After much deliberation, you've finally found the perfect bunk beds for your children – now it's time to find the right mattress.
Just like a bunk bed frame, there are huge ranges of bunk bed mattresses available to choose from. There's a lot to consider, like mattress thickness, mattress height, and what size mattress you need. Then there are the different types: foam mattresses, spring mattresses and pocket-sprung mattresses.
It can all seem a little overwhelming at first, which is why the experts here at Bunk Beds are here to help. Learn more about choosing the right bunk bed mattress for your children in this blog post.
Can I use a regular mattress on a bunk bed?
You do not need a special type of mattress for bunk beds and a regular mattress is fine for use on most bunk beds.
However, there are some things you should consider before purchasing mattresses for bunk beds, especially ones to be used on the top bunk.
This includes the thickness, the material, and how breathable it is.
How thick of a mattress do I need for a bunk bed?
Finding the perfect bunk bed mattress can be a little tricky as you must consider its thickness because of safety. If top bunk mattresses are too thick, it can create a risk of injury for the child sleeping there. Similarly, if the lower bunk mattresses are thick, it can reduce headspace, making the bottom bunk less comfortable.
A thick top bunk mattress could result in a child sleeping at a higher level than the built-in safety rails, meaning they could roll off during the night.
Safety rails are in place to protect children from rolling off while they sleep so a mattress thickness must be considered to ensure your little one is safe.
The ideal bunk bed mattress thickness for the top bunk is a maximum of 18cm. A thinner mattress will keep your child safe on the top bunk, helping them enjoy a good night's sleep – and give you the peace of mind they won’t roll out of bed during the night.
How do I choose a bunk bed mattress?
There are several different types of mattresses for bunk beds – just like any bed. You could pick up a foam mattress, spring or pocket sprung, but there are things to consider here, like your children's ages.
Firm bunk bed mattresses
At young ages, a child's body can grow quickly, so they should have a firm mattress to allow them to continue growing properly. This means that you could opt for a foam mattress for their bunk beds, but they must offer a good level of firmness – even if your little ones are both above the age of six.
Firm foam mattresses, for example, could also prevent falls as your children will be less likely to bounce on the beds due to a lack of spring.
Breathable mattresses for bunk beds
Breathability is also a huge factor. Air must be able to flow freely through the bunk bed mattresses. This is so your children can regulate their body temperature during the night, lowering the risk of overheating.
High-quality materials
When choosing a mattress for a bunk bed frame, ensure it's made from high-quality materials. The ideal bunk bed mattress will endure regular use for several years and include non-allergenic properties internally.
A bunk bed mattress made from excellent materials can also improve sleeping comfort.
Bunk bed mattress with protection
Make your life a little easier by picking up a bunk bed mattress that offers some protection against spills and leaks.
Children can still wet the bed up to the age of five, and higher in some cases, so be sure to protect your investment and make clean up easier with a bunk bed mattress that has waterproof properties.
Will a single mattress fit a bunk bed?
Yes, a single mattress will fit a single-size bunk bed.
The same applies to double bunk bed mattresses. Standard bunk beds follow the same measurements as mattresses so you'll be able to fit a single mattress on a single bunk bed, and so on.
In the UK, the standard bunk bed mattress sizes are:
- Small Single - 75 x 190cm
- Single - 90 x 190cm
- Small Double - 120 x 190cm
- Double - 135 x 190cm
Find your perfect bunk bed mattress
Here at Bunk Beds, you can find the perfect mattress for your little ones' bunk beds. We stock a range of high-quality bunk bed mattresses in single, small double, double and king size – offering you plenty of choice.
All of our mattresses for bunk beds are designed with the right thickness to ensure safety for the person sleeping.
If you're still undecided on the right bunk bed mattress for your children, don't hesitate to contact us. A member of our team will be happy to discuss our range as well as offer guidance on delivery information and our excellent price match promise.