How to Choose the Best Convertible Bunk Beds
Bunk beds are an excellent way for children to save space while adding an exciting touch to their rooms. What are the best ways to choose the most suitable one?
Find a bunk bed that separates into two beds once your kids outgrow the bunk layout. The best options will also be durable and have designs that can accommodate sleepovers and multiple kids.
Sturdy Construction
If you are looking to add bunk beds to your child's bedroom, make sure that they are able to withstand the weight of both kids and adults. Look for features that are durable such as tubular frames made of steel or solid wood constructions to stand up to the demands of a bedroom shared. Bunk beds are commonly used for sleepovers as well as overnight summer camps, therefore they must be able to withstand the weight of multiple children jumping around and down throughout the night.
Most of the best convertible bunk beds feature a durable steel frame that's constructed to last. Many also come with a warranty to ensure their durability. Choose a finish that complements your bedroom decor and think about adding other bunk bed accessories such as trundles or storage drawers to extend the life of your investment.
For a low-cost option that's also extremely durable choose the DHP Miles bunk bed. The bunks have a unique industrial design that is trendy and contemporary. The ladder and safety rails are durable and will keep children and adults secure. The bottom bunk includes the futon, which can be used as a couch or guest bed for when family and friends come to visit. The bunks ship flat to your home and require easy assembly upon arrival.
Another option is the Max & Lily bunk bed, which has two twin beds that are stacked on top of each other and can be separated into separate single beds when the bunk-bumping days are over. The contemporary, minimalist design and color choices provide a classic, sleek design that is perfect for both girls and boys bedrooms. However, the company's customer service isn't always consistent, and some customers have complained with damage from shipping.
If you want to add bunk beds that can last through the years and beyond, you should opt for one of the solid wood designs from Crate & Kids. This model is modern, sleek design that can easily transition from bunks to two separate twin beds once your kids outgrow it. Choose a neutral hue such as espresso or white that can be incorporated into any colour scheme, or go for a bolder option such as deep blue or pink to energize the space.
Extra Storage
Bunk beds are a great option for kids' rooms, especially when you have a small space. Many bunk beds have drawers beneath them, giving you more storage space without taking up any floor space. These beds are equipped with shelves that can be used for a media center, bookshelf or other furniture. These beds can also be split into two twin beds. This is ideal for families with extended homes, cottages or out-of town guests.
If you choose to buy a ladder-style bed, search for one with anti-slip rungs and handholds to make climbing easier. Some beds come with an integrated staircase for an elegant appearance and greater stability. These choices might not be well for children younger than 5 years old and are best suited to bigger rooms as they occupy more space on the floor. Some offer additional storage like built-in shelves and drawers, which can be useful for toys or clothes.
Low bunks are another way to make the most of floor space. They're ideal for spaces with high ceilings as well as small spaces. This design has the bottom bed that is at the level of the ground and a top bunk which hangs from the frame's side to make use of the floor space. Laura Fenton, the author of The Bunk Bed Book, says that it's a great option for younger children however they might appear too young when they grow older.
A low bunk also offers a unique aesthetic and can be used as a bed for a single person after your child has outgrown the bunk, or when siblings move into their own rooms. This option is available in both metal and wood and can be customised with a trundle or storage drawers.
Fenton says she prefers Oeuf's Perch bunk because it's sleek and stylish, is made with durable materials and can be divided into a twin bed over a large bed. It's also GREENGUARD gold certified which means it complies with the stricter standards for particle and chemical air pollution and does not emit foul odors. The mocha finish and clean lines are also attractive in addition to the fact that it's sustainable and comes from FSC Baltic Birch.
Trundle Beds
Trundles add additional sleeping space to your child's bunk beds. It could also be used as a guest room bed for guests staying over. Some of the best bunk beds are convertible and include a full-sized trundle beneath twin beds, accessible through an integrated staircase. This type of bunk bed is a terrific alternative for bedrooms that don't have enough room for three beds, or for parents who want to accommodate several children in one space without losing space or privacy.
Other bunks feature detachable trundle beds that you can put as a pair, either to create two twin-sized beds or to create a full-over-full configuration. best bunk bed with desk of these bunks have another staircase that allows you to access the trundle from its own. Some include an integrated staircase with built-in storage space or display space below.
The top bunks also come with various colors to match the existing bedroom decor. White finishes are versatile and can be matched with any bedding, while a dark espresso or natural wood stain provides warmth and a richness. Other finishes, like soft gray or chic pink are great with a broad spectrum of colors and can be matched with any design bunk bed.
If you're planning to use your bunk bed as a guest room take into consideration the overall size and the height of the furniture to ensure it's an appropriate fit to your home. If your ceilings are lower then you might want to look into a model that has an ottoman or a sitting area underneath the top bunk. This will give guests an inviting place to sleep.

Another way to boost versatility of a bunk bed is to buy one designed with desk and dresser drawers. This option can help your children stay organized, while also providing you with extra storage for toys, books and clothes. A lot of these bunks come with a full-size bottom bed and are suitable for adults too, so they're an ideal choice for families with multiple children or families with multigenerational members who often host overnight guests. Many of these models come with a variety of finishes options to fit your children's taste and complement your current furniture for bedrooms, such as solid oak, dark walnut, and white finishes.
Easy Assembly
The best convertible bunk beds are usually shipped partially assembled. This is great for parents with a limited time and space. These bunk beds also require only a few tools and can be assembled by one or two people. If you're taking the DIY option, choose a bunk bed with clear instructions and pre-cut components to help speed up the assembly process.
Depending on the design and material of your bunk bed, it's important to think about the amount of weight it can carry. Some bunk beds have metal frames that can withstand more weight. Additionally, if you choose a bunk bed made of wood, it's important to consider the type of wood you choose because some types are more susceptible to splintering than others.
When buying a bunk bed, ensure that the model you're contemplating has rails for safety on either side of the top level. They can stop your children from falling asleep at night and becoming a common cause of head injuries among children who sleep in bunks. These guards are especially helpful for children who are younger who may be afraid to get out of bed in the middle of the night.
Another essential feature to consider when you are looking for bunk beds is a slide that can be detached. This exciting addition to your child's bedroom allows children and their friends to race down the slide or take their favorite animal on the thrill of their lives. Some models even come with a storage staircase that is matched to ensure safe access to the top.
A modern bunk bed with a detachable slide is a great option for parents looking to make the most of their child's bedroom space without sacrificing safety and functionality. This stylish twin over full trundle bed from Max & Lily is crafted using kiln-dried pine wood as well as engineered wood for strength and longevity. Available in three new finishes to match the decor of any child's bedroom. A clean white finish is a fail-proof pick for cottage or coastal rooms and clay or gray finishes work well with a wide range of colors.