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Best Bunk Beds of 2025 

Updated
Bunk beds are a fun and practical way for kids to sleep. 

Bunk beds are the ultimate space-saver for growing families. They free up valuable floor space for play and turn shared bedrooms into fun, functional zones. Plus, they make hosting sleepovers incredibly easy.

But picking the right one goes beyond just aesthetics. Safety is the top priority, followed closely by durability and ease of assembly.

We created this guide to help you navigate weight limits, guardrail heights, and material choices so you can find the perfect bunk bed for your home.

Our Top Picks

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Safest Bunk Bed: Bedz King Stairway Bunk Beds
  • Converts into two twin beds
  • Stairway can be moved
  • Includes the assembly tools
Best Triple Bunk Bed: Dorel Living Clearwater Bunk Beds
  • High head clearance
  • Space for play or storage
  • Bed slats for mattress support
Best for Low Ceilings : Max & Lily Low Bunk Bed
  • 50 inches high
  • Has 14-inch guardrails
  • High weight limits
Best Twin Over Full Bunk Bed: Dorel Living Brady Bunk Beds
  • A lot of space at bottom bunk
  • Converts into two beds
  • Affordable
Bunk Bed-Desk Combo: Meritline Convertible Loft
  • Has beds, seating, &table
  • Converts from table to bed
  • Has fun play area or study nook
Best for Small Rooms : DHP Miles Twin Bunk Bed
  • Low profile, unfussy design
  • Has 125 inch guard rails
  • 200-pound weight limit
Best With Storage : Discovery World Furniture Mission
  • Tons of storage
  • Movable staircase
  • Accommodates 8-inch mattresses
Best Bunk Beds That Separate : Walker Edison Resende Mission Bunk Bed
  • Long-lasting, high-quality construction
  • Ease of assembly
  • Clean & appealing finish
Best Budget Bunk Beds: DHP Junior Twin Low Bunk Beds
  • 200 to 250 pound weight limit
  • Accommodate 8-inch mattress
  • High-quality construction
Best Bunk Bed With Stairs: Harper & Bright Trundle Bunk Bed
  • Sturdy & movable staircase
  • Trundle bed included
  • Upper bed has a rail

Why Use Bunk Beds?

Here is why swapping a traditional bed for a bunk might be the right move for your home:

  • More floor space: By stacking beds, you use half the footprint. This leaves more room for desks, dressers, or a play area.
  • Cost-effective: You typically spend less on a bunk bed frame than you would buying two separate twin bed frames and headboards.
  • Versatility: Many models convert into two standalone beds, while others feature built-in desks or futons.
  • Social benefits: Siblings sharing a bunk often learn to compromise and share space. Plus, trundle options make you the go-to house for sleepovers.
  • Privacy: Even in a shared room, the separate levels give each child a designated “zone” that feels private.

Are Bunk Beds Dangerous for Kids?

Bunk beds are not inherently dangerous when used correctly. Most injuries happen because of “horseplay” or children being too young for the upper level. If you buy from a reputable manufacturer and follow the safety guidelines, they are a safe sleeping solution.

What Age Is Safe for Bunk Beds?

Safety experts and pediatricians agree: children under 6 years old should not sleep on the top bunk (1).

Toddlers and preschoolers lack the coordination to navigate ladders safely, especially during the night when they are groggy. Younger children should always take the bottom bunk until they are physically coordinated enough to climb safely.

Factors to Keep in Mind

While DIY videos are popular, we strongly recommend buying a professionally manufactured bunk bed to ensure it meets current safety standards.

Here are the specific features you should evaluate before buying.

Material

Your two main choices are wood and metal. Metal bunks offer a modern, industrial look and are often cheaper, but they can feel cold and might squeak over time. Solid wood is generally sturdier, quieter, and has a warmer aesthetic, though it is heavier to move.

Storage

Consider how much clutter you need to manage.

  • Does the staircase have built-in drawers?
  • Is there enough clearance under the bottom bunk for storage bins?
  • Does the design include shelves for books or nightlights?

Safety Features

Check the specific safety specs. The guardrail must rise at least 5 inches above the top of the mattress. This means if you buy a thick pillow-top mattress, the rail might be too low. Always check the manufacturer’s recommended mattress thickness (usually 6 to 8 inches for the top bunk).

Also, verify the weight capacity. Higher weight limits (400 lbs+) indicate a sturdier build that can handle a parent climbing up to say goodnight.

Size and Configuration

Measure your room carefully. You need to account for the bed’s footprint, but also the space needed to pull out drawers or a trundle. Don’t forget to measure the door frame to ensure the boxes will fit inside upon delivery.

Ceiling Height

This is the most overlooked factor. You need at least two feet of clearance between the top mattress and the ceiling so your child doesn’t hit their head when sitting up. If you have 8-foot ceilings, look for “low profile” bunk beds.

Adaptability

Think long-term. Some bunk beds detach into two separate twin or full beds. This is a fantastic feature for when your children get older and want their own rooms, or if you move to a larger house.

Trundle Options

A trundle is a wheeled bed frame stored underneath the bottom bunk. It is perfect for sleepovers but requires a specific, thinner mattress. Ensure you have the floor space to roll it out fully.


Product Reviews

We analyzed weight capacities, guardrail safety, assembly difficulty, and design versatility to find the top bunk beds available right now.

Bedz King Stairway Bunk Beds

Safest Bunk Bed for Kids

For parents who worry about ladders, the Bedz King Stairway Bunk Bed is a game-changer. It replaces the traditional ladder with a sturdy staircase, making it much safer for kids to access the top level.

The staircase is 22.5 inches wide and features a banister for stability. Cleverly, three of the steps double as storage drawers, perfect for socks or toys. You also get two large under-bed drawers on wheels that slide easily over carpet or wood floors.

The bed is built from solid Brazilian pine, not particle board, which adds to its stability. However, the slats are spaced about 2.75 inches apart without cross-bracing, so stick to standard coil or foam mattresses rather than heavy memory foam that might sag.

Pros

  • Converts into two separate twin beds for future flexibility.
  • Reversible staircase allows installation on the left or right side.
  • Built-in storage maximizes utility in small rooms.

Cons

  • When separated, the footboard gap (where the stairs attach) is visible.

Product Specs

Footprint 102.5 x 42.5 inches
Height 61.5 inches
Material Brazilian pine
Features Stairway, in-stair drawers, under-bed storage.
Options White, dark cherry, espresso, grey honey

Our Ratings

Safety Features
4.5 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Design
5 / 5
Mattress Compatibility
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Dorel Living Clearwater Triple Bunk Beds

Best Triple Bunk Bed

Need to sleep three kids in one room without stacking them to the ceiling? The Dorel Living Clearwater offers an L-shaped solution that combines a standard bunk with an attached loft bed.

This configuration fits snugly into a corner. It feels much more open than a vertical triple stack, which helps with airflow and prevents the room from feeling cramped. The space under the loft is versatile; use it for a play area, a desk, or even a toddler bed if you have a fourth child.

The solid wood construction feels robust, though the weight limit is 165 pounds per bed. This makes it ideal for younger children or pre-teens, but perhaps not for larger teenagers.

Pros

  • L-shape design provides better head clearance than stacked triples.
  • Creates usable floor space under the loft section.
  • Full slat support means no box springs are needed.

Cons

  • Not reversible; the loft must be on the right side.
  • Lower weight limit (165 lbs) restricts use for older teens or adults.

Product Specs

Footprint 120 x 78.75 inches
Height 74.38 inches
Material Wood
Features Two bunks plus loft bed
Options Espresso, black, grey, white

Our Ratings

Safety Features
4 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Design
5 / 5
Mattress Compatibility
4 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Max & Lily Low Bunk Bed

Best Bunk Bed for Low Ceilings

If you have 8-foot ceilings or a younger child ready for their first bunk, the Max & Lily Low Bunk is our top recommendation. At just 50 inches high, it is significantly shorter than standard bunks.

The bottom bunk sits just two inches off the floor. This is a huge safety plus for restless sleepers, as rolling out means a tiny drop onto the rug. For parents, the low height makes it incredibly easy to tuck in the top sleeper without needing a step stool.

Despite its small stature, it is tough. With a 400-pound weight capacity per bed, you can comfortably sit on the bottom bunk to read a bedtime story without worrying about the frame buckling.

Pros

  • Ideal for low ceilings and small rooms.
  • High 14-inch guardrails offer excellent safety.
  • Impressive 400-pound weight capacity per bed.
  • Optional slide attachment adds a fun element.

Cons

  • Floor-level bottom bunk can be difficult for adults to get in and out of.

Product Specs

Footprint 81.5 x 42.5 inches
Height 50 inches
Material New Zealand pine
Features Floor level lower bunk
Options Blue, clay, grey, natural, white; optional slide, available with staircase instead of ladder

Our Ratings

Safety Features
5 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Mattress Compatibility
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.5 / 5

Dorel Living Brady Wood Bunk Beds

Best Twin Over Full Bunk Bed

The Dorel Living Brady features a twin-over-full configuration, making it perfect for siblings with an age gap or for a guest room that needs to accommodate adults.

The solid wood frame is simple and sturdy. The ladder is angled rather than vertical, which makes climbing easier on the feet. You can also separate these into one standalone twin and one standalone full bed, giving you flexibility if you move the furniture into different rooms later.

One thing to note is mattress height. The manufacturer recommends a 6-inch mattress for the top bunk to maintain safety rail clearance. For the bottom full bed, you will also want a thinner mattress to maximize headroom for the person sleeping there.

Pros

  • Twin-over-full design accommodates different ages or guests.
  • Converts easily into two standalone beds.
  • Great value for solid wood construction.

Cons

  • Limited headroom on the bottom bunk if you use a thick mattress.

Product Specs

Footprint 79 x 69.5 inches
Height 64.5 inches
Material Wood
Features Converts to two beds
Options Espresso, black, graphite, grey, white

Our Ratings

Safety Features
4 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Mattress Compatibility
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Meritline Convertible Dorm Loft Bunk Beds

Bunk Bed-Desk Combo

The Meritline Convertible is the Swiss Army Knife of bunk beds. It is designed for tight spaces like studio apartments or small kids’ rooms where you need furniture to multitask.

In its standard mode, it is a loft bed with a table and two bench seats underneath. This creates a perfect homework station or art nook. When it is time for a sleepover, the table collapses and the cushions rearrange to form a bottom bunk.

It includes two storage drawers under the benches, which is a smart touch. Just keep in mind that the “bed” formed by the cushions is best for occasional use. If a child sleeps on the bottom permanently, you will want to add a real twin mattress.

Pros

  • Multifunctional: sleeps two, seats two, and provides a desk.
  • Includes under-seat storage drawers.
  • Perfect for maximizing utility in tiny rooms.

Cons

  • The converted bottom bed is better for guests than nightly use unless you add a mattress.

Product Specs

Footprint 79.5 x 42.3 inches
Height 71.9 inches
Material Pine
Features Coverts bed above two seats and table to bunk beds
Options White loft bunk beds, white + lower bed, espresso + lower bed, grey + lower bed, white + desk

Our Ratings

Safety Features
4 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Design
5 / 5
Mattress Compatibility
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

DHP Miles Twin Metal Bunk Bed

Best Kids' Bunk Bed for Small Rooms

If you want an industrial look or need to save every inch of visual space, the DHP Miles is a strong contender. Its metal frame is sleek and airy, preventing a small room from feeling crowded by heavy wooden furniture.

Despite the slim profile, it is robust. The integrated ladder is flush against the frame, saving floor space compared to angled ladders or staircases. The metal slats are spaced 3.5 inches apart, providing firm support for mattresses without needing a bunkie board.

It comes in several colors, including blue and white, allowing you to match it to your child’s decor. The weight limit is 200 lbs for the top and 225 lbs for the bottom, making it suitable for kids and teens.

Pros

  • Minimalist design makes small rooms feel larger.
  • Integrated ladder saves floor space.
  • Sturdy metal construction with good slat support.

Cons

  • Headroom on the bottom bunk is tight with a thick mattress.

Product Specs

Footprint 73.5 x 41.5 inches
Height 54 inches
Material Metal
Features Metal slats for mattress support
Options Twin over twin, twin over full, full over full, or twin over futon, plus four colors

Our Ratings

Safety Features
4 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Mattress Compatibility
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Discovery World Furniture Mission Bunk Beds

Best Kids’ Bunk Bed With Storage

This bed solves the “where do I put all these clothes?” problem. The Discovery World Mission Bunk pairs a sleeping space with a serious amount of furniture.

The integrated staircase houses a four-drawer chest, and the bottom bunk features three additional large drawers. Unlike the shallow bins found on some models, these are deep enough to actually hold clothing. There is even a small shelving unit on the side of the stairs for books or display items.

Constructed from solid pine with a smooth lacquer finish, it feels high-end. The slat kit is ready for mattresses up to 8 inches thick. The only trade-off for all this storage is the footprint; make sure you measure your wall space carefully.

Pros

  • Massive storage capacity with 7 total drawers.
  • Staircase can be installed on either the left or right side.
  • Includes a magazine rack/book holder for the bottom bunk.

Cons

  • Cannot be separated into two beds later.

Product Specs

Footprint 98 x 41 inches (the bed is 79 x 41 inches)
Height 64 inches
Material Pine and MDF
Features Staircase, dresser, under-bed storage, book rack
Options White color

Our Ratings

Safety Features
4 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Mattress Compatibility
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Walker Edison Resende Mission Bunk Bed

Best Bunk Beds That Separate

Walker Edison has created a bunk bed that adapts to your family’s timeline. It works beautifully as a stacked bunk, but it shines just as brightly when taken apart into two identical twin beds.

This is ideal for parents who want to buy furniture once. You can start with them separated for younger kids, stack them when they are old enough to climb safely, and separate them again when they get their own rooms.

The solid pine construction is durable, though the finish can carry a strong wood/varnish smell initially, so we recommend airing out the room for a few days after assembly.

Pros

  • Looks great as a bunk or as two separate beds.
  • Simple, timeless design fits any decor style.
  • Solid wood construction offers great stability.

Cons

  • New wood smell can linger for a few weeks.

Product Specs

Footprint 75 x 39 inches
Height 62 inches
Material Pine
Features Separates for use as two twin beds
Options Grey, white, walnut, trundle available separately

Our Ratings

Safety Features
4 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Design
4 / 5
Mattress Compatibility
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

DHP Junior Twin Low Bunk Beds

Best Budget Bunk Beds

Finding a safe, decent bunk bed on a tight budget is tough, but the DHP Junior delivers. It is a low-profile metal bunk designed specifically for younger kids and smaller spaces.

It sits lower to the ground than standard bunks, which improves stability and safety. The metal slats are secured firmly to prevent rattling, and you don’t need a box spring.

While the silver finish can look a bit institutional, it is durable and easy to clean. The weight capacity is generous for the price point: 200 lbs for the top and 250 lbs for the bottom.

Pros

  • Excellent value for the money.
  • Low height is safer for younger children.
  • Can hold standard twin mattresses up to 8 inches thick.

Cons

  • Clearance between bunks is tight, so it is not great for tall kids.

Product Specs

Footprint 77.5 x 51 inches
Height 49.5 inches
Material Metal
Features Secured metal slats
Options Silver, black, white

Our Ratings

Safety Features
4 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Design
3.5 / 5
Mattress Compatibility
4 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

Harper & Bright Trundle Bunk Bed with Drawers

Best Bunk Bed With Stairs

This Harper & Bright model is a triple threat: it offers bunk sleeping, staircase safety, and a trundle for guests.

The staircase is sturdy and features handrails on both sides, making it much safer than a ladder. Built into the steps are storage drawers for organizing toys or clothes. The pull-out trundle bed on wheels is a lifesaver for sleepovers, effectively letting three people sleep in the footprint of one bed.

Assembly is a project, expect multiple boxes and a few hours of work, but the result is a functional, solid piece of furniture that anchors a bedroom.

Pros

  • Safe, easy-to-climb staircase with handrails.
  • Includes a trundle bed for a third sleeper.
  • Extra storage built into the stairs.

Cons

  • Assembly is time-consuming and complex.
  • Trundle requires a very thin mattress (sold separately).

Product Specs

Footprint 96.38 x 41.42 inches (the bed is 75.98 x 41.42 inches)
Height 65.75 inches
Material Pine and MDF
Features Staircase, trundle bed, and three drawers
Options Grey or white twin over twin with trundle, twin over full with trundle, twin over twin

Our Ratings

Safety Features
4.5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Design
4 / 5
Mattress Compatibility
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Product Comparison Chart

Product Best Footprint Height Material Features
Bedz King Stairway Bunk Beds Safest 102.5 x 42.5″ 61.5″ Brazilian pine Stairway,in-stair drawers,underbed storage
Dorel Living Clearwater Bunk Beds Triple Bunk 120 x 78.75″ 74.38″ Wood Two bunks plus loft bed
Max & Lily Low Bunk Bed Low Ceilings 81.5 x 42.5″ 50″ New Zealand pine Floor level lower bunk
Dorel Living Brady Bunk Beds Twin Bunk 79 x 69.5″ 64.5″ Wood Converts to two beds
Meritline Convertible Loft Bed-Desk 79.5 x 42.3″ 71.9″ Pine Coverts bed above two seats & table
DHP Miles Twin Bunk Bed Small Rooms 73.5 x 41.5″ 54″ Metal Metal slats for mattress support
Discovery World Furniture Mission Storage 98 x 41″ 64″ Pine & MDF Staircase,dresser,underbed storage,rack
Walker Edison Resende Mission Bunk Beds Separable 75 x 39″ 62″ Pine Separates for use as two twin beds
DHP Junior Twin Low Bunk Beds Budget Pick 77.5 x 51″ 49.5″ Metal Secured metal slats
Harper & Bright Trundle Bunk Bed Stairs 96.38 x 41.42″ 65.75″ Pine & MDF Staircase, trundle bed, & three drawers

How to Use Bunk Beds for Kids Safely

Even the safest bed requires strict rules. Here is how to keep your kids secure:

  • Corner placement: Put the bed in a corner so walls cover two sides. This reduces the chance of falling out (2).
  • Age restriction: Strictly enforce the “under 6 on the bottom” rule.
  • One person only: The top bunk is for sleeping, not wrestling. Only one child should be on the top mattress at a time.
  • Guardrails are non-negotiable: Keep rails on both sides of the top bunk, even if one side is against the wall.
  • Mattress height matters: Ensure the guardrail rises at least 5 inches above the mattress surface. If you buy a thick memory foam mattress, you might lose this safety buffer.
  • Secure the slats: Check that the mattress sits on sturdy slats or a bunkie board, not just the frame’s ledge.
  • Anchor it: Consider anchoring the bed to the wall to prevent tipping or gaps forming between the bed and the wall where a child could get trapped.
  • Clear the area: Keep the bed away from ceiling fans, light fixtures, and window blind cords.
  • Safe climbing: Teach your child to use the ladder properly. No climbing on the furniture, bookshelves, or headboards to reach the top.
  • Night visibility: Install a nightlight near the ladder so late-night bathroom trips aren’t done in the dark.
  • Regular checks: Bolts can loosen over time. Tighten the hardware every few months.

FAQs

What size mattress do I need for a bunk bed?

Most bunk beds take a standard twin mattress, but the thickness is the critical factor. For the top bunk, stick to a mattress that is 6 to 8 inches thick to ensure the safety rail remains effective. The bottom bunk can usually handle a thicker 10-inch mattress, but always check the manufacturer’s specific guidelines.

Can adults sleep on bunk beds?

Yes, adults can sleep on bunk beds provided the weight capacity allows it. Look for heavy-duty solid wood or metal bunks with a weight limit of at least 400 pounds per bed. Always check the specs, as many children’s bunk beds top out at 165 to 200 pounds.

How do I stop a bunk bed from squeaking?

Squeaking usually happens when metal rubs against metal or wood rubs against wood. Tighten all bolts and screws, as loose joints are the most common culprit. If it persists, apply beeswax or WD-40 to the joints, or place felt pads between the slats and the frame to reduce friction.

What is a bunkie board and do I need one?

A bunkie board is a thin, solid piece of wood or plywood usually about 2 inches thick that sits under the mattress. It provides support like a box spring but without the added height. You need one if your bunk bed has slats that are spaced too far apart (more than 3 inches) to support a mattress properly.


The Stuff Dreams Are Made Of

Whether you are squeezing three kids into one room or just want extra floor space for a LEGO city, there is a bunk bed that fits your life.

Remember to measure your ceiling height, check those weight limits, and stick to the safety rules. Once it is set up, your kids will love their new fortress, and you will love reclaiming your floor space.

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About the Author

Patricia Barnes

Patricia Barnes is a homeschooling mom of 5 who has been featured on Global TV, quoted in Parents magazine, and writes for a variety of websites and publications. Doing her best to keep it together in a life of constant chaos, Patti would describe herself as an eclectic mess maker, lousy crafter, book lover, autism mom, and insomniac.