Remember when we were growing up and the friend with the bunk bed was the coolest kid on the block? Well, times have changed very little in that regard, and bunk beds are still highly sought after room additions. Not only are they fun for kids to have for sleepovers and imaginative play, but they’re also great for smaller bedrooms and for taking up as little space as possible in a shared room.
In this article, we’ll be exploring the best bunk beds for kids, answering the most common questions, and providing you with everything you need to know to make an informed choice for your child.
Let’s get started!
Contents
Best Bunk Beds for Kids
1. Storkcraft Caribou Solid Hardwood Twin Bunk Bed
This beautiful, yet simply-made, Storkcraft bunk bed is constructed with rubberwood; which is more durable than pine wood (which is a commonly used wood in bed frames and bunk beds) – and it’s actually quite affordable for a set of twin beds.
It’s available in four different colors: Espresso (a deep brown color), Gray (darker in tone), Navy, and White to match the decor in your child’s room perfectly. The weight limit on both the top bunk is 165 and the bottom bunk is 225 pounds. This bunk bed fits twin-sized mattresses.
On one side, and at the head and feet end of the top bunk is a full-length guard rail to protect your child from falling and there is a sturdy, 4 step ladder located at the foot of the bed. With dimensions of 79.1 x 42 x 58.3 inches, this bunk bed would make an excellent fit in the corner of a bedroom without taking up too much space or being overly wide.
What We Like:
- Available in four different colors to match the various decor
- Made of rubberwood, which is incredibly durable
- Sturdy, 4 step ladder
- Guard rails at the side, head, and feet for optimum safety
- Surprisingly affordable
- Fits snuggly in a corner and isn’t too bulky
What We Don’t Like:
- The weight limit for the top bunk is 165 and the bottom limit is 225 pounds. While this isn’t a deal-breaker, bunk beds usually have a heavier weight limit
Check Price and Reviews on Amazon
2. Storkcraft Long Horn Solid Hardwood Twin Bunk Bed
Another top-notch Storkcraft bunk bed, this wooden bunk bed option is highly durable and stylish (without being too flashy or bulky). Though it’s similar in structure to the previous bunk bed option, this bunk bed is available in a light pink color, making it perfect for the little girls’ room. It’s also available in the color Espresso (a deep brown color), and white.
Unlike the previous square-shaped head and feet rails, the end rails on this bunk bed are rounded, giving this option softer edges. This option is also made of rubberwood, making it sturdy and long-lasting; it comes with a quality 4 step ladder, and it fits two twin-sized beds.
The weight limit for both the top and bottom bunk is 225 pounds.
What We Like:
- While there are only three colors to choose from, two are neutral (perfect for matching any room) and one is pink – making it great for a little girls’ room
- End rails are rounded, making the appearance of the furniture softer and more visually appealing
- Made of rubberwood, making this bunk bed durable and long-lasting
- The 4 step ladder is strong and not wobbly
What We Don’t Like:
- Only available in three colors
- The bottom bunk has a weight limit of only 225 pounds, which is less than some other options. Though, this shouldn’t be a deal-breaker
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3. Dorel Living Brady Solid Wood Bunk Bed
Unlike our first two picks, the Dorel Bunk Bed is constructed to convert into a full-sized bottom bunk and a twin-sized top bunk. This would be a wonderful option if you have one older and one younger child sharing the room, or if you plan to use the bottom bunk for more than one child or for a single adult.
Of course, the extra room on the bottom bunk means that this bunk bed is a little pricier than our previous choices (though it’s still very affordable compared to individual bed prices).
Not only does this bunk bed have more sleeping room, but it’s also available for purchase in more colors than other options on our list. The Dorel Bunk Bed is available in Black, Espresso (a dark brown), Graphite (a slightly dark gray), Gray, and White. With dimensions of 64.8 H x 69.5 D 79.2 W x inches, this bunk bed option should fit nicely in practically any average-sized childrens’ room.
What We Like:
- It comes in five different colors to choose from; Black, Espresso, Graphite, Gray, and White
- The bunk bed should be able to fit comfortably in any sized room
- Bottom bunk is a full-size bed with a twin top bunk
- Great for older children or multiple children on the bottom bunk
What We Don’t Like:
- A little pricier than most bunk beds due to the additional bed space
Check Price and Reviews on Amazon
4. Bedz King Stairway Bunk Bed
Though the most expensive option on our list, the Bedz King Stairway Bunk Bed is also the most versatile (and our favorite option). It’s a beautifully crafted twin above twin, with under-bed storage and storage in each of the stairs. The bunk bed is 61 1/2 high x 102 1/2 long x 42 1/2 inches deep and would look great in any child’s room.
This bunk bed is available in five color variations: Cappuccino (a very deep brown color), Espresso (a lighter brown tone), Gray (lighter in tone), Honey (a lighter, golden wood tone), and White.
With all of the extra storage space and colors to choose from, this bunk bed is a great long term furniture option.
What We Like:
- Comes in a variety of gorgeous neutral colors
- Would fit well in practically any average-sized child’s room
- Extra closet or storage space under the bed and in the staircase
- Made of high-quality, durable wood
What We Don’t Like:
- Quite a bit more expensive than the other bunk beds on our list
Check Price and Reviews on Amazon
5. DHP Junior Twin Metal Loft Bed with Slide
Though it’s not a bunk bed, we thought to include the DHP option because it’s fun and functional! This is a twin-sized loft bed with a slide for early morning fun. It’s made with a sturdy, metal frame and includes a side rail (not full-length) to protect children from accidentally rolling off the bed.
It’s available in three different colors: Silver (with a blue slide), Silver (with a red slide), and White (with a white slide). The weight limit for this bed is 200 pounds and the product dimensions are 77.5 x 98.5 x 43 inches.
What We Like:
- A really fun option for children
- The most affordable option on our list
- Available in three different colors
- Would fit comfortably in almost every child’s room
- Protective side rail (though not full-length, which may be a deal-breaker for some)
What We Don’t Like:
- Doesn’t include many color options
- Metal isn’t as long-lasting as wooden bunk beds
- Only has one twin-sized bed
Check Price and Reviews on Amazon
Considerations Before Purchasing
Before you jump in and purchase a bunk bed for your child, there are a few considerations that you should keep in mind.
Safety
Of course, the main concern when purchasing any type of furniture for children is how safe it will be. Bunk beds can actually be quite dangerous, and injuries are more common than you think – with around 40,000 ER-related injuries each year.
Falling is the main cause of injury in relation to bunk beds, with most of the victims being 6 years old or younger. It’s incredibly important that you choose a bunk bed with a proper railing to protect your child. You may also consider only purchasing a bunk bed for children who are above the age of 6 and capable of using the bed responsibly (no horseplay, jumping off the top, using the ladder, etc).
Why Choose a Bunk Bed
As we touched upon briefly in the introduction, bunk beds are wonderful space savers and great for if you have more than one child sharing a bedroom. They’re also viable options for guest rooms, given you place it in a room meant for your guest’s children between elementary ages to teens.
Additionally, bunk beds are more affordable than purchasing two separate beds, and many options are manufactured with storage space (like the #4 Bedz King Stairway Bunk Bed on our list) to optimize closet space.
Ceiling Height and Available Space
Though the height of bunk beds may vary, the average bunk bed height is 5 1/2 to 6 feet tall. Be sure to measure the height of the ceiling and double-check the bunk bed height for a comfortable fit. Consider placement, as well, to avoid low hanging lights, ceiling fans, or areas where the ceiling slopes.
Bunk Bed Materials
When it comes to bunk beds, you generally have two materials to choose from: Tubular steel and wood. Both have their advantages and disadvantages.
For example, tubular steel is less bulky and better for rooms with dwindling space; not to mention more affordable. These types of bunk beds come in a variety of colors but may not come with additional storage space or the same intricate detailing that is found in wooden alternatives. Tubular steel bunk beds are best used as a temporary option.
On the other hand, wooden bunk beds are often much more detailed and visually appealing, making them lasting furniture pieces. They’re also more reliable structurally in the long run and come in many designs and colors. However, they can be quite expensive compared to tubular steel bunk beds and will definitely take up more space. These types of bunk beds are a better long-term option.
Available Bed Size Options
It goes without saying that bunk beds aren’t the largest beds on the market. Usually, the available sizes are twin above twin and twin above full. Both are reliable options. Twin above twin bunk beds are generally great for two children (with one child on the top bunk, one on the bottom), but a bunk bed with a full and twin sized mattress can accommodate around three sleepers (two children side-by-side in the full and one in the twin).
If you need a larger bunk bed, you may be able to find up to a queen on the bottom bunk, but you definitely won’t find a king unless you make the bunk bed yourself.
Storage
Determining whether or not you want additional storage in your bunk bed is a good idea before you begin shopping around.
These days, bunk beds with storage space are widely available and becoming increasingly popular. Under-bed storage, side drawers, and drawers in the staircase or ladder are the most common bunk bed storage options.
FAQ
Q: Are bunk beds safe?
A: Generally speaking, yes, bunk beds are safe. However, if used improperly, serious injury (especially to the head and neck) or even death can occur. Always instruct your children or guests to only use the bunk beds for sleeping and accessing the top bunk is only by the ladder. Remind young children to never jump off of the bunk bed or engage in horseplay on the top bunk.
For additional help, here is a great article that outlines several bunk bed safety tips.
Q: Are bunk beds comfortable?
A: Bunk beds will not usually accommodate both a box spring and mattress, so the comfort of the mattress is pretty important in this case. With the wrong mattress, the bunk bed may not be so comfortable. Finding the right mattress will make all the difference.
Q: Are bunk beds safe for adults?
A: On average, bunk beds can hold up to 200 pounds up top and up to 500 pounds on the bottom bunk. Adults within these weight limits will be fine in a bunk bed.
Q: Can my toddlers use a bunk bed?
A: We do not recommend that you purchase a bunk bed for your toddlers. Bunk beds are mainly for children 6 years and above – and even 6 years old can be too young if they don’t understand the dangers involved in horseplay on the top bunk. As a general rule of thumb, your children should be 6 years old or older (up to early or mid-teens) and should have the capacity to know safety rules.
Final Thoughts
Though we feel all of the bunk beds on our list would make excellent options for your child’s room, our favorite is the Bedz King Stairway Bunk Bed. It’s a wondrously sturdy option, has full-length safety rails to protect children from accidentally falling, comes in a variety of gorgeous colors, comes with additional storage space, and would fit well in a room of practically any size.
Overall, the best bunk bed for your child comes down to your personal preferences, the amount of space and shape of the room and your budget. Whichever bunk bed you choose, we’re sure you (and your children) will be thrilled!