QUICK GUIDE
Is a Trundle Bed Right for You?
A trundle bed works particularly well when you need an additional sleeping space occasionally rather than a second bed taking up permanent floor space.
Need a Spare Bed?
Keep an additional sleeping space tucked underneath the main bed until it's needed.
Have Sleepovers?
A pull-out trundle can provide a convenient extra bed for visiting friends and family.
Short on Space?
Use the footprint of one main bed while keeping a second sleeping surface stored underneath.
Need Flexibility?
Some trundle bases can also be used for storage when an additional mattress isn't required.
What Is a Trundle Bed?
A trundle bed is a bed with a second, lower sleeping platform stored underneath the main bed. The lower bed is designed to pull or roll out when required and can then be tucked away again when it is no longer needed.
Because the second sleeping space is stored underneath the main bed, trundle beds are particularly useful in bedrooms where you want the flexibility of an extra bed without permanently using the floor space required for two separate beds.
Who Are Trundle Beds Best For?
The best reason to choose a trundle is flexibility. Rather than dedicating permanent floor space to a second bed, you can keep the additional sleeping surface hidden until you need it.
Children's Bedrooms
Useful for sleepovers while keeping the main bedroom layout suitable for everyday play, study and storage.
Guest Rooms
Create additional sleeping capacity without keeping two full-size beds permanently in the room.
Smaller Bedrooms
A trundle can make better use of the space beneath the main bed when every metre of floor space matters.
Flexible Rooms
A spare room can remain useful as an office, playroom or hobby room while still offering an extra bed when guests arrive.
Trundle Bed vs Other Space-Saving Beds
There are several ways to create additional sleeping space. The right choice depends on whether the second bed is needed every night, occasionally or only when guests stay.
Trundle Bed
- Second bed stored underneath the main bed.
- Ideal when the additional bed is occasional.
- Floor space is reclaimed when the trundle is stored.
- Particularly useful for sleepovers and guests.
Bunk Bed
- Two sleeping spaces are available permanently.
- Better suited to children who share a room every night.
- Uses vertical space rather than extending across the floor.
- Requires consideration of access and height.
Day Bed
- Designed to work as both seating and sleeping furniture.
- Can provide a more furniture-like appearance during the day.
- Some designs incorporate a pull-out trundle.
- Useful in guest rooms and multifunctional spaces.
Sofa Bed
- Functions primarily as seating during the day.
- Useful when the room needs to serve multiple purposes.
- Sleeping surface is created by converting the sofa.
- Can be useful when a permanent bed isn't practical.
Should Your Trundle Be Used for Sleeping or Storage?
Some trundle designs can be used as either an additional bed or a large storage drawer. Think about which function will be more useful before choosing your bed.
Choose a Sleeping Trundle If...
- You regularly have children's sleepovers.
- You need an occasional guest bed.
- You want an additional sleeping space ready to use.
- You don't need the under-bed area for everyday storage.
Choose a Storage Trundle If...
- You rarely need an additional sleeping space.
- You need somewhere to store bedding, toys or clothing.
- You want to maximise the usefulness of the space beneath the bed.
- Easy everyday access to storage is more important than an extra mattress.
What Type of Trundle Should I Choose?
Trundles can differ in how the lower bed is stored, moved and positioned. Check the product specification carefully to make sure the design suits how you plan to use it.
Standard Flat Trundle
The lower sleeping platform remains close to the floor. This is a straightforward option for occasional sleepovers and guest use.
Pop-Up Trundle
Some designs raise the lower sleeping platform when extended, creating a more conventional bed height. Check the individual product specification.
Storage Trundle
Instead of holding a mattress, the lower section can provide useful storage for bedding, toys and other bedroom essentials.
What Mattress Do I Need for a Trundle Bed?
The mattress requirements for the main bed and lower trundle can be different. The most important detail to check is the available space inside the trundle, particularly its mattress height.
Check the Length & Width
Make sure the mattress dimensions match the specific main bed and trundle frame.
Check the Mattress Depth
The lower mattress may need to be thinner so it can slide underneath the main bed without catching.
Check the Bed Specification
Always follow the manufacturer's recommended mattress dimensions and weight limits for the specific trundle.
How Much Space Do I Need for a Trundle Bed?
The main bed may fit comfortably in your room, but you also need enough clear floor space for the trundle to pull out fully.
Check the complete external dimensions, including the headboard and frame.
Allow sufficient clear floor space for the lower bed to be fully extended.
Make sure wardrobes, doors and drawers won't obstruct the trundle when it is open.
Consider whether the trundle will be easy to access without disrupting the rest of the room.
8 Things to Check Before Buying a Trundle Bed
Allow space for both the main bed and fully extended trundle.
Confirm the required mattress dimensions for both sleeping platforms.
Make sure the lower mattress is shallow enough to fit beneath the main bed.
Choose a design that matches how you intend to use the lower section.
Make sure the trundle rolls or pulls out smoothly and securely.
Follow the manufacturer's recommended weight limits for the main and lower beds.
Check the manufacturer's age and usage recommendations, particularly for children.
Check whether the trundle mattress, main mattress and other accessories are included.
Trundle Bed Pros & Cons
A trundle is a practical choice for the right bedroom, but it isn't the best solution for every sleeping arrangement.
The Advantages
- Creates an additional sleeping space.
- Uses space underneath the main bed.
- Useful for children's sleepovers and guests.
- Can help keep smaller rooms flexible.
- Some designs can double as storage.
Things to Consider
- The lower bed may have limited mattress depth.
- Extra floor space is required when extended.
- The lower sleeping position may not suit everyone.
- Not every trundle is designed for everyday sleeping.
- Some designs have limited storage once a mattress is fitted.
Common Trundle Bed Buying Mistakes
- Buying a mattress that is too deep for the lower trundle.
- Measuring only the closed bed and forgetting the pull-out space.
- Assuming the trundle mattress is the same size as the main mattress.
- Choosing a trundle without considering who will use the lower bed.
- Assuming every trundle can be used as a permanent second bed.
- Forgetting to check whether mattresses are included.
- Not checking the manufacturer's weight and age recommendations.
- Choosing a storage trundle when an additional sleeping space is actually needed.
YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED
Frequently Asked Questions About Trundle Beds
What is a trundle bed?
A trundle bed is a bed with a second, lower sleeping platform stored underneath the main bed. The lower bed can be pulled out when needed and stored away when it isn't being used.
Are trundle beds good for children's bedrooms?
Yes. Trundle beds can be particularly useful for children's bedrooms where sleepovers are common and you want an additional sleeping space without permanently using the floor area of a second bed. Always follow the manufacturer's age and safety recommendations for the individual bed.
Can a trundle bed be used every night?
It depends on the individual design. Some trundles are designed for regular use, while others are intended primarily as occasional guest or sleepover beds. Always check the manufacturer's specifications before using the lower bed as a permanent sleeping surface.
What size mattress fits a trundle bed?
The required mattress size varies by bed. The lower trundle mattress may have different dimensions or a lower maximum depth than the main mattress, so always check the product specification before buying.
Can I use the trundle for storage instead of a mattress?
Some trundle designs are specifically suitable for storage, while others are designed only as an additional sleeping platform. Check the manufacturer's information before using the lower section for storage.
Is a trundle bed better than a bunk bed?
It depends on how you use the room. A bunk bed can be more suitable when two children need separate beds every night, while a trundle is often better when the second sleeping space is needed occasionally for sleepovers or guests.
Do trundle beds need extra floor space?
Yes. Although the second bed is hidden when stored, you need enough clear floor space for the trundle to pull out fully. Measure the room with the lower bed extended before buying.
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