There is no easier way to open up space in a bedroom than with a new bunk bed. Sometimes we do not have as much room as we would like, but we must try to make the most out of what we have. Some people have a misconception that these beds are only made for children, but there are options available that can work great for people of any age. The classic college dorm room is the perfect example of bunk beds coming to the rescue. Without this design it would be nearly impossible to fit more than one person in those incredibly tiny dorms.

Of course, nearly all children love having a bunk bed. It gives them a much larger area for playing in their room and there is something very magical about sleeping in one each night. It can be a great way to help two siblings bond, or the perfect way for a single child to have sleep over guests. Both you and your kids will agree that purchasing the bunk bed was the best idea ever.

Safety Concerns

Many parents can be very nervous about buying this type of bed for their children because they believe it could be dangerous. They fear that they will be woken up one night after hearing a child fall off the bed. This is a serious concern and can be an issue if you do not buy a high quality model.

There are three main ways someone would be worried about getting hurt on a bunk bed. They are: falling off the top, falling off a ladder, and having the top bed collapse onto the bottom. All three of these can be easily avoided by purchasing units that have been well constructed.

To avoid rolling off in the middle of the night, guardrails should be properly installed on each side. A ladder should always be fastened to the top bunk very securely. Never buy a bunk where the ladder is loose, as this is the number one way for injures to occur. The top bunk collapsing onto the bottom is an incredibly rare occurrence. It would probably take both a very poorly designed and poorly put together unit for this to happen.

Types of Bunk Beds

This section will help you match a specific type of bunk with your unique needs. The bunk bed can be as simple or elaborate as you wish. Even those who do not share a room can get some space saving benefits from this type of bed.

Standard Version

This is your typical style with a bed directly on top of the other. Just because it is the standard version does not mean it has to be boring. This can be found in literally thousands of different styles and designs.

Twin Over Full

This is exactly the same as the standard version, only the top bunk is a twin and the bottom bunk is a full sized bed. This is ideal for when children of different ages and sizes share a room.

Children's Bunk Beds

This type is designed with children in mind. The beds are a little smaller and the top bunk is closer to the ground. Extra guardrail protection is put into place to make sure it is completely safe.

Metal bunk beds

This option is usually much less expensive than the wooden variety. Nearly all styles of bunk beds can be purchased in metal. They are easy to set up and are easier to move around, since they are so much lighter than wood.

Safety is even more of a concern with this type of bunk than with any other. Many of them are imported from overseas, where safety requirements are not as strict. Constant movement can cause bolts to become loose and parts of the bed to fall apart. Beware of metal bunk beds that are incredibly cheap, as they could be a serious safety hazard. However, a few bad apples should not give the bunch a bad name. There are plenty metal bunks out there that are completely safe and of high quality.

Loft Bunk

A loft bunk can be found in nearly every dormitory across the country. This is when you take the standard version and remove the bottom bed altogether. In the space that would have only fit a regular bed before can now include storage dressers and a computer desk. Anyone looking to be more economical with the space of their bedroom can benefit from one of these.

Futon Bunk

This version is starting to really catch on with high school students and college kids. Many that age want their room to be a "chill spot" and not just a place to sleep. In this type the bottom bed folds out to become a couch. This allows them to hang out in there with their friends and watch TV or play video games comfortably.