Best Trundle Bed For Extra Sleeping Space

Ian Mutuli
Updated on
Ian Mutuli

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
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A regular bed might not be satisfactory when you're looking for an inexpensive way to create additional sleeping space for sleepovers or for your kid to sleep next to you- the best trundle bed definitely will. A trundle bed frame comes in a practical, space-saving design that's fully upholstered and attached to the main bed or bunk bed. This comes in handy if you don't have a spare bedroom but have a spare bed since it won't use up too much space.

Our top choice is the Zinus Suzanne Twin Daybed Plus Trundle Frame Set, which is of sturdy construction, and priced relatively well. Our second choice is the Max & Lily Kid’s Twin Size Bed and Trundle which is the perfect bed if your children share a bedroom, not to mention it can handle a twin size mattress. Our third option is the StorkCraft Marco Island Captain’s Bed With Trundle And Drawers which is very convenient since it allows extra storage.

What Is A Trundle Bed?

A trundle bed is a low bed that sits on wheels and can be stored under a normal bed to make two beds. It's only rolled out when needed to create an extra sleeping area, especially when you have kids or guests over. A roll-out trundle bed gives you more floor space during the day and extra space to sleep at night; essentially, it's a guest bedroom in a pull-out drawer.

Trundle beds are also a great way to help toddlers transition into kid beds. A pop-up trundle is a trundle bed frame that can be lifted to the same height as the taller bed. Overall, if you're having overnight guests such as visiting relatives or unexpected guests, a trundle bed is a space-efficient guest bed that's also cost-effective.

Also known as truckle beds, the best trundle beds come with a sturdy bed frame (including the mattress at times) on wheels. It's perfectly sized to fit beneath the main bed, a bunk bed, a daybed, or a sofa bed. Most trundle beds come as low-profile twin beds that can be rolled out; others can go the extra mile and 'pop up' to become taller.

What Are The Different Trundle Bed Designs?

a) Trundle-Only Bed

This is the least expensive trundle bed that comes as a trundle-only frame, which is an excellent addition if you already have a bed frame that can take on a trundle. Most trundle frames come in a sturdy metal frame made of plain steel, on wheels, and metal slats to support its mattress. Always remember the inexpensive options come with lower weight limits, so this is a great factor to keep in mind if you plan to get the trundle for adults.

b) Trundle Drawer-Style Bed

This classic trundle bed comes with extra storage space and can be attached to a standard bed frame, bunk, or daybed. Instead of an open space below, the trundle bed has a pull-out drawer below the primary bed.

Although these trundle beds can be a little pricey, they give you a clean appearance in the sleeping area while also preventing dust from gathering below the main bed.

c) Trundle Daybed

Trundle daybeds are a combination that supports the trundle, sofa, and bed. Many are enclosed on the 3 sides, with a high 'back' that supports the pillows when used as a sofa. They come in many designs, are quite famous, and are comfortable as both full-time or occasional beds.

d) Trundle Bunk Bed

This can be considered one of the best trundle beds; that's a great way to accommodate several people in a small space while still saving on space. This means sharing a room, which can be plenty of fun for children.

5 Best Trundle Beds

1) Zinus Suzanne Twin Daybed Plus Trundle Frame Set

Sale
Zinus Suzanne Twin Daybed and Trundle Frame...
  • Stylish and functional space saving design
  • Accommodates 2 Twin size 5 or 6 inch mattresses (sold separately)
  • Premium steel slat support; Max weight capacity: 250lb
  • Easy assembly in minutes with no tools needed
  • Worry free 5 year warranty

The Zinus Suzanne twin daybed plus trundle frame set comes in an attractive daybed style. My first thought was that this daybed and trundle set is the ideal choice for any living area, a teenager's room, or the guest bedroom. Of course, I noticed that the steel used in construction is quite durable and attractive, giving you a frame that's clean, modern, and trendy.

This twin daybed and trundle set come in wooden accents that will fit almost any home decor. According to reviews, most users have grown to appreciate how sturdy this bed is in construction and how easy it is to assemble the frames. The trundle bed at the bottom fits a 5-6-inch mattress. I wanted more support, so I pulled out the trundle wheels for better support.

Image Source: popsugar.com

Of course, I like how this trundle ranks high as one of the best trundle beds that also doubles up as a daybed and is backed by a 5-year warranty. Even with its sturdy construction and great features, it's priced relatively lower than most single bed frames on the market. It'd be an excellent choice for anyone who's looking for value in every purchase.

Pros:

  • Premium steel slat support for durability and maximum support
  • Easy to assemble within minutes, and no tools are needed
  • Doubles up as a daybed as well
  • Fits 5/6-inch twin-size mattress
  • Trundle bed rolls out seamlessly
  • Comes packaged quite well
  • Comes with direct and easy instructions
  • Stylish, contemporary, and modern design

Cons:

  • The maximum weight capacity is 250lb
  • Metal parts don't come with the same black finish as everything else

2) Max & Lily Kid’s Twin Size Bed and Trundle

Sale
Max & Lily Twin Bed with Trundle, White
  • Superior Quality: Solid, knot free, New Zealand pine wood bed...
  • Sturdy & Stable: High, 400-pound resting weight capacity per...
  • Modern, Clean Design: Slatted headboard with flush, color...
  • Space-saving: bed measures 81.5"L x 42.5"W x 36.5"H . Total...
  • Slatted headboard with MDF panel footboard for stability

This is a twin trundle bed by Max & Lily that will help you to save space. Additionally, I know this ranks high as one of the best wooden trundle beds that are made of solid pinewood that's knot-free. Furthermore, it also gets plenty of points on the choice of material since pinewood is quite durable and firm when it comes to furniture.

Image Source: overstock.com

By my standards, it's quite a sturdy trundle twin bed that can hold a maximum of 400 pounds, which is higher than a lot of trundle beds can. Keep in mind that the metal-on-metal structure adds to the durability that I know trundle beds need to have, especially for such weight limits. This trundle is well-designed to fit Max & Lily's bunks and beds. Of course, I had to try it with a standard twin-sized mattress that's 8 inches high with a slatted platform, and it still fit well.

Pros:

  • Premium quality materials with New Zealand pine wood frame
  • Durable construction
  • Non-toxic and low VOC finish
  • Sturdy and stable
  • The weight limit is relatively high, at 400 pounds
  • Strong plywood slats and metallic mattress support systems for durability
  • Modern and clean design
  • Slatted headboard with MDF panel footboard for stability

Cons:

  • Cannot accommodate a mattress that exceeds 6-inch thick
  • A twin mattress is not included

3) StorkCraft Marco Island Captain’s Bed With Trundle And Drawers

StorkCraft Marco Island Captain's Bed with Trundle and...
  • FULL SIZE CAPTAIN’S BED WITH STORAGE DRAWERS: Full size...
  • QUALITY CRAFTMANSHIP: Crafted of rubberwood solids, engineered...
  • UNIVERSAL DESIGN: Easy to match with any style of kids or teen...
  • SAFETY TESTED: Tested at third-party, accredited laboratories to...
  • CAPTAIN’S BED DIMENSIONS (ASSEMBLED): Width (43.9 inches) x...

If you're looking for a versatile trundle option, this is the right trundle bed for you. Since I need the extra storage space the bed provides, a clean space, and generally avoiding dust accumulating under the bed, the Storkcraft Marco Island trundle bed is perfect. This set is one of the best trundle beds, with a rolling twin-size trundle bed and 3 fully functioning storage drawers.

Image Source: thehomedepot.com

This trundle bed comes in a nautical design that gives you extra storage space without using up so much space. I have to mention that it's aesthetically attractive and adds that Cape Cod touch to the room. Of course, one of the best features of this trundle bed is that it comes either as a twin or full-size bed.

It's also made of pinewood and gives you multiple colors you could choose from. I went with a color that matched my aesthetic. Overall, it is durable, relatively easy to assemble, and gives you a great place to store clothes or toys. The only downside is that this set doesn't come with a mattress.

Pros:

  • 3 functional storage drawers
  • Versatile and practical design
  • Stylish nautical design
  • Relatively easy assembly
  • Made from pinewood for durability
  • Twin-size pull-out trundle bed with 3 functioning drawers on wheels for maximum storage space
  • Comes in a rich, non-toxic finish option

Cons:

  • Some assembly is required
  • Twin mattresses not included

4) Harper & Bright Trundle Bunk Bed With Drawers

Harper & Bright Designs Bunk Beds Twin Over Twin Size,...
  • Low Bunk Beds suit for those families who has low ceilings, and...
  • Wood bunk beds for kids, Manufactured Wood + Solid Pine...
  • Twin over Twin floor bunk beds , equipped with staircase, easy...
  • Bunk beds for kids, no box spring required,wooden bunk bed frame...
  • White and Grey bunk beds for girls and boys come with clear...

When it comes to trundle beds and bunk beds, Harper & Bright takes the crown for the best trundle bunk beds. I was pleased to notice that it's more than a basic bunk bed, especially when it comes to safety in my child's room. Furthermore, the bunk beds come with a four-step staircase to the upper bunk, which can be moved to whichever end of the bed you feel is best.

Image Source: thehomedepot.com

Unlike many trundle beds that come with a bunk bed, the staircase here comes with a safety rail on each side and storage shelves on each stair for my children's toys. In addition, this bunk bed comes with a matching trundle bed to work for toddlers or sleepover visitors. Of course, I also make use of detachable castors that can be removed to stop the trundle from moving while in use.

Like many types of trundle beds, this Harper & Bright bed will need two twin-size mattresses and a trundle bed mattress which are not included in the purchase. But, overall, I find it's an awesome trundle bunk bed that's durable and has simple but impressive features.

Pros:

  • A sturdy staircase that can be moved to either end
  • Suitable for families with low ceilings and who have small children
  • Made of manufactured wood and solid pine wood for sturdiness and durability
  • High-quality construction for high-weight capacity
  • Value-conscious wooden bed frame and wood slats, so it doesn't require a box spring or foundation
  • The upper bed comes with a rail
  • Storage shelves

Cons:

  • Delivered in separate packages that don't always arrive at the same time
  • It might take a long to assemble
  • Twin mattresses not included

5) Best Quality Furniture, Full-Size Bed With Trundle

Best Quality Furniture Full Bed W/Trundle, Dark gray
  • Dimensions: Bed: 81"L x 56"W x 41" H trundle: 74"L x 42"W x 13"H,...
  • This beautiful and very modern full-sized trundle bed is...
  • The headboard is given a tufted design with the same color...
  • Slats are provided with the bed as well as rails on the trundle...
  • Whole Bed is Linen Fabric

This bed is appealing as it gets. Right off the bat, the Best Quality Furniture full-size bed with trundle is a modern, upholstered trundle. According to the reviews, it ranks as one of the best-upholstered trundle beds that comes with a stylishly woven cloth in a tufted design on its headboard, footboard, panels, and side rails.

Image Source: walmart.com

Of course, like many trundle beds, the trundle below the main bed comes with wheels in a pull-out design that makes it simple to access the extra bed. I also liked that it can transition to just one full-size bed. The metal slats and railings come with a set, so you won't have to get anything. However, I did need my tools to assemble the bed.

While the design is quite simple, the assembly might prove a little tricky if you are inexperienced. I managed to assemble it in a few hours. However, this pull-out twin-size trundle bed set is a great addition to any bedroom because it gives that stylish old-school vibe that you can work with.

Pros:

  • Beautiful and modern full-sized bed and twin-sized trundle bed
  • Well upholstered
  • Stylish stitching and tufted design along its headboard
  • Trundle bed comes with wheels that can easily glide
  • Slats and rails on the trundle bed are provided
  • The whole bed comes in linen fabric
  • Trundle bed can slide both ways

Cons:

  • Only available in one color; dark grey
  • A box spring mattress cannot be used on this bed
  • The layout can get a little flimsy
  • The base wood pieces are quite thin

How To Choose The Best Trundle Bed?

1) What Frame Materials?

Generally, solid wood frames are a classic but relatively pricey option. Metal frames, on the other hand, give that modern vibe and are often less pricey. Both are durable options, so choosing the material will primarily be based on the price and personal style.

Metal vs wood bed frame

Image Source: quaggadesigns.com

Other materials that could be used for trundle bed frames are plastic, particleboard, or other synthetic materials. These are less pricier options but aren’t as durable as solid wood or metal frames. For style and comfort, frames such as luxury daybed frames can be upholstered.

2) What Mattress Does it Need?

Most trundle bed frames will require you to purchase the mattress separately. This is probably best since the purchase will almost always include thinner mattresses that don’t go for long. However, trundle bed mattresses come in a wide range, and it’s important to consider who’s going to use the trundle and for what period.

What mattresses does it need?

Image Source: furnishingtips.com

For instance, children don’t always require a pricey mattress, especially if it’s just for a sleepover. If the bed is primarily for sleepovers, then you can consider a low-cost foam mattress or innerspring for plenty of comfort and support in the few times it will be used.

However, if you’re planning to host adults, or anticipate that you’ll have guests staying over frequently, then you consider investing in a high-quality memory foam mattress. Generally, these mattresses are thinner than ordinary ones.

3) Does it Look Good in Your Bedroom?

Like other bedroom furniture, trundle beds also come in any aesthetic preference and budget, ranging from contemporary, modern, classic, and shabby chic to mid-century modern and others. If the trundle bed goes into your child’s bedroom, ensure it has the same aesthetic as the entire room. The same applies to your guest room.

Does it look good in your bedroom?

Image Source: woodenstreet.com

4) Does It Come With Storage Space?

The primary storage methods would include an additional trundle drawer or cubby holes to add storage options. Additionally, if you choose not to add a trundle mattress, you can use the space to store season clothes like winter jackets and extra bedding.

Does it come with storage space

Image Source: furnishingtips.com

Frequently Asked Questions On The Best Trundle Bed

i) How do I choose a trundle bed?

When selecting a trundle bed, the bed’s frame type and style are the most important considerations, along with the mattress. Trundle beds should also have storage space if you need it.

ii) Why do people buy trundle beds?

The space-saving design is ideal for people who want to be able to accommodate guests comfortably but have limited room available. Additionally, large families can also benefit from trundle beds since they are an excellent way to save space.

iii) What is special about a trundle bed?

A trundle bed is a compact bed frame and mattress that sits low enough to the ground to be stored underneath another bed. The frame has wheels, making it easy to roll out and use.

iv) What kind of mattress do you need for a trundle bed?

The majority of trundle beds fit a twin or full mattress between 6″ and 8″ thick. Generally, a 6″ mattress will also do, as this will make moving the trundle in and out easier and still will provide plenty of support.

Keep in mind when shopping for a thin mattress that you can use for a trundle bed most of your options will be all-foam varieties.

v) Can adults sleep on a trundle bed?

Yes. Generally, people who weigh over 250 lbs should sleep on the parent/main bed. Most trundle beds have a maximum weight limit of 250 lbs, but some, including the parent bed, can typically support up to 400 lbs.

Trundle bed mattresses come in either twin or full sizes and are relatively thinner (6 inches thick) in most cases. As a result, both provide plenty of space for an adult to comfortably spread out. However, for taller adults, you should consider the longer twin XL mattress.

vi) Can you Just get the trundle?

Generally, most trundle beds come as a complete set that includes the primary bed and the trundle, but you can still find separate trundle frames that can fit under the standard bed with the proper clearance. For it to fit, the trundle is slightly shorter than a twin- or full-sized bed.

The Bottom Line On The Best Trundle Bed

Trundle beds are convenient when you need extra space but don’t have the storage space for 2 beds. There are different types of trundle beds, each with its bells and whistles. You don’t have to compromise to find the best trundle bed for your purposes and budget. The comprehensive list above has the best trundle beds in the market, their features, and their pros and cons.

Ian Mutuli

About the author

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
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