Bunk Bed Safety: Top 5 Tips Every Parent Should Follow

Bunk beds are brilliant. They save space, spark imagination, and bring a bit of magic to bedtime—especially for kids. But while these vertical sleep solutions offer heaps of benefits, safety always comes first. Whether you’re upgrading a child’s room or setting up for sibling sleepovers, these expert safety tips will ensure your bunk bed setup is as secure as it is snug.

View our full bunk beds range for safe, solid, UK-made solutions.

1. Age Matters: No Under-6s on the Top Bunk, Bunk Bed Safety: Top 5 Tips

We get it—your five-year-old is fearless. But when it comes to the top bunk, it’s best to play it safe. Current UK guidelines recommend the upper bunk only for children aged six and above. That’s because younger children are still developing the balance and coordination needed to navigate a ladder safely.

The bottom bunk, however, is suitable for all ages (except babies—those still need a cot). All our beds are designed to accommodate younger children with comfort and care.

2. Don’t Skip the Brackets: Wall-Fixing Is Key

All our bunk beds come with wall brackets, and they’re not just decorative extras. Because bunk beds are naturally top-heavy, they can shift slightly—especially on smooth wooden floors. Attaching them to the wall (ideally, not just the skirting board) adds that extra layer of stability and safety.

Think of it like anchoring a bookcase—a small step with big peace of mind. For more info, check our bunk bed safety tips.

3. Mattress Depth & Guardrails: Stick to the 20cm Rule

Here’s where measurements matter. The BS EN747:2019 Part 1 & 2 standard (which all our beds exceed) states that the guardrails on the top bunk must rise at least 16cm above the mattress. That’s why our bunks are built to accept mattresses up to 20cm thick—plenty of comfort, without compromising safety.

Bonus Tip: Slat spacing matters too. Ours are under 7.5cm apart, which means better mattress support and no sneaky sagging.

4. Top Bunk , One Throne, One King

As tempting as it may be during a sleepover, the top bunk is a one-person zone. Doubling up increases the chance of falls and injuries, so keep it simple: one child per bunk.

Need help enforcing the rule? Try the royal decree approach: “Only the King or Queen may ascend the throne—trespassers will be banished (to the floor).”

Even our heavy-duty pine bunk beds, built to withstand all sorts of shenanigans, are designed with one top sleeper in mind.

5. Set Ground Rules (and Stick to Them)

A bunk bed isn’t a jungle gym—though your child may beg to differ. Set firm, friendly rules:

• No jumping or rough play.
• Always use the ladder (no Batman-style leaps!).
• No dangling limbs over the edge.

Consider adding a lamp or clip light near the ladder for safe late-night trips down. And remind guests or visiting cousins of the rules too—safety is a team effort.

Why Choose Strictly Beds and Bunks?

We’re more than just a manufacturer—we’re a UK business that takes pride in every joint, slat, and screw. Here’s why thousands of families trust us:
Born in 2002 with the mission to make quality pine bunk beds without the faff.

• ✅ UK-made, heavy-duty wooden bunk beds, built from solid sustainable timber.
• ✅ Fully compliant with BS EN747:2019 Part 1 & 2 safety standards.
• ✅ Inclusive of vital safety features: strong guardrails, stable ladders, and wall brackets.
• ✅ Committed to giving back through our recycling and donation scheme.
• ✅ Backed by expert customer service and aftersales help.

Safety, style, and sustainability—all under one roof. Ready to bunk up with the best? Explore our pine bunk beds today.