What is age appropriate for a bunk bed?

What Is the Age-Appropriate Limit for a Bunk Bed?

If you’re wondering at what age it’s safe for a child to use a bunk bed, you’re not alone — it’s one of the most common questions we receive at Strictly Beds and Bunks. As a UK-based manufacturer of heavy-duty pine bunk beds, we understand how important safety is when it comes to your children’s sleeping arrangements.

Let’s break down the facts, best practices, and official guidance so you can make an informed decision.

📜 The Official Standard: BS EN 747

In the UK, the safety of bunk beds is governed by the British Safety Standard BS EN 747:2015+A1:2015. This regulation outlines everything from the height of guard rails to the strength of the bed frame and ladder design. One of its clearest recommendations is this:

The upper bunk should not be used by children under the age of 6.

Why? Because falls from the top bunk can result in serious injuries, particularly for younger children who may not yet have the coordination or judgment to safely navigate a ladder — especially during the night.

🧸 Bottom Bunk? That’s a Different Story

While the top bunk has a clear age restriction, the bottom bunk is generally considered safe for younger children, including toddlers, as long as it’s used with suitable bedding and mattress height.

Some parents start children in the bottom bunk as early as 2–3 years old, especially when transitioning from a cot. It provides the comfort of a “grown-up” bed, while still being low enough to avoid injury if a child rolls out. Many of our low pine bunk beds are specifically designed with younger families in mind.

🧠 Developmental Readiness Matters

It’s not just about a child’s age — it’s also about their readiness. Ask yourself:

Can they safely climb up and down a ladder on their own?
Do they follow safety instructions and rules?
Are they likely to play or jump on the bed?

If the answer to any of these is “no,” it might be best to stick with the bottom bunk for a little longer. Every child is different, so use your judgement as a parent — you know them best.

🪜 Safety First: Our Design Priorities

At Strictly Beds and Bunks, safety is built into every design. Our UK-made pine bunk beds are crafted with:

Extra-high guard rails to prevent rolling out of the top bunk
Sturdy, fixed ladders with wide treads for confident climbing
Solid pine slats and frames to prevent collapse or sagging
Compliance with all aspects of the BS EN 747 safety standard

This makes them a great choice not just for children, but also for teenagers and adults — many of our customers use them in guest rooms, hostels, and student accommodation.

📏 Mattress Depth & Guard Rail Safety

A key detail that often gets overlooked: mattress thickness. The safety of the top bunk isn’t just about the child — it’s also about ensuring the mattress fits properly beneath the guard rail.

The British standard requires that the guard rail must sit at least 16cm above the top of the mattress. That’s why we design our bunk beds to safely accommodate a 20cm deep mattress, providing more comfort without compromising safety.

✅ So, What’s the Right Age?

Here’s the rule of thumb:

Top bunk: 6 years and up
Bottom bunk: Generally safe from 2–3 years, depending on the child
Teenagers & adults: Absolutely — especially with our reinforced pine bunk bed models

We’ve built beds for every stage of life — from little ones sharing a room, to teens needing more space, to grown-ups wanting extra beds for guests.

🛏️ Conclusion: Age-Appropriate, Safety-Focused

Bunk beds are a fantastic space-saving solution, but safety must always come first. By following the British safety guidelines, choosing a quality pine bunk bed made in the UK, and understanding your child’s readiness, you can make a decision that’s both safe and sensible.

At Strictly Beds and Bunks, we’re here to support families through every stage — with strong, safe, and reliable beds that are built to last.