Bunk Beds Are Cooler Than Ever

Whether you're designing an area for children to share or outfitting a dorm, or simply maximizing your space bunk beds are a great choice and more stylish than ever. There are many designs to think about, including twin-over-twin and full-over-full versions.

Find a model that is compatible with your budget and your kids size, and keep in mind that certain bunks can have beds with trundle beds at the bottom for sleepovers.

Size

Bunk beds are a staple of bedrooms for children, providing both efficiency and adventure for children who prefer to sleep together. They are also a popular choice for shared rooms and vacation homes. Bunk beds come in a range of styles and materials with options that will fit any budget and space. Our choices for bunk beds range from simple twin-over-twin constructions to elaborate models with ladders or stairs and unique features such as slides.

We weighed a range of factors as we scoured the market to find our top picks, including overall design, safety and price. We also asked parents and a person who wrote the book about bunk beds to help us identify the most effective choices. Find out more about our seven favorites.

The size of the bunk beds is an important consideration before making a purchase, especially in relation to the height of your ceilings. Always check your space to make sure the bunks you pick fit and that you have at least 5 inches of headroom on the top bunk. We also recommend not using Trundle beds with mattresses that hang high, which can restrict headroom and increase the chance of head bumps.

It is also important to consider whether you would prefer ladders or stairs to reach the top bunk. Stairs may be easier to climb and safer, however they may take up more space on the floor than ladders. Ladders are smaller and cost-effective, however they may feel too steep for younger children.

On the product page on the product page, you'll find the weight capacity of each top bunk mattress. The information is typically listed close to the dimensions of the mattress. A higher capacity for weight typically indicates the bunk is suitable for older kids or adults, who might require a bigger mattress.

The Shyann Bunk Bed from Room & Board is a flexible option for bunk beds. It comes in three finishes that will complement the decor of your child's room. Snowy white brings a bright coastal style to a classic children's room and brushed gray or rich walnut add warmth and class to a farmhouse or rustic design.

Safety

When you are looking for a bunk bed, it's important to look beyond the price tag and make sure it has all of the safety features you need. A reputable seller lists the weight capacity and describes the structure's durability and strength. This is particularly important for families that plan to reuse the beds as the children grow older.

Rebecca Simon, a designer at Maison Ellie Interiors for Kids recommends leaving 33-36 inches between the top of the mattress and the ceiling. "If you don't have enough room for that amount of space, you might want to consider a low-height bunk," she adds. "That is a great option for rooms that are tight because it keeps the bed off of the floor, and can feel cramped as kids get older."

Another factor to consider is how much space you have for stairs or ladders. While a bunk with built-in stairs could save space, it could also be pricier and require more assembly time. If you're short of space, opt for an easy ladder that allows your children to safely climb up to the top bunk.

All bunks in this list are made of durable materials and meet the Consumer Product Safety Commission requirements for guardrails. They also have passed anti-tip and lead tests which could be a huge relief for parents who have children who share rooms. Laura Fenton, the author of The Bunk Bed Book, says that the best metal bunk beds and wood Room & Board model "is built like a tank." "These are beds used in hotels, so they're built to last."

This trundle design from Bed Bath & Beyond is ideal for those looking for an affordable bunk bed that can expand with their children. It can be converted into two twin beds with one for tweens and the other for teenagers. It's the only non-wood bunk bed on the list, and its sturdy steel frame is surprisingly lightweight for such a large piece of furniture. It's available in a broad selection of colors, and can be customized with additional accessories, like under-bed storage drawers.

Style

best bunk bed for teens beds are available in many different sizes and shapes, so you can find one that fits your family's requirements. For example there are traditional twin-overtwin bunks and specialized configurations like queen-over-twin or twin-over-queen beds. Some are made of steel and some are made of wood with side rails on the top bunk. The design of the frame and other features can vary. You'll need to consider the amount of storage space you'll need, as well as the overall look you prefer.

When evaluating price, keep in mind that the greater the price point of a bunk bed, the more customizable it will be, Klugh says. This could include additional accessories, such as the ladder or stairs. It could also refer to the ability to add an trundle bed that makes it easy for guests to stay over or for sleepovers. Some models can be taken apart to function as two beds, which is a great feature if you anticipate that your children will outgrow the bunk beds or you're planning to move to a new home in the future.

The amount of beds you pick will also influence cost and design. For instance, you could choose a basic twin over twin best bunk bed for teens bed that makes the most of the amount of floor space and is inexpensive. Or, you might decide to spend a bit more on a sturdy, solid-wood option with a modern design that can expand with the children and possibly accommodate adults later on.

It's important that you check the weight capacity of the bunk beds you select to ensure they are able to accommodate the number of people you intend to use them for. Some bunk beds best beds are only made for children and only support 165 pounds. Others have a higher limit and can be used by the growing needs of adults and children.

It's important to note that a bunk bed can be an expensive investment, and thus a significant commitment. If you are unsure whether this kind of bed will work for your family, go to the showroom of a particular retailer or read reviews of customers on their website. This will give you an idea about the quality of construction and the quality of the bunks are built.

Storage

Furniture must be able to be more than an area to study, sleep or relax. Bunk beds that feature built-in storage solutions meet this need, turning them into multifunctional pieces that champion both function and design. Innovative features such as multi-functional staircases and drawers that are integrated provide convenient access to clothing bedding, toys, bed linens and other things that would otherwise clutter the space, allowing them to be neatly tucked away but easily accessible.

Loft beds with large desks can turn the space below them into a productive workspace. These clever arrangements allow young students or remote workers to combine work, play, and sleep without sacrificing floor space.

Detachable bunks can be divided into twin-sized beds to accommodate guests for sleepovers or to allow children to mature and then transition to single beds. Bunks with removable trundle beds can be adapted to older kids or adults who prefer to sleep on a large mattress.

Additionally, bunk beds that can accommodate three or more are a smart purchase for families seeking to maximize space in bedrooms with high ceilings. These types of bunks can also fit nicely into corners, allowing homeowners to make use of nooks that might otherwise be wasted.

The type of material and color your bunk bed is made from will influence its overall look and feel. Wood bunks have a classic, timeless style that is well-suited in contemporary, coastal and farmhouse interiors. Steel bunks are an innovative option that goes well with midcentury and industrial designs.

Consider the height of your ceilings and windows in the vicinity, as well as other architectural features when shopping for bunk beds. Smaller, smaller designs are easier to put together. They are perfect for teens or younger children who are ready to move from the toddler or junior bedroom. While taller bunks provide an airier, more sophisticated look and are better suited for older children or adults. Some designs also feature side railings, which allow for more space between beds, which ensures safety and easy access for all users.