A trundle bed can be a great way to make a small room feel bigger. However, they can’t be matched with mattresses of all sizes and materials.
So, are trundle beds worth it?
In this article, we will go through the pros and cons of trundle beds to help you decide if it is the right choice for you.
What Is a Trundle Bed?
A trundle bed is a low bed, usually set on wheels or runners, that fits beneath the main bed frame. It can be pulled out, effectively transforming one bed into two individual beds.
Besides the traditional version, you can also find a pop up trundle bed—here the frame can be lifted up to reach the same height as the main bed. This type of bed can give you additional sleeping space and turn a single into a double bed.
Trundle beds are made from the same materials as a standard bed frame. In other words, you can find them in timber, metal or upholstered, providing functionality, stability and aesthetic appeal.
Are trundle beds comfortable?
In general, yes, but it mostly depends on the mattress.
Trundle beds are great for the occasional sleepover so they would be best for guest rooms or kids’ rooms. They may not be the best option for everyday use, especially if you are older or have back issues—most trundle beds are very close to the ground and not as supportive as a traditional bed frame.
What mattress works best for a trundle bed?
You can basically pair a trundle bed with any mattress as long as the size is right.
It depends on the design, but the top bed is usually a standard Australian-size mattress, with the pull-out trundle being slightly smaller in size. This means that if the top bed is a double, the bottom will be a single (since they match in length).
Most trundle beds in Australia are available as single and king single. A double trundle bed can be found, although they are not as common.
Another issue is the thickness of the mattress. Since trundle beds need to fit nicely and snug under the top frame, they work best with a thinner mattress, about 20cm in width.
This may limit your options to foam beds, which are not always the top choice for the elderly or adults with bad backs. That is not to say that you can’t find a high-quality foam mattress to fit your trundle bed.
Are Trundle Beds Worth It?
What better way to make a decision than a pros and cons list?
Let’s consider the advantages and drawbacks of a trundle bed.
Benefits of trundle beds
1. You get two beds in one
If you want to save floor space while providing an extra sleeping area for kids or visitors, a trundle bed is the way to go.
2. Great for children
Not only are trundle beds safer than bunk beds (since they are lower to the ground), but they also come in a king single—the perfect size for growing teens and tweens.
Another great use for a trundle bed is when your child is transitioning from baby cots to regular beds. Many parents use trundles to put their little ones to sleep, giving them an extra sense of security.
3. Great value for money
Trundle beds are usually more budget-friendly than traditional beds—the best trundle bed in Australia can go from $799 to $1,200 (without the cost of the mattress included), although you can find king-size trundle beds for as low as $499.
That said, those on a limited budget can consider even more affordable options—some of the best sofa beds are priced around $500 and also work great as space savers.
4. Available in various designs
Trundle beds come in all shapes and sizes—from upholstered day beds to beds with additional storage included, such as drawers and shelves. Due to their versatile design, trundles can fit any room, including multi-function rooms commonly found in studios and smaller apartments.
5. Easy to use
Thanks to the wheels and simple trundle bed locking mechanism, these beds are incredibly easy to use and can be pulled out or stored away in a matter of seconds.
Cons of using a trundle bed
1. The trundle bed mattress will have to be aired out
The trundle mattress will not receive much air unless you use it often. So to keep the mattress in tip-top shape, you would need to ventilate it and avoid the formation of mildew.
2. They are not great for everyday use
Although comfortable, trundle beds should not be used every night.
How to stop a mattress from getting damaged while in storage? Read all about it in this insightful article.
3. Limited size available
Most trundle beds are only available in single and king singles.
4. Mattress options
Hybrid or memory foam mattresses, widely considered to be superior in both comfort and quality, might be too thick for the trundle bed. This means you will have to get a basic foam bed, which may not be as comfy.
Bottom Line: When Should You Buy a Trundle Bed?
The main purpose of a trundle bed is to provide an extra sleeping surface while minimising the space used. That makes trundle beds the perfect addition to a guest room, especially if you frequently have sleepover guests, a holiday home, or a kids’ room — your children can share the bed or use it for a sleepover party.
1. Can two people sleep on a trundle bed?
Trundle beds might be a tight fit for two people, however, if you go for a pop up trundle bed (that comes out to the same height as the main bed frame), you get a double-sized bed that is comfortable enough for two adults.
2. Are trundle beds uncomfortable?
The level of comfort depends on what type of mattress you use. The downside is that you can’t use a thicker, cosier mattresses on the bottom bed because of the size, which might make trundles a bit uncomfortable for older people.
3. Can you put a trundle under any bed?
A trundle can fit under any bed as long as there is space underneath. That said, it depends on the design of the bed frame (both the top bed and the trundle bed), so it is best to read the product details carefully or consult the manufacturer to see if you can fit a trundle under your bed.
4. Are trundle beds suitable for adults?
Sure. Trundle beds may be typically found in the kids’ bedroom section of the furniture store, but they can accommodate adults as well, particularly if they are combined with a good-quality mattress. Before using a trundle for adult sleepers, make sure the frame can support the weight, as many trundles have limited weight capacities.
