When you first decided you were going to buy a bunk bed, you may not have realized how many options you had to choose from. Bunk beds now come in multiple style and configurations and the amount of options can seem overwhelming. If you need some help sorting through the options, don’t worry! We have put together the Ultimate Bunk Bed Buyer’s Guide to help you make the best choice for you and your family.
Materials
Bunk beds are either made out of wood, metal, or a combination of both. Wooden bunk beds can be made from soft wood like pine or cedar, or from hard woods like oak. Beds can also be made from manufactured wood. Check to see if the product specifications say the bed is made from solid wood to know that it was not constructed from manufactured wood. Wooden bunk beds will be finished with a stain or paint. Quality bunk beds will use a stain that is low VOC. Metal bunk beds are constructed from aluminum or steel. Metal bunk beds are typically more lightweight than wooden beds, but have a different look and feel to them.
Designs
Bunk beds come in many design styles ranging from chic to playful. The most recognizable style is the standard twin over twin bunk. These can also be in a twin over full configuration.
Next are loft beds. Loft beds are bunk beds where the lower space does not contain a bed. The space under the top bunk can be taken up by a desk or a futon or nothing at all. Loft beds are useful for teens who need study space and for any room that you are looking to increase available floor space.
A trundle bunk bed incorporates a second bed below the bottom bunk. The trundle can be stored when not in use, making it a great option for sleepovers or other times that an extra bed is not always needed. A trundle is an easy way to sleep three to the same bunk bed.
Sizes
Bunk bed sizes are designed to fit the standard mattress sizes twin, twin XL, full, full XL, and queen. The size of the bunk bed will be dependent on the size of mattress you are looking to use. The height of bunk beds is designed to conform to the standard bedroom ceiling height of eight feet. Custom bunk beds can be designed with different dimensions.
Configurations
Bunk beds come in several configurations. The primary ones include the classic double bunk, the triple bunk, and quad bunk. Bunk beds can be arranged in a T or L formation. An L-configuration boasts a top bunk that is at a right angle to the lower bunk. This takes up more floor space but is a luxurious configuration. Bunk beds can also be built into the walls of the room or freestanding. Bunk beds can also be configured with a twin mattress on top and a larger mattress, such as a full or a queen, on the bottom. These beds are referred to as captain’s bunks.
Styles
Styles of bunk beds are determined by the materials used and the overall feel of the bed. The most basic style is a traditional twin over twin bunk with a wooden construction. Other styles include modern, contemporary, industrial, country, and for children’s styles.
Price
Bunk beds can range in price anywhere from a few hundred dollars all the way to the thousands of dollars. The variation in price typically depends on the construction and materials used. If price is an important deciding factor for you, aim for a quality bed that is simple. Or wait for a higher priced bed to go on sale. If price is not an issue for you, choose a high quality bunk bed that you know will meet your needs. Well-built bunk beds that are cared for can last up to 10 or 15 years, making them a worthwhile investment.