How to Choose the Best Convertible Bunk Beds
Bunk beds can be a great way for kids to save space while adding an exciting touch to their rooms. But how can you choose the best one?
Choose a bunk bed that splits into two beds when your kids outgrow the bunk arrangement. The best bunk beds will be sturdy and have a design that can accommodate multiple children and sleepovers.
Sturdy Construction
If you're planning to add a bunk bed in your child's bedroom, be sure it's sturdy enough to hold up to the weight of both kiddos as well as adults. Look for features that are durable such as metal tubular frames or solid wood construction to endure the wear and tear of a shared bedroom. Bunk beds are often used for sleepovers and summer camps, therefore they must be able to handle the weight of a group of kids bouncing up and down throughout the night.
The majority of the top convertible beds are constructed with a strong steel frame. They also come with warranties to increase their durability. Find a finish that complements the decor of your bedroom and think about adding additional bunk bed accessories, such as storage drawers or trundles in order to prolong 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 look that is hip and contemporary. However, the ladder and safety rails are durable and keep kids and adults secure. The bottom bunk is equipped with an ottoman that can be used as couch or a guest bed for family and friends. The bunks are shipped flat and can be assembled when they arrive.
Another great option is the Max & Lily bunk bed with two twin beds stacked on top of one another and separates into individual single beds after the time for bunk-bumping is over. The minimalist modern design and color options create a sleek, classic feel that's ideal for both boys and girls bedrooms. However the customer service of the company is inconsistent and customers have reported issues with damage from shipping.
If you're looking to add 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 will easily convert from bunks to two separate twin beds when your kids are old enough to take it. Choose a neutral hue such as espresso or white that blends with any color scheme, or a bolder choice like deep blue or pink to energize the space.
Extra Storage
Bunk beds are the perfect solution for smaller spaces, especially in the case of kids' bedrooms. Many bunks have drawers underneath, which gives you more storage without taking up the floor space. They also come with shelves which can be used to hold media centers, bookshelf or other furniture. They're also made to split into two separate twin beds which is a useful feature for homes with a cottage, extended family or out-of-town guests.
If you opt for a ladder-style bed, look for one with anti-slip rungs and hand holds to make climbing up easier. Some have a staircase built into the frame for sleeker appearance and additional stability. These types of furniture are not suitable for children under the age of 5 and require more space on the floor. Some also offer extra storage, like built-in shelves and drawers, which can be useful for toys or clothes.
Low bunks are another way to save floor space. They're ideal for spaces with high ceilings as well as small spaces. This style includes a bunk at the bottom that's set at ground level and the top bed is suspended from the frame's side, saving valuable floor space. It's a good option for younger kids but might feel too babyish as they grow older, says Laura Fenton, author of The Bunk Bed Book: The 115 Ideas for Lofts, Lofts and Cozy Nooks.
Low bunks are also distinctive and can be used to create an individual bed when your child is old enough to leave the bunk or when the siblings move into their own rooms. This option is available in wood and metal and can be made to order with storage drawers or a trundle.
Fenton says she prefers Oeuf's Perch bunk because it's stylish and is made of durable materials and can be divided into a twin and the size of a full-size bed. It's also certified GREENGUARD Gold, meaning it meets stricter chemical and particle air quality standards and doesn't emit foul smells. The mocha finish and clean lines are also appealing, as well as the fact that it's sustainable and sourced from FSC Baltic birch.
Trundle Beds
A trundle can add more sleeping space to your children's bunk beds. It can also be used as a guest bed to accommodate overnight visitors. The best bunk beds can be converted and include a full-sized trundle under twin beds, which is accessible via an integrated staircase. best double bunk beds of bunk bed is an excellent option for smaller bedrooms that don't have enough room for three beds, or for parents who want to accommodate several children in a single room without having to compromise privacy or space.
Other bunks feature trundle beds that can be detached and can put on their own, either to create two separate twin-sized beds or to create a full-over-full configuration. Some of these bunks come with a second staircase to allow you to access the trundle from its own. Others come with an integrated staircase that has built-in storage space or display space below.
The best bunk beds are available in a variety of colors to match your child's current bedroom decor. White finishes are versatile and can be matched with any bedding, while a dark espresso or natural wood stain provides warmth and a richness. Other finishes, such as soft gray or chic pink can be used with a wide range of color palettes, and can be matched with any style of bunk bed.
If you plan to utilize the bunk bed in your home as a guest bedroom, be sure that it is appropriate for your home's size and height. If you have lower ceilings, search for a design that includes the futon or sitting space beneath the top bunk to give guests a comfy place to sleep.
Another way to increase versatility of a bunk bed is to purchase one built with a desk and dresser drawers. This can help your children keep their rooms organized, while giving you more storage for books, clothing and toys. Many of these bunks have an extra-large bottom bed and can be used by adults as well, making them ideal for families with multiple children or multigenerational families who frequently host overnight guests. A lot of these models come with a variety of finishes options to match your child's preference and match your current furniture for bedrooms, such as solid oak, dark walnut and white finishes.
Easy Assembly
Many of the best convertible bunk beds come partially assembled, which is great for parents who are short on space and time. These beds are simple to put together and require only the use of a few tools. If you're planning to go the DIY option, choose a bunk bed that comes with easy-to-follow instructions and pre-cut parts to help speed up the assembly process.
Depending on the design and material of your bunk bed, it's crucial to consider the amount of weight it can support. Certain bunk beds are constructed with metal frames, which can hold more weight than wood options. Additionally, if you choose a wooden bunk bed it is crucial to consider the type of wood you choose because some types are more prone to splintering than others.
When buying a bunk bed, ensure that the model you are considering has guard rails on either side of the top level. These guards can keep your children from falling off their bunks at night. This is a common cause of head injuries for children who sleep on bunk beds. These guards can be especially useful if your children are still young and afraid of climbing out of bed at night.
A detachable slide is a must-have feature when looking for bunk beds. This fun addition to the room of your child lets friends and siblings race down the slide with each other or send their beloved stuffed animals on the adventure of their lives. Some models have a staircase that is a match for top access.
A modern bunk bed with slide that can be detached is an excellent choice for parents looking to maximize their child's bedroom space without sacrificing safety or functionality. This fashionable twin over full trundle bed from Max & Lily is crafted from kiln-dried pine wood and engineered wood to ensure durability and long-lasting. It comes in three different finishes to match the decor of any child's bedroom. A white, crisp finish is a fail-proof pick for rooms with a coastal or cottage theme and clay or gray finishes complement a wide range of colors.