Beds and Bedding

Bunk Bed

Posted on Thu, Sep 9, 2010 by Benny in Beds

A bunk bed is a type of bed that is most common in children’s bedrooms, teens’ bedrooms, and in bedrooms intended to accommodate at least two people. Also known as double deck beds, bunk beds are composed of two bed spaces, one on top of the other. These beds or bed spaces are called bunks.

The top bunk of a bunk bed is supported by four pillars or poles -– one for each corner of the bed. Some bunk bed poles are removable so that the top bunk and the lower bunk can be used separately.

Bunk beds are among the most common space-saving beds in the market. Since one bed is placed on top of the other bed, it saves floor and room space that is supposed to be used for a second bed. They come in various sizes to suit different needs. Some bunk beds have twin size beds on both top and bottom bunks. Others have a twin or single bed on top of a double or full size bed. Lastly, there are bunk beds whose top and bottom beds are both double or full sized.

Some bunk beds have privacy curtains for the lower bunk, and others have security railings for the upper bunk. These railings are installed to keep the occupant of the top bunk from falling off. This security measure is important as a safety precaution for kids and for those who move quite often when sleeping. Modern bunk beds also have ladders to facilitate going up and down the top bunk, though kids usually find more creative ways to do these.

Because of their space-saving capacity, accommodating about two people at once, bunk beds are commonly found in dormitories, school residence halls, prison cells, summer camp cabins, garrisons, ships, hostels, and other establishments intended to accommodate several people at once.

The concept of bunk beds is believed to have originated in Egypt, where the royalties are believed to use loft beds for sleep. Loft beds are special beds, which are raised high above the ground. Loft beds are still in use today, though they have somewhat evolved in look and some functions. Since there is only the top bunk, the space below the actual bed is usually left open for various purposes such as accommodating a work desk, a cabinet, drawers, or another bed. 

Loft beds are among the different varieties of bunk beds. Other types of bunk beds are stackable beds, whose top bunk can be removed when needed, and basic bunk beds, which are the most common.

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