Bunk beds are more than just beds; they’re the perfect spot for swapping ghost stories, crafting forts on snow days, and throwing sleepovers with siblings and friends. So, if your child has outgrown their toddler bed and is begging you to level up their sleep space, a bunk bed could be the perfect upgrade.
However, scouring the internet for a bunk bed for your toddler can feel like trying to find your way through a maze. Like picking out a toddler mattress or kids mattress, it’s not just about considering materials, cost, size, and space—safety features, height and important extras like stairs are key players in finding the ideal fit.
To guide you in picking out the best toddler bunk beds for your little ones, we chatted with Carlie Gasia, a certified Sleep Science Coach at Sleepopolis. The result? Six top-notch bunk beds that cater to all budgets and tastes – whether you prefer a simple design or a more luxurious feel.
What are toddler bunk beds?
Although there aren’t any bunk beds that are exclusively designed for toddlers, you can still find bunk beds that are age-appropriate for them.
According to Gasia, parents should select beds that have a lower height than standard frames, incorporate essential safety features, are crafted from high-quality materials for durability and longevity, and are designed to be space-saving to easily fit into any room.
When it comes to selecting a bunk bed for your kids, Gasia emphasizes the importance of putting safety above all else. “You need to find a bed with guard rails on all sides to keep your kids safe from any falls,” she explains.
“Pay attention to how high the mattress sits — if it’s too tall, those guard rails won’t do their job. And don’t forget to check that the bed frame, ladder, or stairs are solid and securely fixed to avoid any mishaps.”
Choosing the right materials for bunk bed construction is equally important. Gasia suggests wooden bunk beds since they’re usually stronger and more durable. But don’t count out softwoods or metals — Gasia says that they can still be good choices if you choose wisely. Keep in mind that softwoods are prone to dents and metal bunks might squeak a bit more than wooden ones.
Although it might be tempting to opt for a cheaper model, Gasia suggests that spending a little extra on a well-made bed can be worth it in the long run. “If you’re planning on using the bed frequently or if it needs to be extra durable, investing in a sturdier and higher-quality bed could be a smart choice,” she says.
Best toddler bunk beds 2024
Storkcraft Long Horn Twin-Over-Twin Bunk Bed
Climbing straight to the top of our toddler bunk bed list is this Storkcraft pick. It flaunts a convertible design, GreenGuard Gold certification and a variety of safety features.
We love that it can be set up as two individual twin-size beds, providing flexibility in room arrangement and that it includes full-length guardrails on the top bunk and a fixed five-step ladder for easy access to the top bunk. It’s a durable blend of robust rubberwood solids, engineered wood, and wood materials, as well as two chic color options to complement any bedroom vibe.
- Convertible design
- Safety features
- Quality materials
- GreenGuard Gold Certified
- Also available with a full sized bed (twin over full bunk bed option)
- The weight limit is only 225 pounds
- One-year limited warranty
DHP Phoenix Twin Bunk Bed
We love that this affordable bunk bed is crafted from solid wood materials, offers a convertible design, and a range of safety features like guardrails, reliable support with bentwood slats, and a convenient ladder for easy access.
What’s more, this bed is positioned at just the right height to ensure your kids are safe and snug with plenty of space from the ceiling!
- Convertible design
- Affordable price
- Sturdy wooden material
- Safety features
- Lower height makes sleeping in the top bunk a scare-free experience
- Easy assembly and all tools come in the package
- The ladder can only be installed on one end
- Assembling the bed may take time and need power tools
This Max & Lily bunk bed stands out when it comes to wooden bunk beds. The sturdy pinewood and safe, low-VOC finish are perfect for your child’s well-being. Not to mention, it’s packed with safety features like 14-inch guardrails and an inclined ladder with smooth edges for easy and secure climbing.
Jamie Hughes, a verified Amazon customer, writes, “Transitioned my 6yo from toddler bed to this bed. He and his little brother have been jumping all over it, and it has remained solid for a month now. It exceeded all of my expectations for sturdiness and appearance. Excellent quality especially for the price!”
Let’s not forget about the impressive weight capacity of this bunk bed. Donna Dewell, a verified Amazon customer, raves, “My husband has slept in it with a toddler and he’s at least 250 pounds.”
- Solid wood construction and low VOC finish
- Safety features
- Space-saving design
- Versatile ladder
- Holds weight well
- Fits a trundle bed below
- Also available in a full-size bottom bunk
- On the pricier side
- Some user reviews suggest that the slats could be sturdier
Child Craft Modern Farmhouse Twin Over Twin Bunk Bed for Kids
Let’s be honest—bedroom furniture can cost a pretty penny regardless of your age. So if you’re looking to indulge without spending too much, this farmhouse bed is an excellent choice compared to the other ones you’ve been considering.
Yes, the farmhouse-inspired design steals the spotlight (although there are also rustic barn or garden cottage styles that are just as stunning), but this bed frame is not just about looks — safety is key here. With its partial enclosure on top, guardrails all around, sturdy slats for added stability, a handy ladder for easy access to the top bunk this bed has you covered.
- Unique design that makes a great option for play-focused spaces
- Safety features
- Sturdy construction
- Space saving (twin-over-twin design)
- Ladder to access the top bunk
- Range of safety features
- On the pricier side
- The bed frame is on the larger side, so it’s not best for smaller rooms
Best toddler bunk bed with slide
Max & Lily Solid Wood Twin over Twin Size Low Bunk Beds
Bunk beds with slides aren’t just another piece of furniture; they’re like turning a kid’s room into a non-stop fun zone. Take this bunk bed from Max & Lily, it’s got a ladder for easy climbing and a slide for that extra wow factor!
But it’s not all just for a good time, we love that this bunk bed has all the things you need in a good toddler bunk bed: 14-inch safety guardrails, anti-slip steps, a slatted headboard boasts robust plywood slats, a metal support bar, secure metal-on-metal bolt connections, and a weight capacity of 400 pounds. There’s also good height between the side rail and the top of the upper mattress.
- Ideal height for smaller children
- Range of safety features
- Sturdy ladder and slide
- Seven color choices
- 400 weight capacity
- Low VOC finish
- Fits standard twin mattress size
- Contains several pieces for assembly
- The fast slide requires a cushion at the bottom
uhomepro Solid Wood Twin Over Twin Bunk Beds for Kids
Don’t sleep on Walmart for great toddler bunk beds — this uhomepro gem is not only is it cost-effective, but its twin-over-twin style is perfect for maximizing space in shared room setups.
Crafted from sturdy pine and plywood, this bunk bed includes two ladders for easy access. Safety is key too, with full-length guardrails to prevent falls and a low height that ensures the bed sits close to the ground.
- Twin-over-twin design
- Two-step ladders included
- Sturdy solid pine and plywood construction
- Available in three colors
- Low height
- Handles up to 250 pounds of sleep weight
- Plenty of lower real estate for storage drawers and toys
- Carlie Gasia, a certified Sleep Science Coach at Sleepopolis
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