Bunk Beds: The Whole Story

Save money and time, create space, and make your children happy. For your child's bedroom, buy an inter-galactic time machine that converts to a flying bus, witches' castle, and destructive tank! In other words, a bunk bed. Because those of us who had bunk beds when we were kids know what this means.

They also have the great advantage of being great to sleep in. They do come with one small catch, though - the inevitable argument of who gets top bunk. This is traditional, and is to be expected. It is also to be expected that no matter how clever the arguments used are, it's the biggest and/or oldest child who gets the top bunk. It's the law, or something. However, the loser won't feel sad for long, when he realises that the floor of his brother or sister's bed is great for stickers, posters, and glow in the dark astronomical objects.

As we are adults now though, we may be concerned as to the safety of these wonderful contraptions. But if we remember what our mom and dad told us we should NOT do, and tell that to our kids, you should be ok. Also, as obvious as it may sound, do ensure that the top bunk has a secure and strong barrier to stop the top child from falling out - make sure it is high enough to do its job even after the mattress is in place. You should also give in to the older child's pleas to sleep on the top bunk - he or she will be older meaning more physically confident on that ladder.

Bunk beds take all manner of shapes and sizes. These can be made from metal, wood, or plastic, or some combination of these. They take advantage of vertical space in a room, freeing up much-needed floor area for other uses. Designs vary from the well-known classical shape of a bunk bed, to an L-shape, which can boast storage space or a desk with lamp and drawers for play or doing homework on. Bunk beds can also have a larger lower bunk for teenage kids.

Drawers on wheels, or 'trundles' can be incorporated under the lower bunk for yet more storage, or sometimes you may find that the lower bunk can be converted to a seating area for older kids to have visitors round. The bunk's ladder may be completely detachable, movable, or be part of the frame. There are even bunks with an in-built staircase. Some bunks may be split into two, for when one of the children is put into another room.

These types of beds are not just for kids. These can be great for extra sleeping space for adults, or to make use of space in your holiday home, chalet or cabin. These look great in natural logs.

Bunk beds are practical, free up space, help in storage of bed linen and toys, provide a study area for kids in need of privacy and quiet, and help in providing an extra sleeping area for guests. And don't forget that they also make excellent hyperspace battle cruisers!

Annie Deakin is an expert furniture and interior design writer who is currently interested in bed linen.