Best Quality Bunk Beds
Whether your children want to include a bunk bed into their bedroom for fun or practical reasons, you'll see that there are plenty of options. You should also consider size, room and ceiling height, style and budget.
Depending on the manufacturer the bunk beds are usually equipped with either a ladder or stairs. A ladder is ideal for smaller rooms since it's easier to climb. Stairs tend to take up more space and are difficult to maneuver.
1. Sturdy Construction
If you're shopping for your kids or adults, the best quality bunk beds are made to last. Make sure you choose solid wood or metal that can withstand bouncing sleepers and the odd bump.
You should also consider the weight capacity, as some models are rated to hold up to 300 pounds for each bed. You may want to consider a higher weight limit if you have older children or guests using bunk beds.
When choosing the ideal bunk for your space, search for a bed with a low-profile that helps maximize storage in small rooms. You'll also want to choose one that can be divided into two separate twin beds, should you wish to. This flexibility is offered by a variety of manufacturers to save you money in the future.
For a bunk with plenty of style, search for one that offers various finishes to match your kiddos' existing room decor. Think about the white finish to create a coastal, clean look or an espresso stain to create an earthy, warm and rustic look.
Another alternative to consider is a bunk that can be converted into two separate twin beds, because the guardrails on the top and bottom are removable. You can reuse the piece as you grow with your family and children. Some of these bunks for conversion also come with additional features, such as storage drawers underneath or shelving at the lower level to add more functionality to your bedroom. These nifty features can be especially useful in small areas where storage is limited, and they often make bunks more affordable over the long term.
2. Comfortable Mattresses
The best bunk beds come with comfortable mattresses, whether you pick twin over twin or full to full. The mattress should be comfortable enough for the sleeper to get a good night's sleep and to remain asleep throughout the night. There are four main kinds of mattresses: memory foam latex, innerspring, and hybrid--each with a unique set of pros and cons.
Memory foam, for example, conforms to the weight of the person sleeping and creates a feeling of hugging. This type of mattress also alleviates pressure points in the most heaviest areas of the body, such as the back and hips. However, memory foam does not provide the optimal support for all body kinds and sleeping positions. In addition memory foam is known for its ability to trap heat and can cause overheating.
Latex on the other hand offers better temperature regulation and supports all types of bodies. It is also durable and resistant, which makes it a fantastic choice for bunk beds. Many latex mattresses have ventilated layers to help promote airflow and prevent overheating. They are also eco-friendly and come with a 10-year warranty against defects and sagging exceeding 1 inch.
When you're looking for bunk bed mattresses, consider your budget. The price can quickly add up when you buy two mattresses. However, a lot of the top quality bunk beds on the market come at a reasonable price.
For instance the Max & Lily bunk bed is priced less than $500 and offers an elegant, modern design that works with any decor. It's also GREENGUARD Gold-certified and comes with ladders that are easy to use and have anti-slip rungs and hand holds to ensure safety for children who are younger. The beds can be made into two separate singles which is a great option if you have children who have outgrown the bunk beds or if you decide to move.
3. Aesthetics
The aesthetics of bunk beds can create a big impact on your living space, whether creating a shared bedroom for your kids, creating the ultimate place for sleepovers or furnishing a dorm room. The most stylish bunk beds are elegant and sturdy. They're an excellent option for modern homes. Traditional styles can be paired with rustic or cottage inspired rooms.
A high-quality bunk bed is also a lot of fun in terms of finish and color options which allows you to easily modify the decor of your bedroom and blend it with other furniture pieces in the room. Wooden bunks work well in a contemporary or modern space as well as metal low-slung bunks give a more industrial look.
A lot of bunks are available in neutral colors like white or gray. These colors can be paired with a variety of designs and won't become outdated as your kids grow older. Darker wood stains like mocha or espresso can help make a room more stable with modern design and complement traditional schemes.
If you're looking to maximize your floor space, but don't sacrifice storage space, think about bunks with built-in shelves and work desks. These bunks allow more headroom between the top bed and the bottom bed, reducing the risk of bumping into someone reading or sleeping.
Another great feature of some bunk beds is the ability to transform into two beds. This is especially useful when you're putting together a shared bedroom with multiple children, or if you want to keep your bunk bed in place until your children are old enough to use it. For example the Oeuf Perch bunk bed can be converted into a twin-sized and full-size bed by removing the legs that connect the bed. This flexibility makes the bed a great value and a solid investment for your children's increasing requirements.
4. Space-Saving
Bunk beds are a great option if you are limited in space. But, it's important to look for a bunk bed that doesn't compromise in terms of safety or durability. If you can, go for an all-solid wood model with an entire length of top guardrail that's completely enclosed to stop children from falling off when playing on the top. There are also metal models that are less expensive but may not be as durable as wood, so make your choice wisely based on your needs.
The Storkcraft Caribou offers a stylish and budget-friendly choice with solid construction. It's made of strong spruce wood which is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The ladder can be placed on either side of the bed. The bottom rung is wider than the others which makes it easier for youngsters.
Harper & Bright Designs Bunk Bed is a different option that's budget-friendly. The twin-overtwin bunk bed made of wood and plywood and looks high-end. It's available in various color options to complement your bedroom decor. It's a great option for children who are older because it can be divided into two separate platforms.
Another great alternative is The Room & Board Dawson Bunk Bed, which is stylish and has plenty of features to ensure that your children are safe and comfy. It's for instance, the only bunk bed in our list which is built with angle ladders instead of straight ones which Fenton says are "easier to climb, but use up more space." The bed also includes Trundle mattresses on the bottom bunk, allowing for three sleepers and is great for siblings or guests.
5. Safety
Bunk beds are a very popular option for children however, they can also be a source of concern. When properly constructed and used, bunk beds are completely safe. To avoid dangers, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for assembly and maintenance. You should also regularly check the fittings to ensure they aren't loose.
You must measure the room and the height of the ceiling prior to you purchase a bed for your children. You'll know the maximum dimensions that a bunk bed can accommodate, and you'll also be able to make sure it doesn't clash with other fixed features, such as windows, closets and doors.
When choosing the right bunk bed for your family, you must take into consideration non-traditional shapes. For example an L-shaped bunk could be a great option for rooms with low ceilings since it occupies less space than a traditional twin-over-twin set. It lets parents kiss their children goodnight without having them climb up to the top bunk. This is an excellent benefit for parents with young children.
When it is time to build the actual structure of a bunk bed choose materials that can stand up to the wear and tear of kids' frequent use. Find a frame constructed from solid wood or metal rather than particleboard or MDF. Similarly, look for guard rails that are wrapped around the corners of each side of the bunk to protect against falls.
Choose a mattress that is suitable for your child's weight, and their sleeping preferences. If you have a child who is heavier and hot at night, choose an air-conditioned mattress that minimizes the retention of heat.