How to Choose the Best Convertible Bunk Beds
Bunk beds are a great way for kids to save space while adding an exciting touch to their rooms. How do you pick the most suitable one?
Choose a bunk bed that splits into two beds when your kids are old enough to be in the bunk layout. The best options will also be sturdy and with the capacity to handle multiple kids and sleepovers.
Sturdy Construction
If you're looking to build bunk beds in your child's bedroom, make sure that they are able to withstand the weight of kids and adults. Look for features that are of high-quality construction like metal tubular frames and solid wood construction that can stand up to the wear and tear of a shared room. Bunk beds are often used for sleepovers and summer camps, so they must be able to withstand the weight of several kids bouncing around and down throughout the night.
The majority of the top convertible beds are constructed using a sturdy steel frame. They also come with warranties that increase their longevity. Choose an option that matches your bedroom decor and think about adding other bunk bed accessories like storage drawers or trundles to extend the lifespan of your new investment.
For an affordable option that's still incredibly sturdy, look for the DHP Miles bunk bed. The bunks have a unique industrial look that is hip and contemporary. The ladder and safety rails are strong and will keep children and adults safe. The bottom bunk has an ottoman, which can be used as a sofa or guest bed for when guests visit. The bunks arrive flat to your home and require simple assembly upon arrival.
Max & Lily is another great option. It has two twin beds stacked one on top of the other, and can be divided into two beds after the bunk-bumping phase is over. The sleek, modern design and color options give a classic and clean feel that is perfect for both girls and boys bedrooms. However the customer service provided by the company is inconsistent and customers have reported issues with shipping damage.
Crate & Kids offers solid wooden bunk beds that are constructed to last. This model features a sleek, timeless design that can be easily converted from bunks into two separate twin beds once your children are old enough to use it. Choose a neutral color such as espresso or white that can be incorporated into any design scheme, or opt for go for a bolder option such as deep blue or pink to energize the space.
Extra Storage
Bunk beds are an ideal solution for smaller spaces, especially in the case of children bedrooms. Many bunks have drawers underneath which give you more storage without taking up the floor space. These beds also come with shelves which can be used to hold shelves for books, a media center or other furniture. They're also often designed to split down into two separate twin beds which is a great feature for homes with a cottage, extended family or out-of-town guests.
If you opt for a ladder-style bed, look for one that has anti-slip rungs and hand holds to make climbing easier. Some beds come with an integrated staircase for an elegant appearance and greater stability. These options might not work best for younger children and are better suited for bigger rooms as they take up more area on the floor. Some also offer extra storage like built-in shelves and drawers, which can be handy for clothes or toys.
Another way to save space is with a low bunk, which is ideal for smaller spaces and higher ceilings. This design has the bottom bed on the ground and a top bunk that is attached to the side of the frame to save valuable floor space. Laura Fenton, the author of The Bunk Bed Book, says it's a great option for children who are young however they might feel too babyish when they grow older.
Low bunks are also unique and can be used to make one bed for your child is old enough to leave the bunk or when siblings move into their own rooms. The option is available in both metal and wood, and can be customized with a trundle or storage drawers.
Fenton says she likes Oeuf's Perch bunk because it's sleek and stylish, is made of durable materials and can be divided into a twin bed over a full-size bed. It's also GREENGUARD Gold certified which means it meets the strictest chemical and particle air quality standards and doesn't emit noxious smells. The mocha finish and clean lines are also a draw in addition to the fact that it's sustainably produced and comes from FSC Baltic birch.
Trundle Beds
A trundle bed can add more sleeping space to your kids' bunks, and it also works as a great guest bed for guests staying over. Some of the top convertible bunk beds come with an expansive full trundle bed beneath twin-sized beds that are accessible via a built-in stairwell. This type of bunk bed can be a great option for small bedrooms that don't have enough space to accommodate three separate beds, or for parents who want to accommodate several children in one room without sacrificing privacy.
Other bunks feature detachable trundle beds that you can put independently or to create two separate twin-sized beds or to create a full-overfull configuration. Some of these bunks have a second staircase to allow you to access the trundle from its own. Others include an integrated staircase with built-in storage or display space below.
Some of the best bunk beds are available in a range of colors to match your child's existing bedroom decor. White finishes are versatile and easy to match with any bedding, while a dark espresso or natural wood stain provides warmth and a richness. Other finishes, such as soft gray or chic pink, work well with a wide spectrum of colors and can be coordinated with any style of bunk bed.
If you are planning to utilize the bunk bed in your home to serve as a guest bedroom, be sure it fits your home's size and height. If you have lower ceilings, search for a model that has an ottoman or a sitting area beneath the top bunk to offer guests a cozy spot to rest.
A bunk bed with drawers for a desk as well as an armoire can be an ideal way to increase the flexibility of your bed. This can help your kids stay organized, while also providing you with extra storage space for books, toys, and clothing. These bunks are ideal for families with multiple children or multigenerational households that frequently host overnight guests. A majority of them come with a full-sized bottom bed, and they can also be used by adults. Many of these models also come with a variety of finishes options to match your child's preferences and match your existing furniture for your bedroom, including solid oak, dark walnut and white finishes.
Easy Assembly

The most comfortable convertible bunk beds are usually delivered partially assembled. This is great for parents with limited time and space. These bunk beds are easy to put together and require only some tools. If you intend to DIY pick the bunk bed that comes with clear instructions and pre-cut pieces that speed up the assembly.
It's important to consider the weight your bed can bear. Some bunk beds have frames made of metal that can hold more weight. If you decide to go with a wooden bunk bed it is crucial to consider the type of wood used, as some varieties are more susceptible to splintering than other.
When you're looking to purchase a bunk bed, ensure that the model you are contemplating has rails for safety on either side of the topmost level. They will stop your kids from falling asleep during the night which is a frequent cause of head injuries in children who sleep in bunk beds. These guards are especially helpful if you have younger children who are afraid to get up in the middle of the night.
A slide that can be detached is another essential feature to consider when looking for bunk beds. best low profile bunk beds for your child's room lets siblings and friends race down the slide together, or send their favorite stuffed animals on the ride of their lives. Some models even come with a storage staircase that is matched to ensure safe access to the top.
A modern bunk bed with a detachable slide is a great option for parents looking to make the most of their child's bedroom space without sacrificing safety or functionality. This fashionable twin over full trundle bed from Max & Lily is crafted using kiln-dried pine wood as well as engineered wood for durability and longevity. It comes in three different finishes to match the decor of your child's bedroom. A white, crisp finish will work well in coastal or cottage-style rooms. Gray or clay finishes can be used with various color schemes.