To most children, bunk beds become the new fort, castle, or house that they will play in all day long; however, using bunk beds can also result in band-aids, bruises, and tears. To keep everyone happy and safe, we have created this bunk bed safety guide to remind children and adults alike of the rules that go with owning a bunk bed. Even if your bunk bed purchase is not for children, the tips shared here are still an important and valuable part of owning a bunk bed.

Let's Start with Some General Safety Tips!

• Children under 6 years of age should not be allowed on the top bunk
• Do not use water or sleep flotation mattresses with your bunk bed
• Prohibit jumping and general horseplay on or under the bunk bed (Sorry, kids!)
• Periodically check the bunk bed to ensure that all hardware is tightened and in its proper position, and that the bunk bed in generally free from damage
• Do not use any substitute hardware or parts.

More Detailed Guidelines

• Mattresses: Please use only standard mattresses on the upper bunk. By law, manufacturers must label bunk beds with information on the appropriate size mattress to be used with their bunk bed. Follow these instructions to prevent entrapment or injury. On the top bunk, ensure that the mattress and foundation do not exceed 8" and that there is at least 5" of space between the top of the mattress and the top of the guardrails. Again, please do not use any type of water or sleep flotation mattress with your bunk bed.
• Guardrails: Guardrails are included on bunk beds for everyone's safety. Whether a child or adult is sleeping on the top bunk, always use guardrails on the long sides of the top bunk. Even if you are placing the bunk bed against a wall, use the full-length guardrail on the top bunk to ensure no one gets trapped between the bunk and the wall. Again, please do not use any substitute parts.
• Top Bunk Safety: Always use the ladder for getting into, and out of, the top bunk. Do not allow more than one person on the top bunk at a time. Young children, (under 6 years of age) should not be allowed on the top bunk. A night light may be especially helpful for children who get up in the middle of the night and need to get down from the top bunk. The maximum weight capacity for top bunks is provided by the manufacturer. Do not exceed the manufacturer’s maximum weight capacity. Again, please check your bunk bed from time to time to make sure that it is free from damage, and that all hardware is tightened and in working condition.
• Finally, one of the most important safety guidelines for bunk beds: To prevent strangulation, never attach or hang anything to the bunk bed that is not designed for use with the bunk bed. Examples would be jump ropes, belts, or any type of hooks.