Buying a Kids Bunk Bed
If you're planning to furnish the space for two children or simply looking to maximize your floor space, a bunk bed is the ideal option. Before you buy a bunk bed, take time to think about your choices.
Safety is a major concern. It is important to establish rules for staying off the top level for other purposes than sleeping, and not hanging anything from the bunks.
Size
Bunk beds and loft beds are available in a broad 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 bunk beds include an trundle that can be concealed when not being used. This design is space-saving and makes bunk beds a great option for bedrooms with small spaces. Bunk beds are cheaper than buying separate mattresses for children.
Most bunk beds have a ladder or staircase to reach the top bed. Some bunk beds have railings to ensure that children sleeping on the top bunk do not fall out. Some designs have an ottoman at the bottom which can be used as a couch and bed.
Many parents opt to purchase a bunk bed for their children as it saves them space in their child's room. Moreover the bed is able to be divided into separate beds if needed in the future. Bunk beds are excellent for rooms that are shared by a number of children.
The most popular size for a kids' bunk bed is a twin mattress on the top and bottom tiers. This configuration allows kids of all ages the space they require to rest comfortably. Twin mattresses are also a great option for toddlers who have grown out of their cribs but aren't yet ready to move into the full-size bed.
There are also bunk beds that have two twin beds that are side by side that allow two children to sleep together and still have their own space. These beds are sometimes called twin over twin bunks and they're an ideal option for families who have multiple children, but wish to maximize floor space in their smaller bedroom.
Some bunk beds come with a full mattress on the lower level which is ideal for older kids or teens. This arrangement is perfect to accommodate guests during sleepovers or giving kids more space to lounge and spread out. These bunk beds are available in a variety of styles and finishes so you can select the ideal piece for your child.
Safety
Bunk beds can be fun for kids, but they can also pose a risk when not constructed and positioned correctly. Make sure that your bunk bed is compliant with the safety standards of the country and has undergone proper testing. It should be securely attached and have a weight limit for both the top and bottom mattresses.
Guardrails in the upper sleep zone of a great bunk bed for children will protect children from accidental falls during sleep. The rails should be at least five inches above the mattress's surface. Make sure there's no gap in between the guardrails as it could cause a child's head to be trapped or other body parts and cause injury.
It is also important to teach children to safely access 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 could cause injuries and weakening of the foundation support system. Examine the bunk bed for signs of wear, and tighten any loose screws or bolts as soon as you notice them.
Children who are asleep in the top bunk should not be allowed to fall out of the bed, as this could cause serious injuries. If your child is going to sleep in the top bunk, it is recommended to place a night light in the room, so they can see where the ladder is.
Keep toys, books and other objects away from the bunk beds. This decreases the chance of a child falling over them and can stop them from getting caught in the guardrails.
If possible it's best for the bunk bed to be placed in the corner. This will allow you to brace the structure to stop it from moving when someone climbs up the ladder. Bunk beds should also be kept away from ceiling lights, fans and curtain hardware to avoid your children hitting their heads while inside or climbing out of them.
Style
It is important to consider the style of furniture when choosing a bunk bed for kids . Bunk beds are available in different styles, ranging from classic to modern, so you're sure to find one that matches your child's preferences. Bunk beds let you add accessories such as curtains that create a sense security and separate sleeping areas. Other features such as desks or built-in storage can help your children stay organized.
The rustic-style bunk bed is made of a rough wood and finished in a weathered driftwood look that adds natural feel to any room. It comes with two drawers that can be used to store toys and clothes. This is an excellent feature for saving space in kids' rooms. It can be even customized with an trundle bed that can be pulled out for extra sleeping space when guests come.
The twin-over-twin standard bunk bed is another option. It's perfect for kids and teens who share a bedroom. This type of bunk bed features sturdy guardrails that are securely connected to the frame to prevent falling asleep. Look for a ladder or steps that are securely fixed to the frame with wide, non-slip steps. These stairs can be engraved with numbers to indicate which bunk is being utilized.
You can also choose futon beds that offer the option of sleeping as well as relaxing. These beds typically consist of the standard bunk bed with a futon or convertible sofa beneath, allowing the top level to function as a relaxing lounge in the daytime and the bottom level to function as a comfortable bed at night.
Corner loft beds are a great choice for bunk beds that can provide more storage space. These beds combine two beds that are elevated in a corner, freeing space for studying and playing. This bunk bed from makingitwithabby has a custom macrame nook for relaxing and extra shelving for organizing. The dark navy finish matches the blue-toned wallpaper, creating a room that is both comfortable and jolly.
Budget
Bunk beds are a space-saving sleeping solution that allows you to double or even triple--the number of sleeping spaces in your child's bedrooms or guest rooms. And while they may not be as affordable as standalone twin or full-sized beds, bunk beds provide plenty of value for the money you spend.
A few basic, simple bunk beds can be purchased for less than $500, but you'll also discover models that offer various features to suit your needs and the style of your bedroom. For instance this bunk bed from South Shore offers a modern style that's ideal for modern decors, while still offering affordable prices. It's also lightweight, meaning it can be moved around if your children outgrow the bed or you decide to move to a larger house.
Modern bunk beds include features that are appealing to teens and older children like an integrated desk or stairs, or drawers. These additional features can make a more practical space and give a chic appearance to any child's bedroom. Bunk beds with a slide can also be an excellent option for kids who enjoy playing in the dark. The top bunk can then be transformed into an enjoyable playhouse or clubhouse. Be aware that bunk beds with slides require more area than other bunk beds, so be sure to measure prior to purchasing one.
If you are on a tight budget the kind of material the bunk bed is made from is equally important. You can find bunk beds made of metal or a combination of. Wood is a strong, durable material that's ideal for kids. Metal bunk beds are typically more affordable than wooden ones, and they're also easier to clean.
It is also important to consider the cost of any additional accessories you might require such as curtains or a reading lamp. Some bunk beds are equipped with matching furniture to help create the perfect design for your kids' bedrooms.