How to Choose the Best Convertible Bunk Beds
Bunk beds can be a great way for kids to make space while adding a playful touch to their rooms. How do you pick the best one?
When your children are old enough to outgrow the bunk bed configuration Look for a bunk that can be divided into two beds. The most suitable bunk beds are robust and sturdy, with the design to accommodate sleepovers and multiple children.
Sturdy Construction
If you are looking to build bunk beds in your children's room, make sure that they are able to withstand the weight of both kids and adults. Check for durable construction features such as tubular frames made of steel or solid wood construction that can withstand the wear of a bedroom shared. Bunk beds are great to host sleepovers, or for overnight summer camps. They must be sturdy enough to withstand the weight of several kids who play all night long.
The best convertible bunk beds feature sturdy steel frames that are constructed to last, and many are also covered by a warranty to further increase their longevity. Consider choosing a finish that complements your bedroom decor and add accessories such as trundles or drawers to your bunk bed. This will help you prolong the longevity of your investment.
The DHP Miles is a great option for bunk beds that aren't expensive and still very sturdy. The bunks are designed with an original industrial design that's trendy and contemporary, while 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 a couch or guest bed for when guests come to visit. The bunks are shipped flat and require simple assembly when they arrive.
Another great option is the Max & Lily bunk bed that has two twin beds that are stacked on top of one another and splits into separate single beds once the bunk-bumping days are over. The minimalist, modern design and color choices give it a clean classic look that's great for both boys and girls bedrooms. The support provided by the company's customer service is not always consistent, and some customers have complained of damaged shipping.
If you're looking to build bunk beds that can endure for years and beyond, opt for one of the solid wood designs available from Crate & Kids. This model is sleek, timeless design that is easily transformed into two separate twin beds when your children are old enough to use it. Choose a neutral hue like espresso or white that blends 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 an ideal solution for tiny spaces, particularly in the case of children bedrooms. Many bunk beds have drawers under them, which gives you more storage space without taking up floor space. They also have shelves that can be used as bookshelf, a media centre or other furniture. They can also be split into two twin beds. This is great for extended families, cottages or out-of town guests.
If you opt for a ladder-style bed, look for one that has anti-slip rungs as well as hand holds to make climbing easier. Some beds have a staircase built into the frame for sleeker appearance and extra stability. These options are not suitable for children younger than 5 years old and require more space on the floor. Some have additional storage options with built-in shelves and drawers. This can be useful for toys or clothes.
Low bunks are another option to make the most of floor space. They are ideal for rooms that have high ceilings or smaller spaces. This design has a bottom bunk that's set at ground level and the top bed is suspended from the frame's side and saves valuable floor space. It's a good option for younger kids but might feel too babyish 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 unique and can be used to create one bed for your child reaches the age of the bunk or when the siblings move into their own rooms. The option is available in wood and metal and can be customised with a trundle or storage drawers.
Fenton says she prefers Oeuf's Perch bunk bed due to its elegant, durable and can be divided into twins over a full size bed. It's also certified GREENGUARD Gold, meaning it meets stricter chemical and particle air quality standards and doesn't emit noxious odors. It's also attractive due its mocha finish, clean lines and its sustainable nature.
Trundle Beds
A trundle adds extra sleeping space for your children's bunk beds, and could also be used as a guest bed to accommodate guests staying over. Some of the most popular bunk beds can be converted and come with a trundle that is large enough to fit under twin beds, which is accessible via an integrated staircase. This kind of bunk bed is an excellent alternative for bedrooms that don't have enough floor space for three beds, or for parents who wish to accommodate multiple children in a single room without losing space or privacy.
Some bunks come with trundle bed trundles that can be detached and rearranged to create two twin-sized beds or a full-overfull setup. Some of these bunks come with 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 a display area below.
Some of the top bunks also come with different colors to match your child's bedroom decor. White finishes are versatile and easily matched with any bedding, while a rich espresso stain or natural wood gives warmth and depth. Other finishes, such as soft gray and chic pink, work well with a range of color schemes and can be paired with any style of bunk bed.
If you're planning on using your bunk bed as a guest room, consider the overall size and height of the furniture to ensure it's a good fit to your home. If your ceilings are higher then you might want to consider a model with a futon or a sitting space under the top bunk. This will provide guests with an inviting place to sleep.
Another method to increase the versatility in bunk beds is to buy one equipped with a dresser and desk drawers. This will allow your children stay organized, while also giving you more storage for books, clothing and toys. A lot of these bunks come with the capacity of a full-size bed at the bottom and can be used by adults too, so they're a great choice for households with multiple children or families with multigenerational members who often host guests for overnight stays. These models are available in a range of finishes to suit the preferences of your child and match existing bedroom furniture.
Easy Assembly
The most comfortable convertible bunk beds are usually delivered partially assembled. This is great for parents who have limited time and space. best bunk beds are simple to assemble and require only the use of a few tools. If you're planning to go the DIY option, choose a bunk bed with easy-to-follow instructions and pre-cut pieces to make the assembly process easier.
It is crucial to consider the weight your bunk bed can support. Certain bunk beds are constructed with metal frames, which can support more weight than wood options. Additionally, if you choose a bunk bed made of wood, it is important to be aware of the type of wood used, as some varieties are more susceptible to splintering than others.
When shopping for a bunk bed, ensure that the bed you're considering has guard rails on both sides of the top of the bed. These can prevent your kids from falling asleep during the night and becoming a common cause of head injuries for children who sleep in bunks. These guards can be especially beneficial if your children are still young and scared of getting out of bed at night.
A slide that can be detached is another must-have when looking for bunk beds. This exciting addition to your child's room lets friends and siblings race down the slide together, or send their favourite stuffed animals along for the ride of their lives. Some models come with a staircase for easy access at the top.
A modern bunk bed with a detachable slide is a great option for parents who want to maximize the space in their child's bedroom without sacrificing safety or functionality. Max & Lily's stylish twin over full trundle bed is made of kiln dried pine wood and engineered wood for strength and long-lasting use. It comes in three different colors to complement any child's bedroom decor. A clean white finish is a fail-proof pick for rooms with a coastal or cottage theme and clay or gray finishes are a great match for a variety of colors.