How to Choose the Best Convertible Bunk Beds
Bunk beds are a great way to reduce space and add a fun touch of decoration to kids' rooms. But how do you select the right one?
Look for bunk beds that can be divided into two beds once your children outgrow the bunk layout. The most suitable bunk beds are robust and feature designs that can accommodate sleepovers and multiple children.
Sturdy Construction
If you're looking to add a bunk bed to your child's bedroom, be sure it's built to last and can stand the weight of kids and adults. Check for quality construction features like tubular frames made of steel and solid wood construction that can withstand the wear and tear of a shared room. Bunk beds are commonly used for sleepovers and overnight summer camps, so they need to be able to handle the weight of multiple children jumping up and down throughout the night.
The best convertible bunk beds come with sturdy steel frames that are built to last, and many also come with a guarantee to ensure their durability. Look for a finish that complements your bedroom decor, and consider adding additional bunk bed accessories, such as storage drawers or trundles to extend the lifespan of your new investment.
For a low-cost option that's also extremely durable choose the DHP Miles bunk bed. The bunks are distinctive with an industrial look that is hip and modern. The ladder and safety rails are strong and keep kids and adults secure. The bottom bunk includes a futon that can be used as a couch or guest bed for when guests come to visit. The bunks arrive flat to your home and require simple assembly upon arrival.
Max & Lily is another excellent option. It comes with two twin beds stacked on top of each other, and it can be split into two beds when the bunk-bumping period is over. The minimalist modern design and color options give it a clean, classic feel that's ideal for both girls and boys bedrooms. The company's customer support is inconsistent, and customers have reported shipping damage.
Crate & Kids offers solid wood bunk beds built to last. This model is modern, sleek design that can be easily transformed into two separate twin beds once your children are old enough to use it. Choose a neutral color like espresso or white to go with any color palette, or go for an edgy option like deep pink or navy to add a pop of color to your bedroom.
Extra Storage
Bunk beds are a great option for rooms for children, especially when you are limited in space. Most bunk beds come with drawers underneath them, giving you more storage space but not taking up any floor space. These beds come with shelves that can be used for bookshelf, a media centre or other furniture. They're also designed to split down into two separate twin beds, which is a smart feature for homes with a cottage, extended family or out-of-town guests.
If you opt for a ladder-style bed ensure it comes with handstraps and anti-slip rungs in order to help you climb up. Some have a staircase built into the frame to give it a more streamlined look and additional stability. These types of furniture are not suitable for younger children, and they require more space on the floor. Some offer extra storage like built-in drawers and shelves. This can be useful for clothes or toys.

Another way to save space is to have the low bunk, which is ideal for smaller spaces and taller ceilings. This style includes a bottom bunk placed at the ground level and a top bed that hangs from the frame's side, saving valuable floor space. Laura Fenton, the author of The Bunk Bed Book, states that it's an excellent alternative for younger children however they might feel too babyish when they grow older.
A low bunk also offers an unique design and can be used as a single bed when your child outgrows the bunk, or once siblings move into their own rooms. The option is available in wood or metal and can be made to fit a trundle and storage drawers.
Fenton says she prefers Oeuf's Perch bunk because it's sleek and stylish, is constructed of durable materials and can be divided into a twin over a large bed. best metal bunk beds 's also GREENGUARD Gold certified, meaning it meets stricter quality of air and chemical standards and doesn't emit foul odors. It's also attractive due to its mocha finish, clean lines, and its sustainable nature.
Trundle Beds
Trundle beds add sleeping space to your kids bunk beds, and also works as a great guest bed for guests staying over. Some of the most popular convertible bunk beds feature an expansive full trundle bed under twin beds that can be accessed via a built-in stairwell. This type of bunk bed is an excellent option for bedrooms that don't have enough space to accommodate three beds or for parents who wish to accommodate a number of children in the same space without sacrificing privacy.
Some bunks feature trundle bed trundles which can be removed and used as a separate unit to create two twin beds or a full-overfull setup. Some of these bunks have another staircase that lets you to access the trundle bed on its own, while others feature an integrated staircase that comes with built-in storage shelves or a display space below.
Some of the top bunks also come with several color options to complement the existing bedroom decor. White finishes are versatile, and can be paired with any bedding. A rich espresso or natural stain will add warmth and richness. Other finishes, such as soft gray or chic pink, work well with a wide variety of colors, and can be coordinated with any style bunk bed.
If you're planning to use your bunk bed as a guest room think about the overall dimensions and the height of the furniture to ensure that it's suitable to your home. If you have lower ceilings, search for a model that incorporates an ottoman or a sitting area under the top bunk, to provide guests a comfortable place to rest.
A bunk bed with drawers to serve as an office and dresser is a great way to increase the versatility of your bed. This can help your children stay organized while giving you extra storage space for books, toys and clothes. Many of these bunks have a full-size bottom bed and are suitable for adults, as well, making them ideal for families with multiple children or multigenerational families who often host guests for overnight stays. A lot of these models come with a variety of finishes options to suit your children's preference and match your current furniture for bedrooms, such as solid oak, dark walnut, and white finishes.
Easy Assembly
Many of the top convertible bunk beds come partially assembled, which is great for parents who are tight on space and time. These types of bunk beds also require minimal tools and can be put together by one or two people. If you intend to DIY select the bunk bed that comes with clear instructions and pre-cut pieces that speed up the assembly.
It is crucial to consider the weight that your bunk bed will be able to support. Some bunk beds use metal frames that can hold more weight than wood. If you opt for a wood bunk bed, be sure to check the type of wood used, because some kinds tend to be more susceptible to splintering than others.
When you're looking to purchase a bunk bed, ensure that the model you are looking at has guard rails either side of the top level. These guards will prevent your children from rolling off their beds at night. This is a frequent reason for head injuries in children who sleep in bunk beds. These guards are particularly helpful if you have younger children who might be scared to get up in the middle of the night.
A slide that is detachable is another must-have when looking for bunk beds. This fun addition to your child's bedroom allows children and their friends to race down the slide or take their favorite stuffed animal on the adventure of their lives. Some models come with a staircase for easy access at the top.
A modern bunk bed with an easily detachable slide is a fantastic option for parents who want to make the most of their child's bedroom space without sacrificing safety and functionality. This fashionable twin over full trundle bunk bed from Max & Lily is crafted from kiln-dried pine wood and engineered wood for strength and longevity. It is available in three new finishes to match the decor of your child's bedroom. A clean white finish is perfect for coastal or cottage-style rooms. Gray or clay finishes can be used with a variety of color schemes.