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Design 101
The Best Bunk Beds To Use Your Space Efficiently
Bunk beds are, undeniably, a timeless choice for kids’ rooms, guest spaces, and even studio apartments. Not only can they save you a fair share of space, but also create a fun and functional sleeping environment for everyone.
Whether you’re upgrading your children’s room, furnishing a vacation home, or simply optimizing your house’s spaces, bunk beds offer versatility and style in a compact design. Below, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to find the best bunk beds.
Before You Buy
Before you pull the trigger on that bunk bed you’ve been eyeing for a while, there are a few key factors to consider. From measuring your room to understanding the various types and styles, it’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to furniture.
Is a Bunk Bed Right for Your Space?
Bunk beds are fantastic for maximizing the floor space in your smaller rooms. But it’s important to make sure they’re the right fit for your layout and intended purposes.
When it comes to children’s rooms, bunk beds are best for limited spaces shared by two or more siblings. Most kids over six can safely use the top bunk if you teach them how to climb to it. Younger kids should instead sleep on the bottom bed.
Guest rooms, on the other hand, are a bit more flexible. As long as you keep in mind that older people probably won’t be able to use the top bed, then there’s no going wrong with a stylish bunk bed.
However, always remember that bunk beds require rooms to have somewhat high ceilings — usually eight feet or more. Otherwise, you won’t be able to use the top bed comfortably.
Standard Size of a Bunk Bed
Measuring your room correctly and knowing the dimensions of a bunk bed is key to maximizing the space in any area.
The standard, typical bunk bed is about 39 inches wide and 75 inches long (twin size). As far as height goes, it can range between 32-42 inches. Keep in mind that you’ll need a tiny bit of extra space to install the bunk bed itself the first time around.
When it comes to measuring your room, it’s as straightforward as taking a look at the total floor space wherever you’re looking to set your bunk bed up. Ensure that it will fit comfortably without blocking any windows, doors, or other pieces of furniture.
Materials and Styles of Bunk Beds
Bunk beds, like most other beds, come in a variety of materials and styles. This can affect the durability and feel of the bed itself — but also how it will fit into the room’s aesthetic.
Wooden bunk beds are the most classic choice, as they offer a warm and traditional look without sacrificing durability. Metal bunks, instead, are a bit easier to assemble and better suited for minimalist styles. However, they may be a bit more expensive.
As far as styles go, it all comes down to your personal preferences. There are hundreds of options out there, from minimalist, modern designs to themed vintage bunk beds.
The Best Mattress and Bedding for Bunk Beds
Selecting the right mattresses is just as important as choosing the bunk bed itself. Because bunk beds don’t have box springs, it’s crucial to choose high-quality mattresses that will go well with the slats.
When it comes to thickness, the top bed should be a bit thinner than usual to keep the guard rails effective. The bottom bed can be a bit thicker for added comfort. This is especially considering that’s where young kids and older people will probably sleep.
As you might have guessed, fitted sheets are the best bedding for bunk beds. They stay in place better than loose sheets and are overall easier to maneuver on the top bunk. Similarly, lightweight sheets are a bit easier to manipulate.
Installing a Bunk Bed Safely
Safety is the number one priority when it comes to bunk beds — and even more so if you’re planning on having your kids use it. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions closely while assembling the bed, and ensure the bed meets the minimum safety standards.
For example, the guardrails should be close to the mattress (no more than three or four inches) and they should be included on all sides of the bed. The ladder should be securely attached, and keep in mind that angled ladders work best for young children.
Also, be mindful of the top bunk before you start using the bed. Most bunk beds can hold up to 200-350 pounds on the top bed, but check the specific details of the model you bought.
Different Types of Bunk Beds
Besides the style of the bunk bed itself, there are also three main types of beds you should know. Each serves its own purpose, so try to think what would be best for your own specific room:
Bed Over Bed Bunk Bed
This is the classic bunk bed: two stacked beds one on top of the other. These are ideal for maximizing the sleeping area, and some models even allow you to detach the beds to make them individual.
Loft Bunk Bed
Loft bunk beds are similar to bed-over-bed bunks, but with the key difference that there’s no bed on the bottom. Instead, the space beneath the top bed is open for a desk, playing area, or storage. These are great for taking advantage of the vertical space in your room.
Storage Bunk Bed
Storage bunk beds come equipped with built-in drawers and shelves to maximize space in smaller rooms. Although they may be a bit clunkier to assemble, they are an all-in-one solution if you want to take advantage of the nooks and crannies in your room.
Choosing the Best Bunk Bed for Your Space
There are hundreds of options out there, so it can be a bit challenging to narrow down the perfect bunk bed for your house. Below we’ll give you a few key ideas to keep in mind, taking into account aesthetics and functionality.
The Best Bunk Beds for a Themed Room
When it comes to best bunk beds for kids, nothing beats one that complements the theme of your children’s room. Through fun colors and shapes, you can make bedtime feel like part of the adventure, sparking up their imagination and creativity.
The Best Bunk Beds for a Minimalist Style
If you prefer to keep things a bit more modern, certain bunk beds focus on simple lines, neutral colors, and functional designs to fit a minimalist room. These might be the best bunk beds for adults, as they don’t take too much visual space but remain in style with the rest of the decor.
The Best Loft Beds With a Desk
Loft beds with desks underneath are, by far, the best choice for school-aged children and teens. They allow you to create a functional study area without taking up too much space or making it the centerpiece of the room.
The Best Bunk Beds With Storage
If you need a space-saving solution with the added pro of organization, try to look for beds with built-in drawers, shelves, and pockets. These bunk beds maximize storage potential without sacrificing any extra space, making them ideal for very small bedrooms or shared spaces.
The Best Bunk Beds for a Guest Room
For a guest room that may eventually accommodate both children and adults, go for a sturdy bunk bed that offers both comfort and durability. For example, a twin-over-full bunk bed is perfect for allowing adults to sleep on the bottom with their kid on the top bed.
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