The Pros and Cons of Staircases and Ladders for Bunk and Loft Beds
Key Takeaways:
- Choose your child's climbing method based on their bedroom space, age, and comfort.
- Maxtrix offers three types of climbing methods: straight ladders, angled ladders, and staircases.
- Straight ladders save the most bedroom space, angled ladders are great in-between for growing sleepers, and staircases are best for younger kids.
Choosing Your Child's Climbing Method
How do you want your child to get up to the top bunk? If you've been researching loft beds or bunk beds, you know there are quite a few climbing options. Let's start with some facts about beds with straight ladders, angled ladders, and stairs.
For ladders, the most commonly used version is a straight ladder, which usually connects directly to the bed. An angled ladder sticks out into the room and should be sold with a safety rail. Staircases are usually attached next to the bed, in effect making the bed longer, and enabling access through the footboard of the bed.
Three Tips for Selecting a Ladder or Staircase
Now that you are considering both beds with ladders and beds with stairs, here are three tips that will help you make your selection for your kid's bedroom.
1. Space
Possibly the most important consideration... A straight ladder bed is usually the most space-saving option, and a staircase can take up the most room.
But it all depends. If you have a long and narrow room, a staircase can be a great idea, as it usually does not protrude at all from the bed. An angled ladder will protrude further into the room, but in many cases, you can decide where to attach the ladder to the bed in order to minimize any impact on space utilization.
Our newest design option allows you to move the straight ladder to the bed end. This is a minimalistic look designed with tweens in mind.
Storage Stairs
But don’t forget that a staircase offers extra storage, which can save space elsewhere. Maxtrix steps double as easily accessible storage drawers. So you can eliminate an additional piece of furniture, like a dresser, and use the staircase steps instead.
Ladder Placement
In the case of Maxtrix®, all of our ladders can be attached pretty much anywhere you would like to have them – on the left, on the right, or even coming out from the head or footboards. And, you can always change your mind and change the configuration later! Here's a good visual of the different entry options for two of our best-selling Maxtrix twin-over-full bunk beds.
2. Safety
While getting to the top bunk may not seem like a particularly dangerous undertaking, slips and falls can happen and should be avoided at all costs.
Safe Staircases
The safest option out there is a staircase, as it not only provides the largest surface to step on, but it also has a built-in sturdy handrail. Since it is connected to the end of the bed, your child will literally be covered on both sides while entering the bed. Shop beds with stairs.
Safe Ladders
The angled ladder is another good option if you are concerned about safety – the angle makes climbing up easier and less treacherous, especially for younger children. And, the added safety rail on one side usually gives enough support to avoid any major accidents. Be sure to look for wide steps in the ladders, grooves on the steps to avoid slippage, and a sturdy handrail that is comfortable to hold on to.
Straight ladders are the most affordable option. To ensure you choose a safe one, be careful that the steps are wide enough to provide a good hold and are grooved to prevent slippage.
3. Comfort
If you have ever tried to climb a rope-ladder with bare feet, you know how uncomfortable it can be not to have enough support for the soles of your feet while climbing! As it’s highly likely your child will be climbing into bed with bare feet at least some of the time, the size of the ladder steps really do make a difference.
Easy Climbing For Kids and Adults
For adults, often overlooked is the need for YOU to climb up there to change the sheets or read a bedtime story.
So, while your child may be perfectly fine with thin ladder steps, you may find the weekly trip up there is a little more challenging than you imagined. Again, the most comfortable option for everybody involved is the bunk bed with stairs, as the added space and support make climbing up on the top bunk easy and super-safe.
Design Your Bunk Bed or Loft Bed with Stairs or Ladders
Did this help you make your selection? If you have questions about ladders or stairs, please ask away in the comment section or contact our staff. We're happy to help!
FAQ:
Are stairs or ladders better for bunk beds?
The best bunk bed entrance depends on your child’s age, comfort level, and bedroom layout. Straight ladders save the most floor space, angled ladders offer a more gradual climb, and staircases provide wide steps and a built-in handrail for added support.
Are bunk beds with stairs safer than bunk beds with ladders?
Bunk beds with stairs generally provide the easiest and most supported climb because they feature wider steps and a sturdy handrail. This can make staircases a comfortable choice for younger children, nighttime trips, and parents who need to reach the top bunk.
What is the most space-saving ladder for a bunk bed?
A straight ladder is usually the most space-saving option because it attaches directly to the bed and requires little or no additional floor space. Straight ladder bunk beds and loft beds are especially helpful in small or narrow bedrooms.
What is the difference between a straight ladder and an angled ladder?
A straight ladder sits vertically against the bunk or loft bed, while an angled ladder extends outward into the room. Angled ladders create a more gradual climb and often include a safety rail, but they require more open floor space than straight ladders.
Are angled ladders easier to climb?
Yes. The slanted design of an angled ladder creates a more gradual climbing path than a straight ladder. This can make it a comfortable in-between option for growing children who do not need a full staircase but prefer more support while climbing.
Can the ladder or staircase be placed on either side of the bed?
Placement options depend on the bed design. Many Maxtrix ladders and staircases can be positioned on the left or right side, while select ladders can also be installed at the head or foot of the bed to better fit the room layout.
How do I choose between bunk bed stairs and a ladder?
Consider the available floor and wall space, your child’s age and climbing confidence, your storage needs, and how often an adult may need to reach the upper bed. Choose a straight ladder for maximum space savings, an angled ladder for a more gradual climb, or stairs for wide steps, extra support, and possible built-in storage.
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