Bunk beds with stairs vs ladders: which is better?
The way up to the top bunk makes a bigger difference than most parents expect. It changes how much floor space the bed needs, how easy it is to climb at night and how much storage you get. Here's how staircase and ladder designs compare.
The short answer
A staircase bed is easier and steadier to climb, especially for younger children who have just moved up to the top bunk, and the steps often double as drawers. A ladder takes far less floor space and usually keeps the price and the footprint down. If you have the room, stairs win on comfort; if floor space is tight, a well-fixed ladder is the practical choice.
How staircase bunk beds work
Instead of a vertical or angled ladder, a staircase bed has a set of deep, flat treads at one end or side of the frame. Many designs build storage into the treads, with a drawer or cubby in each step, so the staircase earns its space. In our range, staircase designs include bunk beds, triple bunks, L-shaped bunks, mid sleepers and high sleepers, from brands such as Flair Furniture, Trasman and Parisot.
- Easier climbing: flat treads are kinder on bare feet than ladder rungs and let a child face forwards on the way down.
- Something to hold: most staircases have a handrail or a high side to hold on to.
- Built-in storage: step drawers are handy for pyjamas, books and toys.
- More floor space needed: a staircase adds length or width to the bed's footprint, so measure carefully.
How ladder bunk beds work
Ladders are either vertical (flat against the end or side of the bed) or angled (leaning out at the bottom). Vertical ladders take the least space but are the hardest to climb; angled ladders are a little easier and need a bit more room in front.
- Compact: a ladder adds little or nothing to the footprint, which suits box rooms and small shared bedrooms.
- Flexible: some ladders can be fitted on either side or end, which helps with awkward room layouts. Check the product details.
- Harder at night: rungs are narrower and steeper than stairs, so a night light near the bottom is a good idea.
Which suits your child?
Whatever the access, the upper bunk of any bunk bed isn't suitable for children under six, under the British and European standard for bunk beds and high beds (BS EN 747). For children who have just turned six, or who are a little nervous of heights, stairs tend to build confidence faster. Older children and teenagers usually manage a ladder easily.
Think about who climbs most often too. If a parent will be up and down the stairs to read stories or change bedding, stairs are much more comfortable for an adult as well.
Measuring up
- Note the bed's overall length and width including the staircase, which is shown in the product dimensions.
- Check which end or side the stairs sit on and whether they can be swapped. Some designs are fixed left or right.
- Leave clear floor at the bottom of the stairs or ladder, away from doors that swing open.
- Measure your ceiling height so whoever sleeps on top can sit up comfortably. Our guide to measuring for a high sleeper or bunk bed takes you through it.
Storage: the hidden bonus of stairs
Because staircase beds often include step drawers, they can replace a small chest of drawers in a shared room. If you choose a ladder bed, look at bunk beds with storage that add drawers underneath the bottom bunk instead.
Safety checks for either design
- Fit the stairs or ladder exactly as the instructions show and check the fixings regularly.
- Teach children to face the ladder when climbing down and to use the handrail on stairs.
- Keep the bottom of the steps clear of toys, and add a soft night light.
- Stay within the bed's maximum mattress depth so the guard rail stays effective. See our bunk bed safety checklist.
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Frequently asked questions
Are bunk beds with stairs safer than ladders?
Stairs are generally easier and steadier to climb, which many families prefer for younger children. Both designs are safe when assembled correctly and used as the manufacturer intends, and the top bunk isn't suitable for children under six.
Do staircase bunk beds take up more space?
Yes. The staircase adds to the bed's footprint, so check the overall dimensions on the product page and allow clear floor space at the bottom of the steps.
Can the stairs go on either side?
It depends on the design. Some staircase beds can be assembled with the stairs on the left or right, others are fixed. Check the product details before ordering.