Bunk beds and loft beds are the most popular types of bed frames used in small apartments and children’s bedrooms, and while both are space-saving options, their properties and styles are different, so before purchasing one, you need to know the main distinctions between these two kinds of beds.
Loft vs. Bunk
| Who should get a bunk bed? | Who should get a loft bed? |
|---|---|
| If you have two kids sleeping in the same bedroom | If you want to maximize the storage space in your apartment |
| If you live in a small apartment and want to save space | If you have teenage children |
| If you have guests staying over the night regularly | If you’re living in a studio or small apartment |
Bunk Bed Overview
A bunk bed is a bed that stacks two or more beds on top of one another to save floor space while enabling two or more people to sleep in the same room. This bed is the ideal solution if you have limited space and want at least two beds in one room. Of course, there are several variants of bunks.
Pros of Bunk Beds
Space-Saving
Bunk beds are a great space-saving solution for small bedrooms, as they offer double the sleeping surface in the same space as one bed, so if you’re looking to maximize the space in your apartment, you should consider bunk beds.
A Great Solution for Sleepovers or Guests
If your kids invited their friends for a sleepover or you’re having friends over for the night, then bunk beds will be a great sleeping solution for the night.
Variety
There are a variety of bunk bed styles to choose from; from the size to the material to the design, you will find one that fits all your needs. Just make sure to do your research before deciding which bunk bed is right for you.
Cons of Bunk Beds
May Not be Suitable for Young Children
Your kid must be six years of age or older to sleep in the top bunk bed, which means bunk beds are not suitable for younger children.
Expensive
Bunk bed’s price range leans into the pricier side, so before you go shopping, decide on a budget because bunk beds may cost anything from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. A bunk bed's price will vary depending on its size, construction materials, and other factors.
Loft Bed Overview
A loft bed is a single bed elevated on supports high enough to allow the floor space underneath it to be used for different purposes. A loft bed might be the ideal choice for you if you want to experience the "sleeping high" feeling but don't require two beds in your space.
Pros of Loft Beds
Extra Storage
You can use the space underneath the loft bed as an extra storage space in your room, which adds to the space-saving properties of the bed.
Multi-Purpose Usage
Use the space below your loft bed to create a study area or an exercise zone to make the most of your loft bed. When your bedroom is small, a loft bed is a great way to optimize space and utility.
Customization Options
A loft bed gives you the ability to customize the design to fit your tastes and sense of style. You may customize a bed to your liking by selecting from a variety of materials, finishes, and designs.
Cons of loft beds
Harder To Change Bedding
Changing the bedding for any higher bed will be much harder than average-height beds, as you will need to rely on standing on the stairs or the bed itself, which can feel a bit risky.
Safety Concerns
Another issue you should think about is safety. Because of its height, the bed can be dangerous for little children, tossers, and turners in particular.
Only Fit One Person
The majority of loft beds are twin-sized, meaning they can only comfortably accommodate one fully grown adult, and even though there are larger sizes, they are more costly and less widely distributed. Consider twice before acquiring a loft bed if you share your bed with your partner or need additional room to move around in bed.
FAQs
What age is appropriate for a bunk bed?
It is often advised by specialists that kids shouldn't use the top bunk until they are at least six years old. At this age, it is ensured that kids have developed cognitively and physically to comprehend and adhere to safety instructions.
How do I know if a bunk bed is safe?
To make sure that your bunk bed is safe, you can use the guardrails on the upper bunk's two sides. Just make sure that the guardrails are at least 5 inches in height, including any additional mattress pads.
Which is better, bunk beds or lofts?
You should also consider the special advantage that bunk beds provide over loft beds, which is additional space for sleeping. Bunk beds are the best alternative for smaller children or siblings sharing a room; however, loft beds are a terrific option for teens with their own room.
What Age Is a Loft Bed Suitable For
It’s recommended to be at least 6 years old before using a loft bed. Regardless of whether the child is of a suitable age or not, you need to make sure that your child understands the risk of falling from the bed.
How much does a Loft Bed cost?
The price range for a loft bed frame is $150 to $2000. The dimensions, the type of material used for the frame, any unique or customized features, whether or not a set of mattresses is included, whether or not a guardrail is built, and a host of other considerations all affect the pricing.
Are all loft beds wobbly?
Generally, loft beds don't seem stable because the framework isn't broad enough to hold the heavy bed frame and mattress. A few simple adjustments to your bed, like putting larger legs or feet on it and fastening the loft bed to the wall, can help ensure that it remains securely anchored in place and is safe.
At what age do kids outgrow bunk beds?
From the age of 16 years old, teenagers might find bunk beds uncomfortable, and for them to experience better sleeping, it’s recommended that they opt for more conventional beds.
Conclusion
Although loft and bunk beds are similar, they are not the same thing. Loft beds have just one mattress, as opposed to bunk beds, which stack many mattresses and frames on top of one another. With loft beds, you may have extra storage, a workstation, or other uses for the area beneath your raised mattress.
You should make the decision to buy a loft or a bunk bed based on your needs and requirements, so make sure to do your research before choosing which bed is the best choice for you.
Jessica H.
Jessica is a reviewer, writer, and sleep enthusiast at Sleepiverse. Jessica graduated with her master's degree in Nursing research and education. She is a registered nurse and currently works in the Intensive Care Unit. Since becoming a nurse, Jessica has worked the night shift, which means a disrupted sleep schedule. Knowing she needed to function at her best while caring for patients at night, she spent a lot of time researching how to sleep well with a difficult schedule.