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Home / Mattress Resources / What is a Trundle Bed?
Mattress Resources

What is a Trundle Bed?

by Malik Karman Comment on What is a Trundle Bed?
What-is-a-trundle-bed

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Updated February 23, 2026

Key Takeaways

  • What Are Trundle Beds: Trundle beds are space-saving options that provide extra sleeping space by featuring a pull-out drawer for a twin or full-size mattress. These beds come in two styles: drawer trundles and pop-up trundles.
  • Advantages of Trundle Beds: The benefits of trundle beds include their affordability, compact style, and ability to easily accommodate overnight guests. The drawer of a trundle bed can also serve as a storage area.
  • Disadvantages of Trundle Beds: While trundle beds offer affordability and versatility, they have weight limitations, require thinner mattresses, and may not be ideal for taller or larger individuals. Alternatives like futons, sofa beds, and daybeds offer more options for various needs and spaces.

Trundle beds are ideal for sleeping an extra one to two people. A trundle bed features one main bed and bedframe with a drawer you can slide out. This drawer can fit a twin or full size mattress. When not needed for sleeping, simply slide the drawer away to allow for more space in your bedroom.

The main bed that comes with a trundle bed setup can range in size from a twin to king size mattress. Due to the drawer’s compact size, it cannot accommodate larger or thicker mattresses. Most trundle mattresses are 10 inches thick.

Trundle beds are popular for guest rooms, kids’ bedrooms, and small apartments because they maximize space without compromising functionality. Many models double as stylish daybeds, making them useful for both sitting and sleeping.

SEE ALSO: Most Durable Mattresses

Trundle Bed: What is It?

A trundle bed is designed to provide additional sleeping space without necessitating the purchase of another bed and bedframe. The drawer and bed combination that trundle beds offer allows you to maximize space and stick to your budget.

Trundle beds come in two main styles:

  • Drawer Trundle: This type remains low to the ground and cannot be raised to match the height of the main bed. It’s ideal for kids’ rooms, guest spaces, or occasional use.
  • Pop-Up Trundle: This version slides out from the main frame but can be elevated to match the height of the main bed. When raised, it can function as a larger bed, resembling a king-size setup when paired with the main mattress.

A trundle bed’s versatility makes it an excellent choice for homeowners who need an extra sleeping area but lack the space for a second full-size bed. Many models also feature built-in storage, maximizing functionality in small spaces.

But, pop-up trundle beds have collapsible frames that allow them to rise to the same level as the main bed, effectively converting into a larger sleeping surface. This flexibility makes them a popular choice for couples or guests who prefer a full-size bed.

However, these beds can be raised to whatever height you prefer. You can adjust the height to match the needs and preferences of each sleeper. You’ll want to elevate the bed to the same height as the main bed in most cases.

The price range for trundle beds varies depending upon the bed frame size and frame type. On average, a trundle bed costs $600.

A trundle bed’s cost can range from $200 to over $1,000 based on factors like materials, design, and additional features such as built-in storage or upholstery. Higher-end models may come with premium wood or reinforced metal frames for better durability.

A trundle bed frame can be wooden or metal. Wooden frames are more expensive than metal ones. Metal frames tend to be more durable and can hold more weight. Pairing the frame with one of the best mattresses under $1000 can ensure a comfortable sleep experience without overspending.

Who Should Consider a Trundle Bed?

A trundle bed is a versatile and space-saving solution, making it ideal for various users. It works particularly well for:

  • Trundle beds are great for kids’ rooms, especially for sleepovers. They provide an extra bed without taking up permanent space.
  • If you frequently host guests but have limited space, a trundle bed allows you to accommodate visitors without needing a dedicated guest room.
  • Those living in compact homes benefit from trundle beds as they offer extra sleeping arrangements without crowding the room.
  • A trundle bed in a home office, den, or playroom adds flexibility, allowing the space to double as a guest room when needed.
  • Trundle beds provide an affordable alternative to purchasing a second full-size bed or sleeper sofa.

Comfort depends largely on the mattress you select, with options ranging from plush to firm for optimal support. However, keep in mind that trundle beds require thinner mattresses, usually no more than 8 inches thick, to fit properly. 

While they are great for kids and occasional guests, they may not be the best choice for individuals with mobility concerns or heavier sleepers due to their lower height and weight limitations.

SEE ALSO: Best Mattress on Amazon

What-is-a-trundle-bed

Benefits of Trundle Beds

These beds have become popular due to their low cost and compact style. Trundle beds allow you to easily accommodate overnight guests without having to invest in another bed, futon, or fold-out couch. In addition, they can be slid in when not in use.

Trundle beds are a practical and space-saving solution for small homes, guest rooms, and multi-purpose spaces. Their ability to provide an extra sleeping area while remaining discreet during the day makes them an excellent choice for those looking to optimize their living space.

It eliminates the cost of purchasing separate guest beds or bulky furniture, making it a smart choice for families, college students, or anyone looking to optimize their space without overspending. Additionally, its long-term functionality as both a bed and a seating area enhances its value, offering practicality at a lower price.

A trundle bed’s affordability makes it a budget-friendly alternative to traditional guest beds, especially when compared to larger bed frames or sleeper sofas. Many models also double as daybeds, offering a stylish and functional seating area when not in use.

1. Perfect for Kids’ Rooms & Sleepovers

When considering bed frames and mattresses for kids, you might want to opt for a trundle bed. Trundle beds are conducive for hosting sleepovers in your child’s room. No one must sleep on the floor or in a sleeping bag when you have a trundle bed.

These beds provide a comfortable and convenient solution for children’s sleepovers, allowing them to host friends without requiring extra floor space for inflatable mattresses or sleeping bags.

The drawer that comes with a trundle bed can also double as a storage area. You can store blankets, clothes, toys, books, and so much more in this drawer.

Some trundle bed designs incorporate built-in storage compartments, making them ideal for organizing toys, linens, and seasonal bedding. This added functionality helps maximize floor space while keeping the room clutter-free.

2. Great for Shared Bedrooms & Guest Accommodations

There are also some bunk bed frames that have trundle beds built into the bottom bunk, letting you pull out an extra bunk bed mattress for visiting guests. These can slip well inside a children’s room that multiple siblings share.

For families with multiple children, trundle beds can be integrated into bunk beds to provide even more sleeping options. This setup works particularly well for shared bedrooms, where space is limited but additional sleeping arrangements are needed.

Those who have a small bedroom, live in compact studio apartments, or have a shopping budget can all benefit from trundle beds. With this type of bed, you’ll be able to provide overnight visitors with a comfortable sleeping space without spending a ton of money. Pairing it with an excellent hotel mattress can give guests a top-of-the-line experience.

Trundle beds are especially useful in apartments, condos, or guest rooms where maximizing floor space is essential. Choosing a high-quality mattress can enhance comfort, ensuring that guests get a restful night’s sleep.

3. Multi-Functional & Space-Saving Design

A trundle bed is more than just an extra sleeping space—it can serve multiple functions to suit different needs. It can double as a comfortable seating area, making it a great addition to living rooms, home offices, or kids’ rooms. 

Many trundle beds function as stylish daybeds, making them ideal for rooms that need to serve dual purposes, such as home offices or dens. When guests arrive, the trundle can be pulled out to instantly create a cozy sleeping space.

Some trundle beds also feature built-in storage drawers, allowing you to neatly store blankets, pillows, or other essentials, making them ideal for maximizing space in small apartments or shared bedrooms.

This hidden storage feature enhances organization, making trundle beds a smart investment for anyone looking to declutter their living space while maintaining functionality.

Drawbacks of Trundle Beds

A trundle bed isn’t the ideal sleeping solution for everyone. Trundle beds have some limitations that you’ll want to be aware of when considering your bedding options. These beds are not designed to hold a lot of weight.

While trundle beds are space-saving and versatile, they come with certain drawbacks that may not suit every sleeper. Understanding these limitations can help you decide if a trundle bed is the right choice for your home.

1. Weight Capacity Limitations

Most trundle beds come with a weight capacity of 250 pounds. This limits who and how many people can make use of the bed.

Due to their lightweight construction, trundle beds may not be the best option for heavier sleepers or adults who require a more supportive frame. If you plan to use a trundle bed frequently, checking the manufacturer’s weight recommendations is essential to ensure durability and comfort.

2. Mattress Thickness Restrictions

You cannot pair a thick mattress with a trundle bed. The drawer that the bed goes in will not close if you use too thick of a mattress.

Trundle beds require thinner mattresses, typically between 6 to 8 inches thick, to ensure they fit properly in the pull-out compartment. While this design saves space, it may not provide the plush cushioning or deep support some sleepers prefer.

Therefore, you need to use a mattress that is around 10 inches thick. For some individuals, sleeping on a mattress this thin is uncomfortable and even painful.

A thinner mattress may not offer adequate pressure relief for side sleepers or individuals with back pain. To improve comfort, opting for a high-quality memory foam or hybrid mattress can help provide better support without exceeding the trundle bed’s space limitations.

3. Low Sleep Surface & Accessibility Issues

Pull-out drawer trundle beds create a low-profile sleep environment compared to traditional beds. The lower sleep environment means you must bend down to get in bed. This isn’t optimal for taller or elderly sleepers with mobility issues.

Since trundle beds are much closer to the floor, getting in and out of bed can be challenging for those with joint pain, arthritis, or limited mobility. A pop-up trundle bed, which raises to the height of a standard bed, may be a better alternative for individuals who need easier access.

4. Potential for Bed Movement

Trundle beds usually come with four wheels attached to them. Depending on the type of wheels your bed uses, there may be issues with bed movement. Wheels that don’t lock can lead to your bed moving as you toss and turn or alternate sleep positions throughout the night.

Some trundle beds feature casters without locking mechanisms, which can cause the bed to shift during sleep. If stability is a concern, choosing a trundle bed with lockable wheels or securing the frame with anti-slip pads can help prevent unwanted movement.

Types of Trundle Beds

Trundle beds come in a variety of styles to suit different spaces and needs. Common Types are:

Standard Trundle Bed: A standard trundle bed features a main bed frame with a pull-out secondary bed stored underneath. The lower bed remains close to the ground and is usually on wheels for easy movement. This type is perfect for guest rooms, kids’ rooms, or shared bedrooms.

Daybed with Trundle: Daybeds with trundles serve as both a seating area and a bed, making them a great choice for home offices, studio apartments, or guest rooms. They offer a stylish, space-saving solution without compromising on comfort.

Bunk Bed with Trundle: A bunk bed with a trundle includes an additional pull-out bed beneath the lower bunk, allowing up to three sleepers to use the same space efficiently. This is an excellent option for kids’ rooms, dormitories, or vacation homes.

Captain’s Bed with Trundle: A captain’s bed combines a trundle bed with built-in storage drawers, making it an ideal choice for maximizing bedroom space. This design is perfect for children’s rooms or small apartments where additional storage is needed.

Trundle Sleeper Sofa: A trundle sleeper sofa functions as a regular couch but has a hidden pull-out trundle bed underneath. This is a great option for living rooms or multi-purpose spaces where an extra sleeping arrangement is occasionally needed.

Sleigh Bed with Trundle: Sleigh beds are known for their curved headboards and footboards, adding a touch of elegance to any bedroom. When paired with a trundle, they provide a stylish yet functional sleeping arrangement, making them ideal for traditional or luxurious interiors.

Panel Bed with Trundle: Panel beds have a classic headboard and footboard design, often made from solid wood or upholstered materials. A panel bed with a trundle offers a sophisticated look while providing an extra bed for guests or children’s sleepovers.

What are Trundle Bed Frames?

Trundle beds are typically available in two frame designs: pop-up and drawer frames, each offering unique advantages.

  • Pop-up Frame: This design allows the trundle to be raised to the same height as the main bed, creating a seamless sleeping surface. 

For instance, a twin-sized trundle and primary bed together form a king-sized setup, ideal for couples or those seeking extra space. However, aligning the two mattresses can be challenging, but using a bridge pad and securing the trundle with wheel locks can help address this issue.

  • Drawer Frame: The drawer frame is widely favored due to its multifunctionality. 

Unlike the pop-up frame, it stays near the ground but includes a large drawer for the mattress and additional storage drawers for other belongings. This style is especially suitable for those in need of extra storage space in tighter living areas.

Choosing a Trundle Bed

When selecting a trundle bed, it’s important to evaluate several key factors to ensure that the bed suits your space, comfort needs, and functionality. Follow these steps to make sure you are on the right path:

  1. First, start by measuring the height of the primary bed to ensure that the trundle bed can slide underneath easily. If the top mattress is too high, you might struggle to move the trundle in and out. 
  2. Also, measure the trundle frame itself to check compatibility with mattress sizes, typically twin or full, but in some cases, custom mattresses may be required.
  3. Next, consider the type of mattress for the trundle bed. You can opt for latex foam, memory foam, or an innerspring mattress, depending on your preference for comfort and support.

Things to Keep in mind:

  • Wooden trundle beds offer strength and durability, though they tend to be heavier. Metal frames are lighter and easier to move but might not have the same level of versatility or aesthetic appeal as wood, making them better suited for certain minimalist or industrial-style rooms.
  • When choosing between models, consider the mobility. Trundle beds with wheels are generally easier to maneuver, but they can be noisy and may lack stability compared to those with ball-bearing slides, which provide smoother and quieter operation.
  • You may not need to buy a full trundle bed unit. If your existing bed is tall enough, a separate trundle frame can slide underneath it. Alternatively, you could purchase a complete trundle unit for an all-in-one setup.
  • If space is tight, consider a trundle bed with built-in drawers or additional storage compartments. These features are especially useful for storing bedding, clothing, or other items, maximizing the bed’s practicality.
  • Make sure the trundle bed complements your room’s decor. For example, a carved wooden frame may not blend well in a modern, minimalist environment, while a sleek, metal design would suit such a style much better. Choose a frame that aligns with your room’s design to maintain a cohesive look.

Which Mattress Pairs Best with a Trundle Bed

Choosing the correct type of mattress to pair with your trundle bed is important. You want to make sure the drawer will close when the bed isn’t needed. In addition, you also need to ensure you’re picking a supportive and comfortable bed.

Finding the right mattress for a trundle bed involves balancing comfort, durability, and space efficiency. The mattress should be thin enough to fit within the trundle’s frame while still providing ample support for restful sleep.

Mattresses to Avoid for Trundle Beds

Innerspring mattresses cannot be used with a trundle bed. These mattresses require a box spring. When you calculate the height of an innerspring mattress with its box spring, there isn’t enough room for both in a trundle bed.

Traditional innerspring mattresses are often too bulky due to their coil support system and the need for a box spring. Even low-profile innerspring options may not provide adequate comfort without additional padding, making them less ideal for trundle beds.

Similarly, many memory foam mattresses can be too thick and tall to be put on a trundle bed. Still, you might be able to find a low-profile one specifically designed for trundle beds.

Some memory foam mattresses are designed to be thinner, typically around 6 to 8 inches, making them suitable for trundle beds. However, thicker models may not fit properly and can be difficult to slide in and out of the frame.

Best Mattress Options for Trundle Beds

The best mattresses to use on a trundle bed are latex, hybrid, or air mattresses. Latex mattresses are long-lasting, provide pressure point relief, and have good breathability.

Latex mattresses are a great choice due to their durability and natural breathability. They offer pressure relief and maintain a responsive feel, preventing sleepers from sinking too much. Additionally, natural latex options are hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites, making them ideal for allergy sufferers.

Hybrid mattresses feature a coil support base and a memory foam comfort layer. A hybrid bed provides some body-hugging while also still being responsive. Airbeds are cheap, lightweight, and easy to install. When not needed for sleeping, you can deflate them for easy storage.

For those who prefer a balance of support and contouring, hybrid mattresses combine pocketed coils with a foam or latex comfort layer. A thinner hybrid mattress (under 10 inches) can offer the best of both worlds—support from coils and cushioning from foam—while still fitting within a trundle bed’s frame.

Air mattresses are a convenient option, particularly for occasional use. They are affordable, portable, and can be stored away when not in use. However, they may not provide the same level of long-term comfort as latex or hybrid mattresses.

Where to Find the Best Trundle Bed Mattresses?

Regardless of what type of mattress you’re considering, the widest range of options and the lowest prices are typically found by considering online mattresses.

Shopping online offers a broader selection of trundle-friendly mattresses at competitive prices. Many online retailers also provide sleep trials and free returns, allowing you to test the mattress before committing.

How to Style Your Space with Trundle Bed?

Maximizing space in a small room can be challenging, but incorporating a trundle bed offers both functionality and style. Following are some tips on styling your space:

Opting for a full-size trundle bed provides ample sleeping space for guests without overwhelming the room. This choice ensures comfort while maintaining a spacious feel.

Selecting a trundle bed equipped with headboard panels can serve as additional storage. This feature is particularly beneficial in small rooms where space is limited, allowing for the organization of essentials like books or decorative items.

In children’s rooms, twin-size trundle beds are ideal for accommodating siblings or hosting sleepovers. They provide a fun and functional solution, ensuring that the room remains organized and versatile.

If overnight guests are infrequent, a trundle bed can be a practical choice. By keeping a twin-size air mattress stored within the trundle, you can easily set up a comfortable sleeping area when needed, without sacrificing space daily.

Upholstered trundle day beds add a touch of elegance to your room. They serve as both a stylish seating area during the day and a comfortable bed at night, making them perfect for multifunctional spaces like bedrooms that double as home offices.

A daybed-style trundle bed functions as a sofa during the day and transforms into a bed at night. This versatility is especially useful in small rooms, providing a comfortable seating area that can easily convert to a sleeping space for guests or family members.

Pop-up trundle beds are advantageous in couples’ bedrooms or guest rooms. They can be elevated to the same height as the main bed, creating a unified sleeping surface. This feature is particularly useful when accommodating couples or guests who prefer a larger bed.

Incorporating a colorful trundle day bed can enhance the room’s aesthetic appeal. It adds a vibrant touch while maintaining functionality, serving as both a bed and a stylish piece of furniture that complements the room’s decor.

Can Taller or Larger Individuals Sleep on a Trundle Bed?

Taller or larger individuals can sleep on a trundle bed if you decide to go with a split king mattress. These sleepers may feel too cramped to sleep on a twin or full size trundle bed. Furthermore, these beds may not have a high enough weight capacity to hold these individuals safely. Taller lightweight sleepers may be able to sleep on a full or split king mattress.

Are you unsure about whether a trundle bed will be a safe and comfortable mattress for guests, consider alternative options. While trundle beds are excellent and cost-effective, they aren’t your only option. Listed below are some excellent alternatives to trundle beds.

Alternatives to Trundle Beds

If you want a hide-away bed or budget mattress, a trundle bed isn’t the only option worth considering.

Futon

Futons are a piece of furniture found in college dorms and used most often by teenagers. However, they can sleep larger or taller adults too, depending on the futon mattress size.

A futon mattress can double as both a couch and a bed. When you want to use your futon as a bed, all you must do is flatten it out.

Sofa Bed

Sofa beds feature a couch or sofa that can pull out to reveal a bed. If you need space to accommodate out-of-town guests, consider investing in a sofa bed. It’s cheaper than investing in a whole new bedding setup. Plus, a sofa bed can be used to watch television or lounge around.

Daybeds

Daybeds are similar to sofa beds since they are designed to function as couches and beds. They often feature backrests and armrests, with a cavity for a full or twin size mattress. Daybeds may come with a trundle bed, but not all daybeds double as trundle beds.

SEE ALSO: Best Mattress for a Daybed

Cot

Cots are lightweight and inexpensive ways to house short-term visitors. A cot isn’t going to be comfortable for long-term sleeping or offer much support. Cots do come with a higher weight capacity than trundle beds, ranging from 100 to 600 pounds.

Rollaway Bed

You may have slept on a rollaway bed before when staying at a hotel, motel, or inn. These beds are easy to transport, set up, and store away when not in use. Rollaway beds feature a metal frame with wheels. You can unfold this bed to sleep several full-sized adults easily.

Air Mattress

Air mattresses can be used both on their own and inside of a trundle bed. If you need to sleep taller or heavier sleepers, consider purchasing a large air mattress. You can set up an air mattress on a guest room floor or in your living room. As previously mentioned, air mattresses are budget-friendly, lightweight, and easy to assemble.

Loft bed

Lofted beds elevate the bed frame, creating valuable space underneath for a desk, storage, or additional seating. This works well in small bedrooms or dorm rooms where floor space is limited. 

Lofted beds are ideal for creating a functional and organized space in small rooms, as the elevated frame frees up floor area for other uses. They are particularly popular in shared bedrooms, studios, or dorm rooms, where maximizing vertical space is key to optimizing the layout.

Murphy Bed

Murphy beds are an alternative consumers often overlook. This bed can be stored upright against the wall and folded down when necessary. Those who have compact bedrooms or studio apartments utilize murphy beds for their own sleep needs. This bed allows you to significantly expand available bedroom space.

FAQs

Is there more than one kind of trundle bed?

There are a few different kinds of trundle beds to select from, aside from the standard drawer or pop-up options. Trundle bunk beds are excellent for sleeping shorter, lightweight adults or kids. A trundle bunk bed sleeps two and works well in a kid’s room.

A captain’s bed trundle bed allows you to get even more storage space than what a traditional trundle bed offers. This type of trundle bed features storage drawers on both sides of the bed plus headboard shelves. You can usually find an extra bed in one of the side drawers.

Trundle daybeds are an option for those who want to sleep two people. The nice thing about a trundle daybed is it also can be used as a couch or sofa when not being used. All trundle beds are cheaper and take up less space than a traditional bed with a bed frame and foundation.

What Size Is a Trundle Bed?

Trundle beds typically come in twin or full sizes, depending on the primary bed’s dimensions. The trundle mattress is usually thinner than a regular mattress, often around 6 to 8 inches thick, to allow it to slide under the main bed easily. While the trundle bed itself is designed to fit under standard twin or full beds, some models may require a custom mattress, so always check the specifications before purchasing.

Are trundle beds comfortable?

Trundle beds can be comfortable, depending on the mattress type you choose. While the pull-out bed typically uses a thinner mattress than a regular bed, you can select options like memory foam or hybrid mattresses for better comfort. 

For occasional use, trundle beds work well for guests or children, but for nightly use, it’s important to invest in a supportive and high-quality mattress to ensure a comfortable sleep experience.

Do trundle beds work on carpet?

Yes, trundle beds can work on carpet, but they may be more difficult to move compared to hardwood or tile floors. The wheels or sliders on the trundle bed can struggle to roll smoothly over thick carpet, especially if the carpet is plush. To make the bed easier to maneuver, consider adding caster cups or using wheel locks for better stability when the trundle is in use.

Where can I buy a trundle bed?

You can purchase a trundle bed from your local mattress store, furniture retailer, or department store. Shopping online retailers like Amazon is also a viable option. Trundle beds are popular and widely available wherever mattresses are sold.

How do you assemble a trundle bed?

There are four or five necessary steps to assembling a trundle bed. The first thing you need to do is attach the side rails. Then, you’ll want to attach the top and bottom rails to the head and foot of your bed.

Once that is done, all four rails need to be connected and have slats placed between them. After that, you can then place your mattress on the trundle bed.

Can you add a trundle to any bed?

You cannot just add a trundle to any bed. Trundle beds require a decent amount of vertical space between the original or main bed and the floor. Before investing in a trundle bed, make sure you have at least 16 inches of space under your bed to fit a trundle bed and its mattress.

How Much Does a Trundle Bed Cost?

The cost of a trundle bed can vary significantly based on factors such as the bed’s material, size, and features. Basic models start around $150 to $300, while higher-end trundle beds with additional storage, upgraded frames, or mattresses can range from $400 to $1,000 or more. 

Custom designs, or ones made from premium materials like solid wood, may push the price even higher, so it’s important to determine your budget and needs before purchasing.

Can you sleep on a trundle bed all the time?

Yes, you can sleep on a trundle bed regularly, but there are some considerations to keep in mind. While trundle beds can be comfortable for occasional use, they typically feature thinner mattresses, which may not provide the same level of support as a standard bed. 

If you plan to use it every night, investing in a high-quality, supportive mattress is essential for long-term comfort. Additionally, some trundle bed frames may not be as durable as traditional beds, so ensure the frame can handle daily use.

Can you use a trundle bed for storage?

Yes, a trundle bed can offer some storage options, particularly if it has built-in drawers or compartments. In cases where the trundle bed is used only for occasional sleeping, you can use the space under the bed to store extra bedding, seasonal clothes, or even smaller items. However, if you need long-term or larger storage solutions, additional furniture might be required as the trundle’s primary purpose is to provide extra sleeping space.

Are Trundle Beds Stress-free for Adults?

Trundle beds can be comfortable for adults, but they may not always provide the same level of comfort as a regular bed. The mattress on a trundle is often thinner, which might not offer the same support as a full-size mattress. To enhance comfort, you can choose a high-quality mattress made of memory foam, innerspring, or hybrid materials, and consider the trundle frame’s durability for long-term use.

Does a trundle bed need a box spring?

Most trundle beds do not require a box spring. The trundle frame itself is typically designed to support the mattress without the need for additional support. Instead, a trundle bed uses slats or a solid base to hold the mattress in place. However, depending on the mattress type or personal preference, you may choose to add a box spring for extra height or support, though it’s generally unnecessary for most models.

Are trundle beds easy to move?

Trundle beds can be relatively easy to move, especially if they have wheels or casters attached to the trundle frame. This mobility allows the trundle bed to be pulled in and out from under the main bed with minimal effort. 

However, the ease of movement may vary depending on the flooring surface (carpet vs. hard floors) and the trundle’s weight. Some trundle beds with heavy frames may require more effort to move, especially when fully extended.

How Do You know If You Need a Trundle Bed? 

A trundle bed is ideal if you need to accommodate occasional guests or maximize space in a small room. If you have limited floor space or often host sleepovers for children, a trundle bed can be a practical solution. It’s especially useful when you want an extra sleeping surface without permanently sacrificing space, and it’s a great option for multi-purpose rooms like guest bedrooms or home offices.

Do trundle beds come in queen size?

Trundle beds are not commonly sold in queen sizes. You may be able to special order a trundle bed in this larger size. If you’re looking for a trundle bed with a higher weight capacity and more room, consider going with a split king trundle bed. You could also go with one of many trundle bed alternatives mentioned above.

Is a Trundle Bed Right for You?

Trundle beds are a lower cost and space-saving option for hosting overnight visitors. You cannot raise this bed to match the height of the main bed. Pop-up trundle beds can be raised to match the height of a traditional bed. Most trundle beds have a 250-pound weight limit and need a 10-inch mattress or thinner.

This type of bed has extra sleeping space for one to two people. The best mattresses to pair with trundle beds are latex, hybrid, and air mattresses. A trundle bed may not be the perfect fit for taller or larger sleepers. For these sleepers, consider investing in a futon, sofa bed, or murphy bed. These beds offer more space and a higher weight capacity.

About the author
Malik Karman

“Professional sleeper” Malik Karman is a freelance writer for the eachnight blog. Over the years, Malik has read countless medical studies and explored hundreds of different bedding products in an effort to better understand what goes into a restorative night’s rest. Malik curates many of our “best mattress” guides to assist readers in the mattress buying process.

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