Wednesday, February 2, 2011

Kids love bunk beds, but parents should recognize the pros and cons.

Kids love bunk beds. There’s something about them that has always appealed to children. The cosiness of a bottom bunk is a fun place for kids to play and sleeping on the top is an adventure that children, especially an older sibling, enjoy. And bunk beds have always been a great way to decorate a smaller bedroom.

But in today’s world, many parents want more available space for things like study desks, computer centers, video game stations and storage, so bunk beds can be a good buy regardless of the size of the room. By using vertical space, parents have more options on ways to utilize the rest of the room. This is especially useful in situations where siblings share a bedroom. Instead of filling valuable floor space with multiple beds, parents can utilize the space over a bed.

Bunk beds are also useful for children who frequently have overnight guests.
Instead of making pallets on the floor or using sleeping bags, guests can simply use one part of the bunk. Many bunk beds also feature a trundle bed, a pull-out bed that is stored under the bottom bunk. With a bunk bed and a trundle, even the smallest bedroom can comfortably sleep several children.

Despite their practicality, kid’s bunk beds are not without risks.
Children have been known to roll off of the top bunk. For this reason, look for a bunk bed that has a securely attached safety rail for the top bunk to prevent your child from rolling out of the bed. Bunk beds are not appropriate for children who sleep walk or have other sleep disturbances. Many child experts recommend that children under age six should never sleep on a top bunk. Regardless of the children's ages, all bunk beds should have safety rails on each side. Make sure that the rails are sufficiently high to prevent accidental falls.

Children also enjoy jumping and rough-housing on bunk beds. This can lead to serious injury. All children must be taught the proper use of the bed. Also make sure the ladder is properly attached. A high quality mattress on the bed in an important feature as well.

Bunk beds come in all shapes and sizes.
Bunk beds can be made of wood or metal depending on your personal preference and style. Most quality kids furniture stores offer many different styles and finishes for you to choose from. The standard bunk bed design is based on two twin beds that are stacked, but you also have the option to select a larger full size bed for the bottom bunk with a twin on top.

A loft bed configuration may also be a choice you want to consider. Loft bunk beds can be a top bunk with no bottom bunk, the area is empty, or it can even feature a second twin bed that is arranged in a different orientation. A loft bed can give you space to put a desk, dresser, or other type of storage under the loft bed which can be very handy for smaller bedrooms with only one child.

Or you may want to consider a day bed with trundle option, which is a great way to dress up a bedroom with lower ceilings that will still offer a good option for your child’ overnight guests.

Ask your store associate to help you choose the configuration or style that best fits your needs today and tomorrow. Visit a showroom to see many of these styles in a room setting to help you make a choice that you and your children will love for years to come.