10 Best Bunk & Loft Beds for Kids in 2024
Saving space in your child’s bedroom may seem like an impossible task with their mountain-high pile of clothes and their variety of toy bins scattered throughout their room. Loft beds are a huge space saver and so are bunk beds if you have multiple children in one room. Both styles of beds fill vertical space, leaving more floor space for activities and other bedroom furnishings.
Purchasing bunk beds may even save you money as it cuts out the need for a box spring or headboard. Bunk beds increase the level of bonding between siblings. Some loft and bunk beds are even designed with the ability to be separated, thus making it easy for your child to rearrange their room.
In a Hurry? The test winner after 30 hrs of research
Designed with elegant style
Can be separated into two beds
Minimizes impact upon falling
The bottom bed is inches off the floor
Available in a variety of colors
10 Best Bunk and Loft Beds Reviewed
1. Storkcraft Caribou Hardwood Twin
Designed with elegant style
Can be separated into two beds
Minimizes impact upon falling
The bottom bed is inches off the floor
Available in a variety of colors
May be difficult to put together.
The versatility of the Caribou can translate into an added safety feature that can help minimize the impact of fall injuries on our young kids. The sturdy construction is also admirable. It’s available in three colors and comes in a beautiful, universal aesthetic you can match to almost any room. Rubberwood is denser than pinewood (a common alternative), making this option as sturdy as it is stylish.
Read moreComfort
This great bunk bed option is designed with an elegant style. Available in a range of colors, such as Espresso, Black, Cherry, Navy Blue, Gray, and White, this product will match a variety of decor suitable for both boys and girls. It is designed to minimize the impact upon falling.
Materials
The Caribou Hardwood Twin Bunk Bed will allow your children to share a room in style. Composed of a top of the line solid rubberwood, this bed will easily match the decor for your child’s room as well as provide a touch of elegance. Once your child climbs the four-step ladder and reaches the top bunk they are protected by full-length guardrails. The rubberwood material gives the bed stability and durability. If your children would rather sleep side by side, the bunk bed can easily be converted into two twin beds.
Safety
To ensure a risk-free slumber for your child, the bottom bunk of this bunk bed remains inches off the floor. Of course, one thing that parents love about this bed is that if you no longer want your little ones to share a room, this bunk bed is versatile and does, in fact, separate into two separate beds. This is the perfect bunk bed set for any growing family.
2. DHP Twin-Over-Twin Metal
Made of durable and high quality materials
Features a full length railing system on three sides
Finished with safe non-toxic materials
Capable of holding around 200 pounds
Ladder is designed to help stabilize your child
May be difficult to put together
With ladders on both ends, your child can get up or down easily. Having ladders on both sides also provides you with more freedom on where to place the bed. This design is simple but compact and stable. It’s perfect for smaller rooms and modern aesthetics and it comes in five different colors. DHP travels the globe seeking only the best materials and trends so you can buy with confidence.
Read moreComfort
With the Dorel Twin Over Full Metal Bunk, this bunk bed is a huge space saver. This bed is ideal for families who are growing or have children of multiple ages. This bed comes with a twin and a full mattress. It definitely is perfect for those who are trying to find a bed but also one that won’t take up too much space.
Materials
This metal product is a great pick for optimizing the space in your children’s room. This bunk bed is made of durable and high quality materials. It is also finished with safe and non-toxic materials giving you peace of mind as your children doze off to dreamland. Capable of supporting up to two hundred pounds this bed will provide your little one a place to sleep for several years. For extra safety, this bed features a ladder, angled at sixty degrees, providing your child with greater stability.
Safety
The metal frame of the bunk bed provides a durable and stable place for your child to doze off. While the frame is composed of metal, the bed is lightweight and can easily be moved. The child on the top bunk can rest peacefully as they surrounded by guardrails. When purchasing you can choose between a twin over a full or a twin over a twin. Whichever option you choose, we’re confident your child will get a good night’s sleep.
3. DHP Junior Twin Metal
Equipped with a slide
The metal frame provides a stable foundation
The guardrails protect your child from falling off the top bunk
The raised bed gives your child space underneath for activities
Boxspring is not needed
Assembly of the slide can be difficult
Children will absolutely love having a slide attached to their bed! This loft bed is perfect for the adventurous sort. A slide leads down from the top bunk to ground level and full-sized guard rails keep your kiddo safe while they snooze. You can put another box spring and mattress in the loft space below or use it as a study area or fort!
Read moreComfort
The DHP Junior Twin Metal Loft makes getting out of bed exciting. The unique design allows your child to slide out of bed every morning. When purchasing you can choose between a white frame with a white slide or a silver frame with a red slide.
Materials
The wide space underneath the bed provides plenty of space for storage and activities. Curtain sets can be purchased and added to the loft bed to give your child their own secret fort. There’s no need to purchase a boxspring or a foundation. The included slats are all you need for your child’s mattress.
Safety
When it comes to safety, we reviewed all of the beds on our top ten list. This metal frame provides complete stability ensuring that your child is completely safe throughout the night. Ensuring that your child has a safe space to sleep, this bunk bed comes with guardrails that will help keep your child safely in tact if they enjoy the top bunk.
4. DHP Twin-Over-Full Metal Frame
No fuss assembly
Accommodates two mattress sizes
Features two access ladders
Made of high grade steel
Minimizes injury upon falling
May not be suitable for small children
The full wraparound guardrails of the upper deck of the Dorel Twin over Full Bunk Bed is one of the best features that we love about it. This is something that can really help minimize fall injuries. However, because there’s no opening onto the upper deck, only an older child should sleep on it. The vertical orientation of the ladder also makes it difficult for younger kids to access the top floor.
Read moreComfort
Siblings of varying ages can easily share a room with the Dorel Twin over Full bunk bed. The sleek design of this bed will add a touch of elegance to any room it is placed in. Each end of the bed is equipped with an access ladder. Having a ladder on each side allows you to place the bed anywhere you, please. Leaving both ladders free from a wall will provide your child with multiple exits and entry points.
Materials
Composed of a high-grade steel, the frame of this bed will provide your family with a sturdy and stable resting place. Furthermore, the steel gives this bed a high level of durability that will allow you to continue to use this bed for as long as you want.
Safety
All of the pieces to this bunk bed arrive in one box. With the included instructions assembly is quick and easy. Any child who falls asleep on the top bunk can rest peacefully as the guard rails will keep them secured up top. In fact, there are no openings for the ladder so your child is completely safe.
5. Allentown Bunk and Trundle
Stunning wood finish
Stairs instead of ladder
Drawers for storage space
Bottom drawer can be used as a trundle bed
Durable with a good weight limit
Some users received damaged pieces
Assembly takes a few hours
The Acme Allentown Bunk is the full package: two beds, a trundle, storage space, and a set of stairs. This upper scale bunk design is finished in a dark wood and features slatted guardrails. It’s a beautiful piece of furniture that also proves to be functional in a lot of unexpected ways. This model is made for two twin size mattresses and one 7” mattress for the trundle.
Read moreComfort
Tired of climbing ladders? Your little one can ascend a beautiful staircase straight into bed now with this elegant new design. The wood finish is smooth and provides a warmer feel than metal frames. The trundle can fit a 7” mattress so guests can enjoy a lush good night’s sleep as well. Some adults even claimed they would be happy to sleep in this bunk bed, given how beautiful and comfortable it is!
Materials
This bed frame is made of solid wood. Some users did receive damaged pieces so make sure to inspect upon opening. Assembly takes a few hours and is a 2+ person job but the package includes easy-to-follow instructions. Durable and large, the set measures about 98 inches in length, 68 inches in height, and 43 inches in width. It’s heavy, so don’t expect to move it around a lot once it’s assembled.
Safety
Metal bunk beds have the advantage of being a little more lightweight and having rounded edges, but this wood frame is solid, gorgeous, and includes additional safety features. Toddlers and young children may struggle on ladders but the Allentown Bunk and Trundle swaps the usual ladder design out for a set of stairs, making the top bunk accessible to most ages.
6. Walker Edison Twin-Over-Twin
Features a vertical ladder
Designed to be a space saver
Stylish powder finish
Available in Black, White, and Silver
Can be easily disassembled
The top bunk may not be suitable for small children
The Walker Edison Twin-Over-Twin Metal Bunk Bed is sleek, simple, and sensible. This space-saver can be converted into two separate beds, or used as a bunk. The ladder is adjustable so you can put it on either end of the bed based on your child’s preference and the durable metal frame and guard rails keep everyone secure at night.
Read moreComfort
Walker Edison has created a bunk bed that can easily be integrated into your home. The Twin Over Twin Metal bunk bed has a sleek design and can hold up 250 pounds on each bunk. With 43.5 inches between each bunk, children of all ages and heights can sit up comfortably.
Materials
This beautifully crafted bed set is great for children who may be a little older. It’s design is sleek and stylish appealing to a more sophisticated audience. It features a vertical ladder great for helping your child gain more stability. It is meant to be a space saver which allows for versatility in both efficiency and style. It can be easily disassembled for when your children outgrow sharing a living space.
Safety
The ladder can be positioned on either end of the bed. This bed easily converts into two separate twin beds, which will come in handy when your children start begging for a little more personal space. When purchasing, you can choose between a black, silver, or white frame.
7. Canwood Whistler Junior
Lower than traditional bunk/loft beds
Great space saver
Constructed from solid pine and wood composites
Uses metal on a metal bracket system
Full length guardrails for safety
Two placements for ladder leaves expose holes that are not used
Assembly directions are hard to navigate
This is a great alternative to the traditional bed/loft beds on the market. It is raised just enough to provide space below it. It is also great for rooms with lower ceiling clearances. Put a foam mattress down when friends come to stay the night, roll out a sleeping bag, or use the loft space for storage. Hang curtains and throw some pillows down and you have yourself a fort!
Read moreComfort
You want their bed to be one of the safest places they are all day. This loft bed is one of the safest places they can be. It is lower than your traditional bunk bed, but it is elevated enough to have a space below the bed that is just perfect. It is a great space saver. With the raised loft bed feature it keeps rooms organized, decluttered, and very functional
Materials
Included with the bed is a full-length ladder that is securely fastened to the loft bed and guardrails that are the full length of the bed. It has been constructed out of solid pine and composites, plus uses a metal on metal fastening placement system that adds to the stability. This is a great way to maximize the space under the bed and also around the room. Plus it will match the other pieces within the manufacturers’ set to create a complete bedroom set that utilizes all the space in a room.
Safety
The design of this loft bed is great for maximizing the space in a room without jeopardizing safety for the little ones. It is designed to be off the ground and provides a space below the bed, but features full length guardrails that keep sleepers safe when in the bed. The latter into the bed is securely fastened with metal brackets to ensure that it is secure.
8. Dorel Living Sierra Triple
Three beds total
Can be used as bunks or separate beds
Saves space
Two ladders included in the design
Rustic wood finish
Instructions are not super clear for assembly
Some users were missing pieces but customer service rectified that
When two beds isn’t enough anymore, look to the Dorel Living Sierra Triple Bunk. That’s right: you can stack your sweet little trio with this beautiful wooden frame. There are two ladders to allow everyone to climb into bed at the same time and the beds can be separated if you prefer to have everyone on the ground level.
Read moreComfort
This frame is meant to fit three twin mattresses. The wooden design makes it a little cosier than a metal frame might. There’s plenty of storage space beneath the beds if you separate them so this is a great space-saving option for families looking to keep a tidy area in a small home or room.
Materials
Made from solid wood, this is a sturdy option. It comes in a rustic mocha finish. There are two ladders, one that leads to the middle bed and one that leads to the top, so you don’t have to worry about taking turns or traffic collisions during bedtime routines.
Safety
All pieces meet or exceed US safety standards. Guardrails keep everyone securely tucked in their cocoon for the night. This bed is sturdy and each level can hold a maximum weight capacity of 165 pounds.
9. WE Furniture Twin Metal
Designed to be a space saver
The guard rails are 14 inches
Versatile
Bottom space is versatile
Is not considered to be a “true bunk bed”
This is a new take on the old adage: if you want a “space-saving” bed, this might not be what you had in mind, but it’s certainly effective! The loft area beneath can be used for play, as a spot for guests to crash during sleepover parties, or as a desk and work space. There’s even an option to purchase this frame with a built-in desk.
Read moreComfort
Now, the space underneath this tall bed can be used for a lot of different purposes. You can place your toddler’s cot in the space, your lounger, your sofa, or even turn it into a beautiful play area. When your kid is done playing, all he or she needs to do is to climb up the dual ladder located on both sides of the WE loft bed. You can even place your home entertainment system under the bed. The height of the wraparound guardrails is less than 14 inches but is generally high enough to give superb safety for your older kid.
Materials
With the Twin Metal Loft Bed, it’s important for parents to know that this bed technically is not a bunk bed. However, to save space it can be the perfect bed for your little one. It’s about six feet tall and extremely durable and safe for your child to enjoy.
Safety
There is no need for a box spring with this bed as the frame includes support slats. The step by step instructions makes assembly stress free. The dual ladders make it easy for your child to get in and out of bed. Get creative with the space underneath and create a blanket fort, book nook, or even use it for storage.
10. Donco Dark Cappuccino
Composed of wood
Easy to assemble
Provides plenty of storage space
Ladder makes it easy for little ones to get into bed
Wood may easily become nicked
With the variety of storage options available, your child’s room can always remain tidy and clean. And it isn’t just about space with the Donco Dark Loft Bed; it’s also about organization! A combination of drawers and shelf space make it easy for children to keep their belongings in easy-to-find, systemized places. This model is also available in white and features a smooth, clean wood finish.
Read moreComfort
The wood material provides a sturdy and stable foundation for your child to sleep. The dresser is equipped with three drawers, and the bookcase is designed with two shelves, thus giving your child plenty of storage space for their things.
Materials
With the Donco Kids loft bed, your child can sleep in a clutter-free room. The dark cappuccino color of the wood material will look great with any bedroom decor. Along with the bed frame, you will receive a bookcase, dresser, and desk. The dresser is equipped with three drawers, and the bookcase is designed with two shelves, thus giving your child plenty of storage space for their things.
Safety
Easy, step-by-step instructions are included to make assembly stress-free. The two-step ladder will make it easy for your little one to crawl into bed. The guard rails around the bed will keep them from falling out during the night.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Comfort
Comfort is another factor we considered when coming up with our top ten list of the best bunk beds. Making sure your child sleeps comfortably at night is one of the most important factors that parents look for when purchasing a new bed. We all know that sleep is important for not just our well-being but our health. Ensuring that your child is sleeping in an environment that makes them feel happy and secure. Parents will see the results of their child well-rested, happy and confident as they’re ready for the next day.
Materials
One important thing about bunk or loft beds that parents need to remember when purchasing is materials. All of the beds on our top ten list are designed to ensure that your child will be risk-free and 100% safe when it comes to bedtime. We researched all the beds on our top ten list ensuring that each manufacture had a well-known reputation and that these beds were durable. With durability in mind, we can say that the quality materials that these beds are constructed of will put parents' minds at ease throughout the night knowing that their children will have the best of the best products that the market has to offer.
Safety
One of the major concerns of parents is the risk of injuries that may be the result of a fall by a toddler. It is for this reason that manufacturers of bunk beds explicitly recommend the use of their bunk/loft beds only by children who are at least 6 years old. Unfortunately, we know that most parents cannot wait that long before they can buy these pieces of furniture for their children, especially if space is an issue. As such, our primary focus in the selection of the beds for our list is safety especially that of the top bunk.
We had to make sure that there are plenty of safety features in this furniture that will help prevent falls or perhaps even mitigate the seriousness of injuries in cases where falls are inevitable. Railings are a standard and these must be of the wrap-around type. Additionally, the sturdiness of the leg supports, especially for the upper structures had to be ascertained by looking at any indications of quality manufacturing. For instance, we know that these pieces of furniture must be able to pass certain tests of quality standards such as those provided for by the CPSC and the ASTM. And since we’re concerned about our kids’ safety, we also had to make sure that the materials used in the finishing of the furniture are non-toxic and made of child-friendly materials and substances.
There have been a lot of issues concerning the use of bunk beds by kids. Unfortunately, while companies and manufacturers have tried to improve the safety features of their products as well as issuing recommendations for their use only on children at least 6 years of age, there are still some consumers who are adamant against using bunk beds for their young children.
Again there is nothing wrong with using bunk beds. The main issue is that young children, especially toddlers and pre-schoolers are known to have very active imagination. They can readily climb up almost anything and pretend to be Superman or any other superhero they can think of. That is why many experts recommend getting bunk beds that can be transformed into individual beds so that the risk of falls is minimized until such time that children have reached the right age.
Understanding our children’s developmental skills is also important. If we think that we cannot dampen their spirit of exploration, maybe we can forego with the bunk beds for now. Regrettably, this is not an option in homes with single bedrooms or just not enough space for everyone. In such cases, vigilance is advised.
Bunk beds are excellent sleeping furniture for homes that have issues with space. However, as there are safety concerns regarding its use, it is very important to heed the advice of experts. Never allow young children to take the upper bunk. Hopefully, our top 10 bunk beds for kids have enlightened you on what to look for.
Other Factors to Consider
Design
These pieces come in a variation of colors and styles, from cute and fun to sleek and sophisticated so no matter what effect your child is trying to give they will feel confident and happy in their domain. The versatility of color and style allow the bed to fit into many decor options and give you a longer time frame for this bed to be functional and desired. Each bed also features the ability to be easily dismantled. This means as your family and your home grow, your children can keep their beds, even if they end up no longer sharing a room.
Physical Development
Due to coordination limitations, it is not recommended that small children be put on the top bunk. It can seem like a very exciting adventure and may be acceptable for them to play around in or trade off with adult supervision. Falls can easily occur and these beds are designed to minimize injury should falling occur.
Ease of Use
The world we live in has become so populated and there are so many gadgets and devices that are available in our lives taking up space. We have limited yard space, smaller homes with more rooms, etc. It can be hard to find decor for your child’s room that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. These beds are designed to take up little space and add more functionality to any room. Children can be resentful of the fact they have to share their room with their siblings. With these pieces, you will find something that will serve its purpose and leave your child feeling a bit happier about their sleeping arrangements.
Frequently Asked Questions
q: What will keep my child from falling off the top bunk?
All of the beds on this list are equipped with guardrails around the top bunk. These rails protect your child from rolling off the bed while they sleep.
q: How do I decide between a bunk bed or a loft bed?
Deciding on your needs will make the decision easier. Loft beds are great if you’re wanting space underneath the bed. Bunk beds work for families that have more than one child.
q: How are bunk beds cost-effective?
Bunk beds will allow you to save money when buying a home. By putting two children in one room, that’s one less bedroom you need. Also, bunk beds that convert into two separate beds will help you save money over time. Once your children grow out of the bunk beds, you can put their beds side by side.
q: One of my children likes to sleep with the light on, the other doesn’t. How do I keep them both happy when they share a bunk bed?
Try a clip-on lamp as it will strictly illuminate the bed it is near. Try putting the child who likes the light on, on the bottom bunk and then hang curtains around the bottom to give them his/her own den. The child on the top will no longer be bothered by the light.
q: Will a bunk bed hurt or help the relationship between siblings?
It will help. As your children share a room they will bond and learn how to share.
q: What is the age range for these beds?
Some are sleek enough for your teens, but they also have the ability to be great for younger children and multi-children families who have limited space. They are suitable and aesthetically pleasing for children ages 4 to 15. The top bunk is never recommended for small children because they may not have the coordination to climb down and injury may occur.
q: Are they easy to assemble and take down?
Most of these beds feature the option to take the top bed off and turn them into two separate beds.
q: Is there a mattress included?
These sets do not come with extra materials. They come with the frame pieces to put the structure together.
Sources
- FAQ's, faq ,
- Bunk Bed Safety, Online ,
- Bunk Bed Safety, Informative Article ,
- Product Hazards – Bunk Beds, Online ,
- How to Raise Up a Twin Bunk Bed , Online ,