Best Trundle Beds

A trundle bed consists of a standard bed frame with an additional bed designed to be tucked underneath when not in use. Trundle beds essentially allow users to fit two beds into the space of one.

Available in a variety of styles, trundle beds may appeal to children who want a place for their friends to sleep over, or adults who don’t have space for a guest bedroom.

Trundles are commonly sold together with a daybed or bunk beds, but it’s also possible to buy stand-alone trundles designed to work with any standard bed frame. The trundle component is typically twin sized and low to the ground, utilizing wheels or a sliding mechanism to roll in and out from beneath the upper bed frame.

We’ll discuss how to find the best trundle bed for you and your home, including advice on design, pricing, ease of assembly, and other important factors.

In-Depth Reviews

What Is a Trundle Bed?

Trundle beds have a two-in-one design that allows users to place an extra bed in their home without taking up extra space. The trundle may be sold individually, or it may come already nested within the standard bed.

Most trundle beds have a simple design with two bed frames, one for the standard bed and one for the trundle below. The trundle is designed to slide in and out from beneath the upper frame to save floor space when it’s not being used. In the interest of saving space, trundle beds are usually twin sized.

A trundle typically requires a thinner mattress in order to keep the pull-out mechanism running smoothly. As a rule of thumb, mattresses for trundle beds should generally measure no more than 8 inches thick. However, it’s always a good idea to check compatibility requirements for the specific trundle you purchase.

Different styles of trundle beds are designed to meet different needs. A trundle drawer disappears beneath the bed in a closed compartment, while a captain bed has integrated drawers as well as the trundle bed. A daybed has three raised sides in the style of a couch, while a trundle bunk bed carries two or more bunks on top of the trundle. Trundle-only models can be paired with a regular bed, and pop up trundles have a collapsible metal frame for easier storage.

How to Choose a Trundle Bed

There are excellent trundle bed options of all styles and varieties, but the best trundle bed model for your home depends on your individual needs and preferences.

What to Look For in a Trundle Bed

With such a wide range of trundle bed models on the market, it can be difficult to narrow down your choices. To best understand what type of trundle bed might be the best fit for you, it helps to consider factors like your preferred trundle size, your budget, the type of materials, the color and design options, and how you intend to use the trundle.

Bed Size
It’s likely that you’ll be using the trundle for different sleepers, but having an idea of the anticipated users can help you select the most adequate size. A child using the trundle for sleepovers may only require a twin size trundle, whereas a bed intended for adult guests might need to be larger. Be sure to consider the available floor space when selecting a trundle bed model.

Quality Materials
Trundle beds must withstand frequent movement and sliding, and choosing a frame that is made of quality wood or metal can help increase the bed’s lifespan. A trundle that doubles as a couch, daybed, or play area will experience more frequent use and may benefit from more durable materials.

Mattress Compatibility
Trundle beds typically require a thinner mattress so they can fit easily under the main bed frame. If the bed frame doesn’t come with a mattress, be sure to check the height requirements before purchasing one. All-foam mattresses tend to have the thinnest profiles and may provide the best balance of comfort and size.

Movement
The best sliding mechanism for your trundle bed largely depends on the type of floor that your trundle bed will be placed on. Hardwood is smoother and more conducive to sliding, but you may need to utilize wheel locks to help secure the trundle in place. Rails may be a good option for a hardwood floor. For carpeted floors, look for a trundle bed with bigger wheels. A free floating trundle is generally suitable for all types of floors, though users should take care not to scratch their floors when pulling out the mattress.

Style
One of the main advantages of a trundle bed is the ability to hide it under a regular bed. Nevertheless, part of the trundle bed will likely be visible even when not in use, so it makes sense to choose a model that complements your bedroom decor. Today’s shoppers can choose from a large selection of trundle beds in various styles and colors.

Pop Up vs. Drawer Style
Whereas drawer style trundle beds remain lower to the ground, pop up trundles are designed to be raised to the same height as a normal bed when in use. Pop up trundles may be sold on their own, making them an inexpensive alternative for homes that already have a taller bed with enough clearance to fit a trundle. While many pop up trundles are lightweight and easy to maneuver, they may not be able to hold as much weight.

A drawer style trundle tends to be sturdier and is typically considered more aesthetically pleasing than the pop up style. However, drawer style trundles are more prone to wear and tear on the wheels, and they may offer more limitations as to where you can set up the trundle bed.

Price
The cost of a trundle bed depends on its style and the quality of its materials. Wooden trundle beds tend to be the most expensive, but they tend to offer a sturdy build and a stylish aesthetic. Metal frames are usually less costly and may be easier to move, but they may be prone to noise. Plastic, synthetic, and particle board trundle beds are more affordable, but less durable.

Ease of Assembly
Almost all trundle beds require some assembly, but some styles involve a more complex setup process than others. Before buying your trundle bed, check the manufacturer’s instructions and consider paying for in-home setup if you don’t feel confident about putting together the bed. Pop up trundles typically require the least assembly, as they don’t need to be attached to the principal bed frame.

Why Would I Want a Trundle Bed?

Trundle beds provide several unique benefits that may not be found in other bed designs:

• Space Saver: A trundle bed enables you to fit two beds in the place of one, creating valuable extra space in a smaller house or room. Additionally, some trundle bed models incorporate drawers into the frame itself, providing storage space for bedding or clothes.
• Child-Friendly Design: If your child frequently has sleepovers with friends, a trundle bed can provide a place for other children to sleep without having to purchase a second bed. Many trundle beds are designed to appeal to children, creating a fun sleeping experience similar to bunk beds.
• Versatility: Many trundle beds are easily adaptable for daytime use as well as nighttime use. For example, some models can also be used as a sitting space, allowing them to be placed in common areas of the house.
• Comfort: Alternative bedding solutions such as air mattresses or futons often lack the comfort and durability that trundle beds provide. Because trundles are compatible with different types of mattresses, owners can select the type of mattress they find most comfortable.
• Safety: Unlike bunk beds or loft beds, trundle beds are located low to the ground. This means they don’t pose the same fall risk as a higher bed frame model, making them more suitable for young children or sleepers who worry about falling out of the bed.
• Affordability: Purchasing a trundle bed is generally cheaper than purchasing two separate bed frames.