How to Choose the Best Convertible Bunk Beds
Bunk beds are an ideal way for kids to make space while adding an exciting touch to their rooms. What are the best ways to choose the most suitable one?
Find a bunk bed that separates into two beds when your children outgrow the bunk layout. The best options will also be sturdy, with the capacity to 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 stand up to the weight of children and adults. Make sure you are looking for high-quality construction features like metal tubular frames and solid wood construction that can withstand the wear and tear of a shared room. Bunk beds can be used for sleepovers or summer overnight camps. They must be strong enough to support the weight of a group of kids jumping around all night.
A majority of the top convertible beds are built with a strong steel frame. They also come with warranties to increase their durability. Find a finish that complements the decor of your bedroom and think about adding other bunk bed accessories like storage drawers or trundles to prolong the life of your investment.
For an affordable option that's also extremely durable choose the DHP Miles bunk bed. The bunks sport a distinctive industrial design that is trendy and contemporary. However, the ladder and safety rails are durable and ensure that both adults and children are safe. The bottom bunk has a futon that can be used for couch or an extra bed for family and friends. The bunks are shipped flat and are ready for assembly when they arrive.
Max & Lily is another great option. It features two twin beds that are stacked one on top of the other, and it can be divided into two beds after the bunk-bumping stage is finished. The modern, simple design and color options create a classic, clean design that is perfect for both girls and boys bedrooms. The customer service provided by the company is not always consistent, and some customers have reported shipping damage.
Crate & Kids offers solid wood bunk beds that are built to last. This model features a sleek, timeless design that can be easily converted from bunks into two separate twin beds when your children have outgrown it. Pick a neutral shade like white or espresso that will blend with any design scheme, or opt for go for a bolder option such as deep pink or blue to brighten the space.
Extra Storage
Bunk beds are an excellent option for kids' rooms particularly when you are limited in space. There are many bunks with drawers underneath which give you more storage without taking up the floor space. They also have shelves which can be used as a media center, bookshelf or other furniture. They can also be divided into two twin beds. This is perfect for extended families, cottages or visitors from out of town.
If you decide to go with a ladder style bed, make sure it has handholds and anti-slip rungs to make it easier to climb up. Some beds have an integrated staircase for a sleeker look and more stability. These types of furniture may not be well for children younger than 5 years old and are best suited to bigger rooms as they require more area on the floor. Some offer extra storage with built-in shelves and drawers. This is a great option for toys or clothes.
Another way to save space is to use a low bunk, which is perfect for small spaces and taller ceilings. This style includes a bottom bunk placed at the ground level and the top bed hangs from the side of the frame, saving valuable floor space. Laura Fenton, the author of The Bunk Bed Book, states that it's an excellent alternative for younger children however, they might be too childish as they get older.
Low bunks are also unique and can be used to make a single bed when your child reaches the age of the bunk or when siblings move into their own rooms. This option is available in wood and metal and can be customised with a trundle or storage drawers.
Fenton says she prefers Oeuf's Perch bunk because it's sleek and stylish, is made with sturdy materials, and can be separated into a twin and a large bed. It is also GREENGUARD gold certified that means it meets stricter standards for chemical and particle air pollution and doesn't emit odors that are unpleasant. The mocha finish and clean lines are also attractive, as well as the fact that it's environmentally friendly and comes from FSC Baltic Birch.
Trundle Beds
Trundle beds add sleeping space to your kids bunk beds, and is also a great guest bed for overnight guests. Some of the best bunk beds are convertible and include a full-sized trundle under twin beds, which is accessible via an integrated staircase. This type of bunk bed is an excellent option for smaller rooms that don't have enough room for three beds, or for parents who wish to accommodate several children in one room without having to compromise privacy or space.
Some bunks feature trundle bed trundles that can be detached and used as a separate unit to create two twin beds or a full-overfull arrangement. Some of these bunks come with another staircase that lets you to access the trundle bed on its own and others have an integrated staircase that has a built-in storage shelf or display area below.
Some of the most comfortable bunk beds are available in a variety of colors to complement the decor of your child's bedroom. White finishes are versatile and can be matched with any bedding, while a rich espresso or natural wood stain gives warmth and depth. Other finishes, like soft gray and chic pink, play well with a variety of color palettes and coordinate with any style of bunk beds.
If you intend to make use of the bunk bed in your home to serve as an extra bedroom for guests, make sure it fits the size and height of your house. If you have lower ceilings, search for a model that has the futon or sitting space beneath the top bunk, to provide guests a comfy place to sleep.
Another way to increase versatility in bunk beds is by purchasing one that's built with a desk and dresser drawers. This can help your children to stay organized, while also providing more storage space for books, clothing, and toys. A lot of these bunks come with an extra-large bottom bed and can be used by adults as well, making them a great choice for households with multiple children or multigenerational families who frequently host guests for overnight stays. A lot of these models come with a range of finish options to match your child's taste and complement your current bedroom furniture, including solid oak, dark walnut, and white finishes.
Easy Assembly
A lot of the top convertible bunk beds ship partially assembled, which is great for parents who are limited on space and time. These bunk beds also require a minimum of tools and can be put together by a couple of people. If you are going to DIY, choose a bunk bed with clear instructions and pre-cut pieces that make the assembly easier.
Based on the design and materials of your bunk bed, it'll be important to consider how much weight it can support. Some bunk beds have metal frames that can support more weight. If you decide to go with a wooden bunk bed, be certain to determine the kind of wood you choose, as some types are more prone to splinter than others.
When shopping for a bunk bed ensure that the bed you're looking at has guard rails on both sides of the top of the bed. They can stop your children from falling asleep at night and becoming a common cause of head injuries among children who sleep in bunks. These guards are particularly helpful if you have younger children who may be afraid to get out of bed in the middle of the night.
A slide that can be detached is another essential feature to consider when you are looking for bunk beds. This fun addition to the room of your child allows siblings and friends to race down the slide together, or send their favorite stuffed animals on the most thrilling ride of their lives. Some models even come with a storage staircase that is matched for secure top access.
A sleek bunk bed with slide that can be detached is a fantastic option for parents who wish to make the most of their child's bedroom space without sacrificing functionality and safety. This stylish twin over full trundle bed from Max & Lily is crafted with kiln dried pine wood and engineered wood for durability and longevity. It's available in three contemporary finishes that easily coordinate with any child's bedroom design. A clean white finish is perfect for cottage or coastal-style rooms. Clay or gray finishes can be used with different color schemes.