Bunk Beds

What are bunk beds?

Bunk beds are two single beds stacked vertically, usually with a ladder for easy access to the top bunk. One sits above the other to form a single unit and they’re a great space saver in small bedrooms. You can find several different styles in our bunk beds range, from wooden to metal and upholstered designs.

What ages are they suitable for?

Bunk beds are appropriate for all ages above 4 years. However, regulations state that children under 6 years should only use the bottom bunk. If your little ones are younger, it's best to opt for cots or toddler beds instead.

And they aren’t just for children either. They’re suitable for adults too. As one bed stacks above another, they're ideal for room shares and bedrooms that don’t offer a lot of space.

Are bunk beds safe?

All bunk beds sold in the UK must conform to British Standard Specification 1 BS EN 747. These safety standards require bunk beds to:

• have fixed guard rails on both sides of the top bunk
• be solid in their construction
• contain no sharp edges
• have no gaps larger than 75mm

View our bunk bed safety guide for more information on safety features and regulations.

Our bunk beds have been carefully crafted with safety features in the design to prevent them breaking, tipping over, collapsing or falling. On the top bunk, the guard rails are raised beyond the mattress depth to ensure your youngster can’t fall out.

What size are bunk beds?

Bunk beds are typically 39 inches (99cm) in width, 79 inches (200cm) in length and 65 inches (165cm) in height. However, some bunk beds differ slightly in size depending on the style and design of the bed frame.

Always measure the allocated room space before making your purchase and ensure that there is at least 24 inches (61cm) of space between the top bunk and the ceiling.

It's also worth noting that bunk beds aren't the only beds which maximise space in a child's room or a guest room. Take a look at our guide on space-saving bed ideas for more information.

What mattresses can you use with bunk beds?

Top bunk mattresses should be no thicker than 15cm to ensure the guard rails are at the correct and safe height. Therefore, we recommend pocket spring, traditional spring, or kids mattresses.

Most bunk beds will be suitable for single, Euro single, and small single size mattresses depending on the dimensions and style of the bunk bed frame.

Read more about mattress sizes on our mattress size guide.

What different types of bunk beds are available?

Bunk beds come in a range of styles, colours and designs:

Standard: Two beds, where one is stacked on top of the other to save space in small bedrooms. Bunk beds come with a small ladder for easy access to the top bunk.

Wooden: Wooden bunk beds are sturdy, easy to put together and are made from high quality wood. As a result, they’re long-lasting and can be re-painted to freshen up a room.

Metal: Sturdy, easy to clean and long‐lasting, metal bunk beds are great for a range of room styles. They’re ideal for older kids still sharing a room, offering a more adult-looking design compared to painted wood.

With storage: As well as having two beds, some bunk beds offer cupboard space as another way of saving space in a small room. There’s often shelving within cupboards making it easy to store clothes, bedding, shoes, and whatever you see fit.

With stairs: Rather than a ladder, there are bunk beds that come with stairs which can be easier to climb. These take up a little more space than a traditional ladder so make sure you’ve considered the space available.

With shelves: Usually designed so that the shelves sit against a wall, allowing easy access and a safe space for books, lamps and ornaments.

With drawers: Drawers usually sit underneath the bottom bunk to provide extra storage space for bedding, clothing or toys. They’re perfect for rooms which lack space.

For kids' bedroom design inspiration, click here.