Day Bed vs Trundle Bed: Which Space-Saving Bed Option Is Right for You?

A day bed serves as a stylish seat by day and a single bed by night, while a trundle bed offers a hidden pull-out mattress for instant guest accommodation. Both are smart, space-saving solutions, but they function differently and suit different needs.

If you are furnishing a small bedroom, guest room, or multipurpose space, choosing the right bed matters. A day bed works well as a cosy sitting area during the day and transitions easily into a bed at night. It’s a great option for rooms that need to serve multiple purposes, such as a home office that doubles as a guest space. On the other hand, a trundle bed hides a second mattress underneath, making it perfect for hosting sleepovers or accommodating guests when needed without taking up extra floor space full time.

In the sections that follow, we will compare both types of beds across essential factors like room layout efficiency, functionality, comfort, and design appeal, giving you the clarity to choose the most practical and stylish solution for your home.

What Is a Daybed?

A daybed is a multifunctional piece of furniture designed to serve as both a sofa and a bed. Typically built around a standard twin-size mattress (90×190 cm), it features a supportive frame with a backrest and two arms, giving it the appearance of a couch while offering the comfort of a bed.

This dual-purpose design makes daybeds ideal for small spaces, such as guest rooms, studios, or home offices. Many models include slatted bases for mattress ventilation and are crafted from materials like solid wood, metal, or engineered wood. Some also offer under-bed storage, adding practicality to their compact footprint.

What Is a Trundle Bed?

A trundle bed is a space-saving solution that features a second mattress stored underneath the main bed frame. Set on casters, the lower bed rolls out easily, providing an extra sleeping surface only when needed, which makes it perfect for accommodating occasional guests.

This flexible design is especially useful in children’s rooms or compact living areas. Trundle beds support single or small single mattresses (90×190 cm or 75×190 cm) and come in materials like solid wood, powder-coated metal, or engineered wood. Some trundles stay low to the floor, while others rise to match the main bed’s height for added versatility.

Key Differences Between Daybeds and Trundle Beds

Daybeds and trundle beds differ in how they perform across space efficiency, usage, comfort, design, and storage versatility. While a daybed functions as a fixed sofa-bed hybrid for everyday use, a trundle bed stores a hidden mattress that slides out only when extra sleeping space is needed.

1. Space and Layout Efficiency

Daybeds take up consistent space and are easier to position in tight or narrow layouts. They maintain a fixed footprint, roughly matching a standard single bed, and can be placed against a wall to preserve open space. This makes them well-suited for rectangular rooms and small bedrooms.

In contrast, a trundle bed requires additional floor clearance, typically up to 100 cm, to accommodate the pull-out mechanism. While it saves space when closed, the extended layout demands planning and limits placement flexibility in smaller rooms.

2. Functionality and Usage

The intended frequency and style of use define how each bed functions. A daybed remains ready for both sitting and sleeping without needing rearrangement, making it ideal for rooms that serve dual purposes throughout the day. Its form supports consistent, daily use.

A bunk bed with trundle and stairs, on the other hand, is purpose-built for temporary sleeping needs. It stores the second mattress under the main frame and requires manual setup, which suits occasional guest use rather than everyday reliance.

3. Comfort and Mattress Support

Comfort depends on mattress quality and structural support. Daybeds typically accommodate full-size single mattresses with a thickness of 6 to 8 inches (up to 20 cm), resting on slatted or metal grid bases that ensure breathability and support. This makes them suitable for regular sleeping.

Trundle beds, however, use slimmer mattresses, usually 4-5 inches thick (12 to 15 cm), to fit beneath the main frame. These thinner mattresses are acceptable for short stays but may not provide adequate support for long-term or adult use.

4. Design and Aesthetic Appeal

Visual design plays a key role in how each bed complements the room. Daybeds are crafted to resemble sofas, featuring exposed frames that contribute to the room’s style. They come in various finishes such as painted wood, powder-coated steel, or upholstered panels, adding decorative value even when not in use.

Trundle beds, by comparison, prioritise functionality. Their hidden design reduces visual bulk, which helps them blend into minimalist interiors but offers less impact as a decor element. Still, exploring different trundle bed ideas can show creative ways to style them so they contribute both to practicality and aesthetics.

5. Storage and Versatility Options

Storage capacity varies significantly between the two bed types. Daybeds often include under-bed drawers or compartments, making them ideal for storing bedding, clothing, or toys in smaller rooms. This additional functionality enhances their appeal for everyday use.

With the single and double trundle bed, the underframe is designed to hold a pull-out mattress rather than storage. This makes it excellent for increasing sleeping capacity, but less effective for room organisation.

Daybed: Pros and Cons

Daybeds work especially well in spaces that need to serve more than one function throughout the day. They offer consistent utility with no need for daily setup, making them a convenient solution for rooms that double as guest spaces or lounges. However, their fixed structure and single-sleeper size may not be suitable for every layout or user.

Pros:

• Functions as both a seating and a bed without requiring conversion.
• Accommodates standard single mattresses for regular, comfortable sleep.
• Often includes built-in drawers for bedding or personal storage.
• Available in a wide range of styles and materials to suit decor preferences.
• Ideal for small spaces that need furniture to perform multiple roles.

Cons:

• Limited to one sleeper, which may not suit families or couples.
• Shallower seating depth compared to standard sofas.
• Takes up permanent space even when not used as a bed.
• Not as versatile in social seating arrangements.

Trundle Bed Pros and Cons

Trundle beds are a practical choice for homes that need extra sleeping space occasionally but prefer to keep the room clear day-to-day. They help maximise floor space by hiding the second mattress under the main bed frame, making them ideal for children’s rooms or guest setups. Still, they have some limitations, particularly in comfort and convenience for daily use.

Pros:

• Saves space by storing a second bed under the main frame.
• Ideal for sleepovers, guest visits, or shared children’s rooms.
• Keeps extra sleeping space out of sight when not in use.
• Some models allow the lower bed to rise to the same height as the main bed.
• Offers dual-sleeper capacity without occupying double the footprint.

Cons:

• Requires manual setup each time the lower bed is needed.
• A thinner lower mattress can reduce comfort.
• No room for storage drawers beneath the frame.
• Limited design variety compared to standard beds or sofas.
• Pull-out clearance needs to be planned into the room layout.

Ideal Use Cases: Who Should Choose What?

Use a daybed for a home office or studio flat where you need everyday seating and a ready-to-use bed, and choose a trundle bed for a child’s room or spare room where extra sleeping space is needed occasionally. The best option depends on how frequently the space is used and how flexible it needs to be.

Choose a daybed if:

• The room needs to function as both a lounge and a sleeping area.
• You want a bed that is always ready without any setup.
• You prefer furniture that doubles as seating and fits into the room’s decor.
• You need under-bed storage to organise bedding or personal items.
• The space is used daily and requires consistent functionality.

Choose a trundle bed if:

• You need extra sleeping space only on occasion (e.g. for guests or sleepovers).
• The room is shared or has limited open floor space.
• You prefer to keep the secondary bed hidden when not in use.
• You can allocate clearance space for the pull-out mechanism.
• The primary purpose of the room is not sleeping (e.g. a hobby room or playroom).

Day Bed vs Trundle Bed: Final Comparison Table

Feature	Daybed	Trundle Bed
Primary Use	Daily seating and sleeping	Occasional extra sleeping space
Mattress Size	Standard single (90×190 cm)	Standard or slim single (75–90×190 cm)
Mattress Thickness	6–8 inches (15–20 cm)	4–5 inches (10–15 cm)
Setup Required	None	Manual pull-out required
Comfort Level	High (supports thicker mattresses)	Moderate (thinner mattresses limit support)
Space Efficiency	Fixed footprint	Compact when closed, expands when used
Storage Options	Often includes drawers	Typically none
Visual Design Impact	Decorative, acts like a sofa	Minimal, low-profile appearance
Best For	Home offices, studio flats, teen rooms	Guest rooms, children’s rooms, sleepovers

Shop Space-Saving Beds at MK Furnishings Today

As we come to the end of this comparison, it’s clear that both daybeds and trundle beds have their place depending on your needs. A daybed doubles up as seating and a sleeping area, often with useful built-in storage, making it a versatile choice for everyday living. A trundle bed, by contrast, stays neatly tucked away until needed, offering a simple solution for guests or sleepovers. 

At MK Furnishings, our collection of space-saving beds is designed to combine practicality with timeless design. Whether you need a versatile daybed or a convenient trundle, we make it simple to maximise your space without compromising on comfort or style. With expert craftsmanship, UK-wide delivery and flexible payment options, the right solution is just a click away. Shop now to find the perfect fit for your home.

FAQs

Is a day bed the same as a trundle bed?

No, a day bed and a trundle bed serve different purposes and have distinct structures. A day bed is a fixed piece used for sitting and sleeping, while a trundle bed includes a hidden pull-out mattress used for occasional extra sleeping space.

Can a daybed be used as an everyday bed?

Yes, a daybed is suitable for daily use if paired with a proper mattress and supportive base. It offers the same dimensions as a standard single bed (90×190 cm), making it suitable for children, teens, or adults in compact bedrooms or studio apartments. It is a practical solution where space and functionality need to work together without compromise.

What’s the main difference between a daybed and a trundle bed?

The main difference is that a daybed is always ready for use, while a trundle bed requires pulling out a second mattress. Daybeds offer fixed functionality for sitting and sleeping, whereas trundle beds provide extra sleeping space only when needed, keeping the second mattress hidden underneath.

Which is better for a small guest room: daybed or trundle bed?

A trundle bed is better if the room needs to stay open most of the time and only occasionally hosts guests. It keeps extra sleeping space hidden until required. A daybed is a better option if the space is used regularly for both lounging and overnight stays.

What age is a trundle bed for?

A trundle bed is generally suitable for children aged two and above. The low height makes it safe and easy for young children to climb in and out independently. It is a great option for siblings, sleepovers, or transitioning toddlers to their first bed, though the thinner mattress may not offer enough support for adults or regular long-term use.

Do trundle beds come with both mattresses included?

No, most trundle beds do not come with both mattresses included by default. Typically, the bed frame is sold on its own, and in some cases, only the top mattress is part of the package. The lower pull-out mattress usually needs to be purchased separately to allow flexibility in size and thickness based on the under-bed clearance. It is important to review the product details carefully to understand exactly what’s included before ordering.