Trundle Beds: Everything You Need to Know

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If you have a small room or don't want to buy a large piece of furniture, then consider trundle beds. They're known for their small size and ability to be folded away, making them ideal space-saving solutions.

In this article, you'll find everything you need to know to decide if trundle beds are right for you.

What is a Trundle Bed

A Trundle Bed is a bed frame that can be rolled up or folded up under another higher bed. Since trundles are frequently used in nurseries and children's bedrooms, it is helpful that they typically include casters, or connected wheels, to make transferring them simple and painless for most ages.

Pros of Trundle Beds

Space saving

Trundle beds provide two sleeping surfaces in the same space as a single bed, maximizing the use of available space.

A great solution for guests

Because they are easy to assemble and offer a cozy sleeping solution, trundle beds are ideal for guests who are spending the night or sleepovers.

Ideal if two kids are sharing the same room

Their capacity to unfold and provide an extra sleeping area renders them adaptable to diverse room arrangements, besides, kids love trundle beds for sleepovers because they provide a comfortable place to sleep.

Cons of Trundle beds

Not suitable for adults

Due to its lower height, trundle beds may be difficult for adults to get in and out of.

minimal support

A trundle bed's average weight limit is 250 pounds, which places restrictions on who may use it and how many people can sleep on it at once.

Durability

Trundle beds are not designed for daily usage. Their thinner mattresses have a lower support capacity and a shorter lifespan.

Types of Trundle Beds

Bunk beds

trundle bunk bed

In this model, a movable platform sits beneath the bottom bed in some variants. They're great for kid's bedrooms and dorm rooms because they can fit three or more people.

Sleigh beds

Compared to regular beds, trundle sleigh beds are taller. They can fit up to three people and often feature footboards and headboards.

Captain beds

trundle captain bed

Captain beds usually have drawers beneath the bed's lower portion. Some models have built-in shelves in the headboards.

Day beds

trundle day bed

A day bed has three sides rather than four, which makes it appropriate for children's bedrooms or compact living spaces. This bed's adaptable design allows it to also be used as a couch.

Pop-up trundle beds

Pop-up trundle beds can be elevated to the same height as the main bed, which broadens and maximizes the sleeping area with this model.

Who Should and Shouldn’t Get a Trundle Bed?

ShouldShouldn’t
You want some more sleeping space for when visitors stay over because your house does not have a guest room.If you live in a humid climate and you have a mattress that requires ventilation, trundle beds can block the air when it’s pushed in, which could ruin the mattress over time.
If your kids share the same room, you don't want to add an additional bed and limit the space in the bedroom.If you don’t want to go through the trouble of finding a unique mattress size for the bed's lowest portion.
If you just want to give your space a little more flair.If your bed isn’t high enough to make room for the trundle bed underneath it.

Essential Tips for Choosing the Perfect Trundle Bed

Size

When purchasing a trundle bed, the first thing you should think about is if your room can fit it. When choosing between a full bed or a twin bed, be sure to take into account the size of the bed when the trundle is extended in addition to the main bed frame.

Built-In vs. Add-On

Choose between purchasing a bed that already has a trundle connected or purchasing an add-on trundle for a bed that you already own. Selecting a bed that has a trundle built in is a fantastic way to be sure the bed and trundle will work together, but if you decide to purchase an add-on trundle, check sure it will slide out correctly and fit the bed you currently have.

Single Bed vs. Bunk Bed

if you enjoy having lots of friends around for sleepovers or if you have more than two children sharing a room, the best option to optimize sleep surfaces without taking up additional floor space is with a bunk bed and trundle, meanwhile, you should consider getting a single bed with a trundle if you need sleeping accommodation for two people.

Material

You may encounter a range of materials in your quest for the ideal trundle bed, including metal and upholstered beds, so you should do your research and find out which option will work with you and fit your needs the most.

FAQ

Can adults sleep on trundle beds?

Adults can use trundle beds for sleeping, although they are not recommended for the elderly and often only support 250 pounds.

Is a trundle bed suitable for everyday use?

For daily usage, a trundle bed isn't always the ideal option, however, it's perfect for last-minute sleepovers, as it offers a quick and easy sleeping solution for guests.

Are Trundle Beds Comfortable?

Even though Trundle bed offers a great sleeping solution, adults and those with back or knee issues could find trundle beds uncomfortable, as it might be difficult for them to get in and out of the bed because they are low to the ground.

Which is better Trundle Bed or Daybed?

Daybeds are limited to twin sizes and conserve room by resembling a loveseat when used as a bed. Trundles, on the other hand, come in twin and full sizes and provide two independent beds, one of which can be put below the other.

What Are Alternatives to a Trundle Bed?

How will I benefit from a Trundle Bed?

A trundle bed is a small, movable bed that is stored beneath the larger bed frame. During the day, you can conceal the additional mattress beneath the bed frame, but when it's needed, you may draw it out, which maximizes the space in your apartment or bedroom.

Do trundle beds pull all the way out?

Yes, a trundle bed can be pulled all the way out if the space ahead of it allows it to do so.

Conclusion

A trundle bed is a stylish and practical way to maximize space in tiny spaces or host overnight guests. These beds blend in seamlessly with home design, providing comfort and convenience without sacrificing elegance.

Make sure your purchase will last for many years by taking care of it and carefully evaluating factors like size, material, and extra features.

Jessica H.

Senior Product Editor

Jessica is a reviewer, writer, and sleep enthusiast at Sleepiverse. Jessica graduated with her master's degree in Nursing research and education. She is a registered nurse and currently works in the Intensive Care Unit. Since becoming a nurse, Jessica has worked the night shift, which means a disrupted sleep schedule. Knowing she needed to function at her best while caring for patients at night, she spent a lot of time researching how to sleep well with a difficult schedule.