There seems to be a common misunderstanding in regards to what a bunk bed and loft bed is. Do you mean to shop for bunks or lofts? Loft beds are very popular especially for children and provide many of the same features as their counterpart, the bunk bed. While finding out the many sleep options for your child's room, it’s best to know the main differences (and possibilities) between bunk beds and loft beds so as not to be confused.
A home with a smaller space to work with has to build a multi-purpose working room and settle on a bunk bed or loft bed. This to meet their needs compared to just having a single bed. So, what is the difference between a bunk bed and a loft bed? So why are they different when both beds are similar in style, function, and price?
Just what is a bunk bed?
A bunk design is a pair of raised beds built on top of one another. It is supported by four posts that have an attached ladder or built-in stairs for easy access to the upper bunk. The bed can range in price, depending on the options wanted or the style of frame whether wood, metal, or other solid materials.
A loft bed is almost the same style as that of a bunk design, but with a slightly higher price tag. Unlike the bunk bed, there is an open space at the bottom. A desk or chest of drawers is placed in this space.
Why Buy a Bunk Bed?
A bunk bed is convenient when sleeping, several people. The top bunk can also be used for storage if needed, or the bottom bunk has the option to be extended as a double bed.
Pros of a bunk bed
● Floor space-saving option
● Multiple sleeping spaces
● Eliminate the need for a box spring/mattress combo
● Various sizes for each sleeper
Cons of a bunk bed
● Lack of support for long-term sleep
● Creates sleeping space, not storage space
Floor Space-Saving Option
If you are living in a small apartment or living in a big city with a couple of small children, the amount of floor space available for a bed along with all other bedroom necessities can decrease rapidly. A bunk bed will offer multiple-person sleeping without sacrificing floor spa
Loft Bed Characteristics
The loft bed is very similar to that of a bunk bed but distinctive. Loft beds are designed to have space below for a desk or chest of drawers. This is a great space saver and can create a fun place for the children.
Pros of the loft bed
● It Creates Storage Space
Storage space can be hard to come by when living in a small apartment or bungalow. Loft beds earn their higher price tag by featuring built-in drawers and offering open space under the bed for a desk or workstation.
● It Utilizes Vertical Space
Like the bunk bed, a loft bed is raised off the ground by support posts, which allows for less horizontal space used for your bed. This decrease in horizontal space used for the bed will allow you to decorate with more options, like a makeup mirror.
● Built-in Features
The wide variety of construction designs found in loft beds will offer the option of purchasing storage space with your bed. The majority of loft beds have a chest of drawers and/or a desk already built into the bottom part of the frame. Loft beds use roughly the same amount of floor space as a set of bunk beds without losing storage.
Cons of a Loft Bed
● Higher Cost. Due to the larger number of features available over a bunk bed, the cost of a loft bed is higher than a bunk bed.
● Making the bed can be challenging since the bed is at the top of the loft bed
Things to consider when looking for a loft bed
Loft beds are useful as space savers, but they’re for all kids. Here are a few pointers to keep before buying a loft bed:
1. Age & Maturity
Maturity is an important factor. Children below six years old are not ready to safely use a lofted bed. They might fall off the top bed while sleeping. Wait until they are older and know the dangers of falling off while sleeping.
2. Ceiling Height
Height clearance is everything. It should have 33 to 36 inches of space between the top of the mattress and the ceiling. The ceiling must be at least four inches more than a traditional 8-foot ceiling. For lower ceilings, look for a lower loft.
3. Best Use of Space
The best use of the space under a loft bed is a desk. It is recommended to use the space for a bench to sit and read or for storage. Storage under a loft bed can be used for frequently used items and is easily accessible for elementary-aged kids.
Benefits of a Loft Bed with a Desk
● By using a loft bed with a desk, you can create more usable space in the child’s room and keep it from getting too cluttered.
● By placing the bed on a raised surface, loft beds allow practical use from the area under the bed. When combined with wooden desks, it serves as an ideal location for doing office work or completing homework. The best thing is that it can make studying fun and unique experience for your child.
● The storage options with a desk have another advantage. Spacious cabinets and open shelving can store everything from clothes and school supplies to toys and decorations. It leaves more open floor space in the room, ideal for playing and safe movement.
Bottom Line
A new bedroom is an expensive endeavor, so make sure you firmly decided what to put in the room. Whether it is a bunk or loft bed. There is no wrong and the right choice when it comes to what bed should you purchase. Instead, the question you should ask is “what bed would best fit your lifestyle and current living arrangements?”
If living in a studio apartment or you are raising a family in a small space, bunk beds are the better options. It can free up space and provide open areas in your bedroom. If living alone, a loft bed is the better alternative. Study all the options and research pricing, sizing, and available features that can your decision final!
