Buying a Kids Bunk Bed
Whether you're outfitting a room for two kids or simply looking to maximize your floor space, a bunk bed is an excellent solution. However, before you purchase one, you should consider your choices carefully.
Safety is an important consideration. It's important that you establish rules for not using the top bunk for other purposes than sleeping, and don't hang anything from the bunks.
Size
Lofts and bunk beds come in a variety of sizes. Some come with two twin mattresses, while others accommodate a queen or full mattress in the lower tier. Some even include the option of a trundle bed which can be tucked away when not being used. This space-saving design makes bunk beds an excellent option for bedrooms with small spaces. Bunk beds are also less expensive than purchasing separate mattresses for kids.
The majority of bunk beds have an incline or ladder to get to the top bed. Some even have a railing to ensure that children who sleep on the upper bunk do not fall out of the frame. Some designs even include an ottoman on the bottom tier, which can be used as a couch during the day and as an extra bed at night.
Many parents opt to purchase bunk beds for kids as it helps them make room in their child's bedroom. The bed can be easily divided into individual beds in the future if needed. Bunk beds are excellent for rooms shared by several children.
The most common size of a bunk bed suitable for kids is a twin mattress on top and bottom. This arrangement offers enough space for kids of all ages to sleep comfortably. Twin mattresses are also a good option for toddlers who have outgrown their cribs, but are not yet ready to transition into a regular full-size bed.
There are bunks that have two twins side by side. This allows two children to share a bed while maintaining their own space. These kinds of beds are typically referred to as twin over twin bunk beds, and they are an ideal option for families with multiple children who wish to maximize floor space in a small bedroom.
Some bunk beds come with a full-sized mattress on the lower level, which is perfect for older children or teens. This arrangement is perfect for sleeping overs or giving kids extra space to lounge and spread out. A majority of these bunk beds are also available in various styles and finishes, so you can find the perfect piece that will fit your child's individual style.
Safety
Bunk beds can be fun for kids, but they can also pose a risk when not constructed and positioned properly. Verify that your bunk mattress has been tested and is in compliance with all national safety standards. It must also be securely attached to the frame and have the appropriate weight limit for the top and bottom mattress.
Guardrails on the upper sleeping area of a good bunk bed for kids can protect children from accidental falls while they sleep. The height of these rails should be at least 5 inches higher than the mattress surface. There shouldn't be any gaps between the guardrails as this could trap a child’s head or other parts of their body and cause injury.
It is also essential to teach children to safely climb up to the top bunk using the ladder or stairs. It is recommended to have only one person use the top bunk at one time. It is important to avoid rough-housing or jumping on beds. These actions can cause injuries and weakening of the foundation support system. Examine the bunk bed for wear signs, and tighten any loose screws or bolts as soon as you notice them.
Children who are asleep in the top bunk shouldn't be allowed to fall off the bed, as this could result in serious injuries. If your child is going to sleep in the higher bunk of the bed, you should place a nightlight in the bedroom to assist them in locating the ladder.
It's also a good idea to keep books, toys and other items from the bunk bed. This reduces the chance of a child tripping over them or falling. It will also prevent them from becoming entangled with the railings.
If you can, it's a good idea for the bunk bed to be set in the corner. This will allow you to brace the structure to stop it from moving when someone climbs up the ladder. Bunk beds should also be kept at a safe distance from ceiling lights, fans and curtain hardware in order to prevent your children from hitting their heads while inside or climbing out of them.
Style
When you are choosing the best bunk bed for your kids it is essential to consider the style of the furniture. Bunk beds are available in different styles, ranging from classic to contemporary and you'll be able to find one that is a perfect match for your child's preferences. Bunk beds also provide the opportunity to add special accessories, like curtains, which can create the illusion of privacy and separate sleeping areas. Other features such as desks and built-in storage aid your kids in staying organized.
The rustic-inspired bunk bed is constructed of rugged wood, and finished with a weathered driftwood look which adds a natural touch to any room. It comes with two drawers to store toys and clothes. This is an excellent feature for saving space in children's rooms. It can be customized to include a pull-out bed that can be used for additional sleeping space when guests are visiting.
The standard twin-over-twin bunk bed is another option. It's ideal for teens and kids who share the bedroom. This type of bunk bed comes with solid guardrails that are securely attached to the frame to stop a fall from sleeping. Look for stairs or ladders that are firmly fixed to the frame using wide, non-slip steps. These steps can be engraved with numbers to help you keep track of which bunk is being utilized.
You can also opt for futon bunk beds which offers the versatility of relaxing and sleeping. These beds typically consist of a conventional bunk bed with a futon or convertible sofa beneath, allowing the top level to function as a lounge area during the day, and the bottom level to serve as a cozy bed at night.
Corner loft beds are a great option for bunk beds that provide more storage space. These beds are made up of two beds elevated in a corner, freeing space for studying and playing. This bunk bed by makingitwithabby features an individualized macrame nook for you to take a seat in and additional shelving to organize. The navy-colored finish is a perfect match for the blue-toned wallpaper mural, creating a room that feels cozy and lively.
Budget
Bunk beds are an ideal solution to reduce space in your child's room or guest bedroom. They can double triple or quadruple the number of sleeping areas. Bunk beds offer great value, even though they're not as cheap as twin-sized or full-sized beds.
You can find some basic, simple bunk beds for less than $500. However, you will also find models with many features that suit your needs and bedroom décor. For instance this bunk bed by South Shore offers a modern look that's perfect for contemporary decors, but still has a budget-friendly price tag. It's also lightweight, meaning it can be moved when your children grow out of the arrangement or you decide to move to a larger house.
The most sophisticated bunk beds come with features that are appealing to teens and older children, such as the built-in desk and stairs, or drawers. These extras can help create a more functional space and add a fashionable design to any children's bedroom. Bunk beds with a slide can also be an ideal option for children who like playing in the dark. The top bunk can be transformed into a fun clubhouse or playhouse. Be aware that bunk beds with slides take up more floor space than other types of bunks, so measure carefully before purchasing one.
If you are on a tight budget the kind of material your bunk bed is constructed from is also important. There are bunk beds made of metal or a combination of. Wood is a sturdy, durable material that is ideal for children. Metal is generally cheaper than wood, and is a great choice when you're looking for a bunk bed that's easy to clean.
You'll also need to consider the cost for any additional items you may need like curtains or reading lamps. Some bunk beds are equipped with matching furniture to help make the perfect appearance for your children's bedrooms.