bunk beds are a favorite among children, but they can also be dangerous if they are not properly set up. Many accidents involving bunk beds happen because children climb over the sides of the upper bunk and fall or get trapped. To prevent this from happening the risk, only let children sleep on the top bunk until they're at least six years old and ensure that the ladder is placed at the end of the bunk so that children cannot climb over it.
The ladder must be securely attached to the bed frame and angled so that it is difficult for children to climb up the sides. Parents should teach children how to use the ladder safely and avoid horseplay. They should also regularly inspect the ladder and bed frame for loose connections.
It's also a good idea, should you be able to, choose a bed that can be divided into two beds. This will allow you to reuse the space when your children grow out of the top bunk. The IKEA Mydal bunk bed, for example is a budget-friendly option that doesn't skimp on quality or safety. It can easily be split into two single beds at the time of need.
Mattress
A bunk bed isn't complete without a mattress. You'll often find that manufacturers' sales strategies include offering a mattress along with the frame, which can be convenient and save you some money. However, it's best to shop separately if you want to get the most optimal sleep experience from your bunk bed. The mattress you select will have a major impact on how comfortable and accommodating your child's or parents bed feels.
The right bunk bed mattress is a matter of weighing your budget, comfort level and sleep position preferences. For instance, whereas the memory foam mattress is suitable for back and side sleepers who prefer a softer option, stomach sleepers may prefer a firmer, more supportive option. It is also important to think about the weight capacity of your bunk mattress. The presence of too many people could cause the mattress's heaviest parts to slide.
The majority of bunk bed mattresses are available in twin-over-twin and full-over-full sizes and a smaller version for the trundle below. Some bunk beds come with hybrid, all-foam or innerspring mattresses. All-foam mattresses typically cost between $1,200 to $900 in a queen size and have an inner support core made of high-density polyfoam.
It's also important to choose a mattress for your bunk bed that's durable and doesn't squeak or creak. This can disrupt your kids' sleeping environment and may cause them to wake up in the middle of the night. To avoid these issues, select a memory foam or latex mattress that offers excellent pressure relief while still allowing sleepers to easily reposition themselves.
If you want your bunk bed to be a focal point in the space, go for a bold finish like walnut or gray. You can also keep the bunk bed minimalist with the classic white finish that will go well with any colour scheme. Bunk beds that come flat-packed are generally easy to put together and require no tools, however you'll likely need help lifting them into the right place, particularly when they're very heavy. A lot of manufacturers provide instructions and videos on their websites, which can simplify the process.
Storage
Bunk beds that have built-in storage are an excellent option to add additional functionality and space to your child's' room. You can build or buy ready-made drawers that can be easily attached to bunk beds, and provide extra storage for clothing, bedding, and toys. This is a great option for smaller rooms as it makes the most of space and avoids the need to store items on floors. Many of these drawers are available in different colors and finishes that will match any decor.
Depending on the type of bunk bed you pick it is possible to add other innovative storage solutions. For example there are bunk beds that have shelves and cubbies that can be used to store things like books and art tools. This lets kids keep their possessions neatly organized and easily accessible without taking up too much space. It's a good idea to pick bunk beds that have hooks on each side. These hooks can be used to hang bags, or other clothing items.
If you're looking for a traditional bed there are plenty of drawers and shelving units that can be added to the bunk bed of your child. These units are often positioned under the bottom bed and provide ample space for storing clothes, blankets as well as toys and other items. These units are great for both girls' and boys' bedrooms, as they can be easily customized to meet the needs of each person.
Desks that fold out with storage and study space are also available as bunk beds. These are great for bedrooms with limited space, as they let you make the most of the space under the top bunk, while leaving the lower bed open for sleeping. The beds are available in various colors and can be customized by adding accessories such as trundles to make more storage space.
Installing best detachable bunk beds above your bunk beds is a excellent method of maximizing storage space. They can be used to store toys, books and other things you wish to keep hidden. You can also add baskets to to keep your items organised and neatly organized.