Posted by Shane Cousins
on October 17, 2025
The short answer, detachable bunk beds are bunk beds that split, lifted off each other to then be used as standard single beds. If you are reading this, it can be assumed that you are looking for a space saving solution for either a guest room, holiday home or for your child's/children's bedroom. This quick guide will give you all you need to know about detachable bunk beds.
You may think that there must be a compromise for strength given the flexibility on offer with an bunk bed that splits. Keep reading for a quick overview as to how this isn't necessarily the case and how they fix together.
If you need assistance choosing your bunk bed, check out our complete guide to selecting the right bunk bed for you home.
Understanding Detachable Bunk Beds
How do detachable bunk beds go together? The main 2 assembly directions, bolted with an internal tube through the top and bottom bunks or by a thick dowel for wooden bunks. Both of these methods are the more popular methods and are incredibly secure.
Disassembling is also a simple process, by loosening the fixings, you can then simply lift the top bunk off of the bottom bunk creating 2 single beds in its place.
If you think only single bunk beds are detachable, you are wrong. Some quad bunk beds, such as our Langham Quad Bunk Bed, also have the ability to detach creating 2 double sized beds from the footprint of 1! Read on to discover how incredibly helpful this simple design can be.
Uses for a Detachable Bunk Bed
A split bunk bed has many uses, most of them can be attributed to the requirement for a space saving solution. Both domestically and commercially.
Domestic Uses Include:
- Bedroom Sharing: This is a great way to sleep 2 children within the same footprint as a single bed frame. If the view is to have separate bedrooms in the future, the split bunk bed acts as a great mediator before then.
- Guest Room: If you are someone who has guests staying the night regularly, if space is available you can effectively 'store' the bed in its bunk form and split the bed making a super king size frame for couples.
Commercial Uses Include:
- Holiday Homes: The bunk beds can be used as bunks for kids and children but then split into the super king size for couples and adult sleepers.
- Hostels: While the preference may be to keep the bunk beds, hostels can take advantage of the individual single bed set up when needed.
Conclusion
While bunk beds themselves are a fantastic space saving option, if they have the ability to detach from each other you have 2 single beds for a great price. The versatility of the split bunks cannot be understated especially when you regularly house different groups of guests. While single bunk beds are the standard, quad bunk beds must be a consideration if you require the space in your home or business.
See below for our detachable bunk beds FAQ's section for more insight.
FAQ: Detachable Bunk Beds
Quick answers to the most common questions
Can all bunk beds be separated into two singles?
No. Only models designed as detachable or split bunks can be separated safely. Always check the product description and assembly guide.
Are detachable bunk beds as strong as fixed ones?
Yes, provided they use sturdy materials and proper fasteners. Reinforced steel frames or solid wooden bunk with thick dowels and bolted joints perform exceptionally well.
Do they need special tools to split?
Usually not. Most designs separate with basic tools such as an Allen key and by reverse engineering the instructions.
Are detachable bunks suitable for adults?
Many reinforced models are suitable for adults. Always check the stated weight capacity per sleeper and the guard rail specifications.
Shane Cousins
Marketing Executive
Shane has been part of the Reinforced Beds team for over four years, bringing his BSc Honours degree together with a passion for helping customers find the right products. He enjoys creating buying guides and collection insights that simplify the decision-making process, while also keeping an eye on the latest bedroom and furniture trends. Beyond writing, he produces videos and media content that bring our products to life, giving customers a closer look at what makes them special.
