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Blog entry by Dalton Tobiasen

Top Picks For the Best Kids Bunkbeds

Bunk beds are an excellent way to maximize the space in children's rooms, while also providing the opportunity for a fun shared bedroom. We've selected our top picks for the best kids bunkbeds that are attractive, affordable and sturdy enough to last a long time.

A majority of our choices have an angled ladder, which takes up less room than straight ladders, yet are still a breeze for children to climb, says Fenton. There are also stairways, which take up more space, but are safer for climbing than ladders.

1. Crate & Kids Babyletto TipToe White & Washed Natural Wood Kids Bunk Bed

This bunk bed is great for toddlers and younger children who might not feel comfortable climbing up to the top bunk. The ladder is also on the side of the bed, making it easier for children to climb up (and for parents or caregivers to read stories at bedtime or change sheets). The entire set is made from sustainably-sourced Baltic birch wood that's Greenguard Gold and TSCA-compliant.

The Crate & Kids Babyletto TipToe is a contemporary, clean-lined wooden bunk bed that is versatile enough for boys or girls. The natural and white finish is a perfect match with a variety of decor schemes, and parents love that the wood is protected by a stain. It's a great choice for a family room or can be divided into two twin beds once your kids reach teenage years.

While you might think of bunk beds as a way of saving space, they're also popular to enhance the design of a room, creating fun play spaces and encouraging sleepovers with your friends. With so many amazing bunk bed designs for teenagers and children it's easy to find a set-up that can meet any family's unique requirements.

If you're looking for a more fun alternative to the classic bunk bed, you should consider one that has slides. The addition of a sliding bed makes it much more enjoyable to climb and descend and is also safer than a ladder because it's lower, and your child won't go backwards when they climb. Plus, it's a great option to add some extra fun to a regular bunk bed for older kids and teens, or create a special place for siblings to sleep together on the beach or in a vacation rental.

2. childrens bunk bed Tuffing Twin Over Twin Metal Bunk Bed with Slide

Metal bunk beds are available in a variety of styles and designs. A majority of them are available at a reasonable cost. Only a handful of bunk beds made from metal can be as good as this South Shore option, which features a trundle underneath the twin bed at the bottom to accommodate three people for sleepovers (if the trundle is removed, the bunks become two beds). Plus, the ladder is angled so kids can easily climb it in and out.

Based on the shape of your room, and how often you'll use the bunks you might want to opt for an L-shaped layout like the one shown in a bedroom designed by Bailey McCarthy. This layout can help save space by allowing two bunks to be closer together. This is a great option for rooms that have low ceilings or smaller spaces. It's easier to climb in because there are two ladders instead of one slanted ladder that can be difficult to navigate for children who are younger.

Another factor to consider when choosing a bunk bed is its height, which is an important factor in determining whether or not your kids will feel comfortable sleeping up high. It's important to consider the height of your children and your ceilings when you are making a decision.

You could also be influenced by the differences between wood and metal bunk beds, and what type of mattress you pick. Kuo says wood is the preferred option for bunk beds because it has a more traditional natural look and is able to endure the rigors of daily use. But "the most important thing to do is choose a bunk bed that is compliant with the requirements of the industry and is safe for your kids," she adds.

3. Pottery Barn Kids Belden Full-Over-Full Bunk Bed

Bunk beds are a staple of furniture for kids. They're effective in reducing space, sure, but they also offer a sense of adventure for kids. The siblings often fight over who gets to sleep on the top bunk and even kids who don't have brothers or sisters love to sleep in bunk beds. Bunk beds are also a great option for those who host a lot of guests for sleepovers, as kids can easily share them with their peers.

The classic bunk bed is constructed using kiln dried wood for strength and durability. Pick from a variety of finishes that are safe for children and child-safe, such as French white as well as brushed grey, weathered blue. If you're looking for additional storage space for bedding, clothes or other bedroom accessories, pick a version that includes a set of roomy drawers that can be pulled out and placed under the lower bunk. They feature polished nickel hardware and plenty of space to fold linens. sweaters and even books.

The fixed ladder of the Belden bunk bed can be placed on either the left or right side, and can be set at an angle straight or angled. Fenton states that the angled ladder is easier to climb however it takes up more space. The bunks can be able to accommodate twin mattresses that are sold separately. This style is best for rooms with ceilings of at least eight feet.

Unlike standard bunks, which have two identical beds, twin over full bunk beds come with an upper full-size bed and the top bed is a twin. This is a great arrangement for children who have to share a room but prefer their individuality and privacy. The top bunk has guardrails to ensure your children are safe when they're sleeping.

4. Max & Lily Low bunk bed with slide

This bunk bed for kids has a slide that is detachable for twins that is sure to please the kids. They'll love gliding down the slide with their friends and siblings or taking their favorite animal toys to the most thrilling ride of their lives. Its minimalist, space-saving design makes it a great option for rooms with limited space where a queen over queen or full over full bunk bed may not be a good fit.

Its angled ladder with round corners provides the safety of climbing while also providing comfortable rungs. The low VOC finish is easy to maintain and will last for a long time. The flush, color-matching metal hardware gives the bed a modern look. Solid new Zealand pine wood construction with a capacity of 400 pounds makes this bunk bed apart from others in the same price range.

Parents have reported that the assembly process takes a few minutes, however, it isn't difficult. They suggest laying out each piece of wood with a label attached for easier assembly. It's also recommended to have two adults working in tandem so they can build the bed faster and with more precision.
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The bunk bed comes in various finishes to match the decor of your child's room. The white, crisp finish is a dependable addition to cottage, coastal and bright bedroom styles, while the brushed gray option feels decidedly modern. The weathered blue version is a perfect match with contemporary designs, and it fits seamlessly in transitional children's rooms. The bunk bed is designed to accommodate two twin mattresses. The bunk bed ships in a single box, and is quite heavy It's recommended to have help when schlepping it up and down tight corners. It also comes with a one-year warranty for added peace of mind.

5. Shyann twin over twin bunk bed with Trundle

For many kids bunk beds are an essential piece of childhood furniture, and great for making your room feel more adventurous and enjoyable. But when it comes to selecting the perfect bunk bed for your family there are a variety of options on the market. It's also important to pick one durable and is compliant with CPSC safety standards. So, to help you find the perfect bunk bed for your kiddos, I consulted experts--parents--including one who literally wrote the book on bunk beds (and slept in some of them!) To determine the best options I talked to parents. One of them literally wrote the book about bunk beds (and did sleep in a few of them!)

We've got the best bunk beds for children on the market, from traditional wooden options to sleek metal beds. There are bunk beds that fit every budget and requirement. We've found a few that have a touch of design flair, like this twin-overtwin model with a slide. It's sure to please your kids (and might or may not inspire some snark). Additionally, because it's lower than the top bunk, it's a safer option for kids who are young.

Another option is this full-over-full bunk bed made of metal, which can be separated into two individual beds for an older-style layout if your children outgrow the bunks. The sturdy construction can support up to 200 pounds on the lower bunk and 250 pounds for each upper bunk.

Bunk beds are a large investment, but they will last for a long time, and give your kids many blissful nights of sleep. If your children grow out of the bunks, most of the options on this list convert into standalone twin beds, making it possible to save money and keep your children in the same bed for a while longer.