Bunk Beds Are Cooler Than Ever

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

Select the bunk bed that is within your budget and the dimensions of your child's room. Some bunk beds accommodate trundle mattresses at the bottom for sleepovers.

Size

Bunk Beds Adults beds are an essential part of childhood bedrooms, offering both efficiency and adventure for children who wish to sleep side-by-side. They are also common in shared rooms and vacation homes. Bunk beds come in a range of styles and materials with options that will fit any budget and room size. Our top picks for bunk beds range from simple twin-over-twin models to elaborate designs with ladders or stairs and unique features like slides.

We considered a variety of factors as we scoured the market for our top picks including overall design, safety and value. We also consulted experts -- parents and one who wrote the book on bunk beds to assist us in locating the best choices. Check out our seven top picks.

Before you purchase bunk beds, it's important to consider the size of the bed. This is especially important when you're considering the height of your ceiling. Always take measurements to ensure that the bunks you select are suitable, and leave at least 5 inches of headroom on the top bunk. We also suggest avoid trundle beds with high-hanging mattresses that can limit headroom and increase the possibility of bumped heads.

You should also think about whether you prefer ladders or stairs to reach the top bunk. Stairs can be more easy to climb and safer, but they can take up more space on the floor than ladders. Ladders are less bulky and cost-effective, however they might be too steep for young children.

It is also important to be aware of the capacity for weight of the top bunk mattress which you can find on each product's page. This information is typically displayed close to the dimensions of the mattress. A higher capacity of weight suggests that the bunk was designed for older children or adults who require a larger mattress.

A variety of bunk beds, the Shyann bunk bed from Room & Board offers three finishes to complement your kids bedroom decor. Snowy white gives a bright coastal look to classic kids' rooms, while brushed grey or rich walnut add an authentic farmhouse or rustic look.

Safety

When shopping for a bunk bed bunk bed, it's important to look beyond the price tag and make sure it is equipped with the necessary safety features. A reliable seller will list the capacity for weight and explains the structure's durability and strength. This is especially helpful for families who intend to reuse the beds as the children get older.

A good rule of the thumb is to leave at least 33 to 36 inches between the top mattress and the ceiling, suggests Rebecca Simon, a designer with Maison Ellie Interiors for Kids. "If you don't have enough room to accommodate that much space, you may prefer a low-height bunk," she adds. "That's an excellent option for small rooms, because it keeps the bunk below off the floor. It can be uncomfortable as kids become older."

A second consideration is how much space there is for ladders or stairs. A bunk with built-in steps will save space, but it could also be more expensive and require longer assembly. If you're short on space, go for an easy ladder that allows your children to safely ascend to the top bunk.

All bunks listed are made of sturdy materials and meet the Consumer Product Safety Commission requirements for guardrails. They also pass the anti-tip and lead test which can be a big relief for parents with children sharing rooms. Laura Fenton, the author of The Bunk Bed Book, states that the wood and metal Room & Board model "is built like a tank." These are the same beds that hotels employ, so they are constructed to last.

For shoppers who want a bunk that will grow with their children, this trundle-style design from Bed Bath & Beyond converts into two twin beds that are separate for tweens and teens. It's the only bunk bed that doesn't make use of wood. The sturdy steel frame is also surprising light for such a heavy piece of furniture. It's available in an extensive variety of colors and can be customized with additional accessories, like under-bed storage drawers.

Style

Bunk beds come in many different sizes and designs, so you are sure to find one that is suitable for your family's needs. There are many different configurations, such as twin-over-twin bunks or the more specialized beds such as twin-over queen or queen-over-twin. Some are made of metal and others are made of wooden and come with side rails for the top bunk. The design of the frame as well as other features also can vary so you'll need to consider the amount of storage you require and the general style you prefer.

When evaluating price, keep in mind that the greater the price of a bunk bed, the more customizable it will be, Klugh says. This may mean additional accessories, such as a ladder or stairs. It could also refer to the possibility of adding an trundle bed that makes it easy for sleepovers or guest accommodations. Certain models can be dismantled to become two separate beds. This is a fantastic feature if your children are growing out of their bunk beds or if you plan to move in the future.

The number of beds you select will also affect the cost and design. You could opt for a basic twin-over-twin bunk bed for maximum the floor space. It's also affordable. You might also choose to spend a little more for a durable, solid-wood option with an elegant design that can be able to grow with your kids, and perhaps even accommodate adults down the road.

It is important to check the weight capacity for the bunk beds you choose to ensure they are able to accommodate the number of people you intend to use them for. Some are designed for kids only and can accommodate up to 165 lbs and others have a higher limit on weight that allows them to accommodate growing children and even adults.

It's important to note that a bunkbed is an expensive investment and thus a significant commitment. If you are unsure whether this kind of bed is suitable for your family, check out the showroom of a particular retailer or read reviews from customers on their website. This will give you an idea of the quality and workmanship of the buy bunk bed beds.

Stores

Furniture should be able to serve more than just as a place to study, sleep or relax. Bunk beds with built-in storage options meet this demand, transforming them into multifunctional pieces that champion both function and design. Creative features like multifunctional staircases and integrated drawers offer an easy access to clothes, toys, bed linens and other things that would otherwise clutter the room, and keep them well-organized and easily accessible.

Loft beds with spacious desk areas can transform the space below them into a productive working space. These clever layouts let remote workers or young students to be able to balance sleep, work and play without losing valuable space.

Detachable bunks can be divided into twin beds to accommodate guests during sleepovers or to allow children to mature and then transition to single beds. Bunks with trundle beds that can be removed can be adapted to older kids or adults who prefer sleeping on a full-size mattress.

Finally, larger bunk beds that can allow for sleeping three or four people make a wise purchase for families seeking to maximize space in small bedrooms with high ceilings. These models can be tucked away in tight corners, allowing homeowners to make the most of the space that would otherwise be wasted.

The type of material and the color your bunk bed for kids bed is made from will affect its overall appearance and feel. Wood bunks have a classic, timeless style that is well-suited in contemporary, coastal and farmhouse interiors. Steel bunks are, on the other on the other hand, are a more modern option that is a great match with midcentury and industrial designs.

When shopping for a bunk bed, consider the height of your home's ceilings and any nearby windows or other architectural features. The smaller, more compact designs are easier to assemble. They are great for children who are teens or who are ready to move from the toddler or junior bedroom. Meanwhile, taller bunks offer an airier, more sophisticated look and are better suited for older children or adult sleepers. Some designs include side railings, which provide a greater clearance between the beds. This ensures security and ease of access for everyone.