How to Make a Trundle Bed Frame

Move that mattress off the floor by making a trundle bed frame.

A trundle bed is one that will slide underneath another bed in your home. Trundle beds are great for guests and make a perfect addition to a child’s room, providing a great spot for friends to sleep over. Because the trundle slides under another bed, there is no reason why the trundle needs to be an ornate and fancy piece of furniture. A simple trundle bed with a foam mattress can slide underneath and be ready for any guest’s arrival.

Things You'll Need

• Foam mattress
• Plywood
• Wooden trim pieces
• Construction glue
• Wood working clamps
• Finish nails
• Hammer
• Circular saw
• Casters
• Stain or paint
• Paintbrush

Instructions

1. Measure your foam mattress. Cut ¾ inch plywood with a circular saw based upon the measurements you took. Alternatively, ask the associate at a home improvement center to cut the lumber.

2. Cut trim mold to fit around the edges of the plywood. Choose trim that will create a lip around the edge of the plywood base. This will help keep the mattress in place. Measure each side of the plywood. Cut trim mold at a 45 degree angle so that the pieces will frame the plywood and create finished sides.

3. Smooth construction adhesive on the inside of the trim. Apply the trim to the edge of the plywood. Clamp the trim to the plywood with wood working clamps. Allow the glue to dry.

4. Hammer finishing nails into the wood trim, securing it to the plywood.

5. Turn the trundle frame over. Place all four casters on the bottom, setting them ½ inch from the edge of the corners. Attach the casters with one inch screws.

6. Paint or stain the trundle bed frame. Allow the paint to dry completely.

Tips & Warnings

• Measure the space under your bed. You will need enough room for the casters, the plywood base and the foam mattress. Choose a thinner mattress and smaller casters if necessary to fit under the bed. Attach the mattress with Velcro to keep it from slipping off the frame.

References

• HGTV: Making a Trundle Bed
• BHG: Do It Yourself Ottoman

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish