How to Choose the Best Convertible Bunk Beds
Bunk beds are a great way to make space and add a fun touch of decoration to kids' rooms. But how do you pick a good one?
If your kids outgrow the bunk bed configuration Look for a bunk that can be separated into two beds. The best option will be sturdy and have designs that can accommodate sleepovers and multiple kids.
Sturdy Construction
If you're planning to add a bunk bed in your children's bedroom, be sure it's strong enough to stand up to the weight of children and adults. Make sure you are looking for features of durable construction such as metal tubular frames or solid wood construction that can withstand the wear of a shared bedroom. Bunk beds are typically used for sleepovers and summer camps, so they must be able to withstand the weight of a group of kids jumping up and down all night.
The best convertible bunk beds feature a durable steel frame that's designed to last. Many also come with a warranty to further increase their longevity. Choose an option that matches your existing bedroom decor Consider adding other bunk bed accessories such as trundles or storage drawers to prolong the life of your new investment.
The DHP Miles is a great option for a bunk bed that's affordable and still very sturdy. The bunks feature a unique industrial design that's hip and contemporary, while the sturdy ladder and safety rails help keep both kids and adults safe during use. The bottom bunk has an ottoman that can be used as an extra couch, or an extra bed for family and friends. The bunks are delivered flat to your home and require simple assembly upon arrival.
Max & Lily is another fantastic alternative. It comes with two twin beds stacked one on top of the other, and it can be separated into two beds when the bunk-bumping period is over. The contemporary, minimalist design and color options provide a classic, sleek design that is perfect for both boys and girls bedrooms. However the customer service of the company is inconsistent and customers have reported issues with damage from shipping.
If you're looking to add bunk beds that can last for years and beyond, you should opt for one of the solid wood designs offered by Crate & Kids. This model is elegant, timeless design that can easily be transformed into two separate twin beds after your children outgrow it. Choose a neutral hue such as espresso or white that will blend with any colour scheme, or choose a more striking option like deep pink or blue to bring life to the space.
Extra Storage
Bunk beds can be the perfect solution for smaller spaces, especially for kids' bedrooms. A lot of bunk beds come with drawers underneath them, giving you more storage space but not taking up floor space. They also come with shelves which can be used to hold shelves for books, a media center or other furniture. They're also commonly made to split into two separate twin beds, which is a smart feature for homes with a cottage, extended family or out-of-town guests.
If you decide to go with a ladder-style bed, search for one with anti-slip rungs and hand holds to make climbing easier. Some beds come with an inbuilt staircase that gives a sleeker look and more stability. These options might not work well for children younger than 5 years old and are best suited to bigger rooms as they occupy more space on the floor. Some offer additional storage like built-in shelves and drawers, which can be handy for clothes or toys.
Low bunks are another way to save floor space. They are ideal for rooms with high ceilings as well as small spaces. This style features a bottom bed that is at the level of the ground and a top bunk that hangs off the side of the frame to make use of the floor space. It's a great choice for kids who are younger, but they may be too childish as they grow older, according to Laura Fenton, author of The Bunk Bed Book: 115 Designs for Lofts, Lofts and Cozy Nooks.
Low bunks are also unique and can be used to make one bed for your child is old enough to leave the bunk or when the siblings move into their own rooms. The option is available in metal or wood and can be customized to include a trundle and storage drawers.
Fenton says she prefers Oeuf's Perch bunk bed because it's sleek, durable and can be divided into twins over an entire bed. It's also GREENGUARD Gold-certified that means it complies with stricter chemical and particle air quality standards and doesn't emit foul odors. It's also attractive due its mocha finish, clean lines, and its sustainable nature.
Trundle Beds
A trundle bed adds more sleeping space to your children bunk beds, and also works as a great guest bed for guests staying overnight. Some of the best bunk beds can be converted and include a full-sized trundle beneath twin beds, accessible via an integrated staircase. This type of bunk bed can be an ideal option for rooms that don't have enough space for three separate beds, or for parents who wish to accommodate several children in the same room without having to compromise privacy.
Some bunks come with trundle beds with detachable trundle beds you can use independently or to create two twin-sized beds or to create a full-overfull configuration. Some of these bunks have a second staircase that allows you to access the bed trundle on its own and others have an integrated staircase with built-in storage shelves or display space below.
The best bunks also come in different colors to match the existing bedroom decor. White finishes are versatile and can be paired with any bedding. A deep natural or espresso stain will bring warmth and a richness. Other finishes, like soft gray and chic pink play well with a variety of color palettes and coordinate with any style of bunk beds.
If you are planning to utilize the bunk bed in your home to serve as an extra bedroom for guests, make sure it fits the dimensions and height of your home. If you have lower ceilings, you should look for a model that incorporates the futon or sitting space underneath the top bunk to give guests a comfortable place to sleep.
Another way to boost versatility of a bunk bed is to buy one built with a desk and dresser drawers. This option will help your children stay organized, while also providing you with more storage space for books, clothes and toys. These bunks are great for families with several children, or for multigenerational households which frequently host overnight guests. A majority of them come with a full-sized bottom bed and can also be used by adults. A lot of these models come with a range of finish options to fit your children's taste and complement your current furniture for bedrooms, such as solid oak, dark walnut, and white finishes.
Easy Assembly
The most comfortable convertible bunk beds are typically shipped partially assembled. This is ideal for parents with a little time or space. These bunk beds also require only a few tools and can be put together by a couple of people. If you plan to DIY, choose the bunk bed that comes with clear instructions and pre-cut pieces to accelerate the assembly.
It's important to consider the weight your bunk bed will be able to support. Some bunk beds have metal frames, which can support more weight than wood options. In addition, if you opt for a bunk bed made of wood, it's important to consider the type of wood used because some types are more susceptible to splintering than others.
When you're looking to purchase a bunk bed, ensure that the model you are considering has guard rails on either side of the top level. These can prevent your kids from falling asleep at night which is a frequent cause of head injuries among children who sleep in bunks. These guards are particularly useful if your children are still young and scared of getting out of bed at night.
Another important feature to consider when shopping for bunk beds is a slide that can be detached. This exciting addition to your child's room lets children and their friends to race down the slide, or take their favorite stuffed animal on the ride of their life. Some models come with a staircase for easy access at the top.
A bunk bed with slide that is able to be removed is a great option for parents who are seeking to maximize the space in their child's bedroom without sacrificing safety and functionality. Max and Lily's elegant twin over full trundle bed is built from kiln dried pine wood and engineered wood for strength and long-lasting use. It's available in three fresh colors that are easy to match with any child's bedroom design. A clean white finish is ideal for cottage or coastal-style rooms. Clay or gray finishes can be paired with a variety of colors.