Friday, August 5, 2011

Picking Suitable Bunk Beds

By Charlie Jacobs


Bunk beds have traditional served the role of conserving space within smaller households. By utilizing the vertical space within a room, the remaining room can be used for different purposes. For two children, this can not only be practical, but an excellent method of bonding them both, as they often enjoy the experience and can even swap bunks when they please. There are two main designs to be aware of, modular bunks and rigid bunks.

The rigid frame is a pair of beds, but a single frame. This means you can't separate the beds, but they can be stronger and they're definitely cheaper. Keep this in mind when purchasing, because if you have the desire to move into a larger home within the foreseeable future and each child will receive their own room, then the bunk beds will only become a detriment and no longer a benefit. Modular frame beds are usually two beds placed on top of one another. The corner posts provide a locking mechanism for the bed to safely stand on. This is brilliant if you plan on separating the beds into different rooms at a later date.

Be wary of the materials used for the beds, as some offer different advantages to others. Metal is sturdy and will last a long time, but usually develops a squeak between a couple of weeks to a couple of months. Hardwood beds rarely squeak, but are more expensive due to their more ornate look. They both come in a variety of styles, so choose accordingly, both for budget and the style of your home.

You should always ensure the bunks provide as much as safety as possible for your children before putting it to good use. With the child suspended several feet above the air, you should decide who gets the top bunk. The eldest is generally a safer option, a child of five years or more. They are easier to teach how to ascend and descend to and from the bed.

Barriers surrounding the top bunk are a must to prevent the child from rolling out and they must be tough to prevent them breaking under the child's full weight. The ladder should have gripped steps to prevent the child slipping. Further safety should be considered for younger children, but ideally you would provide a better bedding solution.




About the Author: