A trundle bed is simply a bed that can be pulled out from underneath another bed when you need to use it. This kind of bed arrangement can be very convenient, especially if you have children and want to save space in your room or apartment but can’t afford an extra-large bed all the time.
There are several different kinds of trundle beds on the market, but they all follow the same basic principle: they move under the top bed to not take up any floor space when not in use.
Pop Up a Trundle Bed Using These Simple Steps
Whether they’re full-size or twin-size, you have to lower your mattress with most beds. Depending on your personal preference and your bedroom setup, you may need help doing that.
But if you have a roomy frame with more than one sidebar, then self-rising mattresses can be made even easier to get in and out of by attaching a trundle. A trundle bed Canada is like a drawer for storing other things that slide under your bed; it usually features a pullout system for raising it back up again.
Step 1 – Finding the Perfect Frame
Finding a reasonable frame is essential, so start by looking around your area. Check if your town has a thrift store. There’s probably quite an assortment of frames if it does, and you can usually find relatively inexpensive ones.
You want something that isn’t in great condition but has potential and character! We found our frame at a local thrift store for $15. It was kind of beat up but had beautiful details around each piece.
It didn’t take long before we could bring it back to life and make it into our own with just some paint! Be sure to look at how big your mattress will be when it’s folded down and see if you have enough space for storage under there as well.
Step 2 – Preparing the Frame
If you have an existing frame, you’ll want to make sure it’s good shape. Before adding your new trundle, make sure your frame is sturdy. Tighten any screws that may be loose and sand down any rough or splintered spots using medium-grit sandpaper.
If your frame doesn’t include storage underneath, you may need to add storage baskets or drawers depending on how much extra space you’d like for blankets, sheets, and other items.
You can add traditional drawers and cabinets built from plywood boards purchased at a home improvement store or find ready-made options that install easily under your bed; they often roll out easily when needed and roll back out of sight when not in use.
Step 3 – Building Your Platform Bed
Building platform beds are relatively easy and inexpensive. To build your own, you will need two sheets of plywood, wood glue, wood screws, and four-inch nails or similar finish nails.
Suppose you want to get fancy (and let’s face it, why would we do that if we’re building our platform bed?) and purchase some oak veneer plywood for $70 – $200, depending on size and color.
Assemble by following these steps: Nail each sheet of plywood together with 4-inch screws in each corner. Then apply wood glue at all corners and fold into a box shape by screwing through every other hole as shown in picture 7.
Step 4 – Setting Up Your Trunk
Your trundle should be easy to carry and set up. In most cases, it will come in one or two parts. One is a pair of short legs that allow you to place your mattress above your primary bed. The other is an expanded support structure with wheels and end pieces that looks like an extra-long twin mattress placed on top of your primary mattress.
Ensure you know how you’ll move it before purchase – carrying it on its side may cause significant damage. On average, an expandable unit will weigh about 50 pounds.
Most new models fold down flat, so they can be easily stowed away under a normal-sized bed when not in use; take them out when company comes over or when one person needs some additional sleeping space on short notice.
Step 5 – Adding Some Decoration
Adding decorations such as pillows and sheets can transform an old mattress into a comfy new bunk for guests. Try keeping an eye out for sales at local department stores, thrift shops, or online before you start shopping.
For instance, I was able to get two twin-size mattresses for only $12 each! However, if you have time and money, there are hundreds of styles and fabrics to choose from.
You can even use your imagination and make cushions out of old clothes or modern ones with scrap fabric. Always consider that you’ll need additional sheets, blankets, and pillows as well – don’t forget them when figuring out your budget! Here you will learn about 3 kinds of wood used in real wood furniture.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you pop up an old trundle bed?
As an owner of one of these beds, you have likely asked yourself, at some point, how do I set it up? Or how do I make my old trundle bed bigger again? The answer is not as straightforward as you would think.
To remove your mattress and turn your bed into a couch, you need several items: A drill, a flashlight, and (most importantly) an Allen wrench.
It’s that simple. Here’s how to set it up: First, unscrew all four screws on each side of your box spring and slide off your mattress if it is currently attached. Next, take out both large bolts in the back that attach your box spring to either side of the frame at the head or foot of the bed.
How do you get a trundle bed up?
You use a hand truck or furniture dolly. Just roll it from one location to another and make sure you don’t leave it out in the rain. I’ve done that and had dampness inside because of it.
Take your time, and don’t move too fast; you may need to reposition some of your rooms depending on how well (or not) your dorm can be used with both beds in place. For example, if there isn’t enough room for both beds, you might want to store one in its other form until needed. Your roommate might even enjoy setting up her bed now and then!
Where are the latches on a trundle bed?
The best place to start is finding and releasing the latches that keep your trundle in its current state. On some beds, these latches are obvious and easy to find. Others might be tucked away in inconvenient places or concealed by ornate fabric or decorations.
Use care and sensitivity when searching for these latches, as it’s common for them to break or wear out over time. If you have trouble opening them with your hands, consider using a pair of pliers on particularly tough locks.
Once they’re unlocked, release any extra material holding them down (such as bungee cords) so that they can raise easily when required.
Final Words
The first thing you need to do when learning how to make a trundle is select your tools. Whether you decide on using power tools or doing it manually, having some basic hand tools will help save time. You should consider the next thing if you want to build a wooden or metal one. Keep in mind that there are pros and cons for each method, so take time and weigh your options before making any final decisions.
When building any piece of furniture, remember that woodworking can be tricky as mistakes can happen quickly if you’re not well-versed in carpentry knowledge and techniques; so, it’s best if you stick with furniture items where precision isn’t necessary or use materials like plastic resin instead which allow for error-free assembly regardless of experience level.