Beds with Sleepover Beds | Ultimate Buying Guide
A bed with a sleepover bed is a clever way to provide an additional sleeping space without permanently taking up the floor space required for a second full-size bed.
Whether you're looking for a bed for children's sleepovers, somewhere for friends and family to stay, or simply want a flexible bedroom solution, there are several different types of beds with additional sleeping spaces to consider.
These include high sleeper beds with sofa beds, bunk beds with trundle beds, pull-out guest beds and beds with integrated sleepover options.
At Family Window, our collection includes a wide range of space-saving designs, with many combining a sleepover bed with other useful features such as desks, storage, shelving and wardrobes.
What Is a Bed with a Sleepover Bed?
A bed with a sleepover bed is a main bed that incorporates an additional sleeping space.
The second bed is usually stored underneath the main bed or incorporated into the furniture and can be pulled out or converted when required.
This means that during the day you have a normal bedroom setup, while at night you can quickly create an additional sleeping space for a guest.
Depending on the design, the additional bed may be:
- A pull-out trundle bed
- A drawer bed
- A sofa bed
- A chairbed
- An L-shaped guest bed
- A second sleeping platform
The right option depends on how frequently the additional bed will be used and how much space you have available.
Why Choose a Bed with a Sleepover Bed?
The biggest advantage is flexibility.
A separate guest bed takes up floor space all the time, even when nobody is using it.
With an integrated sleepover bed, the additional sleeping space can be stored away until it is needed.
This can be particularly useful in a child's bedroom.
For example, your child may normally use the bedroom as:
Bed + desk + storage + play space
But when friends stay over, the same room can become:
Bed + additional sleeping space
This makes beds with sleepover options particularly attractive for smaller bedrooms.
Beds with Sleepover Beds for Children's Bedrooms
Children's sleepovers are one of the most obvious reasons to choose this type of bed.
Having friends stay overnight is an important part of growing up, but many children's bedrooms simply don't have enough space for a permanent second bed.
A bed with a sleepover option solves this problem by providing an additional sleeping space when it is needed.
When the sleepover is finished, the extra bed can usually be pushed back underneath the main bed or converted back into seating.
This leaves the bedroom looking much the same as it did before.
High Sleeper Beds with Sofa Beds
One of the most popular types of sleepover bed is a high sleeper with a sofa bed underneath. Our Beds with Sofas Buying Guide looks at this style in more depth.
During the day, the space beneath the raised bed can provide a comfortable sofa or seating area.
At night, the sofa can be converted into an additional sleeping space.
This provides three functions within one area:
Bed + Sofa + Sleepover Bed
Some high sleepers also incorporate a desk, shelves or storage, making them particularly useful in bedrooms where space is limited.
Family Window's current collection includes numerous high sleeper designs with sofa or chairbed options, including Thuka, Kids Avenue and other European-designed beds.
High Sleeper with Sofa Bed and Desk
Some designs go even further by combining:
- High sleeper bed
- Sofa bed
- Desk
- Shelving
- Storage
This can provide an almost complete bedroom solution within a relatively compact footprint.
During the day, the lower area can be used as a study or seating area.
When friends stay over, the sofa can be converted into an additional bed.
This can be particularly useful for older children and teenagers who need both a study area and somewhere for friends to sit.
Bunk Beds with Sleepover Beds
A bunk bed with a sleepover bed can be a particularly practical solution for children who regularly have friends staying overnight. Our Best Bunk Bed Buying Guide covers the full range of styles.
The normal arrangement provides two sleeping spaces, while the additional pull-out bed provides a third.
This means a single piece of furniture can potentially provide:
Two everyday beds + one occasional guest bed
Some bunk beds use a trundle-style bed underneath the lower bunk.
When it isn't needed, the trundle can remain tucked underneath the bed.
When a guest arrives, it can simply be pulled out to create an additional sleeping space.
Family Window's collection includes bunk beds with optional trundle beds as well as other bunk bed designs incorporating additional sleeping options.
What Is a Trundle Bed?
A trundle bed is an additional bed stored underneath another bed.
It is usually mounted on wheels or casters so that it can be pulled out when required.
Trundle beds are particularly useful because the additional bed doesn't need its own permanent floor space.
When not being used, it is tucked underneath the main bed.
This makes a trundle bed a good choice for:
- Children's sleepovers
- Occasional guests
- Shared bedrooms
- Small bedrooms
- Grandparents visiting
- Family members staying overnight
Some trundle units can also provide storage when the additional bed isn't required, depending on the design.
Always check the individual product specification to see whether the lower unit is intended for a mattress, storage or both.
Sleepover Sofa Beds and Chairbeds
A sofa bed or chairbed can provide an additional benefit that a traditional trundle bed doesn't.
During the day it provides seating.
At night it becomes a bed.
This makes particularly good use of the space underneath a high sleeper.
For example:
Daytime:
High sleeper + sofa + desk
Night-time:
High sleeper + guest bed + desk
The sofa can also give children a comfortable place to read, relax, play games or spend time with friends.
This is one reason high sleepers with sofa beds can be particularly popular with older children and teenagers.
Beds with Pull-Out Guest Beds
A pull-out guest bed works in a similar way to a trundle.
The additional mattress is stored underneath the main bed and pulled out when required.
The main advantages are:
- Space saving
- Easy storage
- Quick to set up
- Ideal for occasional use
- No need for a permanent second bed
Some pull-out beds are designed specifically for occasional sleeping, so always check the manufacturer's instructions regarding the intended use.
Beds with Sleepover Beds and Desks
Some children's beds combine a sleepover bed with a desk.
This can be particularly useful when bedroom space is limited.
For example, a high sleeper might combine:
Sleeping area + desk + storage + sofa bed
This allows the child to have a bed, study area and guest sleeping space without requiring three or four separate pieces of furniture.
For children who regularly have friends staying over, this can be a very efficient use of the available bedroom space.
You can also read our Beds with Desks – Buying Guide for more information about choosing beds with integrated desks.
Beds with Sleepover Beds and Storage
Another useful combination is a bed that provides both an additional sleeping space and storage.
Depending on the design, this could include:
- Drawers
- Shelves
- Cupboards
- Wardrobes
- Under-bed storage
This can be particularly useful in smaller bedrooms.
Instead of buying:
Bed + guest bed + wardrobe + chest of drawers
you may be able to combine several of these functions within one piece of furniture.
For more information, see our Beds with Wardrobes collection and Children's Storage Furniture Buying Guide.
How Much Space Do You Need for a Sleepover Bed?
This is an important consideration that is sometimes overlooked.
It is not enough to measure the space occupied by the bed when the additional bed is stored away.
You also need to measure the full amount of floor space required when the sleepover bed is pulled out.
Before buying, consider:
- The width of the room
- The depth of the bed
- The length of the pull-out bed
- Space needed to walk around it
- Position of doors
- Position of wardrobes
- Other bedroom furniture
A bed might look ideal when the guest bed is stored underneath, but there needs to be sufficient clear floor space to use it comfortably.
Are Sleepover Beds Suitable for Small Bedrooms?
Yes. In fact, saving space is one of their main advantages.
A conventional spare bed requires floor space all the time.
A sleepover bed only needs that additional floor space when somebody is actually sleeping in it.
This makes these beds particularly useful for smaller children's bedrooms.
High sleepers can be especially efficient because the space underneath the raised bed can be used for seating, a desk, storage and a guest bed.
See our beds for small bedrooms guide
What Age Is a Sleepover Bed Suitable For?
There isn't one age that applies to every type of sleepover bed.
The appropriate age depends on the individual product and, particularly, whether the main bed is a bunk bed, mid sleeper or high sleeper.
Always follow the manufacturer's specified minimum age and safety instructions.
For raised beds, children need to be able to safely climb the ladder or steps and understand the relevant safety rules.
A sleepover bed itself may have separate requirements, so check the product instructions carefully.
If you're considering a high sleeper, our guides Is a High Sleeper Safe? and What Age Is Safe for a High Sleeper? provide additional information.
Are Sleepover Beds Safe?
A properly designed and correctly assembled sleepover bed should be used according to the manufacturer's instructions.
However, the safety requirements vary depending on the design.
With a high sleeper or bunk bed, pay particular attention to:
- Recommended minimum age
- Guardrails
- Ladder or steps
- Mattress depth
- Maximum user weight where specified
- Correct assembly
- Position of the bed
- Manufacturer's safety instructions
The additional sleepover bed may have its own requirements too.
Never exceed the manufacturer's recommended specifications and don't modify the bed.
For more general information, see our Bedroom Safety guide.
What Mattress Does a Sleepover Bed Need?
This is one of the most important things to check before buying.
The main bed and sleepover bed may not necessarily use the same mattress.
Some products use the same mattress size for both beds, while others have different requirements.
You should check:
- Mattress length
- Mattress width
- Maximum mattress depth
- Mattress type
- Whether the additional bed has a specific mattress requirement
UK and European Mattress Sizes
This is particularly important with children's beds sold in the UK.
Many UK single beds use a:
90 × 190cm mattress
while some European-designed children's beds use:
90 × 200cm mattress
Family Window stocks children's beds in both standard UK and European sizes, so always check the individual product specification before ordering a mattress.
For a raised bed, the maximum mattress depth is also particularly important because the mattress must not compromise the height of the safety guardrails.
How Often Can You Use a Sleepover Bed?
This depends on the individual product.
Some additional beds are designed specifically as occasional guest or sleepover beds, while others may be suitable for more regular use.
Always check the manufacturer's instructions and product specifications.
If the additional bed will be used frequently, pay particular attention to:
- Mattress quality
- Bed construction
- Maximum weight
- Ease of opening and closing
- Available space
- Whether bedding can remain on the mattress when stored
Sleepover Bed or Separate Guest Bed?
For most children's bedrooms, an integrated sleepover bed has a major advantage: it doesn't occupy additional floor space permanently.
Sleepover Bed
Advantages:
- Space saving
- Convenient
- Easy to store
- Ideal for occasional guests
- Can combine with other furniture
- Keeps the bedroom flexible
Separate Guest Bed
Advantages:
- Always ready to use
- Can provide a larger sleeping area
- No need to pull anything out
- May be more suitable for frequent guests
If guests only stay occasionally, an integrated sleepover bed is often the more practical solution.
Sleepover Beds for Teenagers
Sleepovers don't stop when children get older.
Teenagers often want friends to stay overnight, but their bedrooms may be even more difficult to accommodate because they also need space for:
- Clothes
- Schoolwork
- Computers
- Gaming
- Storage
- Socialising
A high sleeper with a sofa bed can therefore be particularly useful for teenagers.
During the day, the lower area can become a comfortable seating and social space.
At night, it can provide an additional bed for a friend.
Sleepover Beds for Shared Bedrooms
A sleepover bed can also be useful in a shared bedroom.
For example, two siblings might normally share a bunk bed.
A pull-out trundle beneath the lower bunk can provide an additional sleeping space when another child stays overnight.
This avoids having to accommodate a permanent third bed.
For more ideas, see our Shared Bedroom Ideas guide.
What Should You Look for When Buying a Sleepover Bed?
Before choosing a bed, consider the following.
1. How often will the extra bed be used?
If it is only for occasional sleepovers, a simple pull-out bed may be ideal.
If it will be used frequently, consider the quality and ease of use carefully.
2. Who will use it?
Consider the age and size of the person sleeping on the additional bed.
3. How much space do you have?
Measure the room with the additional bed fully extended.
4. What type of bed do you want?
Choose between:
- Trundle
- Pull-out bed
- Sofa bed
- Chairbed
- Bunk bed with guest bed
- High sleeper with sofa bed
5. Do you need additional furniture?
A bed incorporating a desk, wardrobe or storage could save even more space.
6. What mattress does it require?
Check both the main bed and additional bed before purchasing mattresses.
7. How easy is it to use?
Consider whether your child will be able to pull out and put away the additional bed themselves.
Wooden Beds with Sleepover Beds
Wooden and wood-effect children's beds are a popular choice because they can provide a warm, timeless appearance while allowing manufacturers to incorporate desks, storage, wardrobes and additional sleeping spaces into the design.
High-density particleboard with a durable melamine finish is also commonly used for children's furniture, providing a hard-wearing and easy-to-clean surface.
When choosing a bed, look beyond appearance and consider the overall construction, fittings, safety features and manufacturer's specifications.
Can a Sleepover Bed Be Used Every Night?
Don't assume that every sleepover bed is designed to be used as a permanent everyday bed.
Some are specifically designed as occasional guest beds, while others may be suitable for more frequent use.
Always check the manufacturer's specifications before using the additional bed regularly.
This is particularly important when considering the maximum recommended weight and mattress requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a sleepover bed?
A sleepover bed is an additional sleeping space incorporated into or stored underneath a main bed. It can usually be pulled out or converted when an extra guest needs somewhere to sleep.
What is the difference between a sleepover bed and a trundle bed?
A trundle bed is one particular type of sleepover bed. It is normally stored underneath the main bed and pulled out when required. Sleepover beds can also include sofa beds, chairbeds and other designs.
Are beds with sleepover beds good for small bedrooms?
Yes. The additional bed is stored away when it isn't required, meaning you don't have to permanently dedicate floor space to a second bed.
Are high sleepers with sofa beds good for teenagers?
They can be. A high sleeper with a sofa bed provides seating during the day and an additional sleeping space at night, making it particularly useful for teenagers who have friends staying over.
Can a sleepover bed be used every night?
It depends on the individual product. Always check the manufacturer's instructions to see whether the additional bed is intended for occasional or regular use.
What mattress size does a sleepover bed need?
It depends on the design. Check the product specification carefully, as the main bed and sleepover bed can have different mattress requirements.
Do sleepover beds come with mattresses?
This varies between products. Always check the individual product listing to see whether mattresses are included or need to be purchased separately.
Can a bunk bed have a third bed?
Yes. Some bunk beds incorporate a pull-out trundle bed underneath the lower bunk, providing an additional sleeping space for a guest.
Are sleepover beds suitable for children?
They can be, but the recommended age and safety requirements depend on the individual bed. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Final Thoughts
A bed with a sleepover bed can be one of the most practical ways to accommodate an occasional guest without sacrificing valuable bedroom space.
From bunk beds with pull-out trundles to high sleepers with sofa beds, there are many different designs available. Some go even further by combining a bed, desk, storage, wardrobe, sofa and guest bed within a single piece of furniture.
The best choice depends on your child's age, the size of the bedroom and how frequently the additional sleeping space will be used.
For occasional children's sleepovers, a pull-out trundle can be a simple and practical solution. For older children and teenagers, a high sleeper with a sofa bed can provide a useful combination of sleeping, seating and guest accommodation.
Before buying, always check the overall dimensions, mattress requirements, recommended age, maximum weight and intended use of the additional bed.
With the right design, a sleepover bed can give you considerably more flexibility without requiring a larger bedroom.