How to Choose the Best Bunk Bed for Teens
Bunk beds are an essential piece of furniture for many rooms for children. They save space and make the room look more spacious. But before you purchase one, make sure it has these essential safety features:
Avoid ladders with huge gaps between slats. Also, look for guardrails that measure 6 inches high. Angled ladders are easier to climb and safer than straight ones.
The IKEA Mydal
For a low-cost bunk bed that doesn't appear "baby" when your kids reach teen age, consider this sleek pick from IKEA. The clean lines and easy to clean wood make it a favourite of both adults and children. This model can also be converted and allows you to separate the lower twin into two independent beds when your children are ready for the transition.
This option is great for kids who have difficulty climbing up the ladder. The stairs are located in the middle of the frame which makes them easier for kids. The bottom bunk is a full size, and the whole frame is flexible enough for siblings sharing a room, or guests staying in the room.
If you're looking for a bunk bed that has additional features There are options that offer workstation lofts or reading nooks that are a great spot to do homework, study and unwind. Some bunk beds come with an storage tower that is ideal for storing toys and clothes.
You can also add fun with a slide that attaches to the top bunk. However, keep in mind that it could be a safety hazard for kids who sleep in the top bunk, so it is important to install a protective railing.
While some bunk beds are designed to be constructed without requiring any tools, it's still recommended to have a friend or family member to assist with the assembly process. It's important to have someone on hand to ensure the bunk bed is secure, especially for teens who weigh more and may be prone to falling asleep. If you prefer a less hands-on experience, purchase a kit from a bunk bed retailer that comes with all the required components and instructions.
The Harriet Bee Tena
The Harriet Bee Tena elevates the bunk bed to a new level with a slide built-in that your kids will enjoy. The bed also has an impressive amount of storage with a bookcase and dresser built into the stairs on either side of the bed.
This twin-size loft bed is an elegant accessory to any child's bedroom, or a spare room. It's ideal for sleepovers as it has the option of a separate trundle beneath. This bunk features a stylish white finish and plenty of storage in the form of drawers and shelves. It includes an built-in ladder, a large lower bed, rails to guard the top bunk and a slat kit that eliminates the need for the use of a box spring.
We are awestruck by the fact that this bed is very solid, thanks to the solid spruce wood construction as well as the Greenguard Gold certification. It comes with a movable staircase that can be set up on either side of the bunk bed, as well as an enclosed guardrail for the top bunk. This is a nice privacy feature. The only thing that might make this bed more suited for younger children is the fact that it's high off the ground, so small children might have trouble climbing up and down.
For those looking for something a little bit more modern in design take a look at this gorgeous white bunk bed with an arched ladder. It's a stylish option that can be a great addition to any modern or contemporary space. The bottom of the bunk bed has a pull-out desk for studying, and a huge storage space underneath, ideal for keeping books and toys. Like other bunk beds it is simple to build and only requires the addition of the mattress.
The Matrix Low Bunk
When you think of bunk beds, there are plenty of different options available, including the materials and designs. Some people opt for metal bunk beds because it's cheap and durable and others prefer wood for the look and comfort. It is also important to decide whether you want your children to be able to access the top bunk via the use of a ladder, a staircase or both. Ladders are easy to climb, but they are less safe for children who struggle with heights. Staircases are safer, but they take up more room. Bunk Bed King suggests that you should also be aware of the age of your children and their sleeping habits when choosing a bunk bed.
Some manufacturers create a unique shape bunk bed to fit into rooms with low ceilings and corners. This is a great alternative for small spaces or if you're looking for an investment piece that will endure through multiple children. Some examples include L-shaped bunks, trundle beds with a twin bed on the bottom and additional storage or futon bunks that can be converted into two beds.
Another great way to save space is to select an option with built-in storage. This can be in the form of drawers or shelving under the lower bunk. This is a great way to keep clothes, toys and other belongings off the floor of the bedroom. It's also a great option for kids who have difficulty keeping their rooms organized.
Maxtrix is a well-known producer of bunk beds for teens that is known for its solid construction and emphasis on safety. Their beds meet or exceed US, European, and Australian safety standards.
The Gemini Convertible Bunk
This bunk bed blends design and function to create a sleek look that's perfect for modern homes. It's constructed with precision to ensure stability, and comes with a a detachable ladder for easy access to the top bed. It also offers multiple configurations and can separate into twin beds to accommodate families that are growing It's GREENGUARD Gold certified for environmental safety.
When selecting a bunk bed, think about the size of your room. This model from DHP's Miles line is a great option for smaller rooms because it's less than five feet high and has slats with a horizontal design which eliminate the requirement for a box spring. Since the bunks are joined at the feet, climbing up and down is easier for younger kids. It comes in three finishes and four sizes. The top bunk has guardrails all around.
Another option is a staircase-style bunk bed, like this one from Harriet Bee. Stairs are more stable than ladders and are more suitable for older children or adults who have difficulty climbing. However, they are more difficult to maneuver and might require more space in the bedroom.

This solid wooden bunk bed from Crate & Kids is a ideal choice if you're looking for a timeless design. Its sleek design and is available in a variety of classic colors, and its durable construction means it will last for teen years and beyond. The ladder that is angled on this bed is much easier to climb than the standard straight ladder. It also comes with anti-slip handholds and rungs for additional safety. It can also be split into two twin beds when your kids are ready to move on, making it a great option for guest rooms or Airbnb rentals.
The Wooden Arch Bunkbed
This Pottery Barn bunk bed is perfect for older children and teens. It comes with two full-sized beds. It's also super robust and durable, with the foundation of a slat-roll and kiln dried pine wood that is Greenguard Gold Certified. It also has an adjustable ladder that won't wobble and has a fully enclosed top bunk for an extra level of privacy. The bottom bed is low to the ground, so it's safe and easy for kids of all ages to get into and out of.
The standard twin-over-twin bunk bed is a favorite for a lot of families. They maximize vertical space and are great for small rooms or shared spaces. They're also versatile and can convert into separate twin-sized beds when your kids outgrow them or you need more space for guests to sleep.
Styled bunk beds may feature fun features, such as castle-style tops or treehouse-style ones. They can even have a slide. These beds can be more expensive, but they add a unique look to your child's bedroom.
Before choosing the right size or type of bunk bed, you must consider the size of your room for your child and the ceiling's height. Also, pay attention to weight limits and age restrictions on the particular bunk bed you're considering. This will allow you to choose a bunk bed that is suitable for your children, and also meets the safety guidelines and standards of the industry. Also, over here should ensure the proper spacing of slats to avoid entrapment and look for stairs and ladders that are safe. It's also important to consider the material of your bunk beds.