A Small Loft Bed Makes a Great Choice For Kids' Rooms

A small loft bed can be a wonderful option for a child's bedroom as it lets them to use the space below for play or for studying. This West Elm choice has a sleek Mid-Century style and comes in two finishes.

It is a bit of a task to put together however, the instructions are clear and straightforward. This loft bed is suitable for mattresses that are 9 inches and less. Anything higher could extend beyond the safety guardrails.

Stores

It might seem unaffordable to utilize an elevated bed to increase storage space, but this can be extremely useful. For instance, rather than a large bookcase that takes up floor space the lofted bed could serve as one--and the sides can be used to create other uses like a reading area or display shelves. A lofted bed can also be utilized as a workstation that allows a child to create a workspace for homework or other tasks without taking up living space in a small room.

Many kids' loft beds come with a desk area beneath, but you can also add one to a regular loft bed by constructing it yourself or modifying the space underneath the bed with a few extra shelving and a built-in desk. For instance, this loft bed from Wayfair (shown in white) includes a desk that is tucked into the front of the bunk and a bookshelf with a ladder that doubles as the side rails. The bunk's simple design makes it perfect for any bedroom for a child and the rails that are slatted make it suitable for rooms with low ceilings.

Another alternative is to use the loft bed as dresser and this model from Ikea has an impressive quantity of storage space. The high sleeper loft bed bed comes in a variety finishes to match different styles of decor including modern and rustic. The bottom of the loft is home to two drawers, and the top opens to reveal additional storage space. This is a great option for those planning to convert their bedroom into a home office or for children who need plenty of space for toys and books.

If you have a child who is a reader, you could turn your loft into a little library by adding some shelves and a cozy bean bag chair for curling up with a good book. You can also create an adorable composition by adding small area rugs, a couple of chairs, a coffee table, and some boxes or baskets for storage.

A loft bed that is built into a playhouse is the perfect choice for a young child However, the design could still be appreciated by teens who might require a space to work in and study. This model from Kidkraft is a little less complicated to build than other models and comes with a set of plans that include step-by-step directions with pictures of cutting the pieces, assembling the bunk, and building the stairs. It also comes with an inventory of the tools and other materials you'll need to get started.

Space

The space created under the small loft beds can be as important as the bed itself. The extra space can be used as an office or an ideal sitting space. It could also be an opportunity to create a distinctive design statement in a small bedroom for adults, a child's room, or even a studio for teens.

Loft beds are a great way to give a room that has low ceilings a rustic, chic or industrial look. This bed, made by the Polish interior firm Home and Wood, has an elegant ladder that leads to a mattress set on the wooden platform. A simple chair, with a few accent pieces, completes the look.

If your ceilings are tall enough, a double loft bed with storage-style bed can be even bigger. Pottery Barn Waverly loft beds are for instance, and are available in two sizes and a variety of finish options. They also come with plenty of space under the bed to provide the most comfortable bed as well as more space. Another option that is great is this X-shaped bunk bed from DHP which comes with stairs that are staggered and slide for easy access and maximum safety.

The bottom portion of this loft bed with desk underneath; Home, bed could be used as a study space or playroom, with a mix of open cubbies and drawers for storage and a bench seat that doubles as a staircase to the top bed. This is a great choice for kids' bedrooms or for teen's rooms and it can be reconfigured as your children get older and out of it.

Many loft beds come with built-in shelves. This is particularly useful for homes with limited space or if you prefer to keep books and other items away from the floor. This space can be used to create a cozy reading space with a lamp, comfortable seating and a few comfy furniture. It's ideal for an adult or teen's bedroom.

A loft bed is also an ideal workstation for in a dorm. This Naomi Home loft bed with a desk pulls out has plenty of room for a desktop and laptop, plus shelves on both sides to store books, toys and other items.

Fun

You can make a loft bed enjoyable for your kids. It's not just about storage and space. A small slide underneath a loft single bed loft bunk can be an enjoyable way to add a bit of play to your child's space. It also permits a quick and simple descent from the top bunk. This DONCO kids' bed has a built in slide and ladder that is sure to please any child. It is possible to add it later if the child decides to take the easier route up.

If slides aren't the best fit for your child but you can still add a fun aspect to their loft bed by turning the bottom of the bed into a relaxing hangout space with a few chairs and rug. The cozy area can be used to read, relax, play games or watch TV with friends. It's an excellent way to keep the space clean and offer a nice place to gather.

Children can feel as if they're in their own castle when their loft is designed to look like an old-fashioned cabin with windows and a roof accent. You can also give the loft a unique appearance by using wallpapers, wall paints or stickers that resemble a forest the sky or any other outdoor feature. Your children will love to be able to retreat into their cozy cabin for playtime and sleepovers, especially on snowy days when they're not able to go out.

For a little extra design, you could change out a ladder for a fun spiral staircase. You can either buy one of these spiral staircases or make your own to create a small loftbed, as seen in the bedroom designs on HGTV. The staircase is designed with a beautiful design with an X-shape along the sides and can be redesigned as your children develop.

You can also build an office-style loft that has an office and storage underneath it for your kids to work on their homework or do any other task. You can find a variety of plans online for this kind of bed. Many are easy enough to construct by yourself, such as you see in this design from House of Wood. The plans include all instructions as well as a list of the materials and cuts required for each component. This loft bed can be made to fit a full-size mattress and also provides space beneath for an office or seating.

Safety

Loft and bunk beds are popular with children however, they carry dangers. Every year, bunk and loft beds are the cause of injuries to thousands of children, including head and neck injuries, broken bones, and cuts and scrapes. Many of these injuries could be prevented and avoided by implementing the right precautions.

The first step is to make sure the loft bed or bunk bed is properly positioned in the room. It should not be positioned against the wall, as this could result in children being stuck between the wall and the top of the bunk bed. Instead, leave a space of at least 3.5 inches between the bottom edge of the guard rail and the top of the mattress foundation.

When placing the bunk ensure that it is away from curtains, blinds and windows that might interfere with a child's vision or cause them to fall off. The bunk bed should not be placed near anything that could hang from the rails such as toys or cords.

A solid, sturdy frame is a must for any loft or bunk bed. Pick a frame made from durable materials such as metal or pine. Another option for a secure and comfortable bed is a slatted platform or frame. Bunk and loft beds with an solid platform or slats do not require a box spring, which is safer for toddlers.

Find a double loft bed with storage that has guardrails either side of the upper level, and a ladder that you are able to lock into place. Children younger than six years old shouldn't sleep on the top bunk. Make sure to warn children of the dangers by reminding them often. A night light placed on the top bunk may help children find their way down in the dark.

One other important safety measure is to use a loft safety net, that is attached to the corners of the single top bunk bunk to prevent children from falling off. The nets are available in a range of sizes and colors that will match any bedroom decor and are simple to set up.