How to Choose the Best Convertible Bunk Beds
Bunk beds are a great option to save space and add a fun touch of decoration to kids' rooms. How do you choose the best one?
Choose a bunk bed that splits into two beds once your kids outgrow the bunk configuration. The most suitable bunk beds are robust and feature a design that can accommodate multiple kids and sleepovers.
Sturdy Construction
If you're planning to add a bunk bed in your child's bedroom, make sure that it's built to last and can stand up to the weight of kids as well as adults. Check for 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 shared room. Bunk beds are typically used for sleepovers and summer camps, therefore they should be able to bear the weight of several kids bouncing up and down throughout the night.
The best convertible bunk beds have a durable steel frame that's built to last. Many are also covered by a warranty to extend their lifespan. You should consider picking a finish that matches your bedroom decor and adding accessories such as trundles and drawers to your bunk bed. This will help you extend the longevity of your investment.
The DHP Miles is a great option for bunk beds that are affordable and yet very durable. The bunks sport a distinctive industrial look that is hip and modern. However, the ladder and safety rails are strong and ensure that both adults and children are secure. The bottom bunk is equipped with an ottoman that can be used as a couch or guest bed for when guests come to visit. The bunks are shipped flat and are ready for assembly when they arrive.
Max & Lily is another great alternative. It comes with two twin beds 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 color options give it a clean classic look that's great for both girls and boys bedrooms. However the customer service of the company isn't always consistent, and customers have reported issues with shipping damage.
Crate & Kids offers solid wood bunk beds that are constructed to last. This model has a elegant, timeless design that can be easily transformed into two separate twin beds when your children outgrow it. Pick a neutral finish such as espresso or white to go with any color palette or choose an edgy option like deep navy or pink to energize your space.
Extra Storage
Bunk beds can be an ideal solution for small spaces, particularly in the case of children' bedrooms. Most bunk beds have drawers under them, which gives you more storage space but not taking up any floor space. They also have shelves that can be used to store media centers, bookshelf or other furniture. They're also often made to split into two separate beds, which is a smart feature for cottages, extended family or guests from out of town.
If you opt for a ladder-style bed, look for one with anti-slip rungs and handholds to make climbing up easier. Some models have a staircase integrated into the frame for a more streamlined look and additional stability. These options might not work best for children who are younger and are best suited to larger rooms since they take up more area on the floor. Some offer extra storage like built-in drawers and shelves. This is a great option for clothes or toys.
Low bunks are a different way to make the most of floor space. They are ideal for rooms with high ceilings as well as smaller spaces. This type of bed has an underbed at ground level, and a top bunk which hangs from the side of the frame to make use of the floor space. Laura Fenton, the author of The Bunk Bed Book, says that it's a great alternative for younger children, but they may appear too young when they grow older.
A low bunk can also provide an attractive design and can also be used as a single bed when your child is no longer able to use the bunk, or when siblings move into their own rooms. This option is available in metal and wood and can be made to order with storage drawers or a trundle.
Fenton says she prefers Oeuf’s Perch bunk bed because it is sleek sturdy and durable. It can also be split into twins to make the size of a standard bed. It's also GREENGUARD Gold certified which means it complies with the stricter standards for chemical and particle air pollution and does not emit odors that are unpleasant. It's also attractive due its mocha finish, clean lines and its sustainable nature.
Trundle Beds
A trundle bed can add more sleeping space for your kids bunk beds, and it also works as a great guest bed for guests staying overnight. Some of the best convertible bunk beds come with an expansive full trundle bed that is placed beneath twin beds that's accessible through a built-in staircase. This type of bunk bed is a terrific option for smaller bedrooms that don't have enough floor space for three separate beds or for parents looking to accommodate multiple children in one space without sacrificing space or privacy.
Some bunks come with detachable trundle beds that you can put as a pair, either to create two separate twin-sized beds or create a full-over-full configuration. Some of these bunks come with an additional staircase that allows you to access the trundle on its own. Others come with an integrated staircase that has built-in storage space or display space below.
Some of the top bunks also come with different colors to match your kids' existing bedroom decor. White finishes are versatile and can be matched with any bedding, while a rich espresso stain or natural wood provides warmth and a richness. Other finishes, like soft gray and chic pink are a good match with a variety of colors and work with any style of bunk bed.
If you intend to utilize the bunk bed in your home for a guest bedroom, be sure that it is appropriate for your home's size and height. If you have lower ceilings, you should look for a model that incorporates the futon or sitting space beneath the top bunk, to provide guests a cozy spot to sleep.
A bunk bed that has drawers for a desk and an armoire can be a great way to increase the flexibility of your bed. This option will help your children keep their rooms organized, while giving you more storage for clothing, books and toys. Many of these bunks have an extra-large bottom bed and are suitable for adults as well, making them an ideal choice for families with multiple children or multigenerational families who often host guests for overnight stays. These models are available in a range of finishes to match your child's preferences and complement the furniture in your bedroom.
Easy Assembly
A lot of the top convertible bunk beds ship partially assembled, which is ideal for parents who are limited on space and time. These kinds of bunk beds also require a minimum of tools and can be assembled by a couple of people. If you plan to DIY select a bunk bed with clear instructions and pre-cut pieces to accelerate the assembly.
It's important to consider the weight your bunk bed can support. Some bunk beds have frames made of metal that can hold more weight. If you decide to go with a wooden bunk bed, be sure to verify the kind of wood you choose, because some kinds 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 cause of head injuries for children who sleep on bunk beds. These guards are particularly 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 shopping for bunk beds. This fun addition to your child's room lets friends and siblings race down the slide together or send their beloved stuffed animals on the most thrilling ride of their lives. Some models come with a staircase to allow access from the top.
A modern bunk bed with a detachable slide is a great option for parents who want to make the most of their child's bedroom space without sacrificing safety or functionality. This stylish twin over full trundle bed from Max & Lily is crafted from kiln-dried pine wood and engineered wood for strength and long-lasting. It is available in three new finishes to match any child's bedroom decor. A white, crisp finish is a fail-proof pick for cottage or coastal rooms and gray or clay finishes complement a wide range of color palettes.