Bunk Beds Are Cooler Than Ever

If you're planning a shared children's bedroom, outfitting a dorm or just maximizing your space, bunk beds are versatile and more stylish than ever. There are a variety of styles, including twin-overtwin and full over-full options.

Find one that is in line with your budget and your children room dimensions. Also, keep in mind that certain bunks can have beds with trundle beds at the bottom for sleepovers.

Size

Bunk beds are an essential part of childhood bedrooms, offering both efficiency and adventure for children who prefer to sleep together. They are also common in shared rooms and vacation homes. Bunk beds are available in a variety of styles and materials, with options to fit every budget and room size. Our bunk bed picks range from basic twin over twin constructions to more elaborate models with stairs or ladders and unique features such as slides.

We considered a variety of factors when we searched the market for our top picks, including overall design, safety and value. We also consulted experts -- parents and one who literally wrote the book on bunk beds to assist us in locating the best alternatives. Find out more about our seven favorites.

The size of bunk beds is an important factor to consider prior to buying a bed, particularly in relation to the height of your ceiling. Always measure your space to ensure the bunks you select are suitable, and leave at least 5 inches of headroom on the top bunk. We also recommend against trundles bed trundles that have a high-hanging mattress as they could limit headroom.

Another factor to consider is whether you prefer stairs or ladders to access the top bunk. Stairs are generally more secure and safer to climb, but they could take up more area than a ladder. Ladders may be less bulky however they are more affordable. They can be too steep to younger children.

It is also important to be aware of the capacity for weight of the top bunk mattress that is listed on the product's page. The majority of manufacturers include this information in the mattress's dimensions. A higher weight capacity typically indicates the bunk is suitable for older children or adults, who might require a larger mattress.

A versatile bunk bed option The Shyann bunk bed from Room & Board offers three finishes to complement your kids' bedroom decor. White snow gives a vibrant coastal style to classic kids' rooms and brushed grey or rich walnut create rustic or farmhouse-style appeal.

Safety

When you are looking for a bunk beds for kids bed it is crucial to look past the price and ensure that it comes with all the safety features that are required. A reputable seller lists the weight capacity, and describes the structure's durability and strength. This is especially helpful for families who intend to use the beds again as their children get older.

A good rule of the thumb is to leave at least 33 to 36 inches between the mattress's top and the ceiling, says Rebecca Simon, a designer with Maison Ellie Interiors for Kids. "If you don't have room for that size of space, you may prefer a low-height bunk," she adds. "That's a great option for small rooms, because it keeps the lower buy bunk beds off the floor. It can be uncomfortable as kids bedroom furniture grow older."

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

The bunks on this list are all made of solid construction and meet the Consumer Product Safety Commission's requirements for guardrails. These bunks also pass the lead and anti-tip test, which is a relief for parents of children sharing a space. For example, the metal-and-wood Room & Board model is "built like a tank," says Laura Fenton, author of The Bunk Bed Book: The Bunk Bed Book: 115 Bunks, Lofts, and Cozy Nooks. These are the identical beds used in hotels, so they are built to last for a long time.

If you're looking for a bunk that will grow with their children, this trundle-style design from Bed Bath & Beyond converts into two twin beds that are separate for tweens and teens. It's the only non-wood bunk bed on the list, and its solid steel frame is light for such a large piece of furniture. It is available in a variety of colors, and can be personalized with accessories such as under-bed drawers.

Style

Bunk beds are available in different sizes and shapes, so you can choose one that is suitable for your family's space. For instance there are traditional twin-over-twin bunks as well as specialized configurations such as twin-over-queen or queen-over-twin beds. Some are made of steel and others are made of wood and include side rails for the top bunk. The design of the frame as well as other features may also differ, so you'll want to think about the amount of storage you require and the overall look you prefer.

When considering price, keep in mind that the greater the cost of a bunk bed the more customizable it can be, Klugh says. This could include additional accessories, such as an escalator or ladder. It could also mean the ability to add the trundle bed, which makes it ideal for sleepovers or guest accommodations. 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 bunks or you plan on moving to a different home in the future.

The number of beds you select will also affect the cost and style. For example, you might choose a basic twin over twin bunk bed that maximizes floor space and is relatively affordable. You can also opt to invest more in a solid-wood bunk bed with an elegant, sturdy design that will grow with your children and perhaps accommodate adults in the near future.

No matter what size or style you pick it is important to verify the capacity of the bunk beds to ensure that they are able to support the number of sleepers you'll be using them for. Some bunk beds are only made for children and only support 165 pounds. Others have a higher capacity and can be used by growing children and adults.

It's also important to note that a bunk bed can be a major investment and, therefore, an enormous commitment. If you are unsure whether a bunk bed is suitable for your family, go to the showroom of a retailer or read customer reviews on their website. This will give you a feel of the quality of the craftsmanship and how well the bunks are constructed.

Storage

Modern living requires furniture to do more than just serve as a space to sleep or study. Bunk beds that feature built-in storage options meet this demand, transforming them into multi-purpose pieces that promote both function and design. Innovative features such as multi-functional staircases and integrated drawers offer an easy access to clothes, toys, bed linens, and other items that could otherwise occupy the room, and keep them in order and accessible.

In the same way loft beds with large desks transform the space underneath them into a productive work space. These smart arrangements allow young students or remote workers to balance work as well as play time without sacrificing floor space.

Another option that is useful is detachable bunks that can be separated into separate twin-size beds, ideal to accommodate guests at sleepovers or allowing kids to change to single beds as they become more mature. Bunks with trundle beds that can be removed can also accommodate older adults or children who prefer to sleep on a full-size mattress.

Additionally, bunks that sleep three or four people make a wise purchase for families seeking to maximize space in small bedrooms with high ceilings. These types of bunks can also be a great fit in corners, allowing homeowners to make use of nooks that might otherwise be wasted.

The type of material and the color your bunk bed is made from will influence its overall appearance and feel. Wood bunks have a classic timeless look that blends well into contemporary, coastal and farmhouse interiors. Steel bunks are on the other hand are a more contemporary option that is a great match with midcentury and industrial styles.

When choosing a bunk bed, consider the ceiling height of your home and any windows that are nearby or other architectural features. The smaller, more compact designs are easier to put together. They are great for younger children or teens who are ready to get from the toddler or junior bedroom. Meanwhile, taller bunks offer an elegant, airier appearance and are more suitable for older children or adults. Some designs include side railings that allow for a greater clearance between the beds. This ensures security and ease of access for everyone.