If you’re looking for a way to make your guest room, kids’ room, or cottage more flexible, a trundle bed might be your best furniture decision yet.
These clever, space-saving designs give you a comfortable extra bed without permanently taking up floor space — perfect for growing families and compact homes. In this guide, you’ll learn what a bed with trundle bed is, how it works, the different types and sizes, how to choose the right mattress, and what to consider before buying. By the end, you’ll know exactly which model fits your space and lifestyle.
What Is a Bed with Trundle Bed and How Does It Work?
A trundle bed is a low, hidden bed frame that slides out from underneath another bed. Think of it as a second bed on wheels — ready whenever you need extra sleeping space but invisible when not in use.
The name “trundle” comes from the old English word trund, meaning “to roll,” which perfectly describes how this pull-out bed works. Today, bed with trundle bed is common in family homes, guest rooms, and cottages across Canada.
Types of Trundle Designs
At Bunk Beds Canada, we offer two main types of trundle systems — both built from solid wood for strength and longevity:
1. Trundle Bed (for mattresses)
- • Designed to hold a standard mattress (no drawers or partitions).
- • Provides an extra sleeping spot for guests or family members.
- • Equipped with caster wheels for smooth rolling.
2. Trundle Storage Bed (with dividers)
- • Divided compartments for organized under-bed storage instead of sleeping.
- • Perfect for linens, toys, or seasonal clothing.
- • Slides easily under compatible bunk or platform beds.
Tip: When buying online, check that your chosen trundle fits directly under your bed frame — clearance height is key. Not sure about your frame size? Read our Bed Size Guides to find the perfect fit.
Available Trundle Bed Sizes
At Bunk Beds Canada, every bed with trundle bed is crafted in standard North American sizes and built to fit perfectly under our solid wood bed frames. The two main size options are Twin and Twin XL, making them ideal for both kids and adults while maintaining safe under-bed clearance.
Because trundles slide completely beneath another bed, mattress height plays a key role in fit and performance.
Most trundle models should use a mattress no thicker than 6 inches. This ensures smooth operation and enough room for bedding without getting caught on the upper frame.
Here’s a quick overview of our available trundle sizes:
| Trundle Size | Mattress Size | Typical Height | Recommended Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Twin Trundle | 38" x 75" | Up to 6" | Kids’ rooms, guest spaces |
| Twin XL Trundle | 38" x 80" | Up to 6" | Teens, cottages, or taller sleepers |
Boxy trundle beds feature enclosed sides and a lower inner clearance, so they require slightly smaller mattresses. These designs are stylish and streamlined but not compatible with coil mattresses.
Open trundle beds, on the other hand, have open slat sides that allow for a standard-size foam or hybrid mattress, making them a bit more flexible.
We currently do not manufacture Full or Queen trundles, as larger frames exceed the standard under-bed clearance for safe rolling and stable support.
Where to Use a Trundle Bed
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution for trundle setups.
Here are some of the most practical spaces and matching bed types to consider.
Daybeds with Trundle
A daybed with trundle offers the best of both worlds: seating by day and a hidden second bed by night. This setup is ideal for guest rooms, home offices, or studio apartments , where space is limited but flexibility is key.
When styling, choose lightweight bedding — fitted duvets, decorative pillows, and simple throws — so the top bed doubles as a sofa during the day.
Bunk Beds with Trundle
For shared kids’ rooms or vacation cottages, a bunk bed with trundle delivers maximum sleeping capacity in minimum space.
You get three sleeping spots (upper, lower, and trundle) within one solid structure — perfect for siblings or visiting guests.
At Bunk Beds Canada, our trundles are made to fit securely under our Cottage and Modular collection bunk beds for a seamless match.
Choosing the Right Mattress for a Trundle Bed
When it comes to picking the right trundle bed mattress, size and height make all the difference. Because a trundle slides neatly under another bed, there’s less room to play with — and choosing the wrong mattress thickness can stop it from closing properly. Let’s go over what to look for before you buy.
Ideal Mattress Height
Most trundle beds are designed for mattresses that do not exceed 6 inches in height. This ensures the trundle can roll smoothly underneath the main bed without rubbing or sticking.
In some models with extra clearance, you may fit a mattress up to 7 or 8 inches thick — but always check the exact internal height of your trundle drawer before ordering. Even an extra inch can make a big difference in fit and function.
| Trundle Size | Mattress Dimensions | Recommended Height |
|---|---|---|
| Twin | 38" x 75" | Up to 6" (maximum) |
| Twin XL | 38" x 80" | Up to 6" (maximum) |
Boxy vs. Open Trundle Designs
Trundle beds generally come in two styles: boxy and open.
A boxy trundle features enclosed sides that create a neat, furniture-like look but slightly reduce the usable space inside. Because of this tighter fit, it’s best paired with a slim foam mattress, as coil types are often too firm and tall to slide in smoothly.
An open trundle uses a slatted base with open sides, providing more room and airflow. This design is more forgiving with mattress dimensions and works perfectly with most 6-inch foam or hybrid mattresses.
Best Mattress Types
Not all mattresses work equally well for trundles. Here’s what tends to perform best:
- Foam or memory foam: Lightweight, flexible, and easy to move — perfect for both boxy and open trundles.
- Hybrid mattresses: Offer balanced support and comfort for regular use, but make sure they stay within the 6-inch height limit.
- Avoid coil or pillow-top designs: They’re often too tall or rigid for enclosed trundles and can prevent smooth sliding.
If you’re unsure which mattress will fit best, remember that a slimmer, all-foam option is almost always the safer choice.
Related guide: Mattress Size Guide – Finding the Perfect Fit
Key Things to Consider Before Buying a Trundle Bed
Before making your purchase, review these important details to ensure your trundle bed fits your space and lifestyle.
Room Size and Clearance
Measure the area where the trundle will roll out. Leave at least 2–3 feet of free space once it’s fully extended to ensure easy access and comfort.
Flooring Surface
Smooth floors - like hardwood, laminate, or vinyl — make it easier to roll the trundle in and out. If your room has carpet, look for larger caster wheels or consider a storage trundle without wheels for smoother movement.
User Type
- • Kids: Choose low-profile solid wood trundles for safety and stability.
- • Teens or Guests: Select a Twin XL trundle bed to create a full-size sleeping surface when the lower bed is pulled out —perfect for sleepovers or extra guests.
Frequency of Use
- • Daily use: Opt for a reinforced slat base and thicker wood construction for long-term strength.
- • Occasional use: A lighter frame or pop-up trundle provides extra sleeping space without taking up room daily.
Frame Material
Our trundle beds are crafted from premium solid wood, offering lasting durability, easy maintenance, and a timeless aesthetic that complements any room style. When buying online, check that your chosen trundle fits directly under your bed frame — clearance height is key.
Advantages of Incorporating a Trundle Bed into Your Home
So, why choose a trundle bed over a traditional guest bed? The answer is simple — it offers hidden functionality, adaptable comfort, and unmatched versatility, all in one clever design.
A trundle bed is the best space-saving solution. It is great for apartments, kids' rooms, or vacation homes where space is limited. Instead of having a spare bed out all the time, you can roll out the trundle when guests come. Afterward, you can easily tuck it away. There’s no need to inflate, unfold, or rearrange furniture — everything stays tidy and organized.
One of the biggest benefits of a trundle bed is its dual-purpose design. You can use it as an extra sleeping spot when needed, or choose a storage trundle with built-in compartments to keep linens, cushions, or toys neatly stored. It’s a simple way to make your furniture work harder for you.
Trundles are also safe and easy to move, thanks to smooth-rolling caster wheels that protect your floors and make setup effortless — even for kids. And because they’re built from solid wood, our trundle beds are made to handle daily use while maintaining their strength and beauty for years to come.
In short, a bed with a trundle bed gives you all the comfort of a guest bed without sacrificing space or style — a practical upgrade for any Canadian home.
Styling and Bedding Tips for Trundle Beds
A well-styled bed with trundle bed can look just as elegant as it is practical. The key is to keep the bedding light and simple so the lower frame glides in and out effortlessly. When setting up your daybed with trundle bedding, choose coordinated linens for both mattresses to create a clean, unified look. This small detail makes the whole setup feel intentional rather than improvised.
If your trundle design has storage dividers, use soft baskets or fabric bins. They help keep extra bedding and pillows organized. For daybeds, add some accent cushions and a cozy throw. This change makes the space a nice reading nook during the day and a welcoming guest bed at night.
Natural wood finishes like White Stain, Grey, or Chestnut look great in many Canadian homes. They fit well in modern apartments and rustic cottages. These finishes bring warmth and versatility to any space.
Summary – Is a Trundle Bed Right for You?
If you’re looking to maximize comfort and flexibility without sacrificing floor space, a trundle bed is a smart, long-term investment. It’s perfect for families, cottage owners, and anyone who hosts overnight guests.
Whether you prefer a Trundle Bed for Mattresses or a Trundle Storage Bed with Dividers, each piece is designed with the quality craftsmanship Bunk Beds Canada is known for.
Explore our Bunk Beds with Trundle collection — built in Canada, shipped nationwide.
Durable, functional, and made to last for generations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Beds with Trundle Beds
What is a trundle bed?
A trundle bed is a low, pull-out frame that rolls out from beneath another bed. It’s designed to hold a second mattress or act as extra storage. The trundle slides on wheels, making it a simple, space-saving solution for guest rooms, kids’ rooms, or cottages.
Are trundle beds comfortable?
Yes, a bed with trundle bed can be very comfortable if paired with the right mattress. A 6- to 8-inch foam or hybrid mattress provides great support and fits easily under the frame.
Are trundle beds comfortable for adults?
They can be! For adult use, choose a Twin XL trundle with a medium-firm mattress and solid wood slats. This combination provides full support while maintaining smooth roll-out clearance.
Can you add a trundle to any bed?
Not always. A trundle requires enough space under the main frame — usually at least 12 inches of clearance. At Bunk Beds Canada, our trundles are built to fit perfectly under our compatible solid wood bed frames.
How big is a trundle bed?
Most trundles come in Twin (38" x 75") or Twin XL (38" x 80") sizes. These are standard North American dimensions that match our bunk and platform bed collections.
What size mattress fits a trundle bed?
For the best fit and smooth operation, choose a mattress no thicker than 6 inches. This height ensures the trundle slides easily under the main bed without getting stuck.
How much weight can a trundle bed hold?
It depends on the construction. Our solid wood trundles safely support up to 250 lbs for Twin and 300 lbs for Twin XL, making them suitable for both children and adults.
