How to Choose the Best Bunk Beds

Many homes have bunk beds for children. They can help save space and also provide children with a sense of adventure.

When you are buying a bunk bed, it is important to consider its weight capacity and safety features. We also looked at beds that can convert into two beds.

Durability

When choosing bunk beds it is crucial to consider the durability. Nikki Njeri Klugh, founder and chief designer of Nikki Klugh Design Group, Inc. She says you want to ensure it's sturdy so nothing falls onto the person or items below. The top bunk beds are rated at 500 pounds per bed. They will also be tested for safety standards, such as a railing at the top bunk, as well as large beds that fit comfortably to avoid accidents.

When evaluating bunk beds it is important to take into consideration the weight capacity of the mattress as well as the stairs or ladders that lead to the top. Fenton says that an ideal rule of thumb to follow is to choose a ladder with a flat surface. This will make it easier for children to climb and won't be too steep. Stairs are easy to climb, but they require more space and can be difficult for children to navigate.

Many of the best bunk beds also come with a choice of finish or color that can aid in matching them to the decor of your child's bedroom. Pick a white finish to match your existing furniture or natural wood stain for an accent of color. Some bunk beds have additional features, such as a drawer or trundle below the bottom bunk. These can enhance the functionality of the bed, and let you customize the bunk to suit the needs of your child.

This model can also accommodate three guests comfortably, as it can fit two full-size beds in a T shape configuration. Its sturdy construction includes strong steel frames and metal slats that are spaced 2.5 inches apart to provide adequate mattress support. It's also Greenguard Gold certified, which means it meets the organization's standards for low emissions of volatile organic compounds, ozone depleters and other harmful pollutants.

If you're looking for a bunk bed that will last through your children's childhood and beyond, consider this option from Oeuf. It has a sleek, best modern bunk beds design that doesn't make your children appear too "baby" as they get older. Additionally, it can be divided into two separate twin-size beds if your children no longer need to use the bunk.

Safety

Bunk beds are fantastic for saving space and can be fun for children, however they also pose some security risks. Be sure to look for beds that have been independently tested and that meet CPSC standards. They must also be strong enough to accommodate adults. Make sure that the upper bunk is sturdy enough to support 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 when they fall off the top deck, falling on ladders or furniture or playing on the upper deck. To reduce these risks, choose the bunk bed with an upper level that is at least as tall as the CPSC guidelines. Also be sure to keep it away from ceiling fans and other high furniture.

It is also important to determine whether the bunk bed is constructed out of solid wood or steel. Metal is generally lighter and more portable, however it may not last longer than wooden models. Certain wood alternatives are GreenGuard Gold certified and crafted using sustainable materials, so you can feel good about your purchase. If you're concerned about safety, make sure you check the bed for any restrictions or warnings that could apply to the top bunk. This could include the weight or age restriction.

Check that the bed is a good fit in your space and is free of sharp edges. You can also test the stability by pushing on the bunks in different locations and ensuring that they don't collapse or creak.

Most bunk beds offer the option of a ladder that allows you to climb onto the top deck, but there are some that use stairs instead. Stairs can take up more space and are more expensive than ladder-style beds but they're "the safest and most simple to scale, though children should never be left on the top bunk without adult supervision," says Fenton.

Space-Saving

Bunk beds are a great option for a variety of living spaces, whether you're looking to maximize the sleeping space in your holiday home or furnishing a child's bedroom. However, choosing the right one isn't easy. Bunk beds should be secure and a good fit for your space, and look nice. Luckily, there are a lot of options out there so you can choose the perfect bed for your family.

To identify the top bunk beds, we spoke with three experts--two interior designers and a sleep expert. We also read reviews on retailer sites and consumer groups. We considered the safety and design aspects of each, in addition to the cost and color availability. Ultimately, we narrowed the list to seven sets that are high-quality build and look and will grow with your kids into their teens.

This traditional wood bunk bed from Oeuf features a stylish silhouette and durable construction. It's available in several finish colors, including white for coastal decor or espresso stain to warm rustic bedrooms. It has guardrails at the bottom bunk, and a pull-out trundle to accommodate additional guests. It is also GREENGUARD gold certified, which means it meets low emission standards of volatile organic compounds, phthalates and a variety of other toxic substances.

The bunk bed can be divided into two separate beds once your kids outgrow them, making it an excellent investment. This bunk bed comes in various sizes that include full over twin and full over queen.

It is important to think about the capacity of your weight when selecting a bunk bed. You shouldn't overburden the structure, as this could result in dangerous collapses. Pick bunk beds with a the highest weight limit to keep your family safe during the night.

This design is unique from most bunk beds that use ladders to reach the top bunk. Instead, it features stairs that slide underneath each side of the frame. This design provides more space under the bunk beds, and gives them a more modern appearance. It's also a great option for those who don't have enough space for the ladder.

Stores

Bunk beds are available in a variety of configurations. They can be twin-overtwin, full-over-full, or even queen over queen. You can also choose from a variety of different materials such as metal, wood and more. Prices will vary based on the choices and materials you choose. The majority of higher-end models are made of sturdy materials such as solid wood and include additional features, such as trundle beds that can be pulled out from underneath the mattress on the bottom.

When choosing the right bunk bed for your home, think about how it will be used and what your budget is. If you plan to use it only for children, an inexpensive model might be the best queen over queen bunk bed. If you're planning to use the bunk beds for children or adults who will outgrow them, it may be worth investing in a more durable frame.

A majority of the top bunk bed brands provide a limited warranty on their products. This warranty may be extended to repair or replace parts for up to one year following purchase, depending on the brand. Certain manufacturers also offer white glove delivery or installation services at an additional cost.

When you are shopping for a new bunk bed, you should read the reviews left by other customers. These reviews can aid you in determining whether the bed is made well and durable. It is also important to consider the weight capacity and safety features of each bunk.

If you're looking for a bunk bed with lots of storage, check out the Daxter bunk from Harper & Bright Designs. It's a sleek, modern option that comes with a low price tag and multiple colors to match your home's decor. The bunk bed comes with a weight limit of 300 pounds for the top best cheap bunk beds, as well as an optional trundle to fit three people. Many buyers were impressed with the quality of the bed and said that it was easy to assemble. However, some reviewers noticed an unpleasant, off-gassing smell when the bunk was unboxed for the first time. This problem was resolved quickly however.