How to Choose the Best Convertible Bunk Beds
Bunk beds are an ideal way for kids to reduce space and add fun to their rooms. What are the best ways to choose the most suitable one?
If your kids have outgrown the bunk bed arrangement, look for a bunk that can be separated into two beds. The best bunk beds will be robust and sturdy, with a design that can accommodate multiple children and sleepovers.
Sturdy Construction
If you're considering adding a bunk bed in your children's bedroom, ensure that it's sturdy enough to hold up to the weight of children and adults alike. Look for features that are durable such as tubular frames made of steel or solid wood construction to stand up to the demands of a shared bedroom. Bunk beds are often used for sleepovers and overnight summer camps, therefore they must be able to withstand the weight of several children jumping up and down all night.
A majority of the top convertible beds are built with a sturdy steel frame. They also have warranties to improve their durability. Consider choosing a finish that is in harmony with your bedroom decor, and add accessories like trundles or drawers to your bunk bed. This will help you extend the life of your investment.
If you're looking for a budget-friendly option that's also extremely durable, look for the DHP Miles bunk bed. The bunks are designed with an original industrial design that's trendy and modern, but the sturdy ladder and safety rails keep both kids and adults safe during use. The bottom bunk is equipped with a futon that can be used as couch or an extra bed for family and friends. The bunks are delivered flat and are ready for assembly when they arrive.
Another alternative is the Max & Lily bunk bed that has two twin beds stacked on top of one another and separates into individual single beds after the bunk-bumping days are over. The modern, simple design and color options create a classic, clean design that is perfect for both girls and boys bedrooms. The customer service provided by the company is inconsistent, and customers have complained about shipping damage.
If you're looking to add bunk beds that can last through the years and beyond, go for one of the solid wood designs from Crate & Kids. This model is sleek, timeless design that can be easily transformed from bunks into two separate twin beds after your children have outgrown it. Choose a neutral hue like espresso or white that can be incorporated into any color scheme, or choose a more striking option like deep blue or pink to energize the space.
Extra Storage
Bunk beds are a great option for rooms for children particularly when you have a small space. A lot of bunks have drawers beneath, which gives you more storage space, but does not take up floor space. They also have shelves which can be used as bookshelf, a media centre or other furniture. They're also commonly made to split into two separate twin beds, which is a smart feature for families with extended homes or guests from out of town.
If you choose a ladder style bed ensure it comes with handstraps and anti-slip rungs in order to help you climb up. Some beds have a staircase built into the frame for sleeker appearance and extra stability. These choices might not be best for younger children and are best suited to bigger rooms as they occupy more space on the floor. Some also offer extra storage, like built-in shelves and drawers, which are handy for clothes or toys.
Another way to save space is with the low bunk, which is perfect for smaller spaces and taller ceilings. This design has a bottom bed that is at the level of the ground and a top bunk which hangs from the side of the frame to save valuable floor space. It's a great choice for kids who are younger, but they may be too childish as they grow older, explains 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 is old enough to leave the bunk or when siblings move into their own rooms. The bunk is available in wood or metal and can be customized to include drawers for storage and a trundle.
Fenton says she prefers Oeuf's Perch bunk because it's sleek and stylish, is made with sturdy materials, and can be separated into a twin and a full-size bed. It's also certified GREENGUARD Gold which means it meets the strictest quality of air and chemical standards and doesn't emit foul smells. It's also attractive due its mocha finish, clean lines and its sustainable nature.
Trundle Beds
Trundles add additional sleeping space to your children's bunk beds. It can also be used as a guest bed for overnight visitors. Some of the best convertible bunk beds come with an expansive full trundle bed beneath twin-sized beds that are accessible through a built-in staircase. This type of bunk bed can be an excellent option for bedrooms that do not have enough space for three beds or for parents who want to accommodate multiple children in the same space without having to compromise privacy.
Some bunks feature Trundle bed trundles which can be removed and used as a separate unit to create two twin-sized beds or a full-overfull arrangement. Some of these bunks come with another staircase that lets you to access the trundle bed on its own while others have an integrated staircase that comes with built-in storage shelves or display space below.
Some of the best bunk beds are available in a variety of colors that will match your child's current bedroom decor. White finishes are versatile and easily matched with any bedding, while a rich espresso or natural wood stain provides warmth and a richness. Other finishes, like soft gray and chic pink, are a good match with a variety of colors and work with any style of bunk bed.
If you plan to utilize the bunk bed in your home as a guest bedroom, be sure that it is appropriate for your home's size and height. If your ceilings are higher then you might want to consider a model with the option of a sofa or a seating area underneath the top bunk. This will give guests the opportunity to relax in a comfortable space.
Another method to increase the versatility in bunk beds is to purchase one built with a desk and dresser drawers. This will allow your children stay organized, while also giving you more storage for books, clothes and toys. Many of these bunks feature a full-size bottom bed and are suitable for adults too, so they're ideal for families with multiple children or multigenerational families who often host guests for overnight stays. Many of these models come in a variety of finish options to suit your children's taste and complement your current furniture for your bedroom, including solid oak, dark walnut and white finishes.
Easy Assembly
The best convertible bunk beds are typically delivered partially assembled. This is great for parents with little time or space. They are simple to assemble and require only the use of a few tools. If you intend to DIY, choose a bed that has clear instructions and pre-cut pieces to make the assembly easier.
Depending on the style and materials of your bunk bed, it'll be important to consider how much weight it can hold. Certain bunk beds come with frames made of metal that can hold more weight. In addition, if you opt for a wooden bunk bed, it is crucial to be aware of the type of wood used because some types are more prone to splitting than others.
If you're shopping for a bunk bed ensure that the bed you're considering has guard rails on both sides of the top level. These can prevent your kids from falling asleep at night and becoming a common cause of head injuries among children who sleep in bunk beds. These guards are particularly helpful if you have younger children who may be afraid to get out of bed in the middle of the night.
A detachable slide is a must-have feature when looking for bunk beds. This fun addition to your child's bedroom allows siblings and friends race down the slide or take their favorite stuffed animal on the ride of their life. Some models even come with a matching storage staircase for secure top access.
A bunk bed that has slide that can be detached is a great option for parents who are seeking to maximize the space in their child's room without sacrificing safety or functionality. This fashionable twin over full trundle bed from Max & Lily is crafted using kiln-dried pine wood as well as engineered wood to ensure durability and long-lasting. It's available in three fresh finishes that easily coordinate with any child's bedroom design. A white, crisp finish is a reliable choice for rooms with a coastal or cottage theme and gray or clay finishes are a great match for a variety of color palettes.