What Kind of Bed Should I Buy for My Teen?

The most popular size for a teen’s bed is the twin or single bed. Twin beds, also known as single beds, are 39” wide and 75” long. Standard twin beds come in a wide range of styles and materials, like metal, wood veneers, solid pine, laminates and medium density fiber board. The twin X-long or extra long single bed is the same width as the twin but is 5” longer and might be better suited for a teen’s room because of the additional length.

Your teen might be anxious to get rid of the “baby” bed and be ready for an upgrade. The double bed, also known as a full bed, is 54” wide and 75” in length. It is a popular choice for someone who wants more sleeping space. When buying a double bed or headboard, note that many of them will be able to accommodate a queen mattress. If space is limited but your teen still wants a double size mattress, consider selecting a platform bed that includes storage options.

A common choice when decorating a small or shared bedroom, the bunk bed is basically two beds stacked one on top of the other. Utilizing space vertically rather than horizontally, this creates more room for a computer desk or an extra chest of drawers. Supported by four poles at each corner of the bed, the top bunk is typically accessed by a ladder and is either fully or semi enclosed by railings to prevent the occupant from falling out of bed. Most styles of bunk beds can be converted into two free standing beds, allowing your teen more decorating options.

A variation on the bunk bed, the loft bed is essentially the top bunk only, providing free space beneath the bed for a study area or anything else within reason your teen might have in mind. Loft beds are available in a variety of configurations and materials, including storage drawers and cubbyholes, built-in or free standing desks. Combining the loft bed concept with the bunk bed, another version of the loft bed allows the bottom bunk to be free standing beneath the upper bunk, and might include a desk and optional storage.

The four poster bed is an enduring choice for a teen’s room. Depending on the style of the décor, they can be country charming, dramatically whimsical or comfortably sporty. They are characterized by four posts at each corner that are of equal or varying height. The most popular construction materials for four poster beds are wood or metal. Classic in style and elegant in design, a four poster can last through the early college years, simply by changing and updating the linens and the color scheme. Usually associated with more traditional furnishings, a poster bed can create a relaxed casual style.

Canopy beds can add a touch of elegance to a teen’s bedroom. The canopy bed is a four poster bed with a covering. Typically chosen to decorate girls’ rooms, a canopy bed can be the perfect focal point in any teen’s room, depending on the material and style. Canopies can be made of a variety of materials, even roped wire detailing; to soften the dramatic appearance of the four poster bed, select a fabric canopy with a border frill or one with draped swatches. A canopy frame can be added to most four poster beds where the posts of the bed are of equal height. When purchasing a canopy bed, check to see if the material is or is not included; some manufacturers will not include the material, allowing you the option to match it to your curtains, bedding and/or color scheme.

Sleigh beds are characterized by stylish, curving lines and a distinctive, romantic feel. The height of the headboard will determine how eye-catching the bed will be as a focal point; the taller the headboard/footboard, the more it will dominate the room. For decorating a teen’s bedroom, if you want the feel of a sleigh bed but would like to minimize its visual impact, select a shorter headboard.The most popular size for a teen’s bed is the twin or single bed. Twin beds, also known as single beds, are 39” wide and 75” long. Standard twin beds come in a wide range of styles and materials, like metal, wood veneers, solid pine, laminates and medium density fiber board. The twin X-long or extra long single bed is the same width as the twin but is 5” longer and might be better suited for a teen’s room because of the additional length.

A trundle bed, sometimes known as a pull-out bed, is essentially two beds in one. The second bed pulls out from underneath the first when needed and can be retracted when not in use. The majority of trundle beds are available in just twin size. Perfect for sleepovers or unexpected guests, a trundle bed is more convenient and manageable than an air mattress. When the extra bed is no longer needed, the trundle compartment of some models can be used as a storage area by removing the mattress.