How to Choose the Best Convertible Bunk Beds
Bunk beds can be an excellent way for children to reduce space and add a playful touch to their rooms. How do you choose the most suitable one?
Choose a bunk bed that separates into two beds when your children outgrow the bunk layout. The most suitable bunk beds are robust and sturdy, with designs that can accommodate multiple kids and sleepovers.
Sturdy Construction
If you're considering adding a bunk bed to your children's bedroom, ensure that it's sturdy enough to hold up to the weight of kids and adults. Make sure you are looking for high-quality construction features like metal tubular frames and solid wood construction that can stand up to the wear and tear of a room shared. Bunk beds are commonly used for sleepovers and overnight summer camps, so they must be able to bear the weight of a group of kids jumping up and down throughout the night.
Many of the best convertible beds are made with a sturdy steel frame. They also come with warranties that increase their durability. Consider choosing a finish that matches your bedroom decor and adding accessories such as trundles or drawers to your bunk bed. This will help prolong the lifespan of your investment.
If you're looking for a budget-friendly option that's still incredibly sturdy opt for the DHP Miles bunk bed. The bunks are designed with an original industrial design that's hip and modern, but the sturdy ladder and safety rails keep kids and adults secure during use. The bottom bunk has an ottoman, which can be used as a sofa or guest bed for when guests come to visit. The bunks ship flat to your home, and are easy to assembly upon arrival.
Another option is the Max & Lily bunk bed that has two twin beds stacked over each other and separates into individual single beds when the days of bunk-bumping are over. The contemporary, minimalist design and color options provide a classic, sleek feel that is perfect for both boys and girls bedrooms. The customer service provided by the company is inconsistent, and customers have complained of damaged shipping.
If you're looking to build a bunk bed that will endure for years and beyond, go for one of the solid wood designs offered by Crate & Kids. This model has a elegant, timeless design that can easily be transformed into two separate twin beds once your children have outgrown it. Choose a neutral finish like espresso or white to go with any color palette, or go for an edgy option like deep pink or navy to brighten your bedroom.
Extra Storage
Bunk beds are a great solution for small spaces, especially for kids bedrooms. Most bunk beds come with drawers underneath them, which gives you more storage space but not taking up floor space. They also have shelves which can be used to hold media centers, bookshelf or other furniture. They're also designed to split down into two separate beds which is a great option for homes with a cottage, extended family or guests from out of town.
If you decide to go with a ladder-style bed, look for one with anti-slip rungs and handholds to make climbing up easier. Some models have a staircase integrated into the frame to give it sleeker appearance and added stability. These types of furniture may not be best for younger children and are better suited for bigger rooms as they take up more space on the floor. Some offer additional storage options, such as built-in shelves or drawers, which can be handy for clothes or toys.
Another option to reduce space is to use the low bunk, which is ideal for small spaces and taller ceilings. This design includes a bottom bunk set at ground level and a top bed that hangs from the side of the frame and saves valuable floor space. Laura Fenton, the author of The Bunk Bed Book, states that it's an excellent option for younger children, but they may feel too babyish when they get older.
A low bunk also has an attractive design and can also be used as a single bed after your child has outgrown the bunk, or when siblings move into their own rooms. The option is available in wood or metal and can be made to fit drawers for storage and a trundle.
Fenton says that she prefers Oeuf’s Perch bunk bed because it's elegant and durable, and it can be separated into twins over the size of a standard bed. It's also GREENGUARD Gold-certified that means it complies with stricter quality of air and chemical standards and doesn't emit noxious smells. The mocha finish and the clean lines are also a draw, as well as the fact that it's sustainably produced and comes from FSC Baltic birch.
Trundle Beds
A trundle bed adds more sleeping space to your kids bunk beds, and it also works as a great guest bed for guests staying over. Some of the best convertible bunk beds come with a spacious full trundle bed under twin beds that's accessible via a built-in stairwell. This kind of bunk bed can be a great option for small bedrooms that don't have enough space to accommodate three beds or for parents who wish to accommodate several children in the same space without losing privacy.
Some bunks come with trundle beds with detachable trundle beds you can use as a pair or to create two twin-sized beds or to create a full-over-full configuration. Some of these bunks come with another staircase that allows you to access the trundle from its own. Some come with an integrated staircase that has built-in storage space or display space below.
The top bunks also come with various colors to match the existing bedroom decor. White finishes are versatile and easy to match with any bedding, while a deep espresso stain or natural wood adds warmth and richness. Other finishes, like soft gray and chic pink work well with a range of color schemes and can be paired with any style of bunk beds.
If you're thinking of using your bunk bed as a guest bedroom think about the overall dimensions and height of the furniture to ensure it's an appropriate fit to your home. If your ceilings are higher then you might want to consider a model with a futon or a sitting area underneath the top bunk. This will provide guests with the opportunity to relax in a comfortable space.
Another way to increase flexibility in a bunk bed is to purchase one built with a desk and dresser drawers. This option can aid your children in staying organized while giving you extra storage for toys, books and clothes. These bunks are great for families with several children or for families with multiple generations which frequently host overnight guests. They typically come with a full-sized bottom bed, and can also be used by adults. Many of these models also come in a variety of finish options to fit your children's preference and match your current furniture for your bedroom, including solid oak, dark walnut and white finishes.
Easy Assembly
The most comfortable convertible bunk beds are usually shipped partially assembled. This is great for parents who have little time or space. best bunk bed with desk of bunk beds also require minimal tools and can be assemble by one or two people. If you're going the DIY route, look for a bunk bed that comes with easy-to-follow directions and pre-cut components to help speed up the assembly process.
It's important to consider the amount of weight your bunk bed can support. Some bunk beds use metal frames that can hold more weight than wood alternatives. If you decide to go with a wooden bunk bed, be sure to verify the type of wood, as some types are more likely to splinter than others.
If you're shopping for a bunk bed ensure that the bed you're considering includes guard rails on both sides of the top of the bed. These guards will prevent your children from falling off their beds at night. This is a frequent cause of head injuries for children who sleep in bunk beds. These guards are especially helpful when you have children younger than who may be afraid to climb out of bed in the middle of the night.
A slide that can be detached is a must-have feature when shopping for bunk beds. This fun addition for your child's room lets children and their friends to race down the slide or send their favorite stuffed animal along for the ride of their life. Some models even have a matching storage staircase for secure top access.
A modern bunk bed with slide that can be detached is a great option for parents who wish to maximize their child's bedroom space without sacrificing safety and functionality. This chic twin over full trundle bed from Max & Lily is crafted with kiln dried pine wood and engineered wood for durability and longevity. It's available in three fresh finishes that easily coordinate with any child's bedroom design. A crisp white finish is perfect for rooms with a cottage or coastal style. Clay or gray finishes can be used with various colors.