How to Choose a Bunk Bed Mattress

April 16, 2024

Don't Forget the Mattress! Choosing the Perfect Bunk Bed Mattress

It’s exciting, finding the perfect bunk bed. And if it’s for children, it can be a real adventure, opening up the possibility of sleepovers, cosy nights in, and creating a special space just for them. But when it comes to ensuring a truly comfortable and safe experience, one crucial element often gets overshadowed: the bunk bed mattress.

Here at Strictly Beds and Bunks, a family-run business with years of experience in providing top-quality bunk beds and mattresses across the UK, we understand that a good night’s sleep is essential for everyone, no matter their age. That’s why we’ve put together a guide to choosing the perfect bunk bed mattress, so you can be sure you’re getting the best possible support, comfort, and safety – whoever is using your bunk bed.

Safety and Comfort Considerations: Finding the Right Balance

When it comes to bunk beds, making safe choices should always be your top concern. One of the most important factors to keep in mind is the mattress, especially for the top bunk. Let’s take a look at why that is.

Mattress Thickness – Where Safety Comes First

• Guard Rails Matter. You know those guard rails on the top bunk? Their job is to prevent falls, and it’s crucial! If your bunk bed mattress is too thick, it lessens the height of the rails, making them less effective.

Most bunk beds are made for thinner mattresses, around 15cm. However, here at Strictly Beds and Bunks, we design our bunks to work safely with mattresses up to 20cm thick, ensuring proper guardrail protection.

• The Bottom Line (Bunk). While the top bunk has restrictions, the bottom bunk is more flexible when it comes to mattress height as there is no danger of falling.
• Weight Limits. Bunk beds are built to handle a certain amount of weight – that includes the mattress and the person sleeping on it. Choosing a mattress that’s too thick and heavy could push you over that weight limit, and that’s definitely not safe.

Comfort - Because a Good Night's Sleep is Vital

While safety is always the priority, we can’t ignore comfort! A great mattress keeps your spine aligned and gives you the right amount of cushioning for a restful sleep. Here’s the tricky part, though – what feels good to a child might not be the best for an adult. Here’s what you need to consider:

• Age & Weight Matter. As a general rule, younger children tend to like a softer mattress. Older kids and adults usually need something firmer for proper support.
• Certifications = Peace of Mind. If you’re looking at foam mattresses, make sure they have certifications. These tell you the materials are safe and high-quality.
• Test It Out. Whenever possible, lie down on the mattress before buying! This is the best way to make sure it really feels the way you want it to.

The Takeaway

Shopping for a bunk bed mattress is all about finding a balance between safety and comfort. Pay close attention to the thickness recommendations for your top bunk, and make sure the mattress works with the bed’s design.

In the UK, it’s essential that the bed itself conforms to British Safety Standard BS EN 747:2015A. At Strictly Beds and Bunks, we’re members of FIRA, so you can be confident our bunks are built to be safe.

The Benefits of a Thick Sprung Mattress: Durable and Comfortable Support

If you’re looking for a bunk bed mattress that offers both cushioning and long-lasting support, a thicker sprung mattress might be the perfect choice. Here’s a look at what makes these mattresses a great option, for children, teens, and adults:

• The Feel – A 20cm thick sprung mattress usually falls in the medium to soft range. This means you get a lovely bit of ‘sink’ on top for comfort, but the springs underneath stop you from sinking too far and ensure your spine stays aligned.
• Bunk Bed Ready – Thicker sprung mattresses are specifically designed to work well on bunk beds, giving you maximum comfort without putting you at risk of rolling over the safety rails.
• British Made = Quality – Look for sprung mattresses made in the UK and conforming to standards like BS7177. This tells you the mattress is safe, fire-resistant, and built with quality materials.
• Farewell to Allergies – Hypoallergenic mattresses prevent dust mites and other allergens from taking up residence – that’s healthier for everyone!
• Springs for Support – Coil sprung mattresses, especially those with a 13.5-gauge system, offer consistent support across the whole sleeping surface. This keeps you comfortable all night long.

A Thick Sprung Mattress Might Be Right For You If:

• You want a combination of softness and support.
• You’re buying for a child, teen, or adult.
• Durability and a quality build are important to you.

The ORTHOdeluxe 20cm Sprung Mattress - Firm Support for Restful Nights

If you’re looking for a firm, supportive mattress that still offers a touch of comfort, the ORTHOdeluxe 20cm Sprung Mattress might be your perfect sleep companion. Let’s look at the benefits it brings:

• Orthopaedic Design – The ORTHOdeluxe puts your spinal health first. It’s specifically designed to keep your back in a healthy, neutral position as you doze off.
• Firm but Fair – This mattress lands in the medium-to-firm range, offering unyielding support without feeling overly stiff.
• Relieve Pressure Points – By distributing your weight evenly, the ORTHOdeluxe relieves pressure in sensitive areas like your hips and shoulders. This means less tossing and turning, and more deep sleep.
• Springs That Adapt – The 12.5-gauge springs in this mattress are robust and provide that classic “sprung” feel. What’s special is that they work independently, conforming to your body’s curves for personalised support.
• UK Quality, Allergy Friendly – Like our other mattresses, the ORTHOdeluxe is made in the UK to meet BS7177 standards. Its hypoallergenic design makes it a smart choice for sensitive sleepers.

The ORTHOdeluxe Might Be Right For You If:

• You need extra support for your back.
• You tend to sleep warm and like a very firm surface.
• You’re looking for a mattress for adults or teenage children.

The Reflex Hybrid Memory Foam Mattress: Where Comfort Meets Support

If you’re looking for the classic memory foam feel with a dash of extra support, the Reflex Hybrid could be the ideal mattress for your bunk bed. Here’s what makes this mattress special:

• The Memory Foam Advantage – Memory foam is famous for how it moulds to your body, relieving pressure points and letting you sink in for a cosy night’s sleep. This hybrid version offers that same comforting feel.
• Triple-Layer Support – The magic of the Reflex Hybrid lies in its three layers. Memory foam offers comfort, with other layers underneath that give you the firmness and support needed for healthy spinal alignment.
• Just the Right Firmness – This mattress lands in the medium-to-firm range, making it a great choice for teens or adults. It’s especially good for side sleepers as it offers cushioning comfort alongside reliable support.
• Cool & Comfy – No more overheating! This mattress cleverly regulates temperature, so you stay comfortable in any season.
• Eco-Conscious & Practical – The Reflex Hybrid is made with environmentally friendly materials, and even ships rolled for a smaller carbon footprint! Plus, the removable cover makes it easy to keep clean.
• Healthy & Durable – The hypoallergenic design is a blessing for those with sensitivities, and the high-quality construction of this mattress means it offers a long lifespan.

The Reflex Hybrid Might Be Right For You If:

• You need a mattress for teens or adults.
• You want a mattress that helps with back pain and pressure points.
• You are looking for an environmentally conscious choice.

Choosing the Perfect Bunk Bed Mattress - Your Guarantee of Sweet Dreams

Choosing the right bunk bed mattress isn’t just about the first night – it’s about all the nights to come. Whether you’re buying for a child who is growing and changing or for an adult who needs targeted support, there’s a perfect mattress out there to ensure both a safe and comfortable night’s sleep. By considering age, sleeping style, and the specific features of each mattress type, you can make an informed choice that promises restful nights.

Browse our full range of bunk bed mattresses at Strictly Beds and Bunks. Need some advice? Contact our expert team for advice on choosing the ideal mattress for your needs.