The trundle bed: that nifty space-saver you might remember from childhood sleepovers or your guest room. These under-the-radar gems have a fascinating backstory full of design twists, cultural shifts, and quirky anecdotes.
Let’s dive into the journey of trundle beds, from their European roots to their modern-day glory, with a splash of fun and a sprinkle of history!
As a boy growing up in the 1980s I was particularly proud of my trundle bed anytime I had a sleepover with friends. My friends thought it was “totally rad” that I had a hidden bed that would magically roll out from nowhere when it was bed time.
A few weeks ago someone asked me if a trundle bed was appropriate in a historical house. I had never thought about it. A little digging and some deep dives into 17th century history, and I’m now more educated about trundle beds than most Americans.
Where It All Began
Picture this: it’s the 17th century in Europe, and the wealthy elite are living it up. Life is one big party and they need their servants to be nearby, ready to jump into action at a moment’s notice, even while they’re sleeping.
”Bring me my bed pan!”
It was in this moment the trundle bed was born. Some rich noble thought “what if I could have a smaller bed tucked under my big wooden bed so my servants would be only inches from me all night?”
Enter the trundle bed. Originally known as “truckle beds,” these rollaway wonders were perfect for squeezing in under the master bed. The term “trundle” comes from “tryndel,” an old English word for wheel, hinting at the bed’s easy mobility.
The first trundle beds were made from simple wooden frames with either rope or leather strapped across the frame to support the mattress. I use the word “mattress” very lightly as it was usually just a canvas bag filled with straw or some other scratchy, bug-ridden material.
Back then, trundle beds were super low to the ground, equipped with wheels to make sliding in and out a breeze. This was all about practicality—servants could stay close, (very close!). Privacy apparently wasn’t a thing yet.
Design Makeover: The Evolution
Fast forward to the Victorian era (1837-1901), and trundle beds got a fancy upgrade. Imagine intricate woodwork and lush upholstery fit for royalty. They were the perfect mix of function and flair, blending right into the posh decor of the times.
Then the 20th century rolled around, and simplicity took the stage. As urban living became the norm, homes shrank, and trundle beds evolved into sleek, functional designs that largely were unnoticed during the day.
How else would you sleep six kids in a one-room tenement apartment in the city?
By mid-century, trundle beds were popping up in kids’ rooms, complete with safety rails and fun themes to entice little ones to bed. Every generation tries new ideas to get kids into bed, and every generation fails, but it wasn’t trundle beds fault.
Around the World with the Trundle Bed
The design of the trundle bed has been embraced worldwide, each culture putting its own spin on the design. In England and France during the 17th and 18th centuries, these beds were staples for servants and children like we discussed earlier.
Meanwhile, in Japan, the tatami bed—a close cousin of the trundle—was all the rage. Although not technically a trundle, tatami beds shared the spirit of maximizing space by rolling up futons during the day.
I lived in Japan for almost a year once upon a time and never really thought about it until writing this post that that little tatami bed I slept on when visiting friends was absolutely a trundle bed. Ha!
In the U.S., trundle beds gained traction in the 19th century, making their way into boarding houses and inns as a budget-friendly way to accommodate guests. It was all about making the most out of tight spaces without compromising comfort.
Still today when you have a family of five and stay at a hotel like me, there is a usually an option to request a “roll-away” bed. Sure it doesn’t tuck under the beds in the room, but the wheels are a dead giveaway that it owes its origins to the trundle beds of old. Plus my two boys absolutely love sleeping on a rolling bed.
Who Slept in These Things?
Historically, trundle beds were linked to the working class and children. In upper-crust homes, they provided a handy spot for servants to crash, while in middle-class households, they were perfect for packing in more kids per square foot.
Samuel Pepys, the famous 17th-century English diarist, even mentioned a trundle bed in his writings. In his May 1, 1662 journal he finishes the day’s entry with the line, “To bed all alone, and my Will in the truckle bed.” The Will mentioned is Will Hewer who was a servant and clerk of Pepys for years.
The Trundle Bed Today
Fast forward to now, and trundle beds are still a big hit. They’re the unsung heroes of guest rooms, kids’ bedrooms, and studio apartments everywhere. As living spaces shrink and minimalist living takes off, trundle beds offer a clever solution without skimping on style.
The video below is a fun DIY trundle bed project my friend Charlotte posted about.
Whether you’re a fan of the pop-up trundle that levels up to match your main bed (that’s what I had) or the classic roll-out variety, these beds are all about versatility and functionality. Perfect for making the best out of small spaces especially in urban areas the trundle bed can be a life-saver.
Trundle beds have come a long way from their 17th-century origins. They’ve adapted to changing lifestyles, design preferences, and space constraints, all while maintaining their core purpose: maximizing space.
So the final answer about whether trundle beds belong in a historic house is a resounding yes. Personally, I’m thinking of ways I can build my own and incorporate it into my kid’s rooms before they’re too old to care anymore.
Who knew a bed on wheels could have such a storied past? Did you have a trundle bed growing up? I’d love to hear your stories in the comments below.
Founder & Editor-in-Chief
I love old houses, working with my hands, and teaching others the excitment of doing it yourself! Everything is teachable if you only give it the chance.