Bunk beds

What are bunk beds?

A bunk bed is two beds stacked one above the other on a shared frame. A ladder or staircase reaches the top bunk. Guardrails stop the top sleeper from rolling off.

Bunks save floor space when two children share a room. They are also used in guest rooms, holiday homes and some adult shared rooms.

Bunk beds are made from wood, metal or a mix. The material changes the look and weight, but the safety checks are the same.

A bunk bed has stricter rules than a normal bed. The maker sets the age limit, the mattress size, the maximum mattress depth and the weight limit for each level.

What types of bunk beds are there?

Standard bunk beds

Two Single beds stacked directly above each other. The most common and space-saving type.

Splitting bunk beds

Some bunks can be separated into two single beds later. Only split a bunk if its design and instructions allow it.

Triple bunk beds

Three sleeping places, often with a wider bottom bunk or a third bed above. Check each level’s weight limit and the total height.

L-shaped bunk beds

The top bunk runs at a right angle to the bottom one. They leave space for storage but take up more floor area.

Bunk beds with storage or stairs

Drawers under the bottom bunk or storage steps instead of a ladder. Stairs take more floor space but can be easier to climb.

Bunks with a trundle

A third bed slides out from under the bottom bunk. Useful for sleepovers. It needs clear floor space when open.

What are the pros and cons of bunk beds?

What sizes do bunk beds come in?

Bunks with a wider bottom bunk, such as a Small Double 120 × 190 cm or a Double 135 × 190 cm underneath, need different mattresses on each level.

Most bunk beds take UK Single mattresses, 90 × 190 cm. Some use Small Single 75 × 190 cm, and some imported bunks use 90 × 200 cm. The word “single” is not enough; read the centimetres.

Each level has a maximum mattress depth. A deeper mattress reduces the guardrail height above the sleeper. Use the depth on the instructions, and do not add a thick topper.

Measure the total frame height and compare it with your ceiling, including light fittings and sloping roofs.

Frames and headboards can be bigger than the mattress. Ask for the outer size in centimetres.

What should you check before buying bunk beds?

• Age guidance: upper bunks are not for children under six. Follow any stricter rule from the maker.
• Mattress size for each level, in centimetres.
• Maximum mattress depth, so the guardrails stay high enough.
• Guardrails on every open side of the top bunk, fitted as the manual shows.
• Ladder or stairs: fixed firmly, on the side that suits your room.
• Weight limit for each bunk, and whether it includes the mattress.
• Ceiling height: enough for the top sleeper to sit up safely.
• Assembly manual and model number, so you can get the right spare parts later.

Will bunk beds fit your room?

A bunk needs floor space beside the ladder, not just under the bed. Mark both on the floor before you buy.

Plan the room in three dimensions: floor space and height. Draw the bunk and ladder on a floor plan, with doors, windows and radiators marked.

Keep the ladder approach clear, even when drawers are open.

Avoid placing the top bunk next to a window, blind cords or a ceiling light.

Plan it with the bed room planner.

Delivery and assembly

Ask whether assembly is included. A bunk is quicker and safer to build with two people.

Bunks arrive flat-packed. Measure stairs and doorways for the longest part, usually the uprights or side rails.

Build the bottom bunk first, then fit the upper frame with two people. Fit all guardrails before anyone sleeps up top.

Re-tighten bolts after 48 hours, then check them regularly.

Check your doors, stairs and turns with the delivery fit checker.

How do you look after bunk beds?

Teach children to climb with the ladder and never jump from the top bunk.

Check bolts, rails and the ladder every few weeks.

Do not hang belts, ropes or hooks from the frame.

Stop using the top bunk if a rail or ladder is damaged. Use the maker’s replacement parts only.