Choosing The Best Bunkbed

One of the highlights of childhood is having the opportunity to sleep in a bunk bed. One bed, stacked on top of another offers unlimited space for imaginative adventure. It is a great space saving device as well, a benefit for parents. When it is time to get a bunk bed for the kids’ room, however, picking just the right one can take all the fun out of it. There are so many options and important things to keep in mind that the task can easily become overwhelming. The following tips will help sort out the key elements to consider when picking out a set of high-rise beds.

Styles

Bunkbeds can be found in almost any configuration imaginable. There are four main categories that most beds fall into. Standard beds are fairly self-explanatory, two beds stacked on top of one another. The mattresses can be almost any size, but are usually twin or full. Loft styles are generally top bed only with space underneath for storage or other furniture. A futon bunk will have a twin mattress on top and a futon underneath, where it can be configured as a seating area or a sleeping space. Finally, alternate styles include configurations with a twin on top and full size mattress on the bottom, or a trundle where sleeping space is pulled out from underneath when it is needed. They are also available built from wood, metal or a combination of the two.

Features

A kids bunkbed is available with any features that best meet your needs. Many of them include storage or bookshelf space either underneath the bottom bed or on the ends. Desks are also popular additions. The combination of bookshelves, storage and workspace can add up to a cozy and organized area for schoolwork. One important consideration is that not all models come standard with guardrails. If the model you prefer does not, it is critical to add rails for safety reasons.

Safety

There are higher risks associated with children sleeping and playing five feet off the floor. Therefore, it is important to keep safety in mind when choosing stacking beds. First of all, make sure that anything you choose meets ASTM standards for safety. Guardrails are necessary to help prevent falls, but they should run the entire length of the mattress and the spaces between elements should be small enough that children cannot be stuck or fall through. The size of the bunkbed mattress is very important. It needs to fit snugly with no gaps. It also needs to be the correct thickness. If it is too thin, it can allow space in places that can allow accidents and if it is too thick, it can negate the function of the guardrails. Finally, it may seem obvious, but make sure that any bed you buy is sturdy enough to withstand the antics of the children it is meant for.

There are many options when shopping for bunk beds. Knowing what your needs and expectations are before starting can simplify the entire process and make buying them almost as much fun as sleeping in them.