Understanding Trundle Bed
The trundle bed (from the Middle English "tryndel," meaning "wheel" or "roller") dates back to at least the Tudor period, when servants slept on low beds that could be pushed beneath their master's larger bed during the day. The concept was practical for small homes where every square foot mattered. Modern trundle beds come in two main types: a standard trundle that sits a few inches off the floor when pulled out (roughly mattress-on-the-floor height), and a pop-up trundle that uses a mechanism to raise the lower bed to the same height as the upper bed, creating a king-sized sleeping surface when pushed together. Trundle beds are most commonly paired with daybeds, captain's beds (platform beds with built-in drawers), and bunk beds. They use a thinner mattress than standard beds — typically 6-8 inches thick to fit within the trundle frame's low clearance.
Trundle Bed in Interior Design
Trundle beds are a smart solution for guest rooms that need to serve double duty. A daybed with a trundle in a home office provides occasional guest sleeping for two without dominating the room — during the day, the daybed functions as a sofa and the trundle is hidden from view. In children's rooms, trundle beds solve the sleepover problem without requiring bunk beds. The design has evolved significantly: modern trundles come in finishes and styles that match contemporary, farmhouse, and mid-century furniture. Some trundle units replace the second mattress with deep drawers, providing storage instead of a spare bed. Pop-up trundles are particularly valuable in small guest rooms, transforming a twin daybed into a king-sized bed when needed.
