How to Choose the Best Convertible Bunk Beds
Bunk beds can be an ideal way for kids to save space while adding a playful touch to their rooms. How do you choose the most suitable one?
Find bunk beds that can be divided into two beds when your kids outgrow the bunk arrangement. The best options will also be durable, with a design that can handle multiple kids and sleepovers.
Sturdy Construction
If you're considering adding a bunk bed in your child's bedroom, ensure that it's built to last and can stand up to the weight of kids and adults. Look for features that are durable like tubular frames made of metal or solid wood construction that can stand up to the demands of a shared bedroom. Bunk beds are often used for sleepovers and summer camps, therefore they need to be able to withstand the weight of multiple children jumping up and down throughout the night.
Many of the best convertible beds are built with a strong steel frame. They also have warranties to improve their durability. Choose an option that matches your existing bedroom decor Consider adding other bunk bed accessories such as storage drawers or trundles to extend the life of your new investment.
The DHP Miles is a great option for a bunk bed that's affordable and still very sturdy. The bunks are designed with an original industrial design that's hip and modern, but the sturdy ladder and safety rails help keep both kids and adults safe during use. The bottom bunk has an ottoman that can be used as a couch or guest bed for when friends and family visit. The bunks ship flat to your home, and are easy to assembly when they arrive.
Max & Lily is another excellent option. best bunk bed in the world has two twin beds that are stacked one on top of the other, and it can be divided into single beds once the bunk-bumping phase is over. The simple, modern design and color choices create a sleek classic look that's perfect for both boys and girls bedrooms. However the customer service of the company is inconsistent and customers have reported issues with damage from shipping.
Crate & Kids offers solid wooden bunk beds built to last. This model is modern, sleek design that can easily be transformed into two separate twin beds when your children outgrow it. Pick a neutral finish such as espresso or white to blend with any color scheme or choose a bold choice like deep pink or navy to add a pop of color to your bedroom.
Extra Storage
Bunk beds are a great option for kids' rooms particularly if you have limited space. Many bunk beds have drawers beneath them, giving you more storage space without taking up any floor space. These beds come with shelves that can be used for bookshelf, a media centre or other furniture. They're also commonly designed to split down into two separate twin beds which is a useful option for homes with a cottage, extended family or guests from out of town.
If you decide to go with a ladder-style bed, search for one that has anti-slip rungs as well as hand holds to make climbing up easier. Some beds have a staircase built into the frame to give it a more streamlined look and added stability. These choices might not be best for younger children and are best suited to larger rooms since they require more area on the floor. Some offer additional storage, like built-in shelves and drawers, which are handy for clothes or toys.
Another option to reduce space is to have a low bunk, which is great for smaller spaces and taller ceilings. This style features an underbed that is at the level of the ground and a top one that is attached to the frame's sides to make use of the floor space. It's a great choice for children who are young, but it could appear too childish as they get older, explains Laura Fenton, author of The Bunk Bed Book: A collection of 115 designs for Lofts, Lofts and Cozy Nooks.
Low bunks are also unique and can be used to make an individual bed when your child is old enough to leave the bunk or when siblings move to their own rooms. The bunk is available in metal or wood and can be made to fit storage drawers and a trundle.
Fenton says she likes Oeuf's Perch bunk because it looks sleek, is made of sturdy materials, and can be separated into a twin over the size of a full-size bed. It's also GREENGUARD Gold certified, which means it meets the stricter standards for chemical and particle air pollution and doesn't emit foul odors. The mocha finish and clear lines are also appealing, as well as the fact that it's sustainably produced and sourced from FSC Baltic birch.
Trundle Beds
Trundles add additional sleeping space to your child's bunk beds. It can also serve as a guest room bed for guests staying overnight. Some of the most popular convertible bunk beds feature an expansive full trundle bed that is placed beneath twin beds that can be accessed via a built-in staircase. This kind of bunk bed is an ideal option for bedrooms that do not have enough space to accommodate three beds or for parents who wish to accommodate multiple children in one room without having to compromise privacy.
Some bunks have trundle beds with detachable trundle beds you can use as a pair, either to create two separate twin-sized beds or to create a full-over-full configuration. Some of these bunks come with an additional staircase that allows you to access the bed trundle separately, while others feature an integrated staircase with built-in storage shelves or a display area below.
The top bunks also come with various colors to match the existing bedroom decor. White finishes are versatile, and can be matched with any bedding. A rich natural or espresso stain will bring warmth and a richness. Other finishes, like soft gray and chic pink, work well with a range of colors and work with any style of bunk beds.
If you're planning on using your bunk bed as a guest room take into consideration the overall size and height of the furniture to ensure that it's suitable to your home. If you have lower ceilings, look for a design that includes an ottoman or a sitting area beneath the top bunk, to provide guests a cozy spot to rest.
Another way to boost versatility of a bunk bed is by purchasing one that's designed with desk and dresser drawers. This option will help your children remain organized, while providing more storage space for books, clothes and toys. Many of these bunks feature an extra-large bottom bed and are suitable for adults, as well, making them a great choice for households with several children or multigenerational families who frequently host overnight guests. These models come in a variety of finishes to suit your child's tastes and complement existing bedroom furniture.
Easy Assembly
The best convertible bunk beds are often shipped partially assembled. This is great for parents who have limited time and space. These bunk beds also require only a few tools and can be put together by a couple of people. If you intend to DIY, choose the bunk bed that comes with clear instructions and pre-cut pieces that speed up the assembly.
Based on the design and material of your bunk bed, it's important to consider how much weight it can carry. Certain bunk beds are constructed with metal frames, which can support more weight than wood options. If you opt for a wood bunk bed, make certain to determine the type of wood used, as some types are more likely to splinter than others.
When shopping for a bunk bed, ensure that the bed you're considering includes guard rails on both sides of the top level. These can prevent your kids from falling asleep at night, which is a common cause of head injuries for children who sleep in bunk beds. These guards are particularly helpful for children who are younger who are afraid to get up in the middle of the night.
A detachable slide is another must-have when shopping for bunk beds. This fun addition for your child's bedroom lets children and their friends to race down the slide or send their favorite animal on the thrill of their lives. Some models come with a staircase for top access.
A modern bunk bed with a detachable slide is an excellent choice for parents who want to make the most of their child's bedroom space without sacrificing safety or functionality. Max and Lily's elegant twin over full trundle bed is made of kiln dried pine wood and engineered wood for durability and long-lasting use. It's available in three contemporary designs that can easily fit into any kiddo's bedroom design scheme. A white, crisp finish is a fail-proof pick for cottage or coastal rooms and clay or gray finishes work well with a wide range of color palettes.