Kids Bunkbed 101: The Ultimate Guide For Beginners

Top Picks For the Best Kids Bunkbeds

Bunk beds are an excellent option to maximize space in kids' rooms while also creating a fun shared bedroom. We've selected our top picks for the best bunk beds for kids that are stylish and affordable, as well as sturdy enough to last for many years.

Fenton says that a lot of our options have angled ladders. These ladders are smaller than straight ladders, while being a breeze for children to climb. There are other options, such as stairways which require more space, but are safer to climb than ladders.

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

Unlike many bunk beds, this one's bottom bunk is on the floor, which makes it a great option for toddlers and younger children who might not feel secure climbing to the top. The ladder is also on the side of the bed, making it more convenient for children to climb (and for parents or caregivers to read stories at bedtime or change sheets). The entire set is made with sustainably sourced Baltic Birch wood, which is Greenguard Gold and TSCA-compliant.

The Crate & Kids Babyletto TipToe bunk bed is a stylish wooden bunk that is suitable for girls or boys. The natural and white finish blends in with different styles of decorating, and parents love that the wood is protected by a stain. It's perfect for a family room or can be divided into two beds when your kids reach the teenage years.

While you may think of bunk beds as a way to save space they're also a popular choice for improving the look of a room, creating fun play spaces and encouraging sleepovers with your friends. With a variety of bunk bed designs to choose from for teens and kids it's easy to find one that fits your family's needs.

If you're seeking a more engaging alternative to the classic bunk bed, consider one that has a slide. The inclusion of a slide make climbing up and down a lot more enjoyable and enjoyable, but it's also safer for children than a standard ladder because it's lower than the ground, and your child won't be going backward as they climb. Additionally, it's an excellent option to add some extra enjoyment to a standard bunk bed for older kids and teenagers, or to create a special place for siblings to share a bed on the beach or in a vacation rental.

2. South Shore Tuffing twin over twin metal bunk bed that has slide

There are a lot of metal bunk beds available on the market, and a lot of them offer solid construction at an affordable price. Few metal bunk beds can match this South Shore option, which features a trundle underneath the twin bed at the bottom, which can accommodate three people for sleepovers (if the trundle is removed, the bunks become two beds). Additionally, the ladder is angled so that kids can easily climb in and out.

Depending on the shape of your room, and how often you'll use the bunks, you may want to go for an L-shaped layout like the one pictured in a bedroom designed by Bailey McCarthy. This layout saves space by permitting the two bunks to be closer to each other, which is helpful for smaller spaces or rooms with lower ceilings. It is also easier to climb into because there are two ladders instead of one slanted ladder that can be difficult for younger children to navigate.

Another factor to consider when choosing a bunk bed is its height, which is a factor in the likelihood that your children will feel comfortable sleeping up high. This is why it's important to think about the height of your children and the height of your ceilings before you make an investment.

There are some differences between wood and metal bunk beds that could affect your choice, as well as the type of mattress you select. Kuo says wood is generally a better option for bunk beds since it offers a more classic natural appearance and can be used for a long time. "The most important thing to do is choose a bunk bed which is in compliance with industry standards and will be safe for children," she says.

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

Bunk beds have been a standard of childhood furniture for decades. Bunk beds are not only useful for space, but also a lot of fun for children. Even kids who don't have siblings like to sleep in bunk beds. Bunk beds are also a great addition when you're hosting lots of sleepover guests, as children can easily share the beds with their friends.

The classic bunk bed is constructed from kiln-dried poplar wood and plywood to ensure durability and strength. Pick from a range of finishes that are safe for children such as French white as well as brushed grey and weathered blue. Choose a model that has large drawers with pull-outs underneath the lower bunk in case you require more storage space for clothes and bedding or other bedroom accessories. These feature brushed-nickel hardware and plenty of space for folded sheets, blankets, and books.

The fixed ladder of the Belden bunk bed can be placed on either the right or left side, and at an angled or straight angle. The latter option, Fenton says, takes up less space, but is much easier to climb than straight ladders. The bunks accommodate twin mattresses (sold separately), and this design is ideal for rooms with a ceiling of at least 8 feet.

In contrast to standard bunks, which have two beds that are identical twin over full bunk beds feature the bottom bed as a full-size bed, and the top bed is a twin. This layout is ideal for kids who want to share a room but still maintain their privacy and independence. The top bunk is protected by rails to ensure your children's safety as they sleep.

4. Max & Lily Low Bunk Bed with Slide

This bunk bed comes with an oversized slide that can delight your child. They'll love gliding down the slide with friends and siblings or taking their favorite animals to the most thrilling ride of their lives. Its minimalist, space-saving design makes it a great option for small rooms where a queen over queen or full over full kid loft bunk bed bed might not be a good fit.

Its angled ladder that has corners that are rounded offers secure climbing and comfortable rungs. The easy-to-maintain and long-lasting, low VOC finish and flush, color-matching components create a clean modern look. This bed is distinguished by its solid new Zealand pine wood construction and 400-pound weight limit.

Parents have reported that assembly takes only a few minutes however, it isn't difficult. To make assembly easier it is recommended to label each piece of wood. It's also a good idea to have two adults working together so that they can build the bed faster and with more precision.

The bunk bed is available in different finishes to match your child's decor. The white, crisp finish is a fail-proof addition to cottage, coastal and colorful bedroom schemes The grey brushed version is distinctly modern. The weathered navy option works well with contemporary styles and blends seamlessly into transitional kids' rooms. The bunk bed was designed to accommodate two twin mattresses. The bunk bed ships in a single box, and is fairly heavy It's recommended to have help when schlepping it up and down tight corners. The bed comes with a an one-year warranty that will give you peace of mind.

5. Shyann Twin Over Twin Bunk Bed with Trundle

For many kids, bunk beds are a childhood staple--the ultimate space-saving furniture, but they're also great for making your room feel more adventurous and exciting. There are many options available when it comes time to choose the right bunk bed for your family and you. It's essential to select one that's durable and is in compliance with CPSC safety regulations. 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 source the best options.

We've got the best kids bunk beds bunk beds for kids on the market, from traditional wooden options to modernized metal models. There are bunk beds that fit every budget and requirement. We've also found a few with a bit of style, like this twin-over-twin model with an inflatable slide that's sure to please your children (and may or may not encourage some shenanigans). Additionally, because it's lower to the ground than the top bunk, it's a better option for children who are younger.

Another option is this full-over-full metal bunk bed, which can be split into two beds for a more traditional layout if your kids outgrow the bunks. The sturdy structure can support up to 200 pounds per lower bunk, and 250 pounds for each upper bunk.

Bunk beds can be an expensive investment but if you pick the most suitable one for your child, it's a piece of furniture that will last for a long time and provide years of fun sleeping. If your kids outgrow their bunk beds, you can turn them into twin beds and save money.