Much like your couch or your favorite chair, the mattress you choose for your bed reveals a lot about your personality and philosophy. Most of the time, for instance, you probably already have a certain firmness and softness in mind that you think would be able to give you the comfort you are yearning for, that much-coveted sweet spot, in short. The challenge lies in the fact that there are a lot of factors to consider for this, besides your personal preferences, of course. And a bunk bed mattress is certainly no difference.
Are you one of the many who have a lot of questions regarding what makes a good mattress for bunk beds? Do you want to know the best beds for boys? You may have already decided to opt for a bunk bed but need more details about, for instance, the kind of mattress that you will use for it. Well, regardless of your current problem or query, this post will seek to answer every essential bunk bed mattress question you may have as well as provide a couple of tips about these kinds of beds in general.
Is There a Difference between a Bunk Bed Mattress and a Twin One?
This is a question that gets thrown around a lot because most people think that bunk beds are essentially twin beds that simply save space by incorporating another twin bed on top. Well, it is important to highlight that not all bunk beds have a similar design. Variations exist like a bunk bed with futon bottom or bunk beds that have a twin bed above but a full-sized bed or twin XL below. These inevitably dictate the type of mattress you need to purchase for each bed.
Take note that it is more common for bunk beds to feature double twin beds, though. That being said, you need not worry about buying separate mattresses for such types of bunk beds. On average, a twin mattress measures 39 x 75 inches. It is always important to make sure that mattress fits the frame of the bed to a tee; otherwise, you might be exposed to the usual risks involved in bunk beds.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Right Mattress Thickness for Bunk Beds
Another fundamental aspect of being mindful of is mattress thickness. You have to be aware beforehand, though, that weight plays an essential role in determining this. If you want the mattress to offer better overall comfort and support then going for thicker mattresses is a no-brainer. As far as the range of thickness goes, most twin beds don’t exceed 12 inches and don’t fall below the 7.5 inches mark.
But when considering the top bed, there are guidelines that usually assert that its mattress should not be thicker than 7 inches. This is because it might already exceed the height of the bed’s rails. But, in the end, this still depends a lot on how high its guardrails are. To ensure safety, leave as much space for the sleeper to be accommodated in the bed and be confined by the guardrails.
Bunkie Boards and Box Springs for Bunk Beds
A lot of people are also curious about the benefits of Bunkie boards and box springs for bunk beds. Do you really need to add them every time? And are they any different from each other? Well, as for the matter of necessity, it can be argued that Bunkie boards play a much larger role, particularly in the modern settings of today’s bedrooms.
Boys beds or kids beds can definitely benefit a lot from Bunkie boards because they help save a lot of space. There is also denying the fact that they give plenty of sturdy support to the bed to accommodate more weight. Most types of modern mattresses even call for Bunkie boards because of the said benefit alone.
While box springs may be considered obsolete, they may still work great for bunk beds that use any other kind of mattress beside a foam one. This is because they also provide essential support. If you prefer a spring mattress, then you should not hesitate to integrate box springs in your bed.
What Types of Specialty Mattresses Fit Bunk Beds?
Most people encounter scenarios that force them to rely on mattresses available on hand that they think they can use on their bunk beds. Or you might simply just prefer that type of mattress and want to use it on a bunk bed. Whether it is an air mattress or a memory foam mattress, keep these guidelines in mind before you decide to set that mattress:
- Air mattresses
While it is not recommended to make air mattresses a permanent feature of a bunk bed, it is still safe to use them as long as they fit the bed’s frame. However, you have to be very careful of things that might cause the air mattress to be torn or ripped up.
Some bunk beds have inner metal springs, for instance, or have solid parts that might be too risky to place near a fully inflated air mattress. Of course, there is also the inherent risk when placing it on the top portion of the bunk bed. It is for these reasons why air mattresses should not be considered for bunk beds.
- Memory foam mattress
Memory foam mattresses have since become a staple in most types of beds because of their undeniable benefits, and the same rings true for bunk beds. As long as the memory foam you are using is not too high, they will be suitable for any kind of bunk bed whether they’re boy beds, teen beds, a bunk bed with futon, or any other variation.
Gold Bond Overnighter Cotton Futon Mattress Highlights
Brand: Gold Bond
Mattress Firmness: Medium Soft/4.5
Mattress Construction Type: Cotton+ Polycotton
Mattress Thickness: 3''
Compatible for Bed Frame Size: Cot
Mattress Sleep Trial Time: 30 nights
Warranty: 5 years
Delivery: Free shipping and returns
Perfect For: Side,Back sleeper
Customer Rating: 4.0/5.0
Classic Brands Classic Futon Mattress Highlights
Brand: Classic Brands
Mattress Firmness: Medium Soft/5
Mattress Construction Type: Foam and encased coils
Mattress Thickness: 8"
Compatible for Bed Frame Size: Full
Mattress Sleep Trial Time: No Trial
Warranty: 25 years
Delivery: Free shipping and returns
Perfect For: Side, Stomach sleeper
Customer Rating: 4.1/5.0
Choose the Best Mattresses for Bunk Beds
Spring and memory foam mattresses make a great bunk bed mattress. Each one has its own features and benefits. The former is the standard choice that provides varying comfort levels, which can suit most people’s preferences. It is also the recommended choice for kids and parents who want to ensure the safety of their bunk beds. Otherwise, if you simply like the inimitable feeling of sinking into a cloud that can only be provided by a memory foam mattress, then, by all means go, for it.