How to Choose the Best Convertible Bunk Beds
Bunk beds can be an excellent way for children to reduce space and add an exciting touch to their rooms. But how do you select a good one?
Look for bunk beds that can be divided into two beds when your kids are old enough to be in the bunk layout. The best bunk beds are sturdy and have designs that can accommodate multiple children and sleepovers.
Sturdy Construction
If you are looking to build bunk beds in your children's bedroom, ensure that they can stand up to the weight of kids and adults. Check for durable construction features such as tubular frames made of steel or solid wood construction to stand up to the demands of a shared bedroom. Bunk beds are typically used for sleepovers and summer camps, therefore they should be able to bear the weight of multiple kids jumping around and down throughout the night.
The best convertible bunk beds have a durable steel frame that's built to last, and many are also covered by a warranty to further increase their longevity. Consider choosing a finish that matches your bedroom decor, and add accessories like trundles or drawers to your bunk bed. This will help you extend the life of your investment.
The DHP Miles is a great option for bunk beds that are affordable and yet very durable. The bunks have a unique industrial style that is hip and modern. The ladder and safety rails are sturdy and ensure that both adults and children are secure. The bottom bunk has the futon that can be used as a couch or guest bed when friends and family visit. The bunks are shipped flat and require simple assembly when they arrive.
Max & Lily is another great alternative. It comes with two twin beds stacked one on top of the other, and it can be split into two beds after the bunk-bumping stage is finished. The contemporary, minimalist design and color options give a classic and clean design that is perfect for both boys and girls bedrooms. The company's customer support is not always consistent, and some customers have reported shipping damage.
If you're looking to add a bunk bed that will last through the years and beyond, you should opt for one of the solid wood designs from Crate & Kids. best triple bunk has a sleek, timeless design that can be easily transformed from bunks into two separate twin beds after your children have outgrown it. Pick a neutral finish such as white or espresso to blend with any color scheme or choose the boldest option, like deep pink or navy to add a pop of color to your bedroom.
Extra Storage
Bunk beds are the perfect solution for smaller areas, particularly in the case of kids' bedrooms. A lot of bunks have drawers beneath, which gives you more storage space without taking up floor space. They also have shelves that can be used as a media center, bookshelf or other furniture. They're also commonly designed to be split into two separate beds, which is a smart option for cottages, extended family or out-of-town guests.
If you decide to go with a ladder-style bed, search for one with anti-slip rungs and handholds to make climbing up easier. Some beds come with a built-in staircase for an elegant appearance and greater stability. These aren't suitable for children under the age of 5 and require more space on the floor. Some have additional storage options like built-in shelves and drawers. These can be useful for toys or clothes.
Another way to save space is to use a low bunk, which is ideal for smaller spaces and higher ceilings. This style has a bottom bunk that's set at ground level, and a top bed that hangs from the frame's side, saving valuable floor space. It's a great choice for younger kids but might be too childish as they get older, says Laura Fenton, author of The Bunk Bed Book: The 115 Ideas for Lofts, Lofts and Cozy Nooks.
Low bunks are also unique and can be used to make a single bed when your child reaches the age of the bunk or when the siblings move to their own rooms. The bunk is available in metal or wood and can be customized to include drawers for storage and a trundle.
Fenton says she prefers Oeuf’s Perch bunk bed because it is sleek and durable, and it can be split into twins to make the size of a standard bed. It's also GREENGUARD Gold-certified which means it meets the strictest quality of air and chemical standards and doesn't emit noxious odors. It's also attractive because of its mocha finish, clean lines and its sustainable nature.
Trundle Beds
Trundle beds add sleeping space to your kids' bunks, and it can also be used as a guest bed for guests staying over. Some of the most popular convertible bunk beds feature the large trundle bed under twin beds that are accessible via a built-in staircase. This kind of bunk bed is a terrific alternative for bedrooms that do not have enough space for three beds, or for parents looking to accommodate multiple children in a single room without losing privacy or space.
Some bunks have trundle beds with detachable trundle beds you can use as a pair to create two twin-sized beds or create a full-over-full configuration. Some of these bunks have another staircase that allows you to access the trundle on its own. Others come with an integrated staircase that has built-in storage or display space below.
Some of the best bunk beds are available in a variety of colors to complement your child's existing bedroom decor. White finishes are versatile and easy to match with any bedding, while a rich espresso stain or natural wood gives warmth and depth. Other finishes, such as soft gray and chic pink play well with a variety of color palettes and coordinate with any style of bunk beds.
If you're planning to use your bunk bed as a guest bedroom think about the overall dimensions and the height of the furniture to ensure that it's suitable for your home. If your ceilings are higher, you may want to consider a model with an ottoman or a sitting area underneath the top bunk. This will provide guests with an inviting place to sleep.
A bunk bed with drawers for an office and an armoire can be an excellent way to expand the flexibility of your bed. This can help your children keep their rooms organized, while providing you with more storage space for books, clothes, and toys. These bunks are ideal for families with multiple children or for families with multiple generations who often host overnight guests. A majority of them have a full size bottom bed and can also be used by adults. A lot of these models come with a variety of finishes options to match your child's taste and complement your current furniture for your bedroom, including solid oak, dark walnut, and white finishes.
Easy Assembly
Many of the best convertible bunk beds ship partially assembled, which is great for parents who are short in space and time. These bunk beds are easy to assemble and require only some tools. If you plan to DIY pick a bunk bed with clear instructions and pre-cut pieces to make the assembly easier.
It is important to think about the weight that your bed can bear. Some bunk beds use metal frames that can hold more weight than wood alternatives. If you opt for a wood bunk bed, be sure to verify the kind of wood you choose, because some kinds are more prone to splinter than others.
When shopping for a bunk bed, ensure that the bed you're considering has guard rails on both sides of the topmost level. These guards can prevent your children from slipping off their bunks in the night. This is a common reason for head injuries in children who sleep in bunk beds. These guards are particularly useful if your kids are young and may be afraid of climbing out of bed at night.
Another must-have feature when you are looking for a bunk bed is a slide that is detachable. This exciting feature for your child's room lets siblings and friends race down the slide together or send their favorite stuffed animals on the adventure of their lives. Some models come with a staircase for top access.
A sleek bunk bed with slide that can be detached is a great option for parents looking to maximize the space in their child's bedroom without sacrificing safety or functionality. This chic twin over full trundle bunk bed from Max & Lily is crafted from kiln-dried pine wood and engineered wood to ensure durability and longevity. It comes in three different colors to complement the decor of your child's bedroom. A clean white finish is a reliable choice for coastal or cottage rooms and gray or clay finishes work well with a wide range of color palettes.