How to Choose the Best Convertible Bunk Beds
Bunk beds can be an ideal way for kids to make space while adding an exciting touch to their rooms. But how do you pick a good one?
Choose bunk beds that can be divided into two beds when your children outgrow the bunk configuration. The best option will be durable, with designs that can handle sleepovers, multiple kids and more.
Sturdy Construction
If you're looking to add bunk beds to your children's bedroom, ensure that they can withstand the weight of kids and adults. Make sure you are looking for features of durable construction such as tubular frames made of steel or solid wood construction to endure the wear and tear of a shared bedroom. Bunk beds can be used to host sleepovers, or for overnight summer camps. They need to be sturdy enough to withstand the weight of several children who are jumping around all night.
Most of the best convertible bunk beds feature a durable steel frame that's constructed to last, and many are also covered by a warranty to extend their lifespan. Think about picking a color that matches your bedroom decor, and add accessories such as trundles and drawers to your bunk bed. This will help prolong the life of your investment.
The DHP Miles is a great option for bunk beds that are affordable yet extremely sturdy. The bunks are designed with an original industrial design that's hip and modern, however the sturdy ladder and safety rails help keep children and adults secure during use. The bottom bunk is equipped with a futon that can be used as an extra couch, or a guest bed for family and friends. The bunks are shipped flat and require simple assembly when they arrive.
Another great alternative is the Max & Lily bunk bed that has two twin beds that are stacked over each other and separates into individual single beds once the days of bunk-bumping are over. The minimalist modern design and color options give it a clean, classic feel that's ideal for both girls and boys bedrooms. The support provided by the company's customer service is not always consistent, and some customers have complained about shipping damage.
Crate & Kids offers solid wooden bunk beds that are constructed to last. best metal bunk beds has a modern, sleek design that can easily transition from bunks to two separate twin beds once your kids outgrow it. Choose a neutral hue such as espresso or white that will blend with any design scheme, or opt for choose a more striking option like deep pink or blue to bring life to the space.
Extra Storage
Bunk beds are an excellent option for kids' rooms particularly when you have a small space. Most bunk beds have drawers under them, giving you more storage space without taking up floor space. They also have shelves which can be used as shelves, a media center or other furniture. They can also be divided into two twin beds. This is great for cottages, extended families or guests from out of town.
If you choose a bed with a ladder be sure to choose one with handholds and anti-slip rungs to aid in climbing up. Some models have a staircase integrated into the frame for an elegant look and added stability. These types of furniture may not be best for younger children and are best suited to bigger rooms as they take up more floor space. Some offer additional storage options, such as built-in shelves or drawers, which are useful for toys or clothes.
Low bunks are another option to save floor space. They're perfect for spaces with high ceilings as well as small spaces. This design has a bottom bed at ground level and a top bunk that hangs off the frame's sides to free up floor space. Laura Fenton, the author of The Bunk Bed Book, says it's a great alternative for younger children, but they may be too childish as they get older.
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 siblings move into their own rooms. This option comes in wood or metal and can be customized to include drawers for storage and a trundle.
Fenton says she favors Oeuf's Perch bunk because it looks sleek, is constructed of sturdy materials, and can be separated into a twin over a large bed. It's also GREENGUARD gold certified, which means it meets stricter standards for particle and chemical air pollution and doesn't emit foul odors. The mocha finish and the clean lines are also a draw, as well as the fact that it's environmentally friendly and comes from FSC Baltic Birch.
Trundle Beds
Trundles add additional sleeping space for your children's bunk beds, and could also be used as a guest bed to accommodate guests staying over. The best bunk beds can be converted and include a full-sized trundle underneath twin-sized beds, accessible via an integrated staircase. This type of bunk bed can be an ideal option for bedrooms that don't have enough space for three separate beds or for parents who wish to accommodate a number of children in the same space without sacrificing privacy.
Some bunks feature Trundle bed trundles that can be detached and rearranged to create two twin beds or a full-overfull arrangement. Some of these bunks have a second staircase that allows you to access the trundle bed on its own, while others feature an integrated staircase that has built-in storage shelves or display space below.
The best bunks also come in several color options to complement your child's bedroom decor. White finishes are versatile and can be paired with any bedding. A deep espresso or natural stain can add warmth and richness. Other finishes, such as soft gray and chic pink, play well with a variety of color schemes and can be paired with any design of bunk beds.
If you're planning on using your bunk bed as a guest room think about the overall dimensions and the height of the furniture to ensure that it's suitable for your home. If you have lower ceilings, look for a design that includes a futon or sitting area beneath the top bunk to offer guests a cozy spot to sleep.
Another way to increase flexibility in bunk beds is to buy one designed with desk and dresser drawers. This can help your children to keep their rooms organized, while providing you with more storage space for books, clothes and toys. A lot of these bunks come with an extra-large bottom bed and are suitable for adults as well, making them a great choice for households with multiple children or multigenerational families who often host overnight guests. These models are available in a range of finishes to suit the preferences of your child and match existing furniture for bedrooms.
Easy Assembly
A lot of the top convertible bunk beds come partially assembled, which is great for parents who are limited in time and space. These bunk beds are easy to put together and require just the use of a few tools. If you intend to DIY, choose a bed that has clear instructions and pre-cut pieces to accelerate the assembly.
It is crucial to consider the weight that your bunk bed will be able to support. Some bunk beds have metal frames that can withstand more weight. If you decide to go with a wooden bunk bed, make certain to determine the type of wood, because some kinds are more likely to splinter than others.
When shopping for a bunk bed make sure the model you're considering has guard rails on both sides of the topmost level. These guards can keep your children from rolling off their beds at night. This is a frequent reason for head injuries in children who sleep in bunk beds. These guards are especially useful if your kids are young and may be scared of getting out of bed at night.
Another must-have feature when looking for a bunk bed is a slide that is detachable. This exciting addition to your child's bedroom allows siblings and friends race down the slide, or take their favorite stuffed animal along for the adventure of their lives. Some models come with a matching staircase for easy access at the top.
A bunk bed with slide that is able to be removed is a great option for parents seeking to maximize the space in their child's bedroom without sacrificing safety or functionality. Max & Lily's stylish twin over full trundle bed is made from kiln dried pine wood and engineered wood for strength and long-lasting use. It comes in three different finishes to match any child's bedroom decor. A clean white finish is a fail-proof pick for cottage or coastal rooms and gray or clay finishes work well with a wide range of color palettes.