Thinking of purchasing bunk beds for your children? Siblings who share a bedroom can benefit a lot from sleeping in bunk beds, such as having increased floor space to play, while the bunk bed frame itself is fun and exciting for little ones.
When choosing a bunk bed for younger children, the amount of choice can seem daunting. Not sure what to pick? Fortunately, the Bunk Beds team here are on hand to provide a guide to help you make up your mind.
We boast an impressive stock of bunk beds in all shapes, sizes, colours, and materials. Check out our buying guide to figure out which type of bunk bed is best for your children.
What are the different types of bunk beds?
We stock a huge range of bunk beds, including both wooden and metal bunk beds.
Most bunk beds follow the same design format but there are many different varieties to choose from now. Many bunk beds feature fun designs and added features, like storage or a trundle bed within the frame.
But how can you choose the right bunk bed to purchase for your children if you're unsure of your full range of options?
Here are the different types of bunk beds to choose from:
Standard bunk beds
These are the classic bunk bed design which features two single beds stacked one on top of the other. A ladder provides access from the floor to the top bunk. This is the most common style of bunk bed and usually the cheapest option.
Benefits of standard single bunk beds include:
- Space-saving
- Sturdy and reliable
- Cost-effective
Storage bunk beds
Storage bunk beds are similar to the standard bunk bed but they offer a lot more storage space. This could include shelving on both bunks, drawers underneath the bottom bunk, and additional storage in the stairs that lead to the top bunk mattress.
Benefits of storage bunk beds:
- Additional storage space for clothes, toys, and more
- Saved bedroom space as there may be no need for additional storage furniture
L-shaped bunk beds
L-shaped bunk beds are great for bedrooms with more floor space. Instead of the lower bunk parallel to the upper bunk, it's at a 90° angle to create an 'L' shape from a top-down view.
Benefits of L-shaped bunk beds:
- Ideal for larger bedrooms
- Comfortably fit into the corner of bedrooms
- Provide a 'separate' bed feeling
Triple bunk beds
A triple bunk bed is, as you expect, three beds stacked on top of one another. These are great for homes with multiple children and a lack of bedrooms. They come in different styles, too.
Benefits of triple bunk beds:
- Can sleep more children in one room
- Different designs – three beds stacked, double bed on the lower bunk, or pull-out trundle bed
- Space-saving
Themed bunk beds
Themed bunk beds provide some character, fun, and colour to your children's bedroom. There are plenty of unique designs to choose from which would make bedtime quite exciting for younger children.
However, one thing to remember with a themed bed is your children are likely to grow out of it quicker than a standard bunk bed as they may lose interest in the specific theme after a while.
Benefits of themed bunk beds:
- Adds colour and character to the bedroom
- Fun and exciting for kids
- Creates an enjoyable place to play
Metal and wooden bunk beds
All of the above types of bunk beds are made from wood or metal.
Wooden bunk beds are the most common type available, but many people also opt for metal bunk beds. Both offer fantastic durability and reliability for many years, so it's down to aesthetics when deciding between the two.
Metal bunk beds are great for a minimalist look and are a great low-cost alternative to wooden bunk beds. They're easier to clean and come in many colours.
However, wood bunk beds are much more sustainable as they can be grown. They can be covered in non-toxic paint, and are much easier to customise with character designs and unique layouts.
How to choose a bunk bed
If you're still unsure about which type of bunk bed to choose, think about what you need the bunk bed for.
Ask yourself these questions:
- How many children do the bunk beds need to accommodate?
- Do I need extra storage?
- How old are the kids that need the bed?
- How much space do I have?
There are a few things you have to work out before finalising your bunk bed decision, and it comes down to space and storage.
- First, measure the space in the room and figure out how much you have. This may dictate the size and type of bunk bed you can pick.
- Check the height of the bunk bed and how close it will be to your ceiling. If it's too high, there won't be enough room for the child on the top bunk to comfortably move.
- Consider any storage. Lots of bunk beds come with additional drawers and shelves, easing the strain on your current furniture.
Ladders or stairs?
Choosing a bunk bed also involves picking between stairs and a ladder. Most bunk beds have ladders but you may be unsure about your children using a ladder and would prefer they use stairs.
Many bunk bed designs incorporate steps with built-in storage to not only make it easier for children to access the upper bunk but also to provide additional storage space for clothes, toys, and books.
When choosing a bunk bed, this is an important consideration for many parents.
Are most bunk beds safe?
Yes, most standard bunk beds are incredibly safe. Every bunk bed sold in the UK must conform to the British Standard EN 747-1:2012+A1:2015.
Bunk beds feature safety rails on the top bunk to prevent children from rolling off during the night. All frames are structurally sound, too, ensuring they can be used every day for several years without issues.
It's wise to remind your children that it's not a climbing frame and you should also inspect it regularly to make sure all fittings are still in place.
Do I need a specific bunk bed mattress?
No, bunk bed mattresses are no different to standard mattresses. However, when purchasing a bunk bed mattress, ensure its depth is less than 18cm so there is enough space underneath the top bunk and the child on the upper bunk isn't raised higher than the safety rails.
Find the ideal bunk bed
So, have you picked your kids' new bunk bed?
There is a lot of information to take in and consider when choosing the ideal bunk bed, but we hope this guide has sent you in the right direction.
If you do still need some support, we can offer it at Bunk Beds. Simply get in touch today to speak to a member of our team. They'll be happy to discuss our range of children's bunk beds as well as go over delivery information and talk about our price match promise.
