Are you thinking about getting bunk beds for your home? The average American family includes two children, and bunking is often considering a fun way to consolidate space while keeping kids happy. While weighing your decisions, keep in mind that only children above the age of six should be sleeping on the upper section of a bunk bed, as they suffer from 50% of all bunk related injuries. That said, here are three things you should consider when it comes to buying bunk beds.
1. Bunk Beds are Safe When They Follow Regulations
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has a mandatory list of bunk bed requirements. As long as your bed is produced by a company that follows their guidelines, you should be okay. For example, the top bunk must have two or more guardrails that are at least five inches above the mattress. How can you prevent other common injuries? Caution children not to jump off ladders, and do not place the bed near fans or low ceilings. Children should be able to sit up straight on the top bunk.
2. Options for Sizes and Materials
Like with any furniture, to some degree your options for how your bunk bed can look are almost endless. Popular sizes, though, include twin over full bunk beds and twin twin bunk beds, and common materials include iron, brass, maple, oak and cherry wood. While most bunks are comprised of two beds, other people choose to use the lower bunk space as a play area or desk space. More intricate bed designs might include slides for the top bunk or additions to make the bunk look like a castle or house. Not only do bunks help save space, but they also add interesting design elements to every room.
3. Fixing Common Problems
One issue that some children have with bunk beds is that they transfer motion and noise from the other individual. For bunks made out of metal, this can sometimes be solved by tightening slightly loose nuts and bolts, preventing the bunk from moving back and forth quite as easily. Because wooden bunk beds are overall more stable, they are often a good choice for sensitive children.
What has your experience with twin bunk beds been like? Let us know in the comments!
