The Pros and Cons of Bunk Beds
We're sure that most people will fondly remember the humble bunk bed from their childhood - the ultimate kids' bed that has stood the test of time! Whether you're looking to create more space for a new family member's arrival or for your children to play, bunk beds have several benefits!
However, it's crucial to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of bunk beds and determine if this furniture is really for you before making a purchase. These aren't limited to the price or styling of a bunk bed either!
So, if you lie awake at night pondering, "Should I get a bunk bed?" don't fret - we're here to the rescue with the pros and cons of bunk beds for you to look over compared to normal beds and bed frames!
What are the pros of bunk beds?
1. They can be separated
Kids' bunk beds can be great value for money because as your children grow and change, so can these beds. Whilst most kids' bunk beds are not designed to be separated, some can be! This means that as your children get older and want their own space, you can separate it into two single beds. Even better, when your children eventually move out, you have two beds that could be turned into guest beds!
2. They're brilliant for sleepovers
Ghost stories, making dens and choreographing dance routines - sleepovers are integral to childhood for many. Whereas many would cuddle up in a sleeping bag on the hard floor, you can ensure your guests sleep comfortably with bunk beds. Our triple sleeper bunk beds have a single bunk up top with a double bed underneath, meaning they'll sleep three. If you want to go all out, we also have quadruple sleeper bunk beds, so the next time you fall asleep reading your children a bedtime story, you don't have to worry about cramping their space!
3. They provide private space in a shared room
Sometimes, room sharing is inevitable due to space limitations. However, just because you're sharing a bedroom doesn't mean you won't have your own private time. With some clever use of curtains, your children can make some brilliant dens to play in or simply to shut out the world. You could also use some clip-on lamps to help illuminate their personal space, allowing them to read their favourite books at night. This is also perfect if one child likes to sleep with a light on as it means they won't disturb their sibling!
4. They're handy for creating more play space
Let's face it; space is a premium for any growing family. Much of your floor space ends up occupied by much-needed storage options such as wardrobes and toy boxes. This means that room to play is often limited for children! Bunk beds can free up a few much-needed square metres by maximising unused vertical space. By opting for bunk beds, instead of two single beds, you can free up more floor area giving your children more room to play, grow and develop.
5. They teach life-lessons
Sharing a room teaches children great life lessons, like sharing and being courteous to others. It can help siblings bond as they will spend time together, which they may otherwise not. Sharing a room can also be a handy way of implementing a shared bedtime routine, useful for twins!
6. They're not just for kids!
Wait, bunk beds for adults?! Well, kind of! Although they're more commonly used for children's bedrooms, most bunk beds will quite comfortably fit a full-grown adult. Perfect for guest rooms, rentals or flatshares, there's nothing childish about our stylish alternative beds. Just check on the product page to see if the bunk bed you want can also accommodate an adult.
7. They're practical for storage
So, we've mentioned how bunks provide more bed space and free up the floor, but if you'd prefer bunk beds with storage, plenty of wonderful options are available. Whether you'd like individual shelves alongside each bed, or a desk, drawers, and cupboard underneath, one of the great advantages of our bunk beds is additional storage.
What are the cons of bunk beds?
1. Sleeping at a height
As parents, we all worry about our children - it's part of the job. Are they getting enough sleep? Will the bed grow with them? And what if they roll out and hurt themselves? These are all questions we're sure you've asked yourself. But let us put your mind to rest. Our kids' bunk beds have solid constructions and fixed guard rails, so there is no chance of them rolling off the top bunk. And with small gaps between the horizontal rails, there's no way they can slip and get caught. Read our blog post, What You Need to Know About Bunk Bed Safety, to learn more!
2. Can feel claustrophobic
Some people feel strange the first time they sleep in a bunk bed, as they're not used to having a bed or ceiling so close to them. This is understandable, especially in a triple sleeper bunk bed in which the bed above you is much closer than usual. Providing open and airy bunk beds that are safe and secure can help to combat this claustrophobia. For even more openness, why not play around with the room layout so that the bed is only up against one wall, not two, to provide more light into the bedroom?
3. Accessing the top bunk can be hard
Of course, they must climb the ladder to get into bed. That's why we recommend that any child sleeping on the top bunk is 6 or more years old. Many of our kids' bunk beds also have handles to make climbing quick and easy. Making the bed each morning will be a little tricky for you. But with a fitted bottom sheet, all you'll have to worry about is placing the pillow and laying out the duvet.
Decided on whether you want a bunk bed?
Are bunk beds a good idea? It depends on you and your home! If you have decided that bunk beds are ideal for your home, check out our range of stylish and robust bunk beds. You just have to decide who sleeps in each bunk now! If you've got more burning questions about bunk beds, then check out our bunk bed guide to find all the answers!