Finding space-saving furniture that doesn't look like a temporary fix is a challenge many of us face, especially in apartments or multipurpose guest rooms. If you are hunting for a trundle bed ikea has become the go-to destination for affordable, multifunctional frames. The Swedish retailer approaches this design differently than most. Rather than just offering a standard bed with a drawer underneath, they often integrate the trundle mechanism into daybeds that expand from a twin to a king-size sleeper, or offer modular under-bed units that slide seamlessly beneath specific frames.
I learned the nuances of these beds the hard way. A few years ago, I decided to turn a small home office into a guest room. I bought the Hemnes daybed, assuming it would be a quick Saturday afternoon project. Six hours and a mountain of cardboard later, I realized that while the end result is sturdy and attractive, understanding exactly what you are buying—specifically regarding the mattress requirements and assembly—is crucial before you drive to the warehouse. The functionality is brilliant, but it requires specific planning.
Understanding the IKEA Trundle System
When you start looking for trundle beds at ikea, you will notice they categorize them into two distinct groups. The most popular group consists of convertible daybeds. These look like sofas with high backs and sides. The "trundle" part is actually the front rail of the bed, which pulls out like a drawer to reveal a slatted base. You then unfold or place a second mattress onto this base to create a double bed.
The second category is the traditional roll-out trundle. These are separate units on castors, like the Släkt under-bed, designed to roll underneath a high bed frame. This distinction matters because it dictates the footprint of the bed when it is closed versus when it is open. The daybeds require you to stack two mattresses when in "sofa mode," which impacts the seating height and comfort.
Top IKEA Models with Trundle Functionality
Choosing the right frame depends entirely on who will be sleeping on it and how much floor space you have available. Here is a breakdown of the most reliable models currently on the showroom floor.
1. The Hemnes Daybed
This is arguably the most recognizable trundle ikea produces. It features a classic style with three drawers built into the base. The back and side panels give it a cozy, enclosed feel, making it excellent for reading or lounging during the day. The three drawers are massive, easily swallowing bedding and pillows. However, because it is made of solid pine (mostly), it is heavy. Once you build it, do not plan on moving it frequently.
2. The Brimnes Daybed
If the Hemnes is too traditional for your taste, the Brimnes offers a cleaner, modern look. It lacks the high back panel, which makes it feel less imposing in small rooms. It features two larger drawers instead of three smaller ones. A distinct advantage of the Brimnes is that because it lacks the high sides, it does not feel as claustrophobic for taller guests when extended into a double bed.
3. The Släkt Bed System
This is the best option for children's rooms or teenagers. Unlike the daybeds, the Släkt is a standard twin frame that allows you to choose what goes underneath. You can opt for a seat module, storage boxes, or a dedicated under-bed with storage. This under-bed is a true trundle—it is a separate wheeled unit that rolls out completely. It is lower to the ground, making it safer for younger kids during sleepovers.
4. The Flekke Daybed
The Flekke is unique because of its corner backrest design. It is intended to be pushed against a wall corner, creating a sectional sofa vibe. The pull-out mechanism is similar to the Hemnes and Brimnes, but the asymmetrical design allows for different pillow arrangements. It is ideal for studio apartments where the bed needs to act as the primary living room seating.
5. The Utåker Stackable Beds
While not a mechanical trundle, the Utåker deserves a mention for solving the same problem. These are two simple pine frames that stack on top of each other. When stacked, they form a single twin bed. When unstacked, you have two separate twin beds that can be placed side-by-side or in different rooms. This is often a better solution for guests who might not want to sleep directly next to each other.
The Critical Factor: Choosing the Right Mattress
The most common mistake shoppers make is ignoring the specific requirements for a trundle mattress ikea frames demand. For the expandable daybeds (Hemnes, Brimnes, Flekke), you generally need two twin mattresses. When the bed is used as a single sleeper, these mattresses stack on top of one another.
This stacking mechanism creates a height restriction. If you buy two plush, 10-inch thick mattresses, your seating height will be over 25 inches high—creating a "princess and the pea" situation where your feet dangle off the floor. Furthermore, the backrest of the daybed might be completely covered by the mattress height, ruining the aesthetic.
IKEA recommends specific foam or low-profile spring mattresses for these beds, typically the Ågotnes, Åsvang, or Vannareid models. These are usually around 4 to 5 inches thick. While they might look thin, they are designed to be firm enough to support an adult when used singly, but comfortable when spread out. If you plan to use the bed primarily for guests, invest in the higher-end foam options (like the Åsvang) rather than the cheapest model, as thin mattresses can feel unforgiving on the wooden slats.
Assembly and Durability Realities
You cannot discuss IKEA furniture without addressing the assembly. Trundle beds are complex. You are essentially building a bed frame, a drawer unit, and a sliding rail mechanism all in one. The Hemnes daybed, for example, is notorious for having a high screw count. You should set aside a full afternoon and, if possible, use a power drill with a hex bit (set to low torque to avoid cracking the wood).
In terms of durability, the pull-out mechanism is usually the first thing to show wear if not treated correctly. The wheels that allow the front to pull out run on the floor. If you have deep pile carpet, this action can be difficult and may strain the frame. These beds work best on hardwood, laminate, or low-pile rugs. Additionally, always ensure the slats are properly locked into the plastic pegs. If they shift, the mattress can sag, causing the drawer mechanism to catch when you try to close it.
Styling Your Trundle for Daily Use
Since these beds often live in multi-use rooms, styling them to look less like a bed is key. Use large, firm euro-sham pillows against the backboard to shorten the seat depth, making it comfortable for sitting. A fitted sheet that matches the upholstery color of the room can help disguise the mattress as a sofa cushion. For the Släkt or other under-bed trundles, a long bed skirt can hide the seam where the trundle meets the main frame, keeping the visual clutter to a minimum.
Ultimately, these beds offer incredible value. They maximize square footage in a way few other pieces of furniture can, turning a 100-square-foot room into a bedroom, office, and lounge all at once. By selecting the right mattress height and being patient with the assembly, you get a versatile sleeper that lasts for years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to buy special sheets for IKEA trundle beds?
For the trundle mattresses, standard twin sheets usually fit, but they may be loose if you use the thinner 4-5 inch mattresses recommended by IKEA. Sheet straps or clips can help keep them taut. When the bed is pulled out into a double (king) size, you will need king-size sheets to cover both mattresses spanning across the frame.
What is the weight limit for the pull-out trundle section?
Most IKEA daybed trundles are rated for approximately 220 lbs (100 kg) per sleeping side. This means the bed can comfortably support two adults when fully extended. However, you should avoid jumping on the extended slats or sitting heavily on the extreme edge of the pull-out section before the mattress is in place.
Can I use a mattress I already own with an IKEA trundle frame?
It is possible, but check the thickness carefully. If your existing twin mattress is thicker than 5-6 inches, stacking it with a second mattress on a daybed will make the seat uncomfortably high. For under-bed rolling trundles like the Släkt, a standard mattress often won't fit under the main frame's clearance, so measuring the gap is essential.