I. Special Precautions For Children

Bunk beds are fun, but bunk beds for children have safety risks. Children might fall from their beds. That is why it is important to put up the side guardrails on the upper bunk’s two sides. These must be secured firmly whenever the child is sleeping. Another rule that you should follow is not to permit kids below six years of age to sleep or stay in the bunk’s upper part. It is also important to have a safety ladder. You could teach your kids on safely using the ladder. Discourage playing on the ladder to avoid accidents. Lastly, if your kid sleeps in a bunk bed, it is advisable to have a nearby light on, just in case the kid wakes up at night and has to get out of the bed. If think your baby is too old enough for a crib, consider first the following before you buy a bunk bed.

II. Is Your Child Old Enough For A Bunk Bed?

1. Assess if your kid is really ready to have a bed. Transferring to the bed from the crib may be difficult for some kids, especially preschoolers or toddlers. Make it slow and assess if the kid is having apprehensions moving.

2. When you shop, you could ask the store staff if the bed has met the standards required by the American Society of Testing Materials. If it does, then you could buy it.

3. Plan ahead. Your kid will most likely sleep in the bed you will buy for many years to come. Consider the size of the bunk bed, since your kid might grow faster than you expected.

4. Shop around for choices. There are bunk beds ranging from toddler sizes to full-size ones. There are also beds shaped like castles or cars. Some even have the contemporary or antique look.

5. Do not be surprised if you are paying more than $100. The more fancy or elaborate models have prices ranging from $300 to as high as $1,500, and that is for the frame alone. Some beds do include a mattress, but you have to shell out more for it and box spring.

6. Purchase a top quality mattress. Measure it. The mattress should fit perfectly in the bunk. The measurement should be at most one inch of space from the mattress to the bunk bed’s frame. Check out the slats on the lower bunk which holds the mattress to ensure that they give strong support and are properly and securely screwed into the bed frame side.

7. Consider buying guard rails. The kid who slept in a crib may feel assured of the crib’s security. It may take some time for the kid to get used to the bunk bed. There are guard rails that are attachable to the bunk bed using screw or can be slid under the bed’s mattress. Check the sturdiness of these guard rails before you allow your kid to sleep in the bed.

8. Check the spaces between the bed frame and guard rails, as well as in the footboard and headboard on the upper bunk. The space should be at most 3.5 inches of space in all these areas. This is to avoid smaller kids from becoming trapped or slipping through.

9. Inspect all the bed’s edges and corners. Make sure that the corners and edges are smooth.

10. Check the bed’s stability by shaking it vigorously.

11. See if one can climb the ladder easily. The ladder should be also wide enough and not narrow for your kid.

12. At the bottom bunk, sit. Your head must not hit or reach the top.

13. If possible, make the store install the bed for you.

14. From time to time, inspect the screws and bolts to ensure that they are still firmly in place.

About the Author:

For more great bunk bed related articles and resources check out http://bunkbeds.kidsntoddlers.com

Written By: Paul Graham

Each year, thousands of children are rushed to emergency rooms after falling from the top bunk of their bunk beds or loft beds, while many more receive less serious injuries that are not seen by a medical professional. Typically, the main reason of injury involving bunk beds or lofts beds is horseplay and not from improperly installed beds. Before you purchase bunk beds or loft beds for your child, consider the age of the child and plan to make rules regarding the use of the bed. Although younger children are thought to experience more injuries, the most problems occur with older children who are more apt to disregard rules and exhibit unsafe or risky behavior.

For the most part, bunk beds and loft beds are just as safe as conventional beds. For smaller children, consider designating the lower bunk as their bed instead of allowing them to regularly climb to the top bunk. Also, ensure the bed is properly maintained and meets all current safety regulations and standards. Additionally, approximately eight percent of bunk bed related falls and injuries that must seek medical attention are related directly to the ladder. In addition to ensuring the ladder is properly installed, instruct your child on the correct method of ascending and descending the ladder.

When you begin searching for an appropriate bunk bed or loft bed for your child, choose a bed that appeals to all the safety standards. A bunk bed should have guard rails that have no more than three and one-half inches of space between the rail and the mattress. This will prevent children from falling through the space and potentially injuring themselves. If necessary, you may need to install extra boards if the space between the guard rail and the mattress. Furthermore, the guard rail needs to extend no less than five inches above mattress so that your child will be unable to roll off the top bunk.

Another thing to keep in mind is that the bunk bed or loft bed your purchase has guard rails on both sides. Even though one side of the bed will be placed next to a wall, a guard rail is essential due to a child potentially falling next to the wall and becoming trapped between the wall and the bed frame. Again, the guard rail should be no greater than three and one-half inches above the bed frame. Also, you should ensure that the mattress purchased to fit the bunk bed or loft bed properly fits the frame. Many parents choose to use a preexisting mattress used on a child-sized bed that is smaller than a traditional twin bed frame. Children can potentially fall between the mattress and the frame in this situation, so you should ensure the mattress is of the proper size.

In addition to ensuring the mattress is of proper size, you should also check that the mattress foundation is properly suspended above the bottom bunk or the space below. If the bed sits on a wooden platform, consider reinforcing the mattress with wooden slats or metal straps. This will prevent the top bunk from collapsing, especially if the lower occupant is kicking or pushing the above mattress.

By purchasing a quality, well constructed bunk bed or loft bed that meets all safety guidelines, you can make certain that your child will be safe and free from injury from the bed.

About the author:

John Marcus specializes in Beds http://www.1-loft-beds.com

Written By: John Marcus

First things first, there is a major difference between bunk beds and loft beds. Bunk beds are the most common form of alternative bedding, with an upper bunk stacked above a lower bunk. Some bunk beds stack two same-sized mattresses horizontally, while others stack a twin bed above a full size bed or even a futon that can serve as a larger sleeping or living area. Finally, other bunk beds create a playhouse type environment, with a top bunk running horizontally overtop of a vertically running bottom bunk. Some of these alternative bunk beds include stair steps and even slides, allowing the beds perfect for younger individuals.

Loft beds feature elevated platforms for sleeping, leaving much needed floor space below to place a desk, couch, or entertainment center to provide extra space for living. Generally associated with cramped dorm rooms, loft beds are becoming increasingly popular with teenagers who feel cramped in smaller rooms and want to expand their livable space. Also, young adults are also elect to choose loft beds in first apartments that may have less than desirable sleeping quarters. Think of loft beds like the new, hipper version of the classic Murphy bed.

When shopping for a bunk bed or loft bed, first consider the person that will be sleeping in the bed. For children, consider safety above all other aspects of the bed. Teenagers or young adults may want to focus on the size or the style of the bed more so than safety worries. When dealing with children, be sure that the child is ready to upgrade to a “grown up” bed before making the move. Children should be at least 35 inches long or two years of age before he or she should be moved to a bunk bed. Also, ground rules should be made regarding the proper conduct involving the bunk bed, since most injuries occur due to roughhousing or horseplay.

Regardless of your age, you should ensure the bunk bed or loft bed you choose has two sets of guardrails and a sturdy ladder that can support your weight. The guard rails are critical, even though your bed may reside next to a wall. More so with children, but occasional with teens or adults, bunk beds or loft beds without a guardrail next to the wall can cause the sleeper to slip between the bed and the wall during their sleep. Also, a guardrail on the other side of the bed is critical, since anyone can fall out of a bed while asleep.

For children, the guard rail should be no more than three and a half inches above the mattress. If the guard rail is too far away from the mattress, the occupant can slip between the mattress and the rail, resulting in a fall. Also, the guard rail should run at least five inches above the mattress to prevent the occupant from rolling over top of the rail.

Keep in mind there are a variety of bunk beds and loft beds on the market. Younger kids may enjoy the activity themed bunk beds, while teens may desire a bed that incorporates a loft instead of a bottom bunk. Also, the size of the room is directly associated with size of the bunk bed or loft bed. Although having a double or queen size bed may be luxurious in comparison to a tiny twin, but carefully think of the available space before choosing.

About the author:

Mike Barus specializes in loft beds/bunk beds find out more at http://www.loft-beds-i.com

Written By: Mike Barus

First things first, there is a major difference between bunk beds and loft beds. Bunk beds are the most common form of alternative bedding, with an upper bunk stacked above a lower bunk. Some bunk beds stack two same-sized mattresses horizontally, while others stack a twin bed above a full size bed or even a futon that can serve as a larger sleeping or living area. Finally, other bunk beds create a playhouse type environment, with a top bunk running horizontally overtop of a vertically running bottom bunk. Some of these alternative bunk beds include stair steps and even slides, allowing the beds perfect for younger individuals.

Loft beds feature elevated platforms for sleeping, leaving much needed floor space below to place a desk, couch, or entertainment center to provide extra space for living. Generally associated with cramped dorm rooms, loft beds are becoming increasingly popular with teenagers who feel cramped in smaller rooms and want to expand their livable space. Also, young adults are also elect to choose loft beds in first apartments that may have less than desirable sleeping quarters. Think of loft beds like the new, hipper version of the classic Murphy bed.

When shopping for a bunk bed or loft bed, first consider the person that will be sleeping in the bed. For children, consider safety above all other aspects of the bed. Teenagers or young adults may want to focus on the size or the style of the bed more so than safety worries. When dealing with children, be sure that the child is ready to upgrade to a “grown up” bed before making the move. Children should be at least 35 inches long or two years of age before he or she should be moved to a bunk bed. Also, ground rules should be made regarding the proper conduct involving the bunk bed, since most injuries occur due to roughhousing or horseplay.

Regardless of your age, you should ensure the bunk bed or loft bed you choose has two sets of guardrails and a sturdy ladder that can support your weight. The guard rails are critical, even though your bed may reside next to a wall. More so with children, but occasional with teens or adults, bunk beds or loft beds without a guardrail next to the wall can cause the sleeper to slip between the bed and the wall during their sleep. Also, a guardrail on the other side of the bed is critical, since anyone can fall out of a bed while asleep.

For children, the guard rail should be no more than three and a half inches above the mattress. If the guard rail is too far away from the mattress, the occupant can slip between the mattress and the rail, resulting in a fall. Also, the guard rail should run at least five inches above the mattress to prevent the occupant from rolling over top of the rail.

Keep in mind there are a variety of bunk beds and loft beds on the market. Younger kids may enjoy the activity themed bunk beds, while teens may desire a bed that incorporates a loft instead of a bottom bunk. Also, the size of the room is directly associated with size of the bunk bed or loft bed. Although having a double or queen size bed may be luxurious in comparison to a tiny twin, but carefully think of the available space before choosing.

About the author:

Doug Mahopac specializes in Clocks http://www.i-cuckoo-clocks.com

Written By: Doug Mahopac

Most older bunk beds are made of wood, and are generally easier to make safety modifications and enhancements. Also, the price of wooden bunk beds may be more economical, especially if you are shopping at second hand stores or using a bed previously used by a friend or family member. Furthermore, wooden bunk beds can be easily repaired, painted, stripped, or stained to create a completely different look for differing tastes.

Metal bunk beds are usually made of tubular metal and thought to be a classic kid’s type of bedding. How many times have you seen a red or white metal bunk bed in a child’s bedroom? Metal bunk beds made in recent years are built to the set safety requirements, but if any safety requirements are not up to par, emendations are much more difficult to make.

When looking at loft beds, the newer, stylish beds are made of metal. Additionally, metal loft beds take up less space so that tight spaces will not be further infringed by bulky metal creations. Also, metal beds allow a greater amount of decoration than wooden beds, so these are quite popular with the feminine crowd. Additionally, a change in style requires nothing more than a can of spray paint in the new and improved color.

Wooden loft beds are most associated with college dormitories, where loft beds built of raw two by fours are king. These beds can be found around every corner of campus come move-in day, so keep your pennies for things like books and purchase a used loft bed. You may even gain a couple new phone numbers, since most college co-eds use their loft beds as a huge message pad. The plus side of a wooden loft bed is that you will save a great deal of money on paper!

Whatever type of bunk bed or loft bed you choose to purchase, ensure the bed is safe. It does not matter if you are two, twelve, or twenty, safety is still important when entrusting your bodily safety while you sleep. A teenager can roll out of bed just as easily as a toddler, so be sure all beds have the proper guard rails and safety precautions. Generally, the choice between wood and metal bunk beds or loft beds is completely personal and depends on the space and the style.

About the author:

Donna Somerkin specializes in Beds http://www.u-loft-beds.com

Written By: Donna Somerkin

Many parents choose to invest in a loft bed for their child because another child has arrived, is on the way, or currently occupies the house. A loft is a great way to give each child his or her space without having to sacrifice floor space for child’s play. Also, a loft bed is a great way to entice your son or daughter to leave your bed in exchange for something a great deal cooler in their eyes.

One thing to keep in mind when choosing a loft bed for a young child is to avoid the ceiling scraping beds and instead choose lofts that are no taller than four feet. This is especially true if you are dealing with a youngster who may have a slight fear of heights, since everything is taller to a child. A four foot loft still allows a great amount of room underneath the bed and can be arranged to house a fantastic fort, tent, or enclosed space that is only for the child. Some children’s furniture manufacturers are even including specialized loft beds into their furniture designs that are sure to tickle your child’s imagination.

Another critical aspect to keep in mind is the safety of the loft. Ensure the guard rails are stable and properly placed on the bed. Furthermore, ensure both sides of the bed come equipped with guard rails. Quite often, children can become trapped or even fall out of the bed if two guard rails are not present on the bed. Also, check out the ladder to make sure your child will be safe while entering and exiting his or her bed. Furthermore, ensure the ladder is correctly installed on the bed to prevent any accidents or injuries due to improper equipment.

Once your child has made the move into a loft bed, make time to speak with your son or daughter regarding safety. Set rules for entering and exiting the bed and ensure your children will not play or roughhouse, which can call potentially cause injury.

About the author:

Doug Mahopac specializes in loft beds/bunk beds find out more at http://www.i-loft-beds.com

Written By: Doug Mahopac

In addition, futon mattresses have improved in quality, and are now nearly as comfortable as traditional mattress. These factors, along with their versatility and space-saving functionality, have made futons and futon bunk beds more appealing.

Futon bunk beds are two futon beds stacked one on top of the other. The only real difference between futon bunk beds and traditional bunk beds is that the former has the dual functionality of serving as a couch. As such futon bunk beds represent the ultimate in space savings. They allow you to have two beds and a couch all within just a few square feet of floor space.

These benefits are obviously appealing to certain demographics. For instance, college dormitories are a natural fit for futon bunk beds. Likewise, in areas such as New York City and San Francisco, where apartment sizes are small and expensive, there is a great impetus for futon bunk beds to be purchased.

In addition to differing from traditional bunk beds due to their added functionality, futon bunk beds typically appeal to an older demographic, rather than kids. Futon bunk beds are also appealing to older individuals since they often have modern styling and offer a wide array of customization options such as covers and pillows.

Many futon bunk beds are built with a wooden finish which can easily match accompanying furniture such as dressers, desks, etc. Be sure that the guard rail extends to all sides of the upper bunk. This is a critical safety feature which must not be overlooked.

About the Author

E Bunk Beds is dedicated to providing comprehensive background and product information on various types of bunk beds. E-BunkBeds.com presents an accessible interface where users can determine what bunk bed products are best for them.

Written By: Dani Martin

In addition, futon mattresses have improved in quality, and are now nearly as comfortable as traditional mattress. These factors, along with their versatility and space-saving functionality, have made futons and futon bunk beds more appealing.

Futon bunk beds are two futon beds stacked one on top of the other. The only real difference between futon bunk beds and traditional bunk beds is that the former has the dual functionality of serving as a couch. As such futon bunk beds represent the ultimate in space savings. They allow you to have two beds and a couch all within just a few square feet of floor space.

These benefits are obviously appealing to certain demographics. For instance, college dormitories are a natural fit for futon bunk beds. Likewise, in areas such as New York City and San Francisco, where apartment sizes are small and expensive, there is a great impetus for futon bunk beds to be purchased.

In addition to differing from traditional bunk beds due to their added functionality, futon bunk beds typically appeal to an older demographic, rather than kids. Futon bunk beds are also appealing to older individuals since they often have modern styling and offer a wide array of customization options such as covers and pillows.

Many futon bunk beds are built with a wooden finish which can easily match accompanying furniture such as dressers, desks, etc. Be sure that the guard rail extends to all sides of the upper bunk. This is a critical safety feature which must not be overlooked.

About the Author

Bunk Beds Info provides information on the types of bunk beds that are available, and how and where to buy a bunk bed. Bunk Beds Info is the sister site of Murphy Beds Web.

Written By: Seth Miller