How to Choose the Best Convertible Bunk Beds
Bunk beds are a great way to reduce space and add a fun touch of style to children's rooms. But how do you select the best one?
Look for a bunk bed that splits into two beds when your kids outgrow the bunk layout. The best option will be durable and with the capacity to handle sleepovers, multiple kids and more.
Sturdy Construction
If you're looking to add bunk beds to your children's room, make sure that they can stand up to the weight of kids and adults. Make sure you are looking for high-quality construction features such as tubular frames made of metal and solid wood construction that can stand up to the wear and tear of a room shared. Bunk beds are often used for sleepovers and summer camps, so they should be able to handle the weight of a group of kids jumping around and down throughout the night.
The majority of the top convertible beds are made using a sturdy steel frame. They also come with warranties that increase their durability. Look for a finish that complements your existing bedroom decor, and consider adding other bunk bed accessories like storage drawers or trundles in order to prolong the life of your investment.
For a low-cost option that's also extremely durable, look for the DHP Miles bunk bed. The bunks are distinctive with an industrial style that is hip and contemporary. However, the ladder and safety rails are sturdy and keep kids and adults secure. The bottom bunk includes an ottoman, which can be used as a couch or guest bed for when guests visit. The bunks arrive flat to your home, and are easy to assembly when they arrive.
Max & Lily is another excellent alternative. It features two twin beds, on top of each other, and can be split into single beds once the bunk-bumping period 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 company's customer service is not consistent and customers have reported issues with shipping damage.
If you're looking to add a bunk bed that will endure for years and beyond, you should opt for one of the solid wood designs from Crate & Kids. This model has a sleek, timeless design that is easily transformed from bunks into two separate twin beds when your children are old enough to use it. Choose a neutral color like espresso or white to go with any color scheme or opt for an edgy option like deep pink or navy to add a pop of color to your space.
Extra Storage
Bunk beds are an excellent option for rooms for children, especially if you have limited space. A lot of bunks have drawers beneath, which gives you more storage space without taking up floor space. These beds are equipped with shelves which can be used as a media center, bookshelf or other furniture. They're also often designed to be split into two separate beds which is a useful option for families with extended homes or out-of-town guests.
If you decide to go with a ladder style bed, make sure it has handholds and anti-slip rungs that make it easier to climb up. Some beds have a staircase built into the frame to give it sleeker appearance and additional stability. These types of furniture are not suitable for younger children, and they require more floor space. Some of them also have additional storage options, such as built-in shelves or drawers, which are useful for toys or clothes.
Another option to reduce space is to use a low bunk, which is perfect for small spaces and taller ceilings. This type of bed has an underbed that is at the level of the ground, and a top bunk that is attached to the frame's sides to make use of the floor space. It's a great option for younger kids but might be too childish as they get older, explains Laura Fenton, author of The Bunk Bed Book: 115 Designs for Lofts, Lofts and Cozy Nooks.
A low bunk can also provide an unique design and can also be used as a single bed after your child has outgrown the bunk, or when siblings move into their own rooms. The bunk is available in wood or metal and can be customized to include drawers for storage and a trundle.
Fenton says she prefers Oeuf's Perch bunk bed because it is stylish sturdy and durable. It can also be divided into twins over the size of a standard bed. It is also GREENGUARD gold certified which means it complies with the highest standards for chemical and particle air pollution and does not emit odors that are unpleasant. The mocha finish and clean lines are also a draw in addition to the fact that it's sustainable and sourced from FSC Baltic birch.
Trundle Beds
Trundles add additional sleeping space to your children's bunk beds. It could also be used as a guest room bed for overnight visitors. Some of the top convertible bunk beds include the large trundle bed beneath twin-sized beds that are accessible through a built-in staircase. This type of bunk bed is a terrific option for smaller rooms that don't have enough room for three beds, or for parents who wish to accommodate multiple children in one room without having to compromise space or privacy.
Some bunks have trundle bed beds that can be detached and used as a separate unit to create two twin-sized beds, or a full-overfull configuration. Some of these bunks have another staircase that allows you to access the trundle independently. best bunk bed ideas have an integrated staircase with built-in storage space or display space below.
The best bunk beds are available in a range of colors to complement 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 gives warmth and depth. Other finishes, like soft gray or chic pink can be used with a wide range of color palettes, and can be coordinated with any design bunk bed.
If you're planning on using your bunk bed as a guest bedroom, consider the overall size and height of the furniture to ensure that it's an appropriate fit for your home. If you have lower ceilings, look for a model that has a futon or sitting area under the top bunk, to provide guests a comfortable place to sleep.
Another method to increase the flexibility in bunk beds is to purchase one designed with desk and dresser drawers. This can help your children to remain organized, while giving you more storage for books, clothing and toys. A lot of these bunks come with the capacity of a full-size bed at the bottom and are suitable for adults also, which makes them an ideal choice for families with multiple children or families with multigenerational members who frequently host overnight guests. A lot of these models come in a variety of finish options to match your child's preferences and match your existing furniture for your bedroom, including solid oak, dark walnut and white finishes.
Easy Assembly
The best convertible bunk beds are usually shipped partially assembled. This is great for parents with little time or space. These bunk beds also require only a few tools and can be assembled by a couple of people. If you are going to DIY, choose a bed that has clear instructions and pre-cut pieces that accelerate the assembly.
Depending on the style and material of your bunk bed, it'll be important to consider how much weight it can support. Certain bunk beds are constructed with metal frames, which can hold more weight than wood options. In addition, if you opt for a wooden bunk bed it is important to pay attention to the kind of wood used because some types are more prone to splintering than other.
If you're shopping for a bunk bed ensure that the bed you're considering includes guard rails on both sides of the top of the bed. These guards can prevent your children from rolling off their beds at night. This is a common cause of head injuries for children who sleep in bunk beds. These guards are especially helpful for children who are younger who might be scared to climb out of bed in the middle of the night.
A slide that can be detached is a must-have feature when you are looking for bunk beds. This exciting feature for your child's room allows siblings and friends to race down the slide with each other or send their favourite stuffed animals along for the adventure of their lives. Some models come with a matching storage staircase for secure top access.
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 room without sacrificing safety and functionality. This fashionable twin over full trundle bed from Max & Lily is crafted with kiln dried pine wood and engineered wood for strength and longevity. It comes in three different colors to complement the decor of any child's bedroom. A crisp white finish is a perfect choice for coastal or cottage rooms and clay or gray finishes work well with a wide range of color palettes.