How to Choose the Best Convertible Bunk Beds
Bunk beds are an excellent way for children to reduce space and add an exciting touch to their rooms. But how do you select the best one?
When your children are old enough to outgrow the bunk bed configuration Choose a bunk that can be divided into two beds. The best option will be durable, with a design that can handle multiple kids and sleepovers.
Sturdy Construction
If you're looking to add bunk beds to your child's bedroom, make sure that they can withstand the weight of both kids and adults. Look for features that are durable such as metal tubular frames or solid wood construction to endure the wear and tear of a bedroom shared. Bunk beds are often used for sleepovers as well as overnight summer camps, so they should be able to withstand the weight of a group of children jumping up and down all night.
A majority of the top convertible beds are constructed with a strong steel frame. They also come with warranties that increase their durability. You should consider picking a finish that matches your bedroom decor, and add accessories such as trundles and drawers to your bunk bed. This will help extend the life of your investment.
For an affordable alternative that's still extremely sturdy opt for the DHP Miles bunk bed. The bunks sport a distinctive industrial design that is trendy and contemporary. The ladder and safety rails are sturdy and keep kids and adults secure. best bunk beds for small rooms has a futon that can be used as a couch, or as a guest bed for friends and family. The bunks are delivered flat and are ready for assembly when they arrive.
Max & Lily is another great alternative. It has two twin beds, on top of each other, and it can be separated into two beds after the bunk-bumping phase is over. The modern, simple design and color choices create a classic, clean look that is ideal for both boys and girls bedrooms. The company's customer support is inconsistent, and customers have complained about shipping damage.
If you're looking to build bunk beds that can last through the years and beyond, go for one of the solid wood designs available from Crate & Kids. This model is sleek, timeless style that'll effortlessly transition from bunk beds to two separate twin beds when your kids are old enough to take it. Choose a neutral color like white or espresso to blend with any color palette or opt for an edgy option like deep pink or navy to add a pop of color to your bedroom.
Extra Storage
Bunk beds can be a great solution for smaller areas, particularly for kids bedrooms. Many bunks have drawers underneath which give you more storage without taking up floor space. These beds also come with shelves which can be used to hold media centers, bookshelf or other furniture. They're also designed to split down into two separate beds, which is a smart option for cottages, extended family or out-of-town guests.
If you choose to buy a ladder-style bed, look for one with anti-slip rungs and hand holds to make climbing easier. Some have a staircase built into the frame to give it a more streamlined look and added stability. These aren't suitable for children under the age of 5 and require more space on the floor. Some also offer extra storage options, such as built-in shelves or drawers that can be useful for toys or clothes.
Another option to reduce space is to use the low bunk, which is great for smaller spaces and higher ceilings. This design has an underbed that is at the level of the ground and a top one that is attached to the frame's side to free up floor space. Laura Fenton, the author of The Bunk Bed Book, says that it's a great option for children who are young, but they may appear too young when they grow older.
Low bunks are also unique and can be used to make an individual bed when your child reaches the age of the bunk or when siblings move into their own rooms. This option is available in wood and metal, and can be customized with storage drawers or a trundle.
Fenton says she favors Oeuf's Perch bunk because it's stylish and is made with durable materials and separates into a twin over a full-size bed. It is also GREENGUARD gold certified, which means it meets the stricter standards for particle and chemical air pollution and doesn't emit odors that are unpleasant. It's also attractive due to its mocha finish, clean lines, and its sustainable nature.
Trundle Beds
A trundle can add more sleeping space to your child's bunk beds. It can also serve as a guest bed for guests staying overnight. The best bunk beds can be converted and include a full-sized trundle beneath twin beds, accessible via an integrated staircase. This kind of bunk bed is a great option for small bedrooms that do not have enough space to accommodate three beds, or for parents who wish to accommodate several children in the same room without losing privacy.
Some bunks have trundle bed beds that can be detached and used on their own to create two twin beds or a full-overfull arrangement. Some of these bunks feature an additional staircase that allows you to access the trundle independently. Others have an integrated staircase with built-in storage space or display space below.
Some of the most desirable bunks are also available in several color options to complement your child's bedroom decor. White finishes are versatile and easy to match with any bedding, while a rich espresso stain or natural wood gives warmth and depth. Other finishes, like soft gray and chic pink play well with a variety of color schemes and can be paired with any design of bunk beds.
If you are planning to make use of the bunk bed in your home for a guest bedroom, make sure that it is appropriate for the dimensions and height of your home. If you have lower ceilings, search for a model that incorporates the futon or sitting space under the top bunk, to provide guests a comfortable place to rest.
A bunk bed that has drawers for a desk and dresser is a great way to increase the flexibility of your bed. This will allow your children remain organized, while providing you with more storage space for clothing, books 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 ideal for families with multiple children or multigenerational families who frequently host overnight guests. These models come in a variety of finishes that will suit your child's tastes and complement existing bedroom furniture.
Easy Assembly
A lot of the top convertible bunk beds come partially assembled, which is perfect for parents who are tight on time and space. These bunk beds are easy to put together and require only the use of a few tools. If you're going the DIY route, look for a bunk bed that comes with easy-to-follow directions and pre-cut parts to help make the assembly process easier.
It is important to think about the amount of weight your bunk bed can support. Certain bunk beds are constructed with metal frames, which can support more weight than wood. If you opt for a wood bunk bed, make sure to check the kind of wood you choose, because certain types are more prone to splinter than others.
When you're looking to purchase a bunk bed, ensure that the model you're considering has guard rails on either side of the topmost level. They will stop your kids from falling asleep at night and becoming a common cause of head injuries in children who sleep in bunks. These guards are particularly useful if your children are young and may be afraid of climbing out of bed at night.
Another must-have feature when shopping for a bunk bed is a detachable slide. This fun addition for your child's bedroom lets siblings and friends race down the slide or send their favorite stuffed animal on the thrill of their lives. Some models have a staircase that is a match for top access.

A modern bunk bed with slide that can be detached is an excellent choice for parents who wish to make the most of their child's bedroom space without sacrificing functionality and safety. Max & Lily's chic twin over full trundle bed is constructed from kiln dried pine and engineered wood for strength and long-lasting use. Available in three new designs to fit the decor of any child's bedroom. A clean white finish is perfect for coastal or cottage-style rooms. Gray or clay finishes can be paired with a variety of color schemes.