How to Choose the Best Convertible Bunk Beds
Bunk beds can be a great way for kids to reduce space and add a playful touch to their rooms. What are the best ways to choose the most suitable one?
When your children are old enough to outgrow the bunk bed configuration, look for a bunk that can be separated into two beds. The best choices will be durable, with the capacity to accommodate sleepovers and multiple kids.
Sturdy Construction
If you're looking to add a bunk bed to your children's bedroom, ensure that it's built to last and can stand up to the weight of children and adults alike. Check for durable construction features such as tubular frames made of steel or solid wood constructions to withstand the wear of a bedroom shared. Bunk beds are commonly used for sleepovers and overnight summer camps, therefore they should be able to bear the weight of multiple kids jumping around and down throughout the night.
best bunk beds with storage of the top convertible beds are made using a sturdy steel frame. They also come with warranties to increase their durability. Consider choosing a finish that matches your bedroom decor and add accessories like trundles or drawers to your bunk bed. This will help prolong the longevity of your investment.
The DHP Miles is a great option for a bunk bed that's affordable and still very sturdy. The bunks sport a distinctive industrial style that is hip and contemporary. However, the ladder and safety rails are durable and will keep children and adults secure. The bottom bunk includes an ottoman that can be used as a couch or guest bed for when family and friends visit. The bunks are shipped flat and can be assembled when they arrive.
Max & Lily is another great alternative. It features two twin beds stacked on top of each other, and it can be separated into single beds once the bunk-bumping period is over. The modern, simple design and color choices provide a classic, sleek design that is perfect for both girls and boys bedrooms. The company's customer support is not always consistent, and some customers have reported shipping damage.
If you're looking to add an extra bunk bed that will endure for years and beyond, go for one of the solid wood designs from Crate & Kids. This model features a sleek, timeless design that is easily transformed from bunks into two separate twin beds when your children have outgrown it. Choose a neutral finish like espresso or white to go with any color scheme or opt for a bold choice like deep pink or navy to add a pop of color to your room.
Extra Storage
Bunk beds are an excellent option for kids' rooms, especially if you have limited space. A lot of bunk beds come with drawers underneath them, which gives you more storage space but not taking up any floor space. These beds are equipped with shelves that can be used for shelves, a media center or other furniture. They're also commonly made to split into two separate beds, which is a smart option for cottages, extended family or guests from out of town.
If you choose a ladder-style bed ensure it comes with handholds and anti-slip rungs to help you climb up. Some have a staircase built into the frame for a more streamlined look and additional stability. These options are not suitable for children younger than 5 years old, and they require more floor space. Some offer extra storage, such as built-in drawers and shelves. These can be useful for clothes or toys.
Another method of reducing space is to use the low bunk, which is perfect for small spaces and taller ceilings. This type of bed includes a bunk at the bottom that's set at ground level and the top bed is suspended from the side of the frame, saving valuable floor space. It's a great choice for kids who are younger, but they may be 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.
A low bunk also offers a unique aesthetic and can be used as a bed for a single person 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 customized to include drawers for storage and a trundle.
Fenton says that she prefers Oeuf's Perch bunk bed because it's sleek sturdy and durable. It can also be separated into twins over an entire bed. It's also certified GREENGUARD Gold, meaning it meets stricter chemical and particle air quality standards and doesn't emit noxious odors. The mocha finish and the clean lines are also a draw and so is the fact that it's sustainably produced and sourced from FSC Baltic Birch.
Trundle Beds
A trundle adds extra sleeping space to your child's bunk beds. It could also be used as a guest bed for guests staying over. Some of the best bunk beds are convertible and come with a trundle that is large enough to fit underneath twin-sized beds, accessible via an integrated staircase. This kind of bunk bed can be an ideal option for rooms that don't have enough space for three beds or for parents who want to accommodate a number of children in the same room without losing privacy.
Other bunks feature trundle beds with detachable trundle beds you can use on their own, either to create two twin-sized beds or to create a full-overfull configuration. Some of these bunks come with an additional staircase that allows you to access the trundle on its own. Some also come with an integrated staircase that has built-in storage or display space below.
The best bunk beds are available in a range of colors that will match your child's existing bedroom decor. White finishes are versatile and easily matched with any bedding, while a rich espresso or natural wood stain adds warmth and richness. Other finishes, like soft gray or chic pink, are great with a broad variety of colors, and can be paired with any design bunk bed.
If you're planning to use your bunk bed as a guest room, consider the overall size and height of the furniture to ensure that it's an appropriate fit for your home. If your ceilings are lower then you might want to think about a bed with the option of a sofa or a seating area under the top bunk. This will provide guests with the opportunity to relax in a comfortable space.
Another method to increase the versatility of bunk beds is to purchase one built with a desk and dresser drawers. This option will help your children remain organized, while giving you more storage for clothing, books, and toys. These bunks are great for families with multiple children or for families with multiple generations who often host overnight guests. Many have a full size bottom bed, and they can also be used by adults. A lot of these models come in a variety of finish options to fit your children's preferences and match your existing furniture for your bedroom, including solid oak, dark walnut, and white finishes.
Easy Assembly
A lot of the top convertible bunk beds are shipped partially assembled, which is ideal for parents who are tight in time and space. These kinds of bunk beds also require a minimum of tools and can be assemble by one or two people. If you're taking the DIY option, choose a bunk bed that comes with clear instructions and pre-cut components to help speed up the assembly process.
Based on the design and material of your bunk bed, it'll be crucial to consider the amount of weight it can hold. Some bunk beds are equipped with metal frames that can withstand more weight. If you opt for a wood bunk bed, make certain to determine the type of wood, as some types tend to be more susceptible to splintering than others.
When shopping for a bunk bed, make sure the model you're looking at has guard rails on both sides of the top of the bed. These guards will prevent your children from slipping off their bunks at night. This is a common reason for head injuries in children who sleep on bunk beds. These guards are especially useful if your kids are young and may be afraid of climbing out of bed at night.
Another must-have feature when looking for bunk beds is a slide that is detachable. This exciting feature for your child's room lets friends and siblings race down the slide together, or send their beloved stuffed animals on the adventure of their lives. Some models even come with a matching storage staircase for secure top access.
A bunk bed that has slide that can be removed is a great choice for parents who are seeking to maximize space in their child's bedroom without sacrificing safety and 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 longevity. It's available in three contemporary colors that are easy to match with any kiddo's bedroom design scheme. A white, crisp finish is a reliable choice for rooms with a coastal or cottage theme and clay or gray finishes complement a wide range of color palettes.