The Best Places to Buy Bunk Beds

Bunk beds look great in children's bedrooms and are available in a variety of designs. You can find triple bunks, or futon bunks, in small spaces, as in the traditional twin-over-twin design.

Consider the weight capacity when selecting a bunk bed. There are many bunk beds that have a weight limit of 400 pounds for each mattress, however there are higher-weight options for older children and teens.

1. Amazon

Bunk beds can be an ideal option for parents looking to save space in their small bedroom, or for children who want to add a fun element to their bedroom. There are many options to choose from including twin-over-twin and full-over-full designs. Some bunk beds come with slides. Think about a twin over twin with guard rails in the event that your children are less than six years old or even toddler bunk beds.

Aside from selecting the right bunk bed, you'll want to consider whether you need storage space or if you have any concerns about safety and durability. "The most important factor to look for in a bunk bed is durability," says Nikki Njeri Klugh who is the principal designer and founder of Nikki Klugh Design Group Inc. She says the structure should be constructed from metal or wood and should be sturdy enough to hold a full-size bed.

It is important to think about the space and the height you'd like for the upper bed when selecting the right bunk bed. For instance, if you have low ceilings, you should look for a loft-style bunk bed that sits closer to the floor or select one with stairs instead of a ladder. The top bunk should be equipped with side rails to ensure that the person sleeping in it isn't thrown off and there should be guardrails on both sides of the bed on the bottom Dr. Mehrin Islam, a pediatric emergency medicine specialist at Weill Cornell Medicine and New York-Presbyterian Hospital.

If you're searching for a bunk bed that is affordable look into this model from IKEA that comes with an easy frame and a ladder that is positioned on either side of the bed. It also meets CPSC and industry safety standards. Upgrade to a bigger model that can accommodate two people and comes with built-in drawers beneath the bed for an additional cost.

2. Target

Bunk beds and lofts are fantastic space-saving options for rooms for kids and can make the room more enjoyable. You can find a variety of styles of finishes, designs and configurations at Target. Look for options with storage, shelving, or other features besides sleeping quarters. There are also options with twin trundles under, which is ideal for sleepovers.

You'll find traditional twin-over-twin bunk beds at Target and a full-over-full option that works well in larger rooms. Whatever size you choose it is important to consider your ceiling height. You must ensure that the bunks are able to fit into your space and that there is enough clearance to safely climb in and out of them, says Dr. Colleen Kraft, a pediatric emergency medicine expert at Weill Cornell Medicine and New York-Presbyterian. If you live in an area with low ceilings, you may require a model with ladders designed specifically for this type of space.

Another important thing to consider when you are looking for a loft or bunk bed is the weight limit for the upper bunk. The Daxter bunk beds from Pottery Barn Kids, for example, are rated for up to 165 pounds per bed, which is less than some other brands. The Oeuf Perch is made of sustainable Baltic Birch plywood from the Forest Stewardship Council and eco-friendly medium density fiberboard. It has the weight limit of 250 pounds for the top bunk. This is higher than other brands.

Loft beds and bunk beds can be constructed of wood or metal. Steel beds are more durable, but can be noisier and more cold than wood. Some bunk beds made of wood are GreenGuard Gold certified.

3. Wayfair

Bunk beds are strong, versatile and stylish. They can be used by adults and children to save space. From twin-over-twin models to lofts with full-size beds that incorporate the lower bed in an L-shaped design, countless options are available. Some also have additional features, like storage or a futon under (like our top choice one, the Crate & Barrel Babyletto TipToe White and Washed Natural Wood Kids Bunk Bed).

While deciding on the kind of bunk bed that's ideal for you could be the most difficult aspect, there are several other aspects to take into consideration. For instance, you'll need to determine if you have enough space for a large bottom bunk, and what type of ladder you'd prefer. You'll have to consider the weight capacity of your beds. Since bunk beds are heavy, you'll need to make sure that the top and bottom beds can support at minimum two people.

We asked three experts who include a writer and author of the book about bunk beds to give their opinion. They recommended a selection of their top frames that range from budget-friendly twin-over-twin models to more expensive ones with a slide, and even a futon.

Choose bunk beds that are constructed from solid materials, such as plywood or dry kiln-dried wood. Be sure to consider security features, such as guardrails both on the sides of the frame and a sturdy ladder that is non-slip. Think about the amount of storage that you need in your bunk bed. Some beds have under-bed trundles that can be removed to accommodate guests.

4. Crate & Barrel

Bunk and loft beds for kids can create enjoyable, functional spaces for playing and sleeping that save space in smaller rooms. They're a great choice for shared bedrooms with kids as well as for farmhouse, cottage rustic cabin and log Barnwood style of décor. Find wooden bunk and loft beds in a variety of sizes, including twin over twin and full-over-full models. Some bunk beds include storage options, such as under-bed drawers or a roll-out trundle. Many include a ladder or stairway that needs to be sturdy and durable enough to support the weight of children.

Some bunk beds and loft beds for kids include desks that kids can use to complete their homework or do other activities. Some bunk beds and loft beds are equipped with built-in wardrobes which can be used as storage for clothes. A lot of bunk and loft beds for kids come with a selection of bright paint finishes so parents can pick the one that is most appropriate to their kiddos' rooms. Loft and bunk beds for kids include stair or ladder designs as well as storage drawers and upholstered headboards.

Kids bunk beds and loft beds are ideal for rooms with high ceilings but they can be difficult to move around in smaller bedrooms. Find beds that have minimum ceiling height of 8 feet to ensure the safety of your child when they climb to the top of the frame. The majority of bunk beds and loft beds are made for children ages 6 and up and can adhere to the proper bedtime routine while on the top.

Crate and Barrel housewares and furniture stores offer loft beds and bunk beds for kids that can be paired with traditional and contemporary home decor. Find a wide selection of bedroom furniture, kids' decor and toys in the New York-area Crate and Barrel store in Soho or at the Manhasset store. Include the crib on your baby's registry if expecting to get free design services along with a 10% discount on the completed crib.

5. IKEA

IKEA has a variety of bunk beds, including the classic twin-overtwin and unique options. The Daxter cottage-style bunk bed is a great choice, especially for families on a budget. It features angled ladders, guardrails and plenty of room underneath for storage options, but it's shorter than other alternatives on our list. It may not be suitable for children younger than six years old.

Another option that is worth considering is the Ikea Mydal Bunk Bed that can be placed in rooms with lower ceilings due to its compact design and a short ladder height. It's also cheaper than the other options on this list and provides many options with its side panels that are removable and drawers with an option for additional storage. The only issue is the lack of storage space built into the bed. There's plenty of space to add your own.

Pottery Barn Kids offers a variety of twin over full bunk beds which are ideal for siblings who wish to share a room, but reside close to each other. These beds are typically equipped with an ordinary ladder or staircase, as well as rails on the top of the bed to ensure safety. They also come in a variety of finishes to complement any decor.

If you're looking to save space and provide your children with a place where they can be social, you should consider bunk beds that have extra features, like desks, or stairs that can be converted into a storage space. Some bunk beds even accommodate a trundle, which pulls out from under the bottom, giving you the possibility of sleeping three or four people in the same room.