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Best Bunk Beds – 2020 Top Picks and Buying Guide
Our Research
87
Bunk Beds Considered
120
Hours of Research
5
Sleep Experts Consulted
Quick Overview
Bunk beds are a popular option for children’s bedrooms and guest rooms, as well as dorm rooms, hostels, and other shared sleeping spaces. Bunk beds are engineered to accommodate two – and in some cases, three or more – individual sleepers in beds that are carefully stacked or layered to ensure safety for all.
Best Bunkbeds
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- Editor’s Pick – Zinus Steel Quick Lock Bunk Bed
- Best Standard Bunk Bed (Twin-Over-Twin) – DHP Twin-Over-Twin Bunk Bed
- Best Full-Over-Full Bunk Bed – Max & Lily Full-Over-Full Bunk Bed with Trundle Bed
- Sturdiest Bunk Bed – Coaster Fine Furniture Stephan Bunk Bed
- Best Triple Bunk Bed – Dorel Living Sierra Triple Bunk Bed
- Best Bunk Bed for Dorm Rooms – Walker Edison Sunset Full over Workstation Bunk Bed
Today’s bunk beds range from minimalist metal frames to sophisticated designs that incorporate workstations, trundles, and other advanced features. Bunk beds come in many styles, as well. These include standard models with one Twin-size bed stacked on another (known as Twin-over-Twin), as well as Twin-over-Full, triple, standard and triple loft, L-shaped, futon, and trundle. The price of a new bunk bed may fall anywhere from less than $200 to more than $1,000, and often depends on the brand, style, and material composition.
Read on to learn more about bunk bed styles and characteristics, as well as tips for first-time buyers. Below you’ll find our picks for the best bunk beds sold today. Our choices are based on verified customer and owner experiences, as well as intensive product research and analysis.
Our Top 6 Picks
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Editor's Pick
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Zinus Steel Quick Lock Bunk Bed
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Best Standard Bunk Bed (Twin-Over-Twin)
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DHP Twin-Over-Twin Bunk Bed
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Best Full-Over-Full Bunk Bed
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Max & Lily Full-Over-Full Bunk Bed with Trundle Bed –
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Sturdiest Bunk Bed
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Coaster Fine Furniture Stephan Bunk Bed
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Check Best Price Jump To Section | |
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Best Triple Bunk Bed
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Dorel Living Sierra Triple Bunk Bed
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Best Bunk Bed for Dorm Rooms
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Walker Edison Sunset Full over Workstation Bunk Bed
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Check Best Price Jump To Section |
The Best Bunk Beds – Reviewed
Editor's Pick – Zinus Steel Quick Lock Bunk Bed
Highlights
- Twin-over-Full
- Steel construction
- 61" high
- 175-lb. limit (both beds)
- 5-year warranty
Zinus Steel Quick Lock Bunk Beds are available to Tuck readers at the lowest price
Check PriceEditor’s Pick Overview
Our Editor’s Pick is the Steel Quick Lock Bunk Bed from Zinus, an all-metal Twin-over-full bunk that offers great stability and a cool, streamlined design. A secure ladder connects the top and bottom bunks, each of which can accommodate any child or adult under 175 pounds (though children under six years should not use the top bunk for safety reasons).
The ‘Quick Lock’ mechanisms ensures the entire bed can be assembled in less than one hour; alternatively, customers can opt for expert assembly when they order the bed from Amazon.com. The mechanisms also provide a sturdy connection that helps withstand wear and lengthen the bunk’s overall lifespan. And due to its relatively low price-point and strong performance ratings, this bunk is considered a high-value option. The Steel Quick Lock Bunk Bed is backed by a five-year warranty.
Good for:
- Children in most weight groups
- Adults weighing less than 175 lbs.
- Value seekers
Best Standard Bunk Bed (Twin-Over-Twin) – DHP Twin-Over-Twin Bunk Bed
Highlights
- Twin-over-Twin
- Steel construction
- 61.5" high
- 200-lb. (top) and 225-lb. (bottom) limit
- 1-year warranty
DHP Twin-Over-Twin Bunk Beds are available to Tuck readers at the lowest price
Check PriceBest Standard Bunk Bed (Twin-Over-Twin) Overview
Standard bunk beds, also known as Twin-over-Twins, are the most common bunk bed designs available. Our pick for the Best Standard Bunk is the Twin-Over-Twin Bunk Bed from DHP, which boasts a lightweight yet secure metal frame with sturdy guardrails and a slanted ladder (which is considered safer than fully upright ladders). Both beds are also equipped with narrow slats that will accommodate almost any mattress. This bunk is easy to assemble and ships in one box for added convenience.
The DHP Twin-Over-Twin Bunk Bed has a 200-pound weight limit for the top bunk and a 225-pound weight limit for the bottom; this is suitable for all children as well as most adults in the light and average weight groups. It also has a low price-point, making it a good option for college students or space-saving roommates. DHP backs the Twin-Over-Twin Bunk Bed with a one-year warranty.
Good for:
- Children in most weight groups
- Adults weighing less than 200 to 225 lbs.
- Value seekers
Best Full-Over-Full Bunk Bed – Max & Lily Full-Over-Full Bunk Bed with Trundle Bed
Highlights
- Full-Over-Full
- Pinewood construction
- 65" high
- 400-lb. Limit (both beds)
- 1-year warranty
Tuck readers get the Max & Lily Full-Over-Full Bunk Bed with Trundle Bed at the lowest price
Check PriceBest Full-Over-Full Bunk Bed Overview
Although they tend to be somewhat expensive, Full-over-Full bunk beds are an ideal option for older children as well as adult roommates. Our top pick for this size is the Max & Lily Full-Over-Full Bunk Bed, which is constructed from knot-free New Zealand pine for exceptional security and longevity. In addition to the top and bottom beds, the bed comes with a pull-out trundle bed that can be accessed using a drawer at the base, accommodating up to three adults or children who each weigh under 400 pounds.
The Max & Lily Twin-Over-Full also comes equipped with a sanded ladder for easy access between the top and bottom, as well as 14″ guardrails on the top bed. When not used as a bunk, it can be disassembled into two free-standing beds. Additionally, Max & Lily offers a Twin-Over-Twin bunk. Both the Twin-Over-Twin and Twin-Over-Full beds are backed by a one-year warranty.
Good for:
- Children in all weight groups
- Adults weighing less than 400 lbs.
- Older children who will soon need free-standing beds
Sturdiest Bunk Bed – Coaster Fine Furniture Stephan Bunk Bed
Highlights
- Full-Over-Full
- Steel construction
- 65" high
- 400-lb. Limit (both beds)
- 10-year warranty
Tuck readers get the best possible price on Coaster Fine Furniture Stephan Bunk Beds
Check PriceSturdiest Bunk Bed Overview
All bunk beds are designed to be relatively sturdy, but the Stephan Full-Over-Full from Coaster Fine Furniture is a notable standout. It boasts a thick all-steel frame and strong connections throughout to prevent creaks and loose movements. Both beds have 20 slats apiece, eliminating the need for bunkie boards, and the weight limit for each is 400 pounds.
The Stephan Full-Over-Full also has a striking, curvaceous design and slick gunmetal finish that offers aesthetic appeal for most bedrooms. Ladders are featured on both sides for easy top bunk access. The bottom bed is also fairly elevated, ensuring substantial storage space beneath the bunk. The Stephan Full-Over-Full has a higher-than-average price-point, making it a good option for shoppers with bigger budgets – but the bed is backed by a 10-year warranty, which is much longer than average.
Good for:
- Children in all weight groups
- Adults weighing less than 400 lbs.
- Guest rooms and shared adult bedrooms
Best Triple Bunk Bed – Dorel Living Sierra Triple Bunk Bed
Highlights
- Triple
- Rubber wood construction
- 77" high
- 165-lb. Limit (all beds)
- 1-year warranty
Tuck readers get the Dorel Living Sierra Triple Bunk Bed at the lowest price
Check PriceBest Triple Bunk Bed Overview
Triple bunks are a great option for large households with more than three children sharing a room – though for many parents, their tall profiles elicit safety concerns. The Sierra Triple Bunk Bed from Dorel Living is one of the sturdiest triple bunks on the market; constructed from durable rubber wood, the bed offers solid connections throughout and a long product lifespan. Each bed is slatted to support a Twin-size mattress; bunkie boards may be used as a comfortable buffer between the mattress and the slats.
Additionally, the Sierra Triple Bunk offers two ladders for access to the middle and top bunks, both of which are protected with robust guardrails. The entire bunk can be disassembled into three free-standing beds when needed, as well. Compared to other triple bunk models, the Sierra’s price-point is considered somewhat low. It is backed by a one-year warranty.
Good for:
- Children in most weight groups
- Adults weighing less than 165 lbs.
- Value seekers
Best Bunk Bed for Dorm Rooms – Walker Edison Sunset Full over Workstation Bunk Bed
Highlights
- Standard loft (Full)
- Steel construction
- 71" high
- 250-lb. limit
- 30-night warranty
Tuck readers get the best price on Walker Edison Sunset Full over Workstation Bunk Beds
Check PriceBest Bunk Bed for Dorm Rooms Overview
While many colleges and universities provide beds for students living in dorms, these models can be shoddy and of poor quality – and schools generally allow students to use their own bedding if they prefer. The Sunset Full over Workstation Bunk Bed from Walker Edison is a fine choice for substitute dorm bedding. This tall, single-sleeper loft accommodates a Full-size mattress and offers substantial space for a desk, computer, and other studying essentials.
The Sunset Full over Workstation is made from solid steel and provides great stability. It features two ladders, as well as sturdy guardrails around the bed. In addition to dorm rooms, the bed is suitable for a child’s room; the space beneath the bed makes a roomy playing area. Its price-point is on par with other loft bunks, and should fall within the budget of most students and parents. Walker Edison backs this bunk bed with a 30-night warranty; replacement parts are available upon request, as well.
Good for:
- Children in most weight groups
- Adults weighing less than 250 lbs.
- Space-saving students
Buying Guide – Shopping for the Best Bunk Bed
The term ‘bunk bed’ refers to any design that features at least one bed stacked on top of another bed or, in the case of standard loft bunk beds, one bed elevated over an open space. Although they are can be used to accommodate sleeping adults in establishments like military garrisons, correctional facilities, and college dorms, bunk beds are primarily used in children’s bedrooms. Most bunk beds sold today are made from either wood (softwood or hardwood) or steel. Prices for bunk beds range from less than $200 to more than $4,000, although the average model costs between $300 and $900.
Bunk beds can be significant space-savers, particularly in homes where two or more children share a bedroom, and many models come equipped with drawers or compartments for extra storage. However, there are some notable safety concerns associated with bunk beds that parents should understand before purchasing.
This guide will look at some common features of bunk beds, identify safety concerns and strategies for mitigating these risks, and list our picks for the top-rated bunk bed models. First, let’s look at how today’s bunk beds are constructed.
Bunk Bed Designs
Most bunk beds feature two stacked sleep surfaces, but some models may include three stacked beds. The mattresses used in bunk beds are almost always Twin and/or Full, although Twin XL-, Queen-, and even King-size bunk bed models are available. Some of the most common bunk bed designs include the following:
- Standard: A standard bunk bed features two stacked Twin-size beds. The two beds are detachable, allowing parents to remove the top bunk if needed.
- Standard loft: A standard loft design features one bed elevated over an open space of at least 40 inches. This open space is typically large enough to accommodate a work desk with a computer, as well as a chair or sitting implement; for this reason, standard lofts are a popular option for college dorms.
- Triple: This design is similar to the standard, but most feature three stacked Twin-size beds. Some may be designed with two adjoining bottom beds and a top bed stacked over the midsection where the bottom beds meet. Triple bunk beds are usually detachable, as well.
- Triple loft: The triple loft design is L-shaped, and often placed in a corner of a bedroom. The top portion features two adjoining beds that attach at a 90-degree angle. One of these top bunks is stacked over a bottom bunk, while the other top bunk is elevated over an open space. All mattresses in a triple loft are Twin-sized.
- Twin-over-Full: This design creates more sleeping space than a standard bunk bed by featuring a Full-size mattress on the bottom that can accommodate two people. The top bunk is a Twin-size mattress, hence the name.
- Futon: As the name indicates, a futon bunk bed features a standard mattress stacked over a futon bed that can be converted into a couch-like sitting surface. This option may be suitable for older children with a television in their room, as well as dorms.
- Trundle: A trundle bunk bed sleeps three people. Like a standard design, the trundle features two stacked Twin-size mattresses, along with a third housed in a base drawer beneath the bottom bunk. The drawer is usually equipped with caster wheels for easy rolling in and out.
- L-shaped: This design features a top Twin-size bunk stacked in perpendicular fashion over the bottom bed, which may be a Twin- or a Full-size depending on the design. When viewed from above, the two beds form a slight L shape. The bottom bed is usually flanked by steps or a ladder on one side and storage space on the other. This design should not be confused with the triple loft, which is also L-shaped but features three individual beds.
The table below lists basic details for each of the aforementioned bunk bed designs.
Please note that there may be some cross-over in terms of design. For instance, a bunk bed may technically be L-shaped and Twin-over-Full, or triple loft and futon.
| Bunk Bed Design | Number of Sleepers | Mattresses Used | Stack or Elevated Beds | Storage Space |
| Standard | 2 | 2 Twin | Stacked | Base drawers or space beneath bottom bed |
| Standard Loft | 1 | 1 Twin | Elevated | Open space beneath top bed |
| Triple | 3 | 3 Twin | Stacked | Base drawers or space beneath bottom bed |
| Triple Loft | 3 | 3 Twin | Both | Open space beneath one of the top beds |
| Twin-over-Full | 2 - 3 | 1 Twin 1 Full | Stacked | Base drawers or space beneath bottom bed |
| Futon | 1 Twin 1 Futon (Twin or Full) | Stacked | Base drawers or space beneath futon | |
| Trundle | 3 | 3 Twin | Stacked, with third bed housed in roll-out base drawer | Side drawers or no storage |
| L-shaped | 2 - 3 | 1 Twin 1 Twin or Full | Elevated at a right angle | Side drawers, as well as open space surrounding bottom bed |
| L-Shaped |
Bunk Beds: Common Materials, Characteristics and Functions
Most bunk beds sold today are made from one or more of the following materials:
- Solid plastic: Plastic bunk beds are not particularly heavy, nor are they capable of supporting much weight. For this reason, most plastic bunk beds are designed for small children. Plastic bunk beds are fairly inexpensive.
- Steel: Metal bunk beds are typically the cheapest models on the market, and are widely available. They are also highly durable and their top bunk can usually can support at least 200 to 250 pounds.
- Softwood: Bunk beds made of pine and other softwood varieties are sturdy and fairly durable, but not as much as hardwood models. For this reason, softwood models are the cheaper wood option, though they are typically more expensive than plastic and metal models.
- Hardwood: Bunk beds made of hardwood varieties — such as oak, poplar, ash, and cherry — are widely considered the sturdiest and most durable bunk beds available. They are also, not surprisingly, the most expensive on average.
Consumers have a wide range of bunk bed models to choose from, but generally speaking most share the following qualities and features:
Bunkie boards: Unlike standard single-person beds that feature a box spring beneath the mattress, bunk beds feature relatively thin wooden planes known as ‘bunkie’ boards beneath the top and bottom bunks. Most bunkie boards measure two to four inches thick.
Support columns or poles: In order to properly support the top bunk and prevent it from collapsing, bunk beds are designed with four poles or pillars, one for each corner of the bed.
Top bunk access: Standard bunk beds are constructed with implements that allow users to reach the top bunk safely. Most commonly, bunk beds will feature one or more of the following:
- A ladder that connects the top and bottom bunks; the ladder is attached to the outer-facing lengthwise side of the top and bottom bed bases. Most standard, triple, and Twin-over-Full bunk beds have ladders.
- Rungs or slats that extend widthwise between the support poles/columns at the head and/or foot of both beds beds. These are commonly found on loft designs, as well as futon bunk beds.
- Stairs that are attached to one or both sides. These are a common feature of trundle and L-shaped bunk beds. Stairs may be equipped with storage drawers.
Guardrails: The top bunk(s) must feature at least one set of parallel guardrails, one rail on each side, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (see bottom section for more information). The bottom bunk may feature guardrails, as well, but these are not required.
Considerations for Bunk Bed Shoppers
When shopping for a new bunk bed and comparing different brands and models, here are a few important factors to keep in mind:
- Price: Bunk bed shoppers on a budget can find models for less than $300, but they should expect to spend at least $300 to $900 for a new bunk bed. Some high-end models cost upward of $3,000 to $5,000.
- Dimensions: Parents should measure the length, width, and ceiling height of the room where they plan to install a bunk bed before they begin browsing for models. This will ensure that the bunk bed they select will fit.
- Weight capacity: The weight capacity for the top bunk will be significantly lower than the weight capacity of the bottom bunk. A metal bunk bed, for instance, can typically support up to 200 pounds on top and up to 500 pounds on the bottom. Although this won’t be an issue for most small children, bunk bed weight capacity is more crucial for teenagers who share a bunk bed — particularly if one is significantly larger than the other. Remember: weight capacity refers to both the sleeper and the mattress, so lighter mattress types (such as memory foam and some innerspring models) are more suitable for bunk beds than heavier ones (such as latex, hybrid, or airbed models).
- Storage: Those with greater storage needs may prefer a loft bed, or a bunk bed bodel with a large amount of drawer space. Those with minimal storage needs have more options.
- Assembly: Some manufacturers offer in-home assembly services for customers, but in many cases the owner will need to assemble the bunk bed without outside assistance.
- Decor: Although this is a purely aesthetic consideration, bunk bed shoppers may prefer models that blend in — and not clash — with the bedroom’s existing furniture and fixtures.
- Return policy: A sleep trial may be included with the purchase of a new bunk bed. Most sleep trials run at least 30 nights, and allow customers to return their bunk bed model for a full refund within that window period if they are not satisfied with the product. However, many bunk bed purchases do not include a sleep trial.
- Warranty: Manufacturer’s warranties for bunk beds typically run 30 days to one year, but some extend up to five years in length.
- Protection plans: In addition to or in place of a product warranty, some bunk bed sellers offer protection plans that cover accidental damages, such as stains, cuts and tears, punctures, dents, and water rings. These plans do not cover damages that occur due to owner abuse or neglect, or other exclusions listed in the product warranty. Protection plans may also include full repairs with or without a required deductible. Most plans are optional, and available in different coverage lengths at varying price rates.
- Certifications: Bunk beds should be certified for residential and/or commercial use, and meet all applicable CPSC guidelines. Virtually all bunk beds sold through brick-and-mortar and online brands and retailers meet this criteria, but shoppers should still check to ensure all certifications are valid.
Bunk Bed Building Tips
Some parents may wish to craft a bunk bed themselves using lumber or metal they acquire themselves, rather than purchasing a manufactured model for home assembly. These individuals are encouraged to follow this step-by-step process:
1.) Meticulously measure the room in which the bunk bed will be located. Take width, depth, and ceiling height into consideration, as well as the placement of lights, ceiling fans, windows, and other room fixtures that the bunk bed should not be near or against. Also think about storage needs.
2.) Create clear blueprints. Assembly guides for manufactured models may be a useful starting point.
3.) Make a comprehensive inventory of materials and implements that will be needed, including:
- Bed materials, such as lumber and/or metal.
- Tools that may be needed, including a drill or electric screwdriver, hammer, saw, level, and measuring tape.
- Small parts, such as screws, nails, angle brackets, and wood glue.
- Lay out all materials to make sure each part is accounted for, and that the building materials meet the required measurement specs.
- Construct the bed in a place where children and pets won’t interfere, such as a garage, or close off the room to potential intruders. This will lower the risk of injury.
4.) Begin assembling the bottom bunk bed. Once this portion is complete, move onto the top bunk(s). Utilize the level throughout this process to ensure the design is sturdy and even.
5.) If constructing the bed from wood, be sure to thoroughly sand all surfaces to lower the risk of cuts and other injuries from splinters.
6.) If planning to paint or stain the bed, make sure all floor surfaces beneath the bed are covered with cloth, tarp, or other protective materials to prevent spillage.
Safety Concerns and Current Standards for Bunk Beds
Bunk beds sold in the U.S. are regulated under the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Manufacturers and importers of children’s bunk beds must submit bunk beds to a CPSC-accepted, third-party laboratory for safety testing, and then obtain a Child’s Product Certificate that certifies the bed complies with all current safety standards and regulations. Those who manufacture or import adult bunk beds must likewise obtain a General Product Certificate after the required testing has concluded.
The CPSC’s current ‘bunk bed rule’ guidelines state the following:
Guardrails:
- “Bunk beds must have at least two upper bunk guardrails, with at least one rail on each side. Lower bunks with mattress foundations that are 30 inches or less from the floor do not have to have guardrails.
- The guardrail on the side of the bed next to a wall or on the side opposite to a ladder must run continuously from one end of the bed to the other. If the guardrail does not attach to an end of the bed, the gap between the end of the guardrail and the nearest end of the bunk bed cannot be greater than 0.22 inches.
- A guardrail on the side of the bed away from the wall does not have to run continuously from end to end of the bed, BUT the distance between either end of the guardrail and the end of the bed nearest to it cannot be greater than 15 inches.
- Guardrails must be attached to the bunk bed with fasteners that must be released before the rails can be removed, OR the rail or fastener must be designed to move in two or more different directions, one after the other, to release them.
- The tops of the guardrails must be no less than 5 inches above the top of the mattress.
- With no mattress on the upper bunk, any space between the bottom of the guardrail and the top of the mattress foundation must not let the wedge block pass through freely.”
Bunk Bed Ends:
- “No opening in either end of the upper bunk that is above the mattress foundation can let the wedge block pass through freely.
- When the thickest mattress and mattress foundation recommended by the manufacturer are used, the top of each end of the upper bunk must extend at least 5 inches above the top of the mattress, and that 5-inch margin of safety must extend at least half of the distance between the corner posts of each end.
- No opening in the headboard or footboard of the lower bunk below the mattress foundation of the upper bunk and above the mattress foundation of the lower bunk shall permit the wedge block to pass through freely – UNLESS the opening also allows a rigid 9-inch sphere to pass through it freely.
- Any opening in the headboard or footboard of the lower bunk below the mattress foundation of the upper bunk tested with the wedge block must also be tested for the risk of neck entrapment if the opening lets the 9-inch sphere pass through freely.”
The CPSC also provides guidance for testing bunk beds for entrapment hazards associated with the guardrails and both ends of the top and bottom bunks. In order to test for entrapment hazards, probing equipment is needed. A full equipment list and step-by-step procedures can be found in the CPSC Test Manual for Bunk Bed Entrapment Hazards.
For more information about bunk beds laws, please visit 16 CFR Part 1213, the federal regulation for adult bunk beds, and 16 CFR Part 1513, the federal regulation for children’s bunk beds.
In addition to these regulations, here are a few general safety guidelines for children’s bunk beds:
- Children aged five and under should not sleep on bunk beds. Most bunk bed injuries are related to falls involving children five and under.
- There should be absolutely no jumping or wrestling on the top or bottom bunks.
- Regardless of the listed weight capacity, no more than one person should ever sit on the top bunk.
- When using ladders or rungs to access the top bunk, children should keep at least three of their four hands and feet in place at all times, moving one hand or foot at any given time.
- Do not allow anyone to sleep on the top bunk if the guardrail is loose or partially detached.
- Do not allow children to hang or suspend themselves from the top bunk in any way. This could lead to fall-related injuries, and may also compromise the structural integrity of the bed.
- If a child has friend over for the night, be sure to inform that child’s parents of the bedding situation; some parents may object, in which case an alternate sleep surface will most likely be required.
- Bunk beds should never be placed directly beneath light fixtures or ceiling fans, nor should they be installed against windows.
- Parents should measure the space between the top bunk and ceiling to ensure there is enough room for sleepers on top without hitting the ceiling.
- Do not purchase used bunk beds. Buy new models or construct them using raw materials in order to ensure optimal durability and design.
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