Bunk beds are a great small space solution for bedrooms. Whether you have one or more young children, children of various ages, college-age students, or a need to host extra people at holiday time, discover a variety of bunk bed styles to fit your needs.
Every kid wants a bunk bed at some point. And we’re happy to say the kids are right on this one. Bunk beds are incredible space savers, and they can make sharing a bedroom much more fun. Even if your child doesn’t have to share a room, bunk beds are perfect for sleepovers and accommodating extra house guests.
Before you purchase a bunk bed, be sure to measure the floor to ceiling space of the room the bunk bed will go in. Allow at least 2 feet of space between the top bunk and the ceiling.
Bunk beds come in several sizes and configurations. The most common bunk bed size is twin over twin, but twin over full and full over full options are also common. Take into consideration your kids’ ages and how their needs will change in the next few years, as well as height, bedroom size, and floor space with your other furniture pieces.
Twin Over Twin Bunk Beds
A twin over twin bunk bed is a standard twin size bed stacked upon another standard twin size bed. The dimensions vary, but average twin over twin bunk bed dimensions are 68″H x 42″W x 80″L. Perfect for kids sharing a room or for sleepovers, standard twin bunk beds comfortably accommodate a single sleeper on each level.
Twin Over Full Bunk Beds
A twin over full bunk bed is a standard twin size bed stacked upon a standard full size bed. From guest rooms to kids rooms, a twin-over-full bunk bed provides more sleeping space without taking up additional space.
Full Over Full Bunk Beds
A full over full bunk bed consists of a standard full size bed stacked upon another full size bed. The dimensions vary, but average full over full bunk bed dimensions are 68″H x 60″W x 80″L. A full over full bunk bed easily sleeps two people per level.
Most bunk beds will be constructed of either wood or metal. Each material has advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to be aware of those when deciding which material is right for you.
Bunk beds maximize space in bedrooms and can create a fun, casual environment. However, because of their elevated design, bunk beds come with a certain element of risk. Bunk beds are designed with safety features to reduce this risk, but awareness and adherence to safety guidelines are essential to minimizing injuries.
*Note that this is not a comprehensive list. This is a list of things to consider while shopping for a bunk bed. Visit the Consumer Product Safety Commission for an in-depth look at bunk bed safety concerns.
Bunk Bed Safety Standards
Mandatory standards for bunk beds are intended to improve safety for the hundreds of thousands of children who use them. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission requires all bunk beds sold in the United States to comply with the following standards:
- Every bunk bed must have a warning label that advises against placing children under 6 years of age in the upper bunk.
- Always use guard rails on both sides.
- If the bunk bed is taller than 30 inches, it must have a continuous guardrail on the wall side of bed.
- Openings on the upper and the lower bunks must be small enough that a child’s head, torso, or limb cannot pass through them.
Ready to expand your sleeping capacity? A bunk bed may be the perfect solution. Keep these features and tips in mind as you shop for the perfect bunk bed design. With so many styles and options available, you’re sure to find the ideal bunk bed setup for your space.
Find even more bed shopping inspiration…
- Bunk beds aren’t just for kids. Check out the Loft Beds for Adults Buying Guide.
- Exploring all the available bed options? See every style in our Bed Buying Guide.
- See how one designer created a Camping-Inspired Kids Bedroom using bunk beds and more.
