How to Choose the Best Convertible Bunk Beds
Bunk beds are a great way to reduce space and add a fun touch of style to children's rooms. What are the best ways to choose the most suitable one?
Choose bunk beds that can be divided into two beds when your kids are old enough to be in the bunk configuration. The most suitable bunk beds are robust and feature designs that can accommodate multiple children and sleepovers.
Sturdy Construction
If you're looking to add bunk beds to your child's bedroom, ensure that it's built to last and can stand the weight of children and adults. Check for durable construction features such as metal tubular frames or solid wood construction that can endure the wear and tear of a bedroom shared. Bunk beds are great for sleepovers or overnight summer camps. They should be strong enough to handle the weight of several kids who play all night long.
The majority of the top convertible bunk beds have sturdy steel frames that are built to last, and many are also covered by a warranty to extend their lifespan. Choose an aesthetic that is compatible with your existing bedroom decor and think about adding other bunk bed accessories like trundles or storage drawers to prolong the lifespan of your new investment.
If you're looking for a budget-friendly alternative that's still extremely sturdy choose the DHP Miles bunk bed. The bunks feature a unique industrial design that's hip and modern, but the sturdy ladder and safety rails keep kids and adults safe during use. The bottom bunk features a futon that can be used for an extra couch, or an extra bed for friends and family. The bunks are shipped flat and can be assembled when they arrive.
Another option 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 time for bunk-bumping is over. The modern, simple design and color options give a classic and clean design that is perfect for both girls and boys bedrooms. However the customer service provided by the company isn't always consistent, and some customers have complained with damage from shipping.
If you're looking to add bunk beds that can last for years and beyond, go for one of the solid wood designs offered by Crate & Kids. This model features a elegant, timeless design that can easily be converted from bunks into two separate twin beds once your children have outgrown it. Choose a neutral finish like espresso or white to blend with any color scheme, or go for a bold choice like deep pink or navy to brighten your bedroom.
Extra Storage
Bunk beds are an excellent option for kids' rooms particularly when you are limited in space. Many bunk beds have drawers beneath them, which gives you more storage space without taking up floor space. These beds come with shelves which can be used as shelves, a media center or other furniture. They're also often made to split into two separate twin beds which is a great option for homes with a cottage, extended family or guests from out of town.
If you decide to go with a bed with a ladder, look for one with anti-slip rungs and hand holds to make climbing easier. Some have a staircase built into the frame for an elegant look and added stability. These types of furniture may not be best for younger children and are better suited for bigger rooms as they require more area on the floor. Some offer additional storage like built-in shelves and drawers that can be useful for toys or clothes.
Low bunks are another way to reduce floor space. They're perfect for spaces with high ceilings as well as smaller spaces. This style features the bottom bed that is at the level of the ground and a top bunk that hangs off the frame's sides to free up floor space. It's a great choice for younger kids but might appear too childish as they get older, says Laura Fenton, author of The Bunk Bed Book: The 115 Ideas for Lofts, Lofts and Cozy Nooks.
Low bunks are also distinctive and can be used to create an individual bed when your child reaches the age of the bunk or when the siblings move into their own rooms. This option is available in both metal and wood and can be made to order with storage drawers or a trundle.
Fenton says she favors Oeuf's Perch bunk because it's stylish and is constructed of durable materials and separates into a twin bed over a large bed. It's also GREENGUARD Gold certified, meaning it meets stricter quality of air and chemical standards and doesn't emit noxious smells. It's also attractive because of its mocha finish, clean lines and sustainable nature.
Trundle Beds
Trundle beds add sleeping space to your kids bunk beds, and it can also be used as a guest bed for overnight guests. Some of the best convertible bunk beds include an expansive full trundle bed beneath twin-sized beds that can be accessed via a built-in staircase. This type of bunk bed can be an excellent option for bedrooms that do not have enough space to accommodate three separate beds or for parents who want to accommodate a number of children in the same room without losing privacy.
Some bunks feature trundle bed beds that can be removed and used on their own to create two twin-sized beds or a full-overfull setup. Some of these bunks have a second staircase that allows you to access the bed trundle on its own while others have an integrated staircase that has built-in storage shelves or a display area below.
Some of the top bunks also come with various colors to match the existing bedroom decor. White finishes are versatile, and can be combined with any bedding. A deep natural stain or espresso will add warmth and richness. Other finishes, such as soft gray or chic pink, can be used with a wide variety of colors, and can be matched with any style bunk bed.
If you intend to use the bunk bed in your home as a guest bedroom, make sure it's appropriate to the size and height of your house. If you have lower ceilings, look for a design that includes the futon or sitting space under the top bunk to offer guests a comfy place to rest.
Another way to increase versatility in bunk beds is to buy one designed with desk and dresser drawers. This can help your children stay organized, while also giving you more storage for clothing, books, and toys. A lot of these bunks come with the capacity of a full-size bed at the bottom and are suitable for adults, as well, making them ideal for families with several children or multigenerational families who often host overnight guests. A lot of these models come in a variety of finish options to suit your children's preferences and match your existing furniture for bedrooms, such as solid oak, dark walnut and white finishes.
Easy Assembly
A lot of the top convertible bunk beds ship partially assembled, which is ideal for parents who are tight in time and space. These bunk beds are easy to put together and require just a few tools. If you plan to DIY select a bunk bed with clear instructions and pre-cut pieces to make the assembly easier.
Depending on the style and material of your bunk bed, it'll be crucial to consider the amount of weight it can hold. Some bunk beds are equipped with metal frames that can withstand more weight. If you decide to go with a wooden bunk bed, be sure to check the type of wood used, as some types are more prone to splinter than others.
When shopping for a bunk bed, make sure the model you're considering has guard rails on both sides of the top of the bed. They will stop your kids from falling asleep at night, which is a common cause of head injuries for children who sleep in bunks. best bunk beds for heavy adults are especially helpful for children who are younger who may be afraid to climb out of bed in the middle of the night.
Another must-have feature when looking for bunk beds is a detachable slide. This exciting feature for your child's room lets siblings and friends race down the slide with each other or send their beloved stuffed animals on the most thrilling ride of their lives. Some models come with a storage staircase that is matched for safe top access.
A bunk bed with a slide that is able to be removed is a great choice for parents looking to maximize the space in their child's room without sacrificing safety and functionality. Max and Lily's elegant twin over full trundle bed is built of kiln dried pine wood and engineered wood for strength and long-lasting use. It comes in three different designs to fit the decor of any child's bedroom. A clean white finish is ideal for coastal or cottage-style rooms. Clay or gray finishes can be paired with various color schemes.