Best Bunk Beds – 2018 Top Picks and Buying Guide

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.

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,

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.

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.

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.
4. Lay out all materials to make sure each part is accounted for, and that the building materials meet the required measurement specs.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. If constructing the bed from wood, be sure to thoroughly sand all surfaces to lower the risk of cuts and other injuries from splinters.
8. 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.  

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:

1. “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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. The tops of the guardrails must be no less than 5 inches above the top of the mattress.
6. 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:

1. “No opening in either end of the upper bunk that is above the mattress foundation can let the wedge block pass through freely.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.

For more information on child beds and sleep considerations for children, please visit the following Tuck pages:

• Best Mattresses for Kids
• The Parent’s Guide to Healthy Sleep
• Helping Children Fall Asleep: Sleep Onset Problems in Children
• Sleep Disorders in Children
• Treating Children with Insomnia
• Safe-sleeping Guide for Parents and Childcare Providers
• Bedtime Reading for Children