Buying a Kids Bunk Bed
If you're planning to furnish the space for two children or simply looking to maximize your floor space, bunk beds are an ideal solution. However, before you purchase one, think about your options carefully.
Safety is a major consideration. It is essential to set up rules to ensure that you don't use the top bunk for anything other than sleeping and don't hang anything from the bunks.
Size
Lofts and bunk beds come in a variety of sizes. Some loft beds have two twin beds while others can accommodate a queen-sized or full-sized mattress at the bottom. Some even include a trundle bed that can be tucked away when not being used. This compact design makes bunk beds a great option for bedrooms with limited space. Bunk beds are cheaper than buying separate mattresses for children.
Most bunk beds come with an stairway or ladder to get to the top bunk. Some have railings to ensure that children sleeping on the upper bunk do not fall off the frame. Some designs include an ottoman at the bottom which can be used as a couch and bed.
Many parents decide to buy a kids bunk bed because it allows them to make room in their child's bedroom. The bed can be easily divided into separate beds in the future if required. Bunk beds are a great option for rooms shared by a number of children.
The most popular size of bunk beds for children is one with a twin mattress at the both sides. This configuration provides sufficient space for kids of all ages to rest comfortably. Twin mattresses are also a great option for toddlers who've grown out of their cribs but aren't quite ready to make the transition to the full-size bed.
There are also bunk beds that feature two twin beds that are side by side, allowing two children to sleep together and still have their own space. These beds are often referred to as twin over twin bunks, and they are a great option for families with several children, but wish to maximize area of their bedroom.
Some bunk bed designs have an entire mattress on the lower tier that is perfect for teens or older children. This arrangement is perfect for sleeping overs or giving kids extra space to spread out. Many of these bunk beds are available in different styles and finishes, meaning you can choose the perfect piece that will fit your child's individual style.
Safety
Bunk beds can be fun for kids, but they can also be dangerous when not constructed and positioned correctly. Check that your bed has been tested and meets all national safety standards. It should also be firmly attached to the frame and have the appropriate weight limit for the top and bottom mattress.
Guardrails on the upper sleeping zone of a good bunk bed for kids will safeguard children from falls during sleep. The height of these rails must be at least 5 inches above the mattress surface. There should be no gaps between the guardrails because they could trap a child's head or other parts of their body and cause injuries.
It is also essential to teach children how to safely climb up to the top bunk using the ladder or stairs. It's best to only have one person use the top bunk at the same time. It's also important to discourage rough play or jumping onto the beds. These actions can cause injuries and weakening of the foundation support system. Check the bunk bed frequently for signs of wear and tear, and tighten any loose screws or bolts immediately.
Children who are asleep in the top bunk shouldn't be allowed to fall off the bed, as this could cause serious injuries. If your child is going to sleep in the upper bunk you should put an artificial light in the room to help them see the ladder.
It's also an excellent idea to keep toys, books and other items from the bunk bed. This reduces the risk of a child falling or falling over them. It can also prevent them from becoming entangled in the guardrails.
If possible, it's a good idea to allow the bunk bed to be placed in an area that is corner. This will help to brace the structure to prevent it from moving when someone climbs the ladder. Bunk beds should also be kept away from ceiling fans, curtain hardware, and light fixtures to stop your children from hitting their heads while climbing into or out of the bed.
Style
It's important to consider the style of furniture when choosing bunk beds for kids. Bunk beds come in many different styles, ranging from classic to modern, so you're sure to find one that suits your child's preferences. Bunk beds also offer the chance to add unique accessories, like curtains, which can give a sense of privacy and separate sleeping spaces. Other features like desks or built-in storage could help your children stay organized.
The rustic-inspired bunk bed is constructed of a rough wood, and finished with a weathered driftwood finish that gives a natural look to any room. It comes with two drawers that can be used to store toys and clothing. This is an excellent feature to save space in kids' rooms. It can also be customised with the option of a pull-out trundle bed to provide additional sleeping space when guests come.
The twin-over-twin standard bunk bed is a different option. It's great for kids and teens who share bedrooms. This kind of bunk bed features sturdy guardrails that are connected to the frame in order to prevent falling while sleeping. Find stairs or ladders that are securely fixed to the frame using wide steps that are non-slip. These steps can also be identified with numbers to help keep track of who is occupying the top bunk.
You can also pick futon beds that offer the option of sleeping as well as relaxing. They are usually a standard bunk structure with a futon underneath. The top level can be used as a lounge during the day, while the lower level can be used as a cozy bedroom at night.
Corner loft beds are an excellent option for bunk beds that offer more storage. These beds connect two elevated beds that are placed in the corner of the room, opening up space for study or play. This bunk bed from makingitwithabby comes with an individual macrame nook that you can take a seat in and additional shelving to keep it organized. The navy finish of the bunk bed complements the blue-toned wall mural to create a room which is cozy and bright.
Budget
Bunk beds are an efficient solution to save space in your child's room or guest bedroom. They allow you to double or triple, or even quadruple the number of sleeping areas. Bunk beds offer great value, even if they're not as inexpensive as twin-sized beds or full-sized beds.
There are a variety of basic, minimalist bunk beds for less than $500. But you will also find models with many features that will suit your needs and bedroom décor. For instance, this bunk bed from South Shore offers a modern design that is perfect for contemporary designs, and still comes with a budget-friendly price tag. It is also lightweight so you can move it when your children grow out of it or if you move to a bigger home.
More sophisticated bunk beds have features that are appealing to teenagers and older children like an integrated desk and stairs, or drawers. These extras can create a more functional space and give a chic look to any kid's bedroom. Bunk beds with a slide are also a great option for kids who prefer to play in the dark, transforming the top bunk into a great playhouse or clubhouse. Just keep in mind that bunk beds with slides require more area than other bunk beds, so be sure to measure before purchasing one.
If you are on a budget, the type of material the bunk bed is constructed from is also important. You can find bunk beds made from metal or a combination. Wood is a sturdy, durable material that's ideal for kids. Metal bunk beds are usually cheaper than wooden ones, and are also easier to clean.
Lastly, you'll also want to consider the cost of any special accessories you might require for your bunk bed, like curtains or a reading light. Some bunk beds come with matching furniture to help you create the perfect look for your child's bedroom.