How to Choose the Best Convertible Bunk Beds
Bunk beds can be an excellent way for children to reduce space and add a playful touch to their rooms. How do you choose the most suitable one?
Look for a bunk bed that splits into two beds when your kids outgrow the bunk configuration. The best bunk beds are robust and sturdy, with designs that can accommodate sleepovers and multiple children.
Sturdy Construction
If you're planning to build bunk beds in your child's bedroom, make sure that they are able to withstand the weight of children and adults. Check for durable construction features such as metal tubular frames or solid wood constructions to endure the wear and tear of a shared bedroom. Bunk beds are often used for sleepovers and overnight summer camps, so they need to be able to handle the weight of several kids bouncing around and down throughout the night.
Many of the best convertible beds are constructed using a sturdy steel frame. They also have warranties to improve their longevity. You should consider picking a finish that complements your bedroom decor, and add accessories such as trundles or drawers to your bunk bed. This will help you prolong the lifespan of your investment.
The DHP Miles is a great option for bunk beds that aren't expensive and still very sturdy. The bunks sport a distinctive industrial design that is trendy and modern. However, the ladder and safety rails are strong and ensure that both adults and children are safe. The bottom bunk has a futon, which can be used as a sofa or guest bed when friends and family visit. The bunks are delivered flat and can be assembled when they arrive.
Another great alternative is the Max & Lily bunk bed that has two twin beds stacked on top of one another and can be separated into separate single beds once the bunk-bumping days are over. The simple, modern design and color options create a sleek classic look that's great for both boys and girls bedrooms. The company's customer support is inconsistent, and customers have complained about shipping damage.
If you're looking to add a bunk bed that will last through the years and beyond, go for one of the solid wood designs from Crate & Kids. This model is modern, sleek design that can be easily transformed into two separate twin beds after your children are old enough to use it. Pick a neutral shade like espresso or white that blends with any color scheme, or choose a more striking option like deep blue or pink to energize the space.
Extra Storage
Bunk beds can be the perfect solution for small spaces, especially in the case of children bedrooms. A lot of bunks have drawers beneath, which gives you more storage space, but does not take up floor space. They also have shelves that can be used as bookshelf, a media centre or other furniture. They can also be split into two twin beds. This is great for extended families, cottages or visitors from out of town.
If you choose to buy a ladder-style bed, search for one that has anti-slip rungs and handholds to make climbing up easier. Some beds have a built-in staircase for a sleeker look and more stability. These types of furniture are not suitable for children younger than 5 years old, and they require more space on the floor. Some also offer extra storage options, such as built-in shelves or drawers that can be handy for clothes or toys.
Another way to save space is to use a low bunk, which is perfect for smaller spaces and higher ceilings. This style features a bottom bed at ground level and a top one that hangs off the side of the frame to free up floor space. It's a great option for children who are young, but it could appear too childish as they get older, according to Laura Fenton, author of The Bunk Bed Book: The 115 Ideas for Lofts, Lofts and Cozy Nooks.
Low bunks are also unique and can be used to create one bed for your child is old enough to leave the bunk or when siblings move into their own rooms. The bunk is available in metal or wood, and can be customized to include drawers for storage and a trundle.
Fenton says she prefers Oeuf’s Perch bunk bed because it is elegant sturdy and durable. It can also be divided into twins over a full size bed. It's also GREENGUARD Gold certified, which means it meets the highest standards for chemical and particle air pollution and doesn't emit odors that are unpleasant. It's also attractive because of its mocha finish, clean lines, and its sustainable nature.
Trundle Beds
A trundle bed can add more sleeping space to your children' bunks, and it is also a great guest bed for guests staying over. Some of the best convertible bunk beds come with the large trundle bed beneath twin-sized beds that are accessible via a built-in staircase. This type of bunk bed is an excellent option for smaller rooms that don't have enough floor space to accommodate three beds or for parents looking to accommodate multiple children in one space without having to compromise space or privacy.
Some bunks come with trundle bed trundles that can be removed and used on their own to create two twin-sized beds or a full-overfull arrangement. Some bunks feature an additional staircase that allows you to access the trundle bed on its own and others have an integrated staircase that has built-in storage shelves or display space below.
The best bunk beds are available in a range of colors that will match your child's current bedroom decor. White finishes are versatile and can be matched with any bedding. A rich natural stain or espresso will bring warmth and a richness. Other finishes, like soft gray and chic pink are a good match with a variety of color palettes and coordinate with any design of bunk beds.
If you're planning on using your bunk bed as a guest bedroom, consider the overall size and the height of the furniture to ensure it's an appropriate fit to your home. If your ceilings are lower, you may want to think about a bed with an ottoman or a sitting area underneath the top bunk. This will give guests a comfortable place to sleep.
A bunk bed with drawers to serve as a desk and an armoire can be a great way to increase the versatility of your bed. This will aid your children in staying organized while giving you extra storage space for books, toys, and clothing. best bunk bed design are ideal for families with multiple children, or for multigenerational households who frequently host overnight guests. Many come with a full-sized bottom bed and can also be used by adults. These models are available in a variety of finishes to match your child's tastes and complement existing furniture for bedrooms.
Easy Assembly
The best convertible bunk beds are typically shipped partially assembled. This is great for parents who have limited time and space. These types of bunk beds also require only a few tools and can be assembled by a couple of people. If you intend to DIY select the bunk bed that comes with clear instructions and pre-cut pieces to accelerate the assembly.
Depending on the style and materials of your bunk bed, it'll be important to think about the amount of weight it can support. Some bunk beds have metal frames that can hold more weight than wood alternatives. If you opt for a wood bunk bed, be sure to check the kind of wood you choose, because some kinds tend to be more susceptible to splintering than others.
When 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 will prevent your children from falling off their bunks in the night. This is a common reason for head injuries in children who sleep in bunk beds. These guards are especially beneficial if your children are still young and afraid of climbing out of bed at night.
A detachable slide is another essential feature to consider when looking for bunk beds. This fun addition for your child's bedroom allows siblings and friends to race down the slide, or take their favorite stuffed animal along for the ride of their life. Some models come with a matching staircase to allow access from the top.
A sleek bunk bed with slide that can be detached is an excellent choice for parents looking to maximize their child's bedroom space without sacrificing safety or functionality. This chic twin over full trundle bed from Max & Lily is crafted using kiln-dried pine wood as well as engineered wood for durability and longevity. It's available with three new finishes that easily coordinate with the bedroom decor of any child. A white, crisp finish is a reliable choice for coastal or cottage rooms, while gray or clay finishes work well with a wide range of colors.