Best Loft Beds of 2021 - Top Picks & Buyers Guide

Often confused with a bunk bed, a loft bed is similar to a bunk bed in design but has one missing component: no bottom bunk. Instead, a loft bed is a raised bed that’s supported by sturdy posts and has open space underneath it. Space underneath is often used for a desk, reading nook, living space, or storage and sometimes left as open floor area in especially small studios and bedrooms. 

Loft beds make the most of the existing space, but they’re also a fun, alternative option to a traditional floor bed. When selecting the best loft bed for your space, cost, ceiling height, style, and many other factors should be taken into consideration. In this article, we’re sharing the best loft beds available and a buyer’s guide to selecting the best loft bed for you. We cover shopping considerations, types of loft beds available, and tips for making a purchase you’ll be happy with for years to come.

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Best Loft Beds

• Pottery Barn Waverly Loft Bed: Editor’s Pick
• DHP Full Metal Loft Bed with Ladder: Runner-Up
• Walker Edison Twin Metal Loft Bed: Best Value
• Francis Loft & Bunks Queen Size Loft Bed: Best Queen Size Loft Bed
• Pottery Barn Teen Sleep and Study Loft: Best for Teenagers
• IKEA STORÅ Loft Bed Frame: Best for Adults

Loft Bed Buying Guide

One common denominator among individuals shopping for a loft bed is the need to save space. Beyond this, however, loft bed shoppers have unique needs. For children, there may be a desire to free up extra play space. For teens, a “cool” look with a desk to do homework may be in the cards. For adults, other considerations come into play, like weight capacity, under-bed clearance (for standing or lounging), and style.

Whatever your age and reason for seeking out a loft bed, you’ll find the buying guide below helpful. Read on to learn more about the types of loft beds available and important buying considerations to ensure you’re happy with your purchase.

Types of Loft Beds

• Traditional Loft Bed—Classic loft beds are constructed with a top bunk and open space below.
• Loft Bed with Built-In Desk—Built-in workstations are an additional feature that can include a desk, drawers, shelving, and slide-out keyboard trays.
• Loft Bed with Built-In Storage—Loft beds with storage have shelving, cabinets, or drawers and save more space.
• Loft Beds for Children—Loft beds for children have playful design elements, like reading nooks, playhouses, treehouse designs, and slides.

Considerations

• Materials and Durability—Most loft beds are constructed from metal, wood, or a combination of the two materials. Metal loft beds offer a modern, industrial look whereas wooden loft beds appear rustic and traditional. Keep in mind that metal materials are often coated with a powder-finish that resists scratches, chipping, and rust.
• Guardrail Length—Perhaps the most important feature to consider when purchasing a loft bed for a child or teen, a guardrail can be on one side, both sides, or neither side of a loft bed. Full-length, double guardrails are recommended for children and sleepers of all ages who move frequently throughout the night.
• Style and Size—Loft beds are available in many sizes, colors, and styles. More expensive designs even have playhouses, swings, and other fun additions to the under-bed space.
• Price—The price of the loft bed you select will depend mostly upon its size and the material used in its construction. However, some brand names, like Pottery Barn, will cost more regardless of the make and model. In general, children’s loft beds cost $150 to $500 and adult loft beds cost $300 to $800.
• Space-Saving Bed Alternatives—If you aren’t sold on a loft bed, remember that there are many other space-saving sleeping surfaces available. For example, sleeper sofas, bunk beds, and trundle beds each offer unique ways to create extra space.

How to Pick the Right Loft Bed

A loft bed features a raised bed frame elevated by posts and offers under-bed clearance that can be useful for a variety of ages. For example, children can use the under-bed space as a playspace. Teens may find loft beds with desks most functional, as they can sleep up top and do their homework, hobbies, and lounging underneath. Adults who live in small apartments or studios will love loft beds as they provide added square footage for a bike, a lounge area with a sofa and a TV, or a desk. 

Regardless of your age, lifestyle, style preferences, or personal needs, loft beds are offered in such a vast variety of sizes, styles, and price points that we’re sure there’s something out there you’ll love. Our list of the best loft beds available should get you started as you seek to carve out additional space in your child’s room, your dorm room, your teen’s room, or your apartment, and we recommend reviewing the buying considerations from the buyer’s guide to refresh yourself about prices, styles, constructions, and materials prior to making a purchase.