Whether you are outfitting a shared kids' room, furnishing a first apartment, or turning a home office into a guest room without losing the desk, loft beds and bunk beds solve a problem no other furniture can: they give you usable floor space where a bed would otherwise consume it.
This guide covers every type of bunk and loft bed available in Canada, including IKEA options, metal vs wood construction, safety standards, and which mattress actually belongs on an elevated bed. If you are shopping for a bunk bed, loft bed, or both, this is the only page you need.
Bunk Beds vs Loft Beds: What Is the Difference?
A bunk bed stacks two (or three) sleeping surfaces vertically. You get two beds in the floor space of one. A loft bed elevates a single sleeping surface and leaves the area underneath completely open for a desk, sofa, dresser, or whatever you need. Think of a loft bed as a bunk bed with the bottom bunk removed.
Both serve the same core purpose, vertical space optimization, but they solve different problems. Bunk beds maximize sleeping capacity. Loft beds maximize functional living space.
Types of Bunk Beds
Standard Twin-Over-Twin
The classic bunk bed. Two twin mattresses (38" x 75") stacked vertically. Footprint: roughly 42" x 80". Best for kids who share a room and are close in age. Weight capacity varies from 150 lbs per bunk (basic metal) to 400+ lbs (solid hardwood). This is the most affordable and widely available configuration.
Twin-Over-Full
Twin mattress on top, full/double (54" x 75") on the bottom. A smart choice when siblings have a significant age or size gap, or when a parent occasionally sleeps in the room. The wider bottom bunk also works well as a reading nook or lounge area during the day.
Full-Over-Full
Two full-size mattresses stacked. Better for teenagers and adults who need more sleeping width. Requires more floor space (roughly 58" x 80") but provides genuinely comfortable sleep for two adults. Common in vacation homes and cottages.
L-Shaped Bunk Beds
The two bunks are arranged perpendicular to each other, forming an L. This creates an open corner underneath the top bunk that works as a desk area or storage nook. L-shaped bunks fit room corners naturally and feel less imposing than standard vertical stacks.
Triple Bunk Beds
Three sleeping surfaces in one unit. Configurations include three bunks stacked vertically (tall), or an L-shaped arrangement with two on one side and one perpendicular. Ideal for families with three children in one room or vacation properties maximizing guest capacity. Ceiling height is critical, you need at least 9 feet for a stacked triple.
Types of Loft Beds
Standard Loft Bed
Elevated sleeping platform with completely open space underneath. The most versatile option, you decide what goes below. Available in twin, full, and even queen sizes for adults. Most standard loft beds elevate the mattress 50 to 70 inches off the floor.
Loft Bed with Desk
A built-in desk surface fills the area under the sleeping platform. This is the most popular loft bed configuration for students and work-from-home setups. Some include shelving, drawers, or a corkboard. A typical loft-with-desk unit provides 4 to 6 feet of desktop surface, enough for a monitor, keyboard, and study materials.
Loft Bed with Sofa or Futon
A sofa or futon sits under the sleeping platform, doubling the room's function as both a bedroom and a living space. Particularly popular in bachelor apartments and studio condos. Some models feature a futon that converts to a second bed for guests.
Low Loft Bed
Elevated just 3 to 4 feet off the floor, creating a shorter under-bed area suited for toy storage, a reading nook, or a play tent for younger children. Safer for kids aged 6 to 10 who may not be ready for a full-height loft. Most low lofts use a twin mattress.
Adult Loft Beds
Designed for heavier loads (400 to 2,000 lbs depending on construction) with queen or full-size mattress platforms. Companies like ESS Universal, Francis Lofts, and Scanica build loft beds specifically for adults, with thicker support beams, higher weight ratings, and a less child-like aesthetic. These are increasingly popular in Canadian condos where average unit sizes have dropped below 700 square feet.
Metal Frame vs Wood: Which Is Better?
| Feature | Metal Frame | Solid Wood |
|---|---|---|
| Weight capacity | 150-300 lbs per bunk | 250-2,000 lbs per bunk |
| Durability | 5-10 years | 15-30+ years |
| Noise | Squeaks and creaks over time | Quieter, more rigid joints |
| Price range (CAD) | $150-$500 | $400-$2,000+ |
| Style | Modern, industrial, minimalist | Warm, traditional, versatile |
| Assembly | Usually easier, lighter | Heavier, more hardware |
| Best for | Budget, dorms, temporary setups | Permanence, adults, heavy use |
Bottom line: Metal frames win on price and ease of assembly. Solid wood wins on durability, weight capacity, noise reduction, and long-term value. For adult loft beds or heavy daily use, wood is worth the investment. For a kids' guest room or a temporary dorm setup, metal gets the job done at half the cost.
Avoid engineered wood (MDF/particle board) for load-bearing bunk bed components. It is fine for decorative panels, shelving, and desk surfaces, but the structural frame should be solid wood or metal.
IKEA Bunk Beds and Loft Beds in Canada
IKEA offers the most accessible entry-level bunk and loft beds in Canada. Here is what is currently available.
| Model | Type | Price (CAD) | Material | Weight Limit | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TUFFING | Twin-over-twin bunk | ~$230 | Steel | 220 lbs/bunk | Budget kids' bunk |
| MYDAL | Twin-over-twin bunk | ~$350 | Solid pine | 220 lbs/bunk | Hackable wooden bunk |
| VITVAL | Loft bed with desk | ~$400 | Steel | 220 lbs | Student loft with workspace |
| KURA | Reversible bunk/loft | ~$300 | Pine + panels | 220 lbs/bunk | Young kids (can flip high/low) |
| SMASTAD | Loft bed with storage | ~$600+ | Steel + panels | 220 lbs | Integrated wardrobe/desk |
The IKEA limitation: All IKEA bunk and loft beds max out at 220 lbs (100 kg) per sleeping surface. This is fine for children and lighter teenagers but insufficient for most adults. If you are over 180 lbs, look beyond IKEA.
The MYDAL hack: IKEA's MYDAL is one of the most "hacked" pieces of furniture on the internet. Its simple solid pine construction makes it easy to paint, stain, add curtains, attach shelving, or convert the bottom bunk into a desk area. Search "MYDAL hack" for thousands of creative modifications.
Where to Buy Loft Beds in Canada
| Retailer | Price Range (CAD) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| IKEA | $230-$600+ | Cheapest entry point, limited weight capacity |
| Wayfair.ca | $300-$2,500 | Largest selection, frequent sales, many styles |
| Amazon.ca | $200-$1,500 | Fast shipping, user reviews, hit-or-miss quality |
| Costco.ca | $400-$1,200 | Good value on solid wood, seasonal availability |
| Leon's | $500-$2,000 | Canadian retailer, in-store viewing, delivery |
| Canadian Tire | $300-$800 | Metal frames, budget-friendly, seasonal |
| Bunk Beds Canada | $800-$2,500+ | Specialty, solid wood, custom, highest weight caps |
| Scanica | $600-$2,000 | Scandinavian design, solid wood, adult loft beds |
Safety Standards You Need to Know
Bunk bed safety is not optional. Health Canada reports over 300 children are injured in bunk bed accidents annually. Here are the standards that matter.
- Guardrails on both sides of the upper bunk, with openings no wider than 3.5 inches (entrapment hazard)
- Guardrail height: At least 5 inches (127 mm) above the top of the mattress surface
- No child under 6 should sleep on the top bunk (Health Canada recommendation)
- Mattress foundation: Must be structurally sound with no gaps larger than 3.5 inches where a child could get trapped
- Ladder: Must be permanently attached and provide stable access
Important: Canada does not have mandatory federal regulations for bunk beds, the ASTM F1427 standard is voluntary. Always verify that any bunk bed you purchase explicitly states ASTM F1427 compliance.
Choosing the Right Mattress for a Bunk or Loft Bed
The mattress is where most bunk bed buyers make mistakes. Standard bedroom mattresses are often too thick, too heavy, or the wrong type for elevated beds.
Thickness Limits
The 5-inch rule: Your mattress must be thin enough that at least 5 inches of guardrail extends above its surface. If your guardrails are 13 inches from the bed frame, your maximum mattress thickness is 8 inches. For most bunk beds, this means 6 to 8 inches is the safe range. Measure your guardrails before buying.
Memory Foam vs Innerspring for Bunks
Memory foam is generally the better choice for bunk beds. It is lighter (easier to lift onto the top bunk), quieter (no spring noise when the sleeper moves), and available in thin profiles (6 inches) that still provide good comfort. Innerspring mattresses need at least 8 inches for adequate coil turns, which cuts into guardrail clearance on many bunk beds.
Standard Bunk Mattress Sizes
| Size | Dimensions | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Twin | 38" x 75" | Most bunk beds, kids through teens |
| Twin XL | 38" x 80" | Taller teens and adults (5 inches longer) |
| Full | 54" x 75" | Bottom bunks, twin-over-full configs |
Critical Rules
Never use a box spring on a bunk bed. Bunk beds use a slat system or a solid platform, adding a box spring raises the mattress dangerously above guardrails and adds unnecessary weight and height. This is the most common safety mistake buyers make.
At Mattress Miracle, we carry twin and twin XL mattresses in 6-inch and 8-inch profiles that are specifically suited for bunk and loft beds. Stop by our Brantford showroom and we will help you find the right thickness for your specific bed frame.
Space-Saving Benefits: How Much Room Do You Actually Gain?
A standard twin bed footprint is roughly 23 square feet (38" x 75"). A loft bed reclaims that entire area as usable floor space, enough for a full desk setup, a small sofa, a dresser, or a play area. In a 120-square-foot bedroom, that is a 19% increase in usable space.
A bunk bed achieves a different kind of savings: two sleeping surfaces in 23 square feet instead of 46. In a shared kids' room, this can mean the difference between having space for a play area or not.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age is appropriate for a bunk bed?
Health Canada recommends that children under 6 years old should not sleep on the top bunk. The lower bunk is safe for younger children as long as guardrails are in place to prevent rolling. Most bunk bed manufacturers also specify a minimum age of 6 for the top bunk in their safety guidelines. For loft beds (where the only sleeping surface is elevated), the same age-6 minimum applies.
Can adults use loft beds?
Yes, but you need a loft bed designed for adult weight. IKEA models max out at 220 lbs (100 kg), which is insufficient for many adults. Look for solid wood or heavy-duty steel loft beds rated for 400 lbs or more. Companies like ESS Universal, Francis Lofts, Scanica, and Bunk Beds Canada build adult-rated loft beds with weight capacities from 400 to 2,000 lbs. Expect to pay $600 to $2,500 CAD for a quality adult loft bed.
How thick should a bunk bed mattress be?
Most bunk beds require a mattress between 6 and 8 inches thick. The guardrail must extend at least 5 inches above the top of the mattress for safety (ASTM F1427 standard). Measure from the slat or platform surface to the top of the guardrail, then subtract 5 inches, that is your maximum mattress thickness. Never use a box spring on a bunk bed, as it raises the sleeping surface above safe guardrail height.
Are IKEA bunk beds good quality?
IKEA bunk beds are good value for kids but have limitations. The MYDAL (solid pine, ~$350 CAD) is the best quality option and is highly popular for DIY modifications. The TUFFING (~$230 CAD) is the most affordable steel bunk in Canada. However, all IKEA bunks max out at 220 lbs per sleeping surface, which limits their use for heavier teenagers and adults. For long-term adult use, invest in a dedicated furniture brand with higher weight ratings.
Where can I buy a loft bed in Canada?
IKEA offers the cheapest options starting at $230 CAD. Wayfair.ca has the largest selection with frequent sales ($300 to $2,500). Amazon.ca offers fast shipping and many brands. For premium solid wood options, check Bunk Beds Canada, Scanica, and Costco.ca (seasonal availability). Leon's and Canadian Tire also carry bunk and loft beds in their furniture departments. For adult loft beds rated above 400 lbs, specialty retailers like ESS Universal and Scanica are the best options.
Is a metal or wood bunk bed better?
Solid wood bunk beds are better for durability, weight capacity, and noise reduction. They last 15 to 30 years compared to 5 to 10 for metal, support up to 2,000 lbs versus 300 lbs for metal, and do not develop the squeaks and creaks common with metal joints. Metal bunk beds win on price ($150 to $500 CAD vs $400 to $2,000+ for wood) and are lighter for assembly. Choose metal for budget or temporary setups; choose wood for long-term investment.
Do bunk beds need special mattresses?
Bunk beds do not need a branded "bunk bed mattress," but they do need a mattress that fits specific requirements: 6 to 8 inches thick (to maintain guardrail safety clearance), twin or twin XL size, and no box spring. Memory foam mattresses in 6-inch profiles work particularly well because they are light enough to lift onto the top bunk and thin enough for proper guardrail clearance. Most standard 10-inch or thicker mattresses are too tall for bunk bed safety compliance.
Visit Our Brantford Showroom
Try before you buy. Our sleep experts will help you find the perfect match for your needs and budget.
Mattress Miracle
441 1/2 West Street, Brantford, ON N3R 3V9
Phone: (519) 770-0001
Hours: Mon–Wed 10–6 | Thu–Fri 10–7 | Sat 10–5 | Sun 12–4
Sources
- ASTM International. (2021). ASTM F1427-21: Standard Consumer Safety Specification for Bunk Beds. astm.org/f1427-21.html
- Health Canada. (2024). Bunk Bed Safety. canada.ca
- Jacobson, B. H., Boolani, A., & Smith, D. B. (2009). Changes in back pain, sleep quality, and perceived stress after introduction of new bedding systems. Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, 8(1), 1-8. doi.org/10.1016/j.jcm.2008.09.002
- D'Souza, A. L., et al. (2008). Bunk bed injuries among children and adolescents in the United States. Pediatrics, 121(6), e1696-e1702. doi.org/10.1542/peds.2007-1975
Need a Mattress for Your Bunk or Loft Bed?
At Mattress Miracle, we carry twin, twin XL, and full mattresses in bunk-safe thicknesses (6 and 8 inches). We will measure your guardrail clearance and match you to the right mattress, no guesswork. Family-owned in Brantford since 1987.
Visit Mattress MiracleFrequently Asked Questions
What age is appropriate for a bunk bed?
Health Canada recommends children under 6 should not sleep on the top bunk. The lower bunk is safe for younger children with guardrails in place.
Can adults use loft beds?
Yes, but choose a loft bed rated for 400+ lbs. IKEA models max at 220 lbs. Solid wood or heavy-duty steel adult loft beds from ESS Universal, Scanica, or Bunk Beds Canada support 400-2,000 lbs.
How thick should a bunk bed mattress be?
6 to 8 inches. The guardrail must extend at least 5 inches above the mattress top for safety. Never use a box spring on a bunk bed.
Are IKEA bunk beds good quality?
Good value for kids but limited to 220 lbs per surface. The MYDAL (solid pine, ~$350) is the best IKEA bunk for durability and hackability.
Where can I buy a loft bed in Canada?
IKEA ($230+), Wayfair.ca ($300-$2,500), Amazon.ca, Costco.ca, Leon's, Canadian Tire, and specialty retailers like Bunk Beds Canada and Scanica.
Is a metal or wood bunk bed better?
Wood is better for durability, weight capacity, and noise. Metal is better for budget. Solid wood lasts 15-30 years; metal lasts 5-10.
Do bunk beds need special mattresses?
They need a mattress 6-8 inches thick with no box spring. Memory foam in 6-inch profiles works best -- light enough to lift and thin enough for guardrail clearance.