The Ultimate Child Bunk Bed Buying Guide
The ultimate child bunk bed guide will offer detailed information on the benefits of bunk beds for your child, different bed types categorised by tier and materials, as well as mattress options suitable for bunk beds. Additionally, it will provide exclusive recommendations and safety measures from Rest Relax.
Benefits of Bunk Beds For Your Child
Before we go through the child bunk bed guide, let’s discover some benefits of bunk beds for your child.
Sleep
A child bunk bed comes in various sizes, shapes, colours and designs. This creative and drizzling theme bunk bed excites your child to bed early and enhances their sleep experience and bedtime routine.
Storage Capacity
A bunk bed typically features built-in cupboards, shelves, and spacious under-bed storage options. Children can easily organise their linens, clothes, toys, books, and gadgets.
Space
Many children enjoy having regular sleepovers or sharing a bedroom. Kids' bunk beds not only provide a comfortable sleeping space but also offer ample room for playing and relaxing. We offer a new collection of bunk beds with innovative, space-saving designs at an affordable price.
Sleek Design
Kids are fascinated by their favourite superhero characters and often pretend to be them. We should nurture their creative instincts and boundless imagination. Rest Relax offers timeless and elegant theme beds that can ignite a child’s imagination.
Types Of Bunk Beds Based On Tier
Categorically, there are double and triple bunk beds based on tier. Let’s discuss more types of bunk beds by tier for further details.
Double
Standard Bunks
Standard bunks are the classical bed design where one bed is positioned on top of another, with a ladder providing access to the top bunk. The standard size of a bunk bed is 90 cm x 190 cm. It is also known as a twin-size bed. It is a marvellous choice for parents with two children, one teenager and one small child.
Double Bunks
The standard size of double bunks is 140 cm x 190 cm. Double bunks are essentially two standard single beds that are stacked on top of each other. These beds can be separated into two single bunk beds if needed. Double bunks are more spacious and comfortable for grown-up children. They provide a fantastic sleep solution for those who share room space. Most double bunk beds come with storage solutions like shelves and drawers.
L-Shaped or Corner Bunks
L-shaped or corner bunks are traditional bunk beds that come in double and triple forms. Generally, these beds are especially well-suited in the corner of a bedroom. The lower beds face a 90-degree angle with each other instead of being stacked on top of one another.
The standard size of L-shaped and corner bunks is 140 cm x 190 cm. L- shaped bunks are suitable for rooms with sufficient floor space.
Trundle Bunks
Trundle bunks are similar to standard bunk beds but, they have the additional benefit of a trundle. Trundle beds fit underneath another bed, so you should be careful when selecting a mattress that requires twin-size mattresses.
Trundle bunk beds are an ideal choice for kids who enjoy sleepovers, as they come with either a storage drawer or an extra bed.
Loft & High Sleepers
A loft or high sleeper is a single bed that is elevated, and it is accessed using stairs to reach the top bunk. It offers additional space underneath for various purposes. High sleepers often come with a futon style, which provides a seating area during the day and pulls out as a bed at night.
Treehouse Bunk Bed
The treehouse bunk bed is a show-stopping, ultimate sleeping solution for children. With its sturdy and durable construction, these beds inspire a child’s imagination to soar among the clouds, making them reminiscent of imaginative treehouses.
Bottom bunks are generally low to the ground and great for younger children. The bed frames have solid slatted bases for firmer support, allowing for better ventilation beneath the kids' mattress.
The treehouse bunk beds are available in 3 different variations -
Single (90 x 190 cm)
Small Double (120 x 190 cm)
Double (140 x 190 cm)
Triple
Triple Bunk Bed
A triple bunk bed is similar to a standard single bed with three stacks of beds. The triple bunk bed is often referred to as a family bunk bed, providing comfortable sleeping arrangements suitable for large families with limited bedrooms. It can be an ideal choice for families whose children are experiencing sleep disturbances. These beds are also a budget-friendly option in the long run.
Triple Bunk with Trundle
The triple bunk bed with a trundle differs from the standard triple bunk bed, as it is designed to accommodate an additional sleeper at the base. Trundle beds have the remarkable feature of easily pulling out and fitting snugly beneath the lower bed. It is a convenient choice for families with children or teenagers, as they can comfortably accommodate up to three individuals.
Family Sleeper
A family sleeper has a two-level bunk, with a single-sized bed on the top level and a double-sized bed underneath.
The term 'family sleeper' is coined for situations where three family members (mum, dad, and their child) share the same sleeping space. Parents can enjoy a restful night's sleep on the bottom double bunk while their little one sleeps happily on the top bunk, giggling.
Types of Bunk Beds Based On Material
Up to this point, you have learned about bunk bed types based on tiers. In this section, you'll discover bunk bed types categorised by materials:
Wooden
Wooden bunk beds are available in a wide array of wood types, such as maple, oak, pine, and MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard). They are a popular choice due to their sturdy and timeless design.
Timber is considered the most durable and long-lasting in bed manufacturing. Because of its non-toxic properties, manufacturers apply water-based lacquers to protect timber from scratches and bashes, making wood a perfect choice for children’s beds.
Pine and MDF are also popular choices for manufacturing bunk beds. Pine provides a sturdy base, while MDF allows for unique designs, making it a favoured option for kids' beds.
Metal
Manufacturers create metal bed frames from steel tubing or wrought iron. A top-rated metal framed bunk bed is primarily constructed from steel and features a tubular design. Steel frames are coated with a layer of powder paint, enhancing aesthetics and preserving their appearance for extended periods. Furthermore, this coating provides essential support for growing bodies with proper structure.
Parents often choose metal-framed bunk beds over wooden ones because metal is typically cheaper than its wooden counterparts and provides a modern look. However, over time, these metal frames may become noisy and squeaky when children apply weight to them.
Author’s Recommendation For Child Bunk Beds
Rest Relax offers a wide range of Child Bunk Bed that are practical and space-saving solution for families with multiple kids or limited bedroom space. Comes in various designs, materials, and safety features, ensuring that parents can find the perfect option to suit their needs and ensure the safety of their children while providing a comfortable and fun sleeping arrangement.
How do I make a bunk bed safe?
Many families choose bunks because they offer a convenient way to save both money and space. However, it's crucial not to compromise on child safety.
Once you’ve made your choice and your brand new bunk bed arrives, you make sure to diligently follow the safety guidelines provided by the manufacturers:
- Read and carefully follow every instruction provided by the manufacturers with due care and attention.
- Always install safety rails on bunk beds as provided.
- Ensure that safety rails are positioned at least five inches above the mattress of the top bunk.
- Use the appropriate mattress size for each bunk.
- Verify the minimum age and maximum weight restrictions for your bunk bed.
- Secure the ladder tightly to the bed frame.
- Periodically inspect and tighten all fittings.
What Type of Mattress for A Bunk Bed?
A bunk bed does not require a special mattress; instead, bunk beds use the same mattresses as regular beds. The primary considerations are firmness and reliability, so we recommend pocket-sprung, memory foam, and reflex foam mattresses.
Pocket Sprung
Pocket Sprung consists of single metal coils shaped into a spring form. Each spring is individually sewn into its cotton fabric pocket, gathered in rows, and then placed into the mattress. Pocket Sprung provides unmatched pain and pressure relief and is available in all shapes and sizes.
Memory foam
Memory foam mainly consists of polyurethane with additional chemicals that increase viscosity and density. It is known as viscoelastic foam and is soft enough to mould to your shape. Memory foam reduces pressure point problems and helps maintain proper sleeping posture.
Reflex foam
Reflex foam is composed of polyurethane foam with small, adaptive pores that conform to your body shape. It offers firm support and is a cost-effective alternative to memory foam. Additionally, it possesses hypoallergenic and antibacterial properties.
Child Bunk Bed Guide FAQs:
Are bunk beds safe for 4-year-olds?
No, bunk beds are not safe for 4-year-olds. The height of bunk beds is typically quite high, with a standard height of 165cm. When climbing the ladder, children might fall. So, we don’t recommend top bunk beds for children who are 4 years old. However, children older than 6 years can use bunk beds safely.
At what age is it safe for a kid to have a bunk bed?
The recommended age for bunk beds is 6 to 16. Children over the age of 6 are typically mature enough to understand and follow safety rules.
Which child should sleep on the top bunk?
According to the manufacturer’s guidelines, children must be at least 6 years of age, and there is a weight limit of approximately 75-100 kg for both the top and bottom bunks.
Is a loft bed safe for a 3-year-old?
No, a loft bed is unsafe for a 3-year-old child. Children should understand that the top bunk or loft is meant for sleeping and reading only.