Buying a Kids Bunk Bed
If you're preparing your room with two kids or simply looking to make the most of your floor space, bunk beds are an excellent solution. But before you buy one, you should consider your options carefully.
Safety is a major consideration. It's important to establish rules about staying off the top of the stairs for other purposes than sleeping, and to avoid hanging anything from the bunks.
Size
Bunk beds and lofts come in many different sizes. Some loft beds come with two twin beds while others can accommodate a queen or full-sized mattress at the bottom. Some bunk beds come with a trundle that can be hidden when not in use. Bunk beds are a great choice for small rooms because of their space-saving design. Bunk beds are less expensive than purchasing separate mattresses for kids.
The majority of bunk beds have a ladder or staircase to access the top bed. Some even feature a railing to make sure that kids sleeping on the top bunk do not fall out of the frame. Some designs even include an ottoman on the bottom tier, which can be used as a sofa during the day, and also as a bed at night.
Many parents opt to purchase a kids bunk bed because it lets them free up space in their child's bedroom. The bed can be easily separated into individual beds in the future if necessary. Bunk beds can be an ideal option for rooms that are shared by a number of children.
The most commonly used size for a kid's bunk bed is one twin mattress on both the bottom and top tiers. This configuration allows kids of all ages to have the space they require to sleep comfortably. Twin mattresses are a great choice for toddlers that have outgrown their cribs, but aren't yet ready to transition to a larger bed.
There are bunk beds that have two twin beds that are side by side, allowing two children to sleep together and still have their own space. These beds are sometimes called twin over twin bunks and they are ideal for families with several children but need to maximize space they have in their bedroom.
Some bunk beds have a full-sized mattress on the lower level, which is great for teenagers or older children. This arrangement is ideal to accommodate guests at sleepovers or giving extra space for children to relax and spread out. Many of these bunk beds are also available in a variety of styles and finishes, meaning you can find the perfect piece that fits your child's individual style.
Safety
Bunk beds can be fun for children, however they can also be dangerous in the event that they are not constructed and set up properly. Make sure your bunk bed meets the safety standards of the country and has been tested properly. It must also be securely attached to the frame and have a suitable weight limit for both the top and bottom mattress.
A good kids bunk bed will have guardrails for the upper sleep zone, that protect children from falling off during their sleeping. The rails' height should be at least 5 inches higher than the mattress's surface. Be sure there is no gap between the guardrails, since this can cause a child's head to be trapped or other body parts and cause injuries.
In addition, it is crucial to teach your children how to use the ladder or stairs to get to the top bunk. It's best to only have one person use the top bunk at a time. It's important to discourage roughhousing or jumping onto beds. These activities could cause injuries and weaken the foundation support system. Examine the bunk bed for wear signs, and tighten loose screws or bolts immediately.
Children who are asleep on the top bunk shouldn't be allowed to fall off the bed, as this could cause serious injuries. If your children are likely to sleep in the top bunk, it's best to place a night light in the room, so they can see where the ladder is.
It's also a good idea to keep toys, books and other objects away from the bunk bed. This reduces the chance of a child falling over them or falling and prevent them from becoming entangled with the railings.
It's also a good idea to place the bunk bed in the corner of the room when feasible. This will help brace the structure to prevent it from moving when someone climbs the ladder. Bunk beds should be kept clear of ceiling fans, curtain hardware and light fixtures to prevent your children from smacking their heads when climbing in or out.
Style
It is essential to take into account the style of furniture when choosing bunk beds for kids. Bunk beds are available in different styles, from classic to contemporary and you'll be able to find one that matches your child's preferences. Bunk beds also offer the chance to add unique accessories, such as curtains, that can create an atmosphere of privacy and separate sleeping areas. Other features, such as desks and storage spaces built-in are a great way to make it easier for your children to be tidy and organized.
The rustic-inspired bunk bed is constructed of a rough wood and finished with an aged driftwood finish which adds a natural touch to any room. It has two drawers to store clothing and toys. This is an excellent option to make space in kids' rooms. It can be even customized with a pull-out trundle bed for additional sleep space for guests.
Other bunk bed options include the standard twin-overtwin bunk bed, which is great for teens and kids who share the same room. This type of bunk bed has solid guardrails that are securely attached to the frame to stop a fall from sleeping. Other safety features to look for include the stairs or ladder that are firmly connected to the frame, and come with wide, non-slip steps. These steps can be engraved with numbers to help you keep track of the bunk being used.
You can also choose futon bunk beds, which offers the versatility of being able to sleep and lounge. They are usually built as a standard bunk with a futon beneath. The top level can be used as a lounge during the day, while the lower level as an intimate bedroom at night.
Corner loft beds are an excellent option for bunk beds that can provide more storage space. These beds combine two beds elevated in a corner, allowing space for play and study. This bunk bed by makingitwithabby comes with an individual macrame nook that can be used for relaxation, as well as additional shelves for organising. The navy-colored finish is a perfect match for the blue-toned wallpaper mural and creates a space that is both comfortable and cheerful.
Budget
Bunk beds are a space-saving sleep solution that lets you double--or even triple the amount of sleeping space in your child's bedrooms or guest rooms. While they might not be as affordable as standalone twin or full-sized beds, bunk beds provide a lot of value for the money you spend.
There are a variety of basic, simple bunk beds for less than $500. However, you can also find models with many features that will suit your needs and bedroom décor. This South Shore bunk bed, for instance, features an elegant design that's ideal for modern decors and is priced at an affordable price. It's also lightweight, which means you can move it around if your children outgrow it or if you decide to move to a bigger house.
The most sophisticated bunk beds come with features that will appeal to older children and teenagers, such as a built-in desk and stairs, or drawers. These extras can make an easier-to-use space and add a stylish accent to any kid's bedroom. Bunk beds with slides can be an ideal option for children who like playing in the dark. The top bunk can then be transformed into an exciting playhouse or clubhouse. Be aware that bunk beds with slide can take up more space than other types so be sure to take a measurement prior to purchasing one.
If you are on a budget the kind of material the bunk bed is made from is also crucial. Wood is a sturdy and durable material that's ideal for kids bunk beds however, you can also find models made from metal or a combination of materials. Metal is generally cheaper than wood, and it's a good choice when you're looking for an easy bunk bed to clean.
Also, you'll want to think about the cost of any special accessories that you might need for your bunk bed, including curtains or a reading light. Certain bunk beds can be bought with furniture that is matched making it easier to select the right style for your children's bedrooms.