How to Choose the Best Convertible Bunk Beds
Bunk beds are an ideal way for kids to reduce space and add fun to their rooms. But how do you select a good one?
Find bunk beds that can be divided into two beds when your kids are old enough to be in the bunk configuration. The best options will also be durable and with designs that can handle multiple kids and sleepovers.
Sturdy Construction
If you are looking to add bunk beds to your children's room, make sure that they are able to withstand the weight of kids and adults. Make sure you are looking for features of durable construction like tubular frames made of metal or solid wood constructions to withstand the wear of a bedroom shared. Bunk beds can be used for sleepovers or summer overnight camps. They need to be sturdy enough to withstand the weight of many children who are jumping around all night.
Many of the best convertible beds are made with a sturdy steel frame. They also come with warranties that increase their durability. Look for an aesthetic that is compatible with your bedroom decor and think about adding other bunk bed accessories such as storage drawers or trundles to extend the lifespan of your new investment.
The DHP Miles is a great option for bunk beds that aren't expensive and still very sturdy. The bunks feature a unique industrial design that's hip and contemporary, while the sturdy ladder and safety rails keep children and adults safe during use. The bottom bunk has an ottoman which can be used as couch or a guest bed for family and friends. The bunks are delivered flat to your home, and are easy to assembly on arrival.
Max & Lily is another excellent option. It comes with two twin beds that are stacked on top of each other, and it can be split into single beds once the bunk-bumping period is over. The minimalist, modern design and colors provide a clean classic look that's great for both girls and boys 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 features a sleek, timeless design that is easily transformed into two separate twin beds after your children have outgrown it. Choose a neutral color like espresso or white that will blend with any colour scheme, or a bolder choice like deep blue or pink to energize the space.
Extra Storage
Bunk beds are a great option for rooms for children particularly when you have a small space. There are many bunks with drawers underneath, which gives you more storage space, but does not take up the floor space. These beds also come with shelves that can be used to house shelves for books, a media center or other furniture. They're also designed to be 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 choose to buy a ladder-style bed, search for one with anti-slip rungs and hand holds to make climbing easier. Some have a staircase built into the frame to give it a more streamlined look and extra stability. These options might not work well for children younger than 5 years old and are best suited to larger spaces since they require more area on the floor. Some have additional storage options, such as built-in shelves and drawers. These can be useful for clothes or toys.
Another method of reducing space is to have a low-level bunk, which is ideal for smaller spaces and higher ceilings. This type of bed has a bottom bunk that's set at ground level and the top bed hangs from the frame's side and saves valuable floor space. Laura Fenton, the author of The Bunk Bed Book, says that it's a great option for children who are young however they might be too childish as they get older.
A low bunk can also provide an unique design and can be used as a single bed when your child is no longer able to use the bunk, or after siblings move into their own rooms. The option is available in metal and wood and can be customised with storage drawers or a trundle.
Fenton says she prefers Oeuf’s Perch bunk bed because it's elegant sturdy and durable. It can also be separated into twins over the size of a standard bed. It's also GREENGUARD Gold certified which means it meets the strictest chemical and particle air quality standards and doesn't emit foul smells. It's also attractive because of its mocha finish, clean lines, and sustainable nature.
Trundle Beds
A trundle bed can add more sleeping space to your children bunk beds, and also works as a great guest bed for overnight guests. Some of the best bunk beds can be converted and include a full-sized trundle under twin beds, which is accessible via an integrated staircase. This kind of bunk bed is an excellent option for smaller rooms that do not have enough space for three separate beds or for parents who want to accommodate multiple children in one space without sacrificing space or privacy.
Other bunks feature trundle beds with detachable trundle beds you can use as a pair to create two 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 range of colors to match your child's current bedroom decor. White finishes are versatile, and can be matched with any bedding. A deep natural stain or espresso will add warmth and richness. Other finishes, such as soft gray or chic pink, are great with a broad range of color palettes, and can be paired with any style bunk bed.
If you're planning on using your bunk bed as a guest room, consider the overall size and height of the furniture to ensure it's a good fit for your home. If you have lower ceilings, search for a model that has a futon or sitting area underneath the top bunk to give guests a comfortable place to rest.
Another method to increase the flexibility in a bunk bed is by purchasing one that's built with a desk and dresser drawers. This can help your children remain organized, while providing more storage space for clothing, books and toys. These bunks are ideal for families with several children, or for multigenerational households which 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 range of finish options to suit your children's taste and complement your current furniture for your bedroom, including solid oak, dark walnut, and white finishes.
Easy Assembly
A lot of the top convertible bunk beds ship partially assembled, which is ideal for parents who are limited in time and space. They are simple to put together and require just the use of a few tools. If you're planning to go the DIY route, look for a bunk bed that comes with clear instructions and pre-cut components to help speed up the assembly process.
Depending on the design and materials of your bunk bed, it'll be important to think about the amount of weight it can hold. Some bunk beds have metal frames that can hold more weight than wood options. If you choose a wood bunk bed, be sure to verify the type of wood used, because some kinds tend to be more susceptible 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 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 especially helpful when you have children younger than who might be scared to climb out of bed in the middle of the night.
best quality bunk beds must-have feature when you are looking for a bunk bed is a slide that is detachable. This fun addition for your child's room lets children and their friends to race down the slide, or take their favorite stuffed animal along for the ride of their life. Some models even have a storage staircase that is matched for secure top access.
A bunk bed that has slides that can be removed is a great choice for parents seeking to maximize space in their child's room without sacrificing safety and functionality. This fashionable twin over full trundle bed from Max & Lily is crafted using kiln-dried pine wood as well as engineered wood for strength and long-lasting. It's available in three fresh designs that can easily fit into any child's bedroom design. A white, crisp finish will work well in coastal or cottage-style rooms. Clay or gray finishes can be paired with a variety of color schemes.