Bunk Beds Are Cooler Than Ever

If you're designing an area for children to share, outfitting a dorm or just maximizing your space bunk beds are adaptable and more stylish than ever. There are many designs, including twin-overtwins and full over-full models.

Find one that is in line with your budget and your children size, and keep in mind that some bunks can have beds that trundle down for sleepovers.

Size

Bunk beds are an essential part of the bedrooms of children, offering both comfort and excitement for children who prefer to sleep together. They are also common in shared rooms and vacation homes. Bunk beds come in a wide range of designs and materials to fit any budget or room size. Our top picks for bunk beds range from simple twin-over-twin models to elaborate designs with stairs or ladders and unique features like slides.

We weighed a range of factors when we searched the market for our top picks, including the overall design, safety, and value. We also consulted experts -- parents and one who literally wrote the book on bunk beds--to help us source the best metal bunk beds bunk beds for small spaces (Read the Full Content) alternatives. Discover our seven favorites by continuing reading.

Before making a purchase of bunk beds, it's crucial to think about the size of the bed. This is especially true when you're considering your ceiling height. Make sure you measure your space prior to buying bunk beds to ensure they fit. The top bunk should have at minimum five inches of headroom. We also suggest not using trundle beds with high-hanging mattresses, which can restrict headroom and increase the chance of bumped heads.

It is also important to consider whether you prefer ladders or stairs to get to the top bunk. Stairs are easier to climb and safer, however they can take up more space on the floor than a ladder. Ladders are less bulky and more cost-effective, but they may feel too steep for younger children.

On the product page on the product page, you'll see the weight capacity of every top bunk mattress. The majority of manufacturers will list this information in the dimensions of the mattress. A higher capacity for weight typically indicates that the mattress is suitable for older children or adults who require a larger mattress.

A variety of bunk beds The Shyann bunk bed from Room & Board offers three designs to fit with your kids' bedroom decor. White snow gives a vibrant coastal style to classic kids' rooms and brushed grey or rich walnut create a farmhouse or rustic feel.

Safety

When you are looking for a bunk bed, it is important to look beyond the price and ensure that it is equipped with the necessary safety features. A reliable seller will provide the weight capacity and describes the structure's durability and strength. This is especially helpful for families who plan to reuse the beds as their children get older.

Rebecca Simon, a designer at Maison Ellie Interiors for Kids recommends leaving 33-36 inches between the top of the mattress and the ceiling. If you don't want sacrifice the space, you might want to consider a low height bunk bed. "That's a great option for a small room, because it keeps the lower bunk off the floor. It can be uncomfortable for kids as they get older."

Another factor to consider is the amount of space you have available for stairs or ladders. While a bunk with built-in stairs could save space, it could be more expensive and take more assembly time. If you are short on space, choose an easy ladder that allows your children to safely ascend to the top of the bunk.

All bunks on this listing are made of sturdy materials and meet the Consumer Product Safety Commission requirements for guardrails. These bunks also pass lead and anti-tip testing which is a great relief for parents with children who share a room. Laura Fenton, the author of The Bunk Bed Book, says that the metal and wood Room & Board model "is constructed like tank." "These are the beds used in hotels, and therefore they're built to last."

For those looking for an option that grows with their children, this trundle-style bed from Bed Bath & Beyond converts into two separate twin beds for tweens and teens. It's the only non-wood bunk bed on the list, and its solid steel frame is extremely light for such a heavy-duty piece of furniture. It comes in a range of colors and can also be customized with accessories like under-bed drawers.

Style

Bunk beds are available in different shapes and sizes and shapes, so you can pick one that is suitable for your family's needs. There are numerous configurations, such as the traditional twin-over twin bunks or the more specialized beds such as twin-over queen or queen-over-twin. Some are made of best metal bunk beds while others are made of wood and include side rails for the top bunk. The design of the frame as well as other features can also vary. You'll want to consider how much storage space you'll need, as well as the style you like.

When evaluating price, keep in mind that the greater the cost of a bunk bed, the more customizable it can be, Klugh says. This could mean adding additional features such as an escalator or ladder. It could also mean the ability to add an trundle bed that makes it easy for guests to stay over or for sleepovers. Certain models can be dismantled to make two beds. This is a fantastic option if your kids are growing out of their bunk beds or if you plan to move in the near future.

The number of beds that you select will also impact the price and design. You could opt for a basic twin-over-twin bunk bed to maximize the amount of floor space. It is also relatively affordable. You can also invest more money in bunk beds made of solid wood with an elegant, sturdy design that can grow with your kids and possibly accommodate adult sleepers in the near future.

Whatever size and style you select it is important to verify the weight capacity of the bunk beds best detachable bunk beds to ensure that they are able to accommodate the number of people that you'll be using them for. Some bunk beds are only designed for children and can only support up to 165 pounds. Others have a higher limit and can accommodate the growing needs of adults and children.

It's important to keep in mind that a bunk bed can be an expensive investment and thus a significant commitment. If you're uncertain about whether this type of bed is a good choice for your family, spend the time to visit a showroom or look up reviews on the websites of retailers from actual buyers. This will give you a good idea of the quality and workmanship of the bunk beds.

Storage

Modern living requires furniture to do more than just serve as a place to rest or study. Bunk beds that have built-in storage meet this need and transform them into multi-functional furniture pieces that are both functional and stylish. Innovative features such as multi-functional staircases and integrated drawers provide convenient access to clothing and bedding, toys and other items that would otherwise clutter the room, and keep them in order and accessible.

Loft beds that have spacious desks can turn the space beneath them into a productive workspace. These smart arrangements allow young students or remote workers to balance work as well as play time without sacrificing valuable floor space.

Another useful option is the detachable bunks that are separated into separate twin beds, perfect for accommodating sleepover guests or allowing kids to transition to single beds as they become more mature. Bunks with a trundle that can be removed beds can be used to be adapted to older children and adults who prefer a larger bed.

Finally, larger bunk beds that sleep three, four, or more are a smart purchase for families seeking to maximize space in bedrooms with high ceilings. These models can even fit nicely into corner spaces, enabling owners to make use of awkward spaces that might otherwise be wasted.

The color and the material of your bunk bed will determine its overall appearance. Wood bunks have a classic timeless appeal that fits well into contemporary, coastal, and farmhouse interiors. Steel bunks are on the other on the other hand are a more contemporary option that is a great match with midcentury and industrial designs.

When you are looking for a bunk bed, consider the ceiling height of your house and the proximity of windows or other architectural features. Lower, more compact styles may be easier to assemble and are ideal for teens or children who are preparing to transition from the toddler or junior bedroom. While taller bunks provide an airier, more sophisticated look and are better suited for older children or adults. Some designs also feature side railings, which allow for more space between beds, ensuring safe and easy access for all users.