When it comes to maximising space in a child's or a teenager's bedroom, vertical beds have become the go to solution for many parents. The options on the market are varied from Mid Sleeper Beds to towering High Sleeper Beds, and of course, the classic Bunk Beds that have been a staple for generations. 

Choosing between these bed styles can feel overwhelming, especially when you factor in age, appropriateness, built in storage, desk capacity and price. In this guide, we'll walk you through the differences, advantages, and drawbacks of Mid Sleeper Beds and High Sleeper Beds so you can make a better and more informed decision that works for your child, your home, and your budget. 

Understanding mid sleeper beds

A Mid Sleeper Beds sits higher than a standard bed but lower than a high sleeper, typically providing enough clearance underneath for a desk, drawers or a play area. The typical height ranges from 90cm to 120cm off the floor, making them an excellent transitional bed for children who have outgrown a toddler bed but are not yet ready for a High Sleeper Beds.

One of the biggest advantages of a Mid Sleeper Beds is accessibility. Because the bed is lower to the ground, younger children can climb in and out safely without the need for ladders or guardrails that are more critical in High Sleeper Beds. This makes mid sleeper beds ideal for children aged 4-10, depending on their confidence and mobility. While they may be designed for kids, some models can accommodate a teenager comfortably, particularly if your child is on the smaller size or the room is compact.

Another benefit is the integration of functional elements beneath the bed. Many Mid Sleeper Beds designs include built in desks, shelving or storage units, which means that even in a smaller bedroom, children have a dedicated study or play area without requiring additional floor space. Some beds also include a sofa element underneath, creating a reading nook or a relaxation spot. Because mid sleeper beds don't reach the heights of a High Sleeper Bed, the space underneath can feel more open and accessible, especially for younger children who enjoy their own play area.

From a price perspective, Mid Sleeper Beds are more affordable than high sleepers. They usually fall into the mid range of kids' beds pricing, offering a good balance between functionality, safety and cost. 

Understanding high sleeper beds

high sleeper beds take vertical design to the next level, especially in children's bedrooms, lifting the sleeping area high off the floor, creating maximum usable space beneath. These beds are perfect for rooms with limited floor space or for older children and teenagers who need a combination of study area, storage and personal space in one.

The main advantage of the high sleeper bed is its ability to create multifunctional living spaces beyond the side of the bed, which can accommodate a full size desk, drawers, shelving or even a small sofa area. For families with shared bedrooms, this verticality allows each child to have their own space for homework, hobbies, or relaxation without crowding the room with extra furniture. Some high sleeper beds even include integrated wardrobes or footcases, which make them a complete bedroom solution in a single footprint.

Some restrictions come with height. Most manufacturers recommend high sleeper beds only for children over six years old due to safety considerations. Guardrails are essential to prevent falls, and ladders must be sturdy and positioned correctly. Parents should also consider ceiling height. A High Sleeper Beds requires enough clearance so the child can sit upright comfortably on the mattress without bumping their head. Typically this is a minimum of 2.1 meters from the floor to the ceiling, as advisable.

High Sleeper Beds often cost more than Mid Sleeper Beds, largely because of the additional materials, engineering and safety features required to support the weight at such height. However, when considering the savings on separate furniture, desk drawers, shelves or even a corner sofa, the investment can be worthwhile, particularly for teenagers who need both study and personal space in one compact room. 

Bunk beds: The classic space saver

Of course, no discussion of vertical beds would be complete without bunk beds. Bunk beds have been a staple in children's rooms for decades, providing 2 sleeping areas in the footprint of a single bed. This makes them ideal for siblings sharing a room or for homes that need to accommodate occasional guests.

Traditional bunk beds are less about storage underneath and more about doubly the sleeping capacity. However, some modern designs combine mug beds with desk space or shelving, similar to Mid Sleeper Beds and High Sleeper Beds. One consideration is age. Top bunks are recommended for children aged 6 or older, and younger children should be supervised when using ladders. Safety regulations, particularly guardrails and leather stability, are essential when considering bunk beds.

From a financial perspective, bunk beds can be cost effective for families with multiple children. By combining 2 beds in one footprint, families save not just on mattresses but also on additional floor space which could be used for play areas or storage.

Height and safety considerations

Height is one of the main differences between Mid Sleeper Beds and High Sleeper Beds. Mid sleeper beds, being close to the floor, are safer for younger children and those less confident with ladders. High sleepers, while offering more under bed space, require careful consideration of guardrails and ceiling height.

It's also important to consider mattress depth. High sleeper beds should not have intensely deep mattresses, as this reduces the effectiveness of guardrails and increases the risk of falls. Most safety guidelines suggest the maximum mattress depth of 15cm for High Sleeper Beds, while  Mid Sleeper Beds can accommodate slightly deeper mattresses depending on their design. 

Desk, storage and multifunctional use

One of the biggest advantages of vertical beds is the ability to integrate other functional elements into a small room. Mid Sleeper Beds typically offer enough space for a desk, a small shelving unit, or even a play area beneath. This makes them ideal for younger children who need a space to play or do homework without adding extra furniture to the room.

High Sleeper Beds with desk expand on this concept, offering room for full size desks, storage drawers, bookcases, or even a small sofa underneath. This is particularly appealing for teenage beds, as older children often need dedicated study spaces and space to store clothes, books and hobbies.

Some designs even allow for corner sofa installations, creating a comfortable lounging area for reading or socialising with friends. For teenagers who value this personal space, this can be a major selling point. 

Price points: Getting the best value

Cost is always a consideration when choosing between a Mid Sleeper Bed or High Sleeper Beds, and Bunk Beds. 

• Mid Sleeper Beds are generally less expensive, providing functional storage or desk space without the need for extra reinforcement or taller guardrails. They offer good value for families with younger children who don't yet need full height storage solutions.
• High Sleeper Beds usually come at a premium due to their height, additional safety features, and the ability to support larger integrated furniture like desks and drawers underneath. 
• Bunk Beds can also provide savings when you need to accommodate multiple children in a single room. By combining sleeping areas, bunk beds reduce the need for multiple mattresses, frames, and floor space. 

Who should choose which bed?

Mid Sleeper Beds are perfect for young children, typically aged 4-10, who need a safe, accessible bed that also creates room underneath for a desk of storage or play area. They are ideal for smaller rooms or parents looking for a practical first grown up bed for their child.

High Sleeper Beds are better suited for older children and teenagers, especially those in need of study spaces, storage or a small lounge area. They work well in rooms where spaces are limited, and ceiling height allows for safe use. 

Bunk Beds are ideal for sibling sharing, and sleepovers for homes accommodating multiple children in one room are a priority. They are most effective for children over six years old, though many families opt for them for older children as well. 

Making the right vertical bed choice.

Choosing between a Mid Sleeper Bed, High Sleeper Bed, or Bunk Beds ultimately depends on the age, needs and maturity of your child, as well as the available room space and budget. You know that mid sleeper beds offer a safe and accessible solution for younger children, while High Sleeper Beds provide maximum versatility. Bunk Beds remain a timeless solution for sharing rooms or accommodating multiple children.

When choosing, consider your child's age, ability to safely climb a ladder, the room ceiling height, and the kind of functional space you need under the bed. Factor in price points, potential savings on separate furniture, and whether integrated storage or a desk is required.

By understanding all of the unique features and practical advantages of every bed style, you can confidently select the best vertical bed for your child, ensuring safety, comfort, and maximum space savings for years to come.