Choosing the Right Guest Bed for Your Home

You’ve finally decided to reclaim that so-called “spare room” and turn it into a welcoming guest bedroom. No more using it to store boxes and broken exercise equipment — fair play!

Now comes the fun part — finding the perfect guest bed for your space. Do you go for a day bed? A trundle? Or maybe a stylish sofa bed with built-in storage? There are more options than you might think.

In this guide, the DFI Beds team walks you through the key decisions so you can confidently choose the best setup for your guests — and your home.

What Exactly Is a Guest Bed?

A guest bed is a dedicated sleeping space for visitors. It can be a permanent bed, a fold-out solution, or something that multitasks in a busy room. What matters most is that it’s comfortable, practical, and suits the way your space is used.

Guest beds come in a wide variety of styles and sizes. Some tuck neatly under another bed, others double as seating during the day. Whether you want something compact or luxurious, there’s a guest bed that fits the bill.

Things to Consider Before Buying

• Bedroom Size: Always start by measuring. This helps determine whether a full-sized bed or a compact option like a futon or trundle will work best.
• Frequency of Guests: If you have visitors regularly, invest in comfort. Choose a bed that can hold a proper high-quality mattress.
• Ease of Use: If the bed needs to be moved or converted regularly, make sure it’s simple to fold out or put away.
• Durability and Budget: Spend where it counts. A quality guest bed can last for years, making it worth the upfront investment.

Different Types of Guest Beds

There are several types of guest beds on the market, each with its own advantages depending on how you use the room.

Sofa Beds

Sofa beds are a smart two-in-one option. They serve as a couch during the day, then unfold to reveal a hidden mattress when needed. Perfect for box rooms, studies, or anywhere you want a dual-purpose piece.

Available in single and double sizes, many also come with under-seat storage for extra duvets and pillows.

Day Beds

A day bed is basically a bed with a backrest and arms, so it can double up as a sofa or lounging area. They don’t fold up, but their compact design makes them ideal for small rooms or multi-use spaces.

They’re available in metal, wooden, or upholstered finishes and often fit standard single mattresses.

Still unsure what a day bed really is? Our Day Bed Guide breaks it down.

Futons

Futons are compact, low-profile beds with an all-in-one cushion that folds out from a seated to a sleeping position. Unlike a sofa bed, there’s no separate mattress — the same padding is used for both.

Read our Futon Explainer for more insight.

Trundle Beds (Pull-Outs)

Trundle beds feature a hidden second bed that slides out from underneath the main frame. They’re great for saving space and ideal for kids’ rooms or when you need two sleeping spots.

Many trundles also include drawers or built-in shelving, offering even more practical storage.

What Size Should You Choose?

The best size depends on two things: the size of the room and the type of guests you usually have.

• Single (3ft): Ideal for one adult or teen. A great choice for box rooms or infrequent visitors.
• Small Double (4ft): More room for couples without taking up too much floor space. Popular for multi-use guest bedrooms.

So, What’s the Best Guest Bed?

It depends on your space, budget and how often it's used. That said, if we had to pick just one, we’d go with the classic sofa bed.

It looks great, functions brilliantly, and offers the most flexibility for modern homes. Whether you're hosting friends, relatives or the odd Airbnb guest, it's a solid choice.