Best Bunk Beds for Kids: Practical, Space-Saving Beds

Where does the time go? It seems only yesterday your little one was a newborn sleeping peacefully in their crib, then a toddler making mischief in their cot - now it’s time to consider the next stage. So much more fun than a normal bed, the best bunk beds can be a fort, a pirate ship or a cosy den as well as a place to sleep. Parents love them because they free up so much space, especially if you have siblings sharing a room.

Here at Mumsnet, we know how important it is that our kids get plenty of sleep - it’s essential for their development, learning and the mental health of the whole family. Our forums are home to the biggest network of parents in the UK - a veritable goldmine of knowledge, and it’s there we turn to first for the authentic recommendations that make up our guides to everything from the best baby monitors to the best travel cots.

Best bunk beds - editor's pick

£284

Overall best bunk bed

Strictly Beds and Bunks
Cypress

Buy now from Amazon

£170

Best bunk bed on a budget

Argos Home Mason
Metal Bunk Bed

Buy now from Argos

£1349

Best high sleeper cabin bed

Stompa
Uno S Plus

Buy now from Amazon

There are a huge range of bunk beds on the market right now - from classic, space-maximising wooden ones to chunky models packed with storage. And if you’re looking for a loft bed to maximise the space for one child, we’ve got you covered too. Combining the wisdom of Mumsnetters with industry experts and consumer reviews, we’ve whittled our list down to the 11 best bunk beds available right now.

These are the best bunk beds to buy in 2026.

1

Overall best bunk bed

Strictly Bed and Bunks Cypress bunk bed

Buy now from Amazon Buy now from Strictly Beds and Bunks

What we like

Sturdy, high-quality craftsmanship
Great value
Easy to paint

What we don't like

Less stylish than other bunk beds

Key specs

Price on writing: £270 | Dimensions: 202 x 98 x 149cm | Mattresses included?: No | Left- or right-hand ladder: Either

What Mumsnet users say

Mumsnet editor Jenny Wonnacott · Recommended brand

We have two bunk beds from Strictly Beds & Bunks. They arrived promptly, were relatively easy to construct and so far have lasted really well. We like the fact that the kids can enjoy the fun of sleeping up high but the beds are still large enough to easily fit a second child when they're having a sleepover.

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Our verdict

Independent British brand Strictly Bunks and Beds are well-regarded by many parents for their value for money, range of designs and quality craftsmanship. We think their Cypress bunk bed is a brilliant example of a classic bunk bed that ticks all the boxes. It’s got no bells or whistles, but it looks great, it’s well made and priced fairly - that’s why we’ve chosen it as our best overall bunk bed.

There are lots of options available from the brand, including lower beds for younger children, loft beds, European sizes, triple and L-shaped bunk beds. The solid pine looks great as it is, and is easy to paint if you prefer. Reviewers say they’re easy to build for two people, and the ladder can be assembled on the left or right side to suit your room layout.

Mattresses are sold separately - check out our round-up of the best mattresses for kids and the best mattress protectors for Mumsnetters' top picks.

2

Best budget bunk bed

Argos Home Mason Metal Bunk Bed

Buy now from Argos

What we like

Bargain price
Simple but versatile design
Comes in a choice of colours

What we don't like

Ladder is fixed on one side

Key specs

Price on writing: £170 | Dimensions: 197 x 98.5 x153 cm | Mattresses included?: No | Left- or right-hand ladder: Right

Our verdict

For an uber-versatile bunk bed that’s perfect for younger children, Argos' Mason bunk bed ticks all the boxes - and at under £200 it's a bargain to boot.

The metal bunk bed frame comes in a choice of three different colours to match your colour scheme and its suitable for children as young as six, with guard rails along the top bunk for added peace of mind.

Read next: Discover the best cot beds for babies and toddlers.

3

Best bunk bed for storage

Matt Martin Bunk Bed with Drawers and Storage

Buy now from Amazon Buy now from eBay

What we like

Oodles of storage
More headroom on the bottom bunk

What we don't like

Delivery unavailable to some UK postcodes
Large footprint

Key specs

Price on writing: £585 | Dimensions: 100 x 49 x 59cm | Mattresses included?: No | Left- or right-hand ladder: Either

Our verdict

With clever storage everywhere you look, this chunky bunk bed from Matt is a fun option that has plenty of space for storing toys, books, clothes and spare bedding.

Reviewers say the instructions are difficult to follow, so make sure you have plenty of time, space and someone to help you build it. The beds’ footprint doesn’t take up that much less than two single beds, so this one’s less of a space-saver and more of a fun way to for kids to share a bedroom. We love the drawer staircase and the slide-door cupboards on the bottom bunk, which make a little private space for keeping favourite toys and books.

Read next: Discover our pick of the best swaddles and Moses baskets for little ones.

4

Best high sleeper cabin bed

Stompa Uno S Plus High Sleeper

Buy now from John Lewis

What we like

Assembled by supplier
Basic option available
Customisable

What we don't like

Takes a European single mattress
On the pricy side

Key specs

Price on writing: £1349 | Dimensions: 178 x 200 x 208cm | Mattresses included?: No | Left- or right-hand ladder: Either

What Mumsnet users say

BlowDryRat · Recommended brand

DS had a second-hand Stompa bed that seemed very good quality. They have different styles, including the set-up you're looking for.

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Our verdict

Perfect for box rooms, a high sleeper creates space by putting a single bed on stilts. While the basic model is just under £700, the Stompa Uno S Plus High Sleeper is available with all sorts of extras - the one pictured has a pull-out desk and a fold-out chair bed that tucks away into a cosy corner sofa for one, and retails for £1,349.

The ladder rungs are ergonomically shaped, and we think the chunky design is stylish enough for growing tweens and teens. The chair bed is a brilliant addition which will come in handy for sleepovers, and the desk is just right for homework and gaming. For younger kids, there’s also the Uno S Plus Mid-Sleeper.

5

Best wooden bunk bed

Thuka Nordic Bunk Bed 2

Buy now from Bed Kingdom

What we like

Simple, minimalist design
Spacious underbed drawers included

What we don't like

Takes European single mattresses

Key specs

Price on writing: £699 | Dimensions: 210 x 151 x 151cm | Mattresses included?: No | Left- or right-hand ladder: Either

What Mumsnet users say

Colombie · Recommended brand

Stompa and Thuka are big European brands that have very modular solutions. You often see them sold as packages online but if you talk to a supplier they can buy exactly the bits you want at no additional cost. You can also take the legs off the high sleeper later if wanted etc. Not cheap, but solid and will take a full adult's weight for years. Thuka less expensive than Stompa.

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Our verdict

Mumsnetters can certainly vouch for the longevity of Thuka bunk beds. Sturdily made from solid pine, this Nordic bunk bed has a simple, neutral design that’ll stand the test of time and works for younger and older children. Available with five different colour options for the end panels, the bunk bed comes with two storage drawers that slide neatly away underneath the bottom bunk.

The bunks can be converted into two single beds if needed, although the top bunk has longer legs than the bottom. Like many bunk beds, it requires European sized single mattresses, so bear this in mind while shopping for a kids’ mattress to go with the bed.

6

Best bunk bed that can be separated into two singles

Stompa Detachable Bunk Bed

Buy now from John Lewis

What we like

Pull-out trundle bed for slepovers
Easily converts into two single beds
Smaller, budget version available

What we don't like

Requires a EU mattress

Key specs

Price on writing: £819 | Dimensions: 208 x 105 x 161cm | Mattresses included?: No | Left- or right-hand ladder: Either

What Mumsnet users say

Giselletheunicorn · Recommended brand

We have a Stompa and they are absolutely solid...

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Our verdict

Designed with versatility in mind, this bunk bed from Stompa can easily be converted into two single beds if and when your children move into their own rooms or outgrow the bunk set up. What’s more, it has a pull-out trundle bed which is ideal for sleepovers or for you to camp out on if your children need extra comfort at night.

The bunk bed is European single sized, so it’s a bit longer than a standard single bed and you’ll need European mattresses for it. The bunk bed is available without the trundle for £659 or there’s a smaller compact version for £509.

7

Best L-shaped bunk bed

Strictly Beds & Bunks Mandoline L-Shaped Bunk Bed

Buy now from Amazon Buy now from Strictly Beds and Bunks

What we like

Option to buy with or without mattresses
Bottom bunk isn't attached so can be moved freely to suit your space

What we don't like

Takes up more floorspace than a normal bunk bed

Key specs

Price on writing: £414 | Dimensions: 200 x 98 x 158cm | Mattresses included?: Option to include mattresses | Left- or right-hand ladder: Either

Our verdict

If you have a little more space and want to make creative use of it, or if your children are that bit older and want a bit more space to stretch out than a traditional bunk affords them, then an L-shaped bed could be the answer.

Made from solid pine, Mumsnetters swear by Strictly Beds and Bunks' no-nonsense designs, and this practical bunk bed is no exception. The ladder and bottom bunk can be assembled on either side, and the bunks easily split into two separate singles - in fact, the bottom bunk isn’t attached to the top, making it highly flexible to suit your room layout.

8

Best bunk bed for toddlers

Adventure Bunk Bed

Buy now from Dunelm

What we like

Fun, playful design
Low bottom bunk
Available in white or grey

What we don't like

Top bunk suitable for age 6+

Key specs

Price on writing: £599 | Dimensions: 228 x 100 x 197cm | Mattresses included?: No | Left- or right-hand ladder: Central

Our verdict

While children need to be aged six before they can safely sleep on a top bunk, younger children are perfectly safe on bottom bunks, with a bed guard if needed. This Adventure bunk bed from Dunelm has an extra low bottom bunk and a fun treehouse design on the top.

With the roof, at 228cm it’s very tall, so do double-check your ceiling height before purchasing. Available in grey or white, we love the potential for play in this bed, as well as for a peaceful night’s sleep!

9

Best triple decker bunk bed

Trio Grey Wooden Triple Sleeper Bunk Bed

Buy now from Happy Beds

What we like

Sturdy guard rails
Low bottom bunk
Sleeps 3 in the floor space of a single bed

What we don't like

Changing the bedding on the top bunk can be tricky

Key specs

Price on writing: £570 | Dimensions: 201 x 195 x 93cm | Mattresses included?: Option to include mattress | Left- or right-hand ladder: Both

Our verdict

The triple-decker Trio is a space-saving superstar, and the extra low bottom bunk means the top bunk isn’t too high up, and each bed is cosy rather than cramped. Made from high-quality wood and coated in a stain-resistant lacquer, it’s a sturdy bunk bed that’ll keep your kids comfy for years.

If you have three children and want to maximise space, this bed is brilliant. Each bunk has a solid, reliable guard rail and there are two separate ladders to save having to take turns getting out of bed. Reviewers say it can be a challenge to change the sheets in the top bunk, which is tricky enough in a normal bunk bed!

How to buy mattresses for bunk beds

Most bunk beds require a slightly thinner mattress than a standard bed, and many are made to European single measurements, so be sure to double-check before you buy. Many bunk beds on our list have the option to buy mattresses with the bunk bed, saving you time and giving you peace of mind that you’ll get a perfect fit.

What is the best age for children to use bunk beds?

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents guidance says that children under 6 should not sleep on the top bunk, so it’s best to wait until your oldest is 6 or over before moving your children to a bunk bed.

Younger children can use the bottom bunk, but if there’s a substantial drop between the bottom bunk and the floor, you might want to get a bed guard too.

How to choose the best bunk bed for you

What features should I look for?

Size: It’s likely you’re looking to save space if you’re shopping for a bunk bed, so make sure you’ve measured up your floor space before you part with your cash. If you’re looking at a triple-decker or a bed with a canopy, consider your ceiling height too.

Assembly: Bunk beds are a huge pain to assemble, so it’s best to ensure you have plenty of time, as much space as possible and another person to help you build. Some retailers offer an assembly service for an extra fee - if you can afford it, this is a really wise investment that will save you time, energy and sanity.

Ladder: Most bunk beds can be assembled with the ladder on either the left or right, but not all, so it’s best to check - especially if your room layout means one side works better.

Detachability: Thinking ahead, is it likely you’ll want or need to split the bunks into two separate single beds? If you’d like to have this option, check that it’s possible with the bunk beds you choose.

What’s the best bunk bed to buy?

Strictly Beds and Bunks’ Cypress Bunk Bed is the best bunk bed to buy right now. It’s well made by expert craftspeople in the UK from solid pine, and Mumsnetters really like the no-nonsense design, easy to paint surface and affordable price.

About the author

Poppy O'Neill is a Content Editor at Mumsnet and a mother of two. She's been researching and reviewing baby and child products for 2 years, with a particular focus on baby essentials, toys and books for toddlers and outdoor play equipment. From potties to paddling pools and bunk beds to bedtime stories, she loves to deep-dive into research and find the best products out there.

Poppy is also the best-selling children's and parenting author of books such as Don't Worry, Be Happy, The Extraordinary Book That Makes You Feel Happy and Mother Power. She specialises in children's mental health and her books are used by therapists, teachers and SENCOs across the UK. She won the Kate Betts Memorial Prize in 2019, her books have been translated into eight languages and she's shortlisted for The Week Junior Children's Book Awards 2023.

After earning a BA in Creative Writing from the University of Leeds and a PGCert in Fashion and Lifestyle Journalism from University of the Arts London, she worked in fashion for most of her 20s. When her children were young, she undertook an MA in Creative Writing from the University of Chichester and re-trained as an author and freelance writer. When she's not working, Poppy enjoys Pilates, hunting for sea glass on the Sussex coast and playing with tarot cards.

How we chose our recommendations

We spent several hours sifting through Mumsnet's forums for our users' recommendations on the best bunk beds they rate. We were also on the lookout for poor reviews of products to avoid.

We consulted recommendations from experts, consumer websites and print media and ensured we included brands that regularly appeared in the top 10 lists.

We then looked at reviews for our longlisted bunk beds to check if those previous customers were satisfied with their purchases.

By doing this, we whittled our longlist down and chose a selection of products that we think offer something for everybody.

Why you should trust us

At Mumsnet, we believe parents should be able to access impartial and honest advice about products and services they may purchase.

We consult real parents as well as experts so we can offer the benefit of honest experience and we don’t take payment for our reviews from companies.

Our team of writers is made up of experienced consumer and parenting journalists who between them have a wealth of experience and knowledge at their fingertips.