Bunk Beds VS trundle Beds: Which Is Right For You?

Many of us would like more space, whether in our home or apartment, the distance between you and your obnoxious neighbor, or living space to do more than just sit on the couch or lie in bed.

If you have kids, more space is often crucial to a peaceful home environment. Whether your kids or your guests’ children are the ones who need it, more area is essential for keeping them and yourself happy.

Maybe your kids just need so much more room for activities, and you are looking for a way to get more use out of the space available. There are two great solutions for saving space in a kids' room: bunk beds and trundle beds.

What are bunk beds? And what on earth is a trundle bed? Furniture Fair would like to help you find the answer to these questions. We are located throughout Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana. We want to help you learn as much about the furniture you seek.

After reading this article, you will understand the differences between bunk beds and trundle beds and what sets them apart. Read on to hear all about bunk beds versus trundles and find out which one is best for you.

Many people may be familiar with bunk beds and less so with trundle beds, but for those who aren’t, here’s a quick definition for each. Here are the descriptions for a bunk bed and a trundle bed.

A bunk bed is two beds stacked on top of each other. Well, ok, it’s a bit more than just that, but the premise of stacked beds remains. Bunk beds create two sleeping spaces that take up the floor space of one.

Bunk beds are commonly available in two mattress sizes, twin over twin or twin over full. Twin over twin has the same mattress on both beds, while twin over full offers a full mattress on the bottom bunk for a slightly larger bed.

Full over full bunk beds are less common layouts, and full over twin bunk beds are not offered anywhere because that would be both impractical and silly. Consider measuring the space if you aren’t sure which option is best for your kid's bedroom.

Twin mattresses are usually 38” x 75” with some variations, and full mattresses are generally 53” x 74.5” and create a slightly larger use of space. For extra support underneath each mattress, consider using a bunkie board.

A twin over twin bunk bed is perfect for smaller areas where space is crucial. If your kids have a larger bedroom, a full bed will give the oldest room to grow. If you have twins, consider giving the bottom bunk to the one you like more.

A trundle bed is a drawer built on casters designed to slide under the bed you already use. The drawer slides out from under the bed and can be used as another compact bed or storage when not in use. Some trundles even have trundle storage drawers under the trundle bed which let’s you store mattress accessories and pillows when not in use.

A trundle bed can fit under twin, full, queen, and king mattress sizes, with most trundle beds being slightl\y smaller than a twin bed. Trundles can also be used with bunk beds, giving you three beds in the same space.

Now that you know what bunk beds and trundle beds are, let’s look at a few key differences. Once you know the advantages and disadvantages of each type, you will be better prepared to decide which is best for your small bedroom.

Bunk beds require more ceiling height than a traditional bed, so if you have low ceilings, a bunk bed may not be a very comfortable fit for whoever gets the top bunk. Bunk beds offer more customization options, including ladders, steps, bookshelves, and even desk layouts.

A bunk bed can also include a trundle, meaning you can get both and have up to three usable beds in the same space. If you have a tiny space, or perhaps your nieces and nephews like to come and spend nights with your kids, this is an excellent option for space-saving and efficiency.

Trundles are more low profile than a bunk bed and can easily slide out of sight when not in use. When not in use, the bed fits discreetly underneath any standard bed and can double as a storage drawer when not used as a bed.

Now that we’ve talked about the differences between bunk beds and trundle beds, let's discuss which option is suitable for your needs. Bunk beds are a great way to free up space in your kids' room for activities.

However, there are a few things to consider when purchasing a bunk bed. If one of your kids is a lighter sleeper, bunk beds may not be the best option. If you are on the bottom bunk, you are more likely to feel any motion from the top bunk, distracting and preventing light sleepers from a full night’s rest.

If your child is a bit more clumsy or accident-prone, or perhaps just has a bit too much energy, a top bunk could pose a potential danger if your kid isn’t careful. Taking the proper precautions and keeping all safety rails attached can help prevent falls.

Most manufacturers recommend using bunk beds for kids ages 6 to 12 and recommend not allowing horseplay on or under the beds, especially jumping. In addition, your children should always use the ladder for entering and leaving the upper bunk.

In contrast to the bunk bed, a trundle bed is more accessible than a top bunk and excellent for children. There is no need to unfold an old cot or put a ton of blankets down when you have a bed that slides right out when needed.

Potential downsides to a trundle bed are they are a bit too small for adults, so if you are looking to use it as an additional guest bed, your guest may feel a bit cramped. Trundles can take up space where storage usually goes, so bear that in mind.

Last, trundle beds are designed for use as needed and not everyday use, and they may break down sooner if used consistently. Keep some of these things in mind when considering whether or not to use a trundle bed or a bunk bed.

Knowing the difference between a bunk bed and a trundle bed is an excellent start to finding that perfect bed for your kids' room or guest room. One of these two options is a great way for you to save space and gain back room for your kids or guests.

Remember that bunk beds and trundles are options to add more beds to your rooms. Bunk beds stack and require higher ceilings, while trundles are designed for occasional use rather than daily use.

If you are interested in finding a bunk bed or a trundle bed for your home, check out a Furniture Fair showroom. Furniture Fair is located throughout Cincinnati, Dayton, Northern Kentucky, and Louisville and has options for your budget.

If you want to learn more about one of our favorite bunk beds, check out our Caden bunk bed collection review and find out if this bed set is the perfect set for your kids’ bedroom.