Buying a Kids Bunk Bed
If you're preparing your room with two kids or simply want to maximize your floor space, a bunk bed is an ideal solution. Before you buy a bunk bed, take time to look at your options.
Safety is a major concern. It is important to establish rules regarding staying off the top level for activities other than sleeping, and to avoid hanging anything from the bunks.
Size
Lofts and bunk beds come in many different sizes. Some come with two twin mattresses, whereas others have a queen or full mattress on the bottom tier. Some bunk beds have a trundle that can be hidden when not being used. Bunk beds are an excellent choice for small rooms due to their space-saving design. Bunk beds are also less expensive than buying separate mattresses for children.
The majority of bunk beds come with a ladder or staircase to access the top bed. Some even have a railing to make sure that kids who sleep on the upper bunk do not fall out of the frame. Some designs feature a futon at the bottom that can be used both as a couch and bed.
Many parents opt to purchase bunk beds for kids because it allows them to make room in their child's bedroom. Additionally, the bed can easily be separated into individual beds if needed in the future. Bunk beds are especially useful in rooms for children that are shared by several children.
The most commonly used size for a children's bunk bed is one twin mattress on each top and bottom tier. This arrangement allows children of all ages the space they need to sleep comfortably. Twin mattresses are a great option for toddlers who have outgrown their cribs but aren't quite ready to move up to a larger bed.
There are also bunk beds that feature two twin beds side by side that allow two children to sleep but still have their own space. These beds are often referred to as twin over twin bunks and they're a great option for families with multiple children, but wish to maximize floor space in their smaller bedroom.
Some bunk beds feature an extra-large mattress on the lower level, which is perfect for teenagers or older children. This design is ideal for accommodating guests for sleepovers or giving kids extra space to lounge and spread out. These bunk beds come in a wide range of designs and styles so you can select the ideal piece for your child.
Safety
While bunk beds can be fun for children, they can be dangerous if they aren't constructed and placed in a safe manner. Ensure that your bunk bed meets the safety standards of the country and has passed the proper tests. It should also be firmly attached to the frame and have a suitable weight limit for the bottom and top mattress.
A good kids bunk bed will have guardrails for the upper sleep zone, which guard children from accidents that happen during sleeping. These rails should extend at least five inches above the surface of the mattress. Make sure that there is no gap between the guardrails as it could trap a child's head or other body parts and cause injury.
Additionally, it is important to teach your children to safely use the stairs or ladder to get to the top bunk. It's best to only have one person use the upper bunk at one time. It is essential to stop rough-housing or jumping on beds. These activities can lead to injuries and weakening of the foundation support system. Inspect the bunk bed regularly for signs of wear and tear and tighten any loose screws or bolts immediately.
Children who are sleeping in the top bunk should not be allowed to fall from the bed. This could result in serious injuries. If your child plans to sleep in the upper bunk you should put an artificial light in the room to aid them in seeing the ladder.
Make sure that books, toys, and other items away from the bunk beds. This reduces the chance of a child tripping over them or falling. It will also keep them from getting caught with the railings.
It's also recommended to place the bunk bed in a corner of the room whenever possible. This will help in bracing the structure and prevent it from shaking or moving when people climb up or down the ladder. Bunk beds must also be kept a safe distance from ceiling lights, fans and curtain hardware in order to prevent your children from hitting their heads while in or climbing out of them.
Style
It is essential to take into account the style of furniture when choosing bunk beds for kids. Bunk beds come in different styles, ranging from traditional to contemporary. You'll be able to find one that matches your child's tastes. Bunk beds also offer the opportunity to add special accessories, such as curtains, which can give a sense of privacy and separate sleeping areas. Other features, such as desks and storage spaces built-in are a great way to help your children to remain clean and organized.
For instance, this rustic-inspired bunk bed is made from rough wood and completed with a weathered, driftwood look that adds an organic feel to any bedroom. It comes with two drawers for storing toys and clothing and is an excellent space-saving option for rooms with kids. It can be customized to include a pull-out bed for additional sleeping space when guests are staying.
Other bunk bed options include the standard twin-over-twin bed, which is great for kids and teens who share the same room. This type of bunk bed has solid guardrails that are securely attached to the frame to avoid falling while sleeping. Find a ladder or steps that are securely attached to the frame by wide, non-slip steps. These stairs can be engraved with numbers to indicate which bunk is being used.
You can also select a futon bunk bed, which offers the versatility of both sleeping and lounging. They are usually a standard bunk structure with a futon under. The top level can be used as a lounge space during the day, while the lower level can be used as an intimate bedroom at night.
Corner loft beds are a great choice for bunk beds that can provide more storage space. These beds are made up of two beds that are elevated in a corner, freeing space for play and study. This bunk bed by makingitwithabby features an individualized macrame nook for you to sit in and a shelf to organize. The navy-colored finish of the bunk bed complements the blue-toned wall art to create a space that is cozy and cheerful.
Budget
Bunk beds are a space-saving solution that allows you to double, or even triple--the amount of sleeping space in your children's rooms or guest room. Bunk beds offer great value, despite the fact that they're not as affordable as twin-sized or full-sized beds.
You can find some basic, no frills bunk beds for less than $500. However, you can also find models that come with a variety of features that suit your needs and bedroom décor. This South Shore bunk bed, for instance, features an elegant design that's perfect for contemporary decors and still comes at a reasonable price. It's also lightweight, which means you can move it if your children grow out of it or move to a bigger home.
The more elegant bunk beds are popular with teens and older children with features like an integrated desk, stairs, or drawers. These extras can make a more practical space and provide a fashionable look to any kid's bedroom. Bunk beds that have slides are an ideal option for children who love playing in the dark. The top bunk can be transformed into a fun clubhouse or playhouse. Keep in mind that bunk beds with slides occupy more area than other bunks, so measure carefully prior to purchasing one.
If you're on a tight budget the type of material the bunk bed is constructed from is also crucial. You can find bunk beds made of metal or a combination. Wood is a strong, durable material that is ideal for children. Metal is generally more affordable than wood and it's a good choice when you're looking for a bunk bed that's easy to clean.
It is also important to consider the cost for any additional accessories you may require, such as curtains and a reading lamp. Certain bunk beds can be purchased with an entire set of furniture making it easier to choose the right look for your children's bedrooms.