107 Industrial Blvd Cedar
Park, TX 78613 512-259-7779
(Mon - Fri 9am -
4pm CST)
How to buy a bunk bed
A bunk bed can be a safe sleeping and space-saving
solution if
- you select a bunk bed that conforms to current safety standards,
- buy from a reputable dealer,
- install it correctly
- and supervise its use.
Things to look for in a bunk bed
This is not a comprehensive list, but outlines some of the major things to
look for when purchasing a bunk bed. Visit the CPSC
web site for a complete list of bunk bed requirements.
- Look for a dealer you can trust- one
that sells a quality product and will stand behind the product.
- Ask the dealer for information about
the weight limits and mattress size (maximum thickness).
- A minimum of 5" from the top of the mattress to the top of the
guardrails is required.
- Look for an attached (required) safety
sticker and bunk bed instructions outlining safe usage.
- The bed should be made of strong, durable
materials with edges that are smooth and rounded.
- Shake the bed vigorously to be
sure it is firm and stable.
- Look for beds made of solid woods.
The use of veneers over particle board is not as structurally strong,
is less expensive to construct and are generally not as pleasing to own.
- The ladder should be a generous width
and securely attached (not removable by a child).
- Guardrails should be full length on
one side, and no less than 15" shorter on the opposite side.
- Guardrails shall be attached so they
cannot be removed without releasing a fastening device or applying forces
sequentially in different directions.
- The openings in the structure surrounding
the upper bunk should be 3 1/2" or less (spaces between bed rail and
guard rails and on the end units).
- Look for a bed that allows ample room
on the bottom for you and the kids to sit on comfortably. This may minimize
the tendency for kids to want to play on the upper bunk. NOTE: shorter beds
will allow younger kids to stand on the upper bunk.
Supervise ALL children around bunk beds.
© Copyright Bunk Beds Etc (www.mybunkbeds.com), 2000 - 2008