The Ultimate Guide To Bunk Beds, Loft Beds, and Trundle Beds

Whether you slept in one yourself when you were a kid or simply have an appreciation for anything that saves space, bunk beds can be a wonderful choice for a kid’s bedroom, particularly if you’re living in an apartment, have siblings sharing a room, or regularly have guests to stay. Instantly transforming any bedroom into an imaginative fun zone, the appeal of having elevated sleeping quarters in the home is endless.

However, bunk beds aren’t the only type of bed that offer space-saving, dual-sleeping super-powers. There are also loft beds and trundle beds that can help in those departments. So which one is best? We discuss the different types of bed options available as well as outlining safety standards and tips.

What is a Bunk Bed?

A bunk bed is a type of bed in which one bed frame is stacked on top of another, allowing two or more beds to occupy the space typically needed for one. This design is particularly popular in settings where space is at a premium, such as children's bedrooms. Bunk beds usually consist of two twin-sized beds, but variations can include larger or differently configured beds like a single over double for example. The upper bed is accessed by a ladder or stairs, and safety features like guardrails must be included to prevent falls.

What is a Loft Bed?

A loft bed is a type of bed that is elevated high off the ground, creating usable space underneath. Unlike a bunk bed, which has another bed below, a loft bed typically has an open area below that can be used for various purposes such as a study nook with a desk, additional storage, a seating area, or even an imaginative play space. /

What is a Trundle Bed?

A trundle bed is a type of bed designed to save space with a second mattress housed in a pull-out drawer or frame on casters underneath the main bed, making it easy to slide out when needed and tuck away when not in use. Trundle beds make a great choice for guest rooms and children's rooms. They offer the functionality of two beds while occupying the space of one.

What are Australian Safety Requirements for Bunk Beds and Loft Beds?

Choosing the bed is often the easy part. Ensuring you place the bed in a safe area and comply with all recommendations is important and requires consideration. As fun-filled as bunk beds and loft beds can look, any elevated sleep surface requires there to be a focus on safety. Australia has a stringent set of safety requirements when it comes to these types of beds. Guard rail heights, mattress heights, and gap sizes need to be considered when you choose an elevated bed. 

Bunk beds or loft beds are not recommended for children under 9 years of age. For a space-saving bed that could be a better option for younger children, consider a trundle bed. While it is tempting for children to play on bunk beds, this is not recommended as it comes with injury risks. A bunk or loft bed should just be used for sleeping.

In Australia, bunk beds must comply with the Australian/New Zealand Standard (AS/NZS 4220:2010). Key safety requirements include:

Guardrails: The upper bunk must have permanently secured guardrails on all four sides with a minimum vertical distance between the top of the guardrail and the upper surface of the mattress base of at least 260 mm.

Gap Size: The gaps between guardrails and between the bed frame and mattress should be small enough to prevent a child’s head or limbs from getting stuck.

Ladder Safety: Ladders need to be attached securely, easy to climb, and have non-slip treads.

Mattress Size: The mattress should fit snugly within the chosen frame with no gaps at the side.

Height Restrictions: The top bunk's sleeping surface should be well clear of the ceiling, and at least 2 metres clear of ceiling fans and light fittings. 

No protrusions: Any protrusion from the bunk of over 8mm is strictly prohibited as it may pose a strangulation risk.

Informative labels: Labels or markings are required indicating the maximum mattress height on the raised/upper bed where the height of the guardrails is less than 360mm. 

References: https://www.productsafety.gov.au/product-safety-laws/safety-standards-bans/mandatory-standards/bunk-beds