You have likely seen house beds popping up on your social media feeds or favorite home design shows. They look adorable, but you might be wondering if they are actually practical for your child.
Whether you are interested in the Montessori method or just want a cute focal point for the bedroom, we are here to help. We will break down exactly what these beds are, why they benefit your little one, and how to pick the perfect frame for your space.
- One-year limited warranty
- Unfinished wood can be painted
- Twin bed size
- Flexible base height
- Handmade to order
- Slats are included
- Cute details & realistic-design
- Choice of colors
- Not too tall
- Ladder can be repositioned
- Guardrail on upper bunk
- Easy to follow setup
- Appealing shaker-style design
- Sturdy & comfortable
- Has full-size twin trundle
- Hidden hardware prevents injury
- Stable construction
- Taller than average bed
- Handmade quality
- Can be customized
- Sustainable wood source
- Convertible full-sized bed
- Can become a playhouse
- Three-level mattress base
- Cute, “rough cabin” styling
- Large space for climbing in & out
- Light and airy inside
- Unique roll down curtains
- Large enough last many years
- Sturdy metal frame
What Are House Beds?
A house bed is a bed frame constructed with beams or poles to resemble the outline of a house. While designs vary, most feature a mattress that sits directly on the floor or very close to it.
The recent surge in popularity links back to the Montessori method of education. This philosophy centers on child-led learning and independence. A floor bed supports this by allowing a child to access their sleep space without assistance.
Proponents of this style believe that when a child sleeps at floor level, they gain autonomy. They can wake up and explore their room safely without waiting for a parent to lift them out of a crib. It turns the bedroom into a safe, accessible environment for play and rest.
Benefits of House Beds for Kids
Beyond the aesthetics, there are practical reasons to choose this style:
- Safety: Since the mattress is at floor level, the risk of injury from rolling out of bed is minimal compared to elevated frames.
- Atmosphere: The open structure provides a cozy, enclosed feeling without making the room feel small or cluttered.
- Bedtime routine: Many parents find that the fun design makes children less resistant to bedtime. It creates an inviting space that feels like their own little fortress.
Factors to Keep in Mind
To find the right fit for your nursery or child’s room, keep these specific criteria in mind.
Product Reviews
We analyzed the market to find frames that balance safety, style, and durability. Here are our top recommendations for every type of room.
South Shore Sweedi Toddler Bed
Best House Bed for Toddlers
The South Shore Sweedi brings that coveted Scandinavian minimalism right into your nursery. It is simple, effective, and perfect for toddlers.
Built from solid poplar wood, this frame is sized to fit a standard crib mattress. This is a huge plus for parents who want to transition from a crib without buying a new twin mattress immediately.
The design is smart; you can remove the crossbeam on the longer side without weakening the bed. This allows you to sit with your child during bedtime stories without worrying about banging your head on the frame. It is an open, airy choice that feels safe but not confining.
While it includes a hex key for assembly, we suggest having a power drill handy to speed up the process.
Pros
- Peace of mind: Comes with a one-year limited warranty.
- Customizable: The unfinished wood is ready for paint or stain.
- Versatile sizing: Also available in a twin bed configuration.
Cons
- Assembly effort: You might need a power drill to get everything tight.
Product Specs
| Material | Poplar |
| Age | 1 to 3 years |
| Mattress size | Twin mattress |
| Height | 6 feet |
Our Ratings
Purveyor 15 Twin House Bed Frame
Best House Bed with Legs
If you love the house bed look but prefer your child to be off the floor, Purveyor 15 offers a fantastic compromise.
Crafted from solid poplar grown in Missouri, this bed is American-made quality. The base sits six inches off the ground, which promotes airflow and gives the bed a more traditional feel while maintaining the fun house shape.
The assembly design is clever. You can adjust the base height during setup, allowing you to lower it for a younger child or raise it to slide storage bins underneath. Since each bed is handmade to order, the attention to detail is higher than mass-produced alternatives.
Pros
- Adjustable: Flexible base height suits different needs.
- DIY ready: Smooth unfinished wood is easy to paint or seal.
- Complete kit: Slats are included for mattress support.
Cons
- Documentation: Some owners found the instructions slightly confusing.
Product Specs
| Material | Poplar |
| Age | 3 years and older |
| Mattress size | Standard twin mattress |
| Height | 6 feet 4 inches |
Our Ratings
Meritline House Bed with Fence
Best House Bed with Rails
The Meritline frame adds a charming picket fence detail that doubles as a safety feature. It is available in neutral tones like white, gray, and espresso to match any room theme.
The “fence” surrounds most of the bed, leaving an 18-inch opening for entry. This design prevents active sleepers from rolling onto the floor while giving them the independence to enter and exit freely. The chimney detail on the roof adds a whimsical touch that kids love.
Note that this frame does not include slats. Your mattress will sit directly on the floor unless you purchase a separate box spring or bunkie board. However, for a floor bed setup, placing the mattress on the carpet or rug inside the frame works well for many families.
Pros
- Aesthetic: Realistic house details create a fun focal point.
- Variety: Multiple color options to fit your decor.
- Height: Low profile fits well even in rooms with standard ceilings.
Cons
- Mattress support: No slats are included in the box.
- Setup: Some parents found the assembly directions challenging.
Product Specs
| Material | Pine |
| Age | 3 years and older |
| Mattress size | Standard twin mattress |
| Height | 5 feet 10 inches |
Our Ratings
Merax Twin Over Twin Low Bunk House Bed
Best Metal House Bed
For parents who prefer industrial durability over wood, the Merax metal house bed is a sturdy, affordable choice.
This twin-size frame is constructed from solid metal tubing. The bottom bunk sits on the floor, perfect for a younger sibling, while the top bunk features guardrails for an older child. It is a great space-saver for shared rooms.
While it is durable, metal does not fit the “natural” aesthetic of strict Montessori rooms as well as wood does. Additionally, the metal can feel cold to the touch, which some children might find less cozy. However, for a modern look that resists scratches, it is a winner.
Pros
- Durability: Metal resists dents better than soft pine wood.
- Versatility: The ladder can be repositioned to fit your room layout.
- Safety: Full-length guardrails on the upper bunk.
Cons
- Comfort: Metal surface feels cold compared to wood.
- Vibe: Less of a warm, organic feel.
Product Specs
| Material | Metal |
| Age | 3 years and older |
| Mattress size | Standard twin |
| Height | 5 feet 9 inches |
Our Ratings
Baysitone House Bed With Trundle
Best House Bed with Trundle
Sleepovers are a breeze with the Baysitone house bed. We prioritized this model because user feedback consistently praises its sturdy build and reliable shipping, two things that often plague furniture delivery.
This bed features a twin-size trundle that rolls out smoothly from underneath. It is not just a flimsy add-on; it is comfortable enough for guests or family visits.
The weight capacity is impressive, with the main bed holding up to 400 pounds and the trundle supporting 275 pounds. This means you can easily lie down next to your child to help them drift off without worrying about the frame creaking or bending.
Pros
- Style: Clean Shaker-style lines look great in any room.
- Strength: High weight limit supports adults comfortably.
- Finish: Can be painted or stained to match your nursery theme.
Cons
- Cost: You will need to budget for two mattresses.
Product Specs
| Material | Pine |
| Age | 3 years and older |
| Mattress size | Standard twin for the main bed and 6-inch thick max for trundle bed |
| Height | 5 feet 8 ½ inches |
Our Ratings
Uhom Bedroom Twin Size House Bed
Best Twin House Bed
The Uhom house bed offers a playful architectural twist with its asymmetrical roofline. It looks less like a simple frame and more like a modern little cottage.
The posts are taller on one side, creating a slanted roof that adds character. Despite the quirky shape, the crossbars keep the structure rigid and stable. This bed sits at a standard height, making it a good choice if you want the house aesthetic but prefer not to be on the floor.
It also includes a trundle bed for extra sleeping space. When not in use, the trundle slides away neatly, preserving floor space for play. It is an ideal solution for smaller rooms that need to maximize utility.
Pros
- Safety: Hidden hardware reduces the risk of scrapes.
- Convenience: Includes slats and a roll-out trundle.
- Design: Unique asymmetrical roof looks custom.
Cons
- Assembly: The instructions could be more intuitive.
Product Specs
| Material | Pine |
| Age | 3 years and older |
| Mattress size | Standard twin |
| Height | 6 feet 2 inches |
Our Ratings
Purveyor 15 Full-Size House Bed
Best Full House Bed
This is the full-size version of the popular Purveyor 15 frame, offering the same handmade quality with more room to grow.
Because these are made to order, customization is the name of the game. You can add a chimney, perimeter fence, or choose between a floor-level setup or 6-inch legs. You can even decide on slats or no slats depending on your mattress preference.
You can also request a specific height between 6 feet and 7 feet 6 inches. This is a game-changer for rooms with awkward ceiling angles or fans, ensuring the bed fits the space perfectly rather than dominating it.
Pros
- Quality: Handmade craftsmanship stands out.
- Eco-friendly: Uses wood from sustainable sources.
- Custom: Paintable finish and custom sizing available.
Cons
- Footprint: A full-size frame takes up significant floor space.
Product Specs
| Material | Poplar |
| Age | 3 years and older |
| Mattress size | Standard full size |
| Height | 6 feet to 7 feet 6 inches |
Our Ratings
Storkcraft Orchard 5-in-1 Convertible Crib
Best Convertible Crib and House Bed
The Storkcraft Orchard is a brilliant investment for parents who want the house bed look from day one. It starts as a standard crib featuring a “roof frame,” providing the aesthetic without compromising infant safety.
As your child grows, this piece adapts. You can remove one side to create the ultimate toddler bed with a roof. It also functions as a daybed when the mattress is raised.
The versatility continues even after the crib days are over. You can separate the frame to use as a standalone playhouse while using the base as a full-size bed. It is a smart, multi-stage piece of furniture that evolves with your family.
Pros
- Longevity: Transforms from crib to toddler bed to playhouse.
- Function: Offers a three-level mattress support base.
- Value: Eliminates the need to buy separate beds for each stage.
Cons
- Options: A completely natural, unfinished wood option would be a nice addition.
Product Specs
| Material | Pine |
| Age | Birth and older |
| Mattress size | Standard crib |
| Height | 5 feet 6 inches |
Our Ratings
Donco Full House Bed
Best House Bed for Girls
If the minimalist Montessori look feels too bare for you, the Donco House Bed offers a cozy, fully detailed cabin vibe.
This is not just a frame; it has a full roof, side rails, and a front panel with windows. The exterior features a rustic, “rough-sawn” look that adds texture and charm, though it is sanded smooth to prevent splinters.
The interior creates a safe, enclosed haven. It fits a full-size mattress, leaving plenty of room for stuffed animals and pillows. It is the perfect retreat for a child who loves to nest and wants a bed that feels like a real little house.
Pros
- Design: Adorable “cabin” styling with windows.
- Access: Large open space for easy entry.
- Atmosphere: Feels enclosed and safe but remains light and airy.
Cons
- Style: The rustic finish might not suit modern decor.
- Scent: Some parents noted a lingering paint smell that takes time to fade.
Product Specs
| Material | Wood – not specified |
| Age | 3 years and older |
| Mattress size | Standard full |
| Height | 6 feet 3 inches |
Our Ratings
Little Seeds, Rowan Valley Forest Loft-Bed
Best House Bed for Boys
Part bed, part fort, this Little Seeds loft bed is designed for adventure. It combines a sleeping space with a play tent atmosphere.
The mattress sits about 12 inches off the floor, accessible via a small ladder. It features safety rails on all sides, ensuring your child stays put during the night. The standout feature is the fabric roof and roll-down side panels.
Your child can roll down the window covers to create a private hideout or roll them up to let the light in. The fabric roof is removable if you prefer a more open frame. It is an excellent choice for kids who want a defined personal space.
Pros
- Interactive: Roll-down curtains offer privacy and play options.
- Size: Spacious enough to last through elementary school.
- Build: Sturdy metal frame construction.
Cons
- Enclosure: Might feel too closed-in for some children.
- Maintenance: Fabric cleaning instructions are not very clear.
Product Specs
| Material | Metal |
| Age | 3 years and older |
| Mattress size | Standard twin |
| Height | 5 feet 6 ½ inches |
Our Ratings
FAQs
| Product | Best | Material | Age | Mattress size | Height |
| South Shore Sweedi Toddler Bed | Toddlers | Poplar | 1 to 3 years | Twin mattress | 6′ |
| Purveyor Twin House Bed Frame | With Legs | Poplar | 3 years & older | Standard twin mattress | 6′, 4″ |
| Meritline House Bed with Fence | With Rails | Pine | 3 years & older | Standard twin mattress | 5′, 10″ |
| Merax Twin Size House Bed | Metal | Metal | 3 years & older | Standard twin | 5′, 9″ |
| Baysitone House Bed With Trundle | With Trundle | Pine | 3 years & older | Standard twin & 6″ trundle bed | 5′, 8.5″ |
| Uhom Bedroom Twin Size House Bed | Twin Bed | Pine | 3 years & older | Standard twin | 6′, 2″ |
| Purveyor 15 Full-Size House Bed | Full House Bed | Poplar | 3 years & older | Standard full size | 6′ to 7′, 6″ |
| Storkcraft Orchard 5-in-1 Crib | Convertible Crib & Bed | Pine | Birth & older | Standard crib | 5′, 6″ |
| Donco Full House Bed | Girls | Wood | 3 years & older | Standard full | 6′, 3″ |
| Little Seeds, Rowan Valley Forest Loft-Bed | Boys | Metal | 3 years & older | Standard twin | 5′, 6.5″ |
And So To Bed
Finding the right house bed comes down to your goals. Are you looking to foster independence with a Montessori floor bed, or do you want a cozy, elevated fort for an older child?
Whatever your preference, these beds offer a unique blend of style and function that standard frames just can’t match. They turn a simple bedroom into a sanctuary for sleep and play, making bedtime a little easier for everyone.
























