How to Choose the Best Convertible Bunk Beds

Bunk beds are a great way to save space and add a fun aspect of style to children's rooms. But how do you select the right one?

When your children are old enough to have outgrown the bunk bed arrangement, look for a bunk that can be separated into two beds. The most suitable bunk beds are robust and feature the design to accommodate multiple kids and sleepovers.

Sturdy Construction

If you're looking to build bunk beds in your children's room, make sure that they can stand up to the weight of kids and adults. Check for quality construction features like metal tubular frames and solid wood construction that can endure the wear and tear of a room shared. Bunk beds are commonly used for sleepovers as well as overnight summer camps, so they need to be able to bear the weight of several kids bouncing around and down throughout the night.

A majority of the top convertible beds are constructed with a strong steel frame. They also come with warranties that increase their longevity. Choose a finish that complements your bedroom decor and think about adding other bunk bed accessories such as trundles or storage drawers to extend the lifespan of your new investment.

The DHP Miles is a great option for bunk beds that are affordable and still very sturdy. The bunks are distinctive with an industrial design that is trendy and contemporary. The ladder and safety rails are strong and keep kids and adults safe. The bottom bunk has a futon that can be used for an extra couch, or a guest bed for friends and family. The bunks are delivered flat to your home and require easy assembly on arrival.

Another great alternative is the Max & Lily bunk bed that has two twin beds stacked on top of one another and splits into separate single beds when the time for bunk-bumping is over. The minimalist, modern design and color options create a sleek classic look that's perfect for both boys and girls bedrooms. The support provided by the company's customer service is not always consistent, and some customers have reported shipping damage.

Crate & Kids offers solid wooden bunk beds that are constructed to last. This model is elegant, timeless design that can be easily converted from bunks into two separate twin beds once your children outgrow it. Choose a neutral finish like white or espresso to blend with any color palette, or go for an edgy option like deep pink or navy to add a pop of color to your bedroom.

Extra Storage

Bunk beds can be a great solution for smaller spaces, especially in the case of kids' bedrooms. Many bunks have drawers underneath which give you more storage space, but does not take up floor space. They also have shelves that can be used as a media center, bookshelf or other furniture. They're also commonly made to split into two separate beds, which is a smart option for families with extended homes or out-of-town guests.

If try these guys out choose a bed with a ladder, make sure it has handholds and anti-slip rungs to aid in climbing up. Some beds have a built-in staircase for a sleeker look and more stability. These types of furniture may not be best for children who are younger and are best suited to larger rooms since they occupy more area on the floor. Some of them also have additional storage, like built-in shelves and drawers, which are useful for toys or clothes.

Low bunks are another option to reduce floor space. They're ideal for spaces with high ceilings as well as smaller spaces. This type of bed has a bottom bed at ground level, and a top bunk that is attached to the side of the frame to free up floor space. It's a great choice for kids who are younger, but they may be too childish as they grow older, according to Laura Fenton, author of The Bunk Bed Book: 115 Designs for Lofts, Lofts and Cozy Nooks.

Low bunks are also unique and can be used to make one bed for your child grows out of the bunk or when the siblings move into their own rooms. This option is available in wood and metal, and can be customized with a trundle or storage drawers.

Fenton says she prefers Oeuf's Perch bunk because it's stylish and is constructed of durable materials and separates into a twin over the size of a full-size bed. It is also GREENGUARD gold certified, which means it meets the stricter standards for particle and chemical air pollution, and does not emit foul odors. It's also attractive due its mocha finish, clean lines, and green nature.

Trundle Beds

A trundle bed can add more sleeping space to your kids bunk beds, and it can also be used as a guest bed for guests staying over. Some of the best convertible bunk beds come with an expansive full trundle bed that is placed beneath twin beds that's accessible through a built-in staircase. This kind of bunk bed can be an ideal option for rooms that don't have enough space to accommodate three separate beds, or for parents who want to accommodate multiple children in the same room without losing privacy.

Some bunks have trundle beds with detachable trundle beds you can use as a pair or to create two twin-sized beds or create a full-over-full configuration. Some of these bunks come with an additional staircase that allows you to access the bed trundle on its own, while others feature an integrated staircase that has a built-in storage shelf or display space below.

Some of the most comfortable bunk beds are available in a range of colors to match your child's current bedroom decor. White finishes are versatile and can be matched with any bedding, while a deep espresso stain or natural wood provides warmth and a richness. Other finishes, such as soft gray and chic pink are a good match with a variety of colors and work with any style of bunk bed.

If you plan to use the bunk bed in your home for an extra bedroom for guests, make sure that it is appropriate for the size and height of your house. If you have lower ceilings, look for a model that has the futon or sitting space beneath the top bunk to give guests a comfortable place 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 children stay organized, while also providing you with extra storage for toys, books and clothes. A lot of these bunks come with an extra-large bottom bed and are suitable for adults, also, which makes them ideal for families with several children or multigenerational families who often host overnight guests. These models are available in a range of finishes to suit your child's tastes and complement the furniture in your bedroom.

Easy Assembly

The most comfortable convertible bunk beds are typically delivered partially assembled. This is ideal for parents with a limited time and space. These beds are simple to put together and require only the use of a few tools. If you intend to DIY select a bunk bed with clear instructions and pre-cut pieces that accelerate the assembly.

Depending on the design and material of your bunk bed, it'll be important to consider how much weight it can support. Some bunk beds are equipped with metal frames that can support more weight. If you decide to go with a bunk bed made of wood, it is crucial to be aware of the kind of wood used since some types are more susceptible to splintering than other.

When you're looking to purchase bunk beds, make sure that the model you are considering has guard rails on either side of the topmost level. These can prevent your kids from falling asleep at night which is a frequent cause of head injuries in children who sleep in bunk beds. These guards are particularly helpful when you have children younger than who are afraid to get up in the middle of the night.

Another must-have feature when you are looking for bunk beds is a slide that is detachable. This exciting addition to your child's bedroom lets siblings and friends to race down the slide or send their favorite stuffed animal along for the thrill of their lives. Some models even come with a storage staircase that is matched for safe top access.

A bunk bed with slide that can be removed is a great option for parents looking to maximize the space in their child's bedroom without sacrificing safety and function. Max & Lily's stylish twin over full trundle bed is made from kiln dried pine and engineered wooden for durability and long-lasting use. It's available with three new finishes that easily coordinate with any kiddo's bedroom design scheme. A clean white finish is a reliable choice for coastal or cottage rooms and gray or clay finishes are a great match for a variety of color palettes.