Bunk Beds – A Parent’s Guide to Selection and Use

A bunk bed is often the best choice for a regular bed once a child with siblings grows out of a toddler bed or a crib. Bunk beds are a sensible choice for families with two children sharing a bedroom because of the practical way a bunk bed uses available floor space. However, because thousands of kids each year are hurt in bunk bed accidents, there are few things parents should consider when selecting and using bunk beds:

Selection

Choose bunk beds that have:

• Guardrails on both sides which are screwed, bolted or otherwise firmly attached to the bed structure;

• Spacing between bed frame and bottom of guard rails that is no greater than 3-1/2 inches (89 mm);

• Guardrails that extend at least 5 inches (127 mm) above the mattress surface to prevent a child from rolling off;

• Cross ties under the mattress foundation which can be securely attached;

• A ladder that is secured to the bed frame and will not slip when a child climbs on it;

Use

When using a bunk bed:

• Always use two side guardrails on the upper bunk. Keep guardrails securely in place at all times no matter what the age of the child. Children move about during sleep and may roll out of bed;

• Do not permit children under 6 years of age to sleep in the upper bunk;

• Be sure cross-ties are under the mattress foundation of each bed and that they are secured in place;

• Emphasize to children to use the ladder and not chairs or other pieces of furniture to climb into or out of the top bunk;

• Teach children that rough play is unsafe around and on beds and other furniture;

• Consider using a night light so that children will be able to see the ladder if they get up during the night.

Keeping the above points in mind when purchasing and using bunk beds will ensure that your children will sleep safe and sound for years to come, and so will you.