by A trundle bed is a great way to save space in your home, especially for those living in small studios or apartments. These beds have become very popular in the last decade, and they are most commonly found in children’s bedrooms. Typically, trundle beds have a parent bed and an underbed that can slide in and out on rollers. The underbed for popup trundle beds can be slid out from under the main bed and also raised to the height of the parent bed.
Zippered trundle bed mattress covers keep pop-up trundle beds from separating, they also reduce stains, prevent bed bugs, reduce allergies, and provide additional comfort to your trundle bed.
However, finding a comfortable trundle bed mattress cover can be very difficult due to the huge variety of options available on the market, and the tons of features each one brings to the table.
In this article, we will discuss:
- What pop-up trundle beds are
- Why use zippered trundle bed mattress covers
- How to convert a twin trundle bed into a standard king-sized bed using pop-ups + zippered mattress covers
- Alternatives to zippered mattress covers that help keep a trundle bed from separating
- Our favorite zippered trundle bed mattress covers
What is a Pop-Up Trundle Bed?
When researching trundle beds, you are likely to see pop-up trundle beds a lot in the articles you read. But what exactly does this mean? As you probably know by now, traditional trundle beds hold a bed underneath a bed.
A pop-up trundle bed is a bed that can be pulled up to match the height of the primary bed when in use, and when not in use, it can be hidden away underneath the primary bed.
Whenever you need it, the bed underneath can slide out using rollers and be used for guests. However, a pop-up bed is different and is a bit more advanced.
When it comes to pop-up trundles, they can be found as a full-size, twin, or even a set of bunks. Just like trundles, the process begins by pulling the lower bed out on rollers until it is completely free from the upper bed. The difference is, rather than staying lower to the ground than the main bed, the second bed can ‘pop-up’ and be lifted to the level of the primary bed to double the size of the bed.
The benefit of a pop-up is its ability to become one large sleeping area when needed while using just a small amount of space regularly.
Also, while a pop-up is handy, it is not as simple as it seems, and people have reported a few problems with this bed.
One of the main disadvantages of some pop-ups is that, while there is a larger bed, it is not ONE. The larger bed consists of two smaller sized frames and mattresses set up beside one another. That means there are two frames to deal with, and some people aren’t comfortable with that.
A pop-up trundle bed frame can be pulled out from underneath the parent bed and raised to the height of the parent bed. Image from Amazon.Related Article:
- Find more information about trundle beds in our comprehensive article What is a Trundle Bed?
- If you’re ready to purchase a trundle bed, take a look at our Trundle Bed Review and Shopping Guide.
- Our related article will show you exactly what slide-away bed hardware you need for your new bed.
Why use a Zippered Trundle Bed Mattress Cover?
There are several common reasons while people opt for zippered mattress covers for their trundle beds.
You should use a zippered trundle bed mattress cover because it reduces stains, provides bed bug protection, prevents allergies from affecting you, and is more comfortable.
Zippered Trundle Bed Mattress Covers Reduce Stains
Zippered mattress covers are removable and washable, making them very convenient and easy to clean.
One of the main reasons people purchase zippered mattress covers, is to protect their mattress from stains. With this mattress cover on, you can protect your mattress from spills and potential mold due to spilling.
If you do happen to spill anything on your zippered mattress cover, you can simply remove it and wash it, since they can be put in a regular washing machine.
Zippered Mattress Covers Provide Bed Bug Protection
Not only can zippered mattress covers help with mold and stains, but from certain insects as well when you choose to use this mattress. A big problem these days are bed bugs. Even if you keep a clean house, you could get bed bugs easily if you stay somewhere, like a hotel, that has them.
Bed bugs are often hard to locate on the mattresses and are even harder to get rid of since they crawl deep into the mattresses. You can prevent bed bugs by having a washable zippered mattress cover over the bed.
For additional tips on bed bug management using non-chemical methods or zippered mattress covers, take a look at this article from Potter, Spring 2011, American Entomologist.
You can Reduce Allergies by Using a Zippered Mattress Cover
You should definitely consider getting a zippered mattress cover if you or your family members struggle with allergies. The zippered mattress cover keeps you healthier by avoiding contact between dust mites, animal dander, and various other allergens with the mattress itself.
Using a zippered mattress cover can help you and your family reduce common allergens found in every home.
It’s not a problem if these allergens end up on the cover since the cover can be removed and washed. Of course, ridding the mattress of allergens is more difficult. You will have a healthier, better sleep overall with the zippered mattress cover.
For additional tips on using zippered mattress covers to help reduce common allergens, take a look at this article from the ATS Journals, April 26, 2002.
Some Zippered Trundle Bed Mattress Covers Provide Additional Comfort
Zippered mattress covers are constructed with distinctive loop patterns that allow stretching in all directions that allow it to stretch nicely. They have a soft material that is soothing to the touch.
Because of their construction, some zippered mattress covers provide additional comfort. Trundle beds alone offer comfortable sleep, but adding a zippered mattress cover to your trundle bed can provide you with additional comfort.
Consider finding a better quality zippered mattress cover when buying. You will sleep better, look healthier, avoid pesky bed bugs, and help keep your mattress clean and stain-free. Remember to look for one that is also machine washable.
Related Article:
- Take a look at more ways to make a Trundle Bed More Comfortable in this article.
- How often should you replace a mattress protector?
- How do you choose a mattress protector that’s not hot or uncomfortable?
A zippered mattress cover can extend the life of your mattress and provide several other benefits—image from Amazon. How to use a Zippered Trundle Bed Mattress Cover
It isn’t difficult to use a zippered trundle bed mattress cover; however, we’ll explain it in detail.
To use a zippered trundle bed mattress cover, use these three steps below to zip up two mattresses into one after popping up the bed frame.
Step 1. Make an L Shape with Your Mattresses To Make It Easy To Slip On the Zippered Mattress Cover.
The first thing you should do is pull one of the two mattresses over, so the side of it is touching the floor, when you do this, the two beds should form an L shape. This will make it easier for you to put the zippered mattress cover over the two mattresses.
Step 2. Take the Zippered Mattress Cover and Pull it Over the Ends of the Beds.
After you have turned one bed, you should take the zippered mattress cover and put it over the bed’s ends. After that, stretch out the other side of the zippered mattress cover and pull it over the second bed that is lying normally.
Using this method makes it easy for the zippered mattress cover to be pulled over since it doesn’t have to be stretched as much as it would need to be if both beds were on the floor.
Step 3. Push the Bed Back Into Normal Position.
After pulling the zippered mattress cover over all of the sides on both beds, you should push the first bed that you pulled over back in the normal position.
The zippered mattress cover will stretch out, and there shouldn’t be any problems using it. This method is relatively simple, and you will get your zippered mattress cover put on in no time if you follow these three simple steps.
How to keep a Trundle Bed from Separating Besides Using Zippered Mattresses Cover
The trundle bed sits on a collapsed-for-storage metal frame when it’s beneath the primary bed. After pulling it out, it pops up and stays in place so that it is the same height as the primary bed. Connecting the two gives you a single bed close in size to a king-sized bed. This can be especially helpful if you have couples who frequently visit. Make sure to also take a look at our article about mattress toppers vs mattress covers for more information too.
A popup trundle bed frame next to a parent bed can provide your guests with the option of two smaller beds or a single large bed. Image courtesy of Amazon.To keep a trundle bed from separating, use some of the following techniques as alternatives to zippered trundle bed mattress covers:
- Wheels
- Rope
- Cables
- Conversion system
Below we’ll discuss these alternatives to zippered trundle bed mattress covers along with their pros and cons.
Use Locking Caster Wheels to Prevent Your Pop-up Trundle Bed from Separating
Locking casters can easily be purchased from Amazon and installed within minutes. Image courtesy of Amazon. If you add locking casters to the trundle bed, once you move it into place and set it up the way you want, you can simply flip the lever on the casters to keep the bed from moving. The trundle bed already has wheels on it, making it easy to pull it out from under the primary bed, the one without wheels.
Adding locking caster wheels to your trundle bed will help keep it stable and safe when in use.
Some new models may come with locking casters, but if yours doesn’t, you can pick up locking casters or wheels from most home improvement stores. Take a sample wheel from the trundle bed with you to ensure you buy the right size.
Rope Can Be Used to Keep Your Pop-up Trundle Beds From Separating
Use rope to keep a pop-up trundle bed like this one from separating. Image courtesy of Amazon. Even with locking wheels, you might want to go a step further and use a rope to tie the two beds together by the bottom legs that sit next to each other to ensure they don’t separate.
Adding additional support to the legs of your pop-up trundle bed (using rope) will help ensure additional stability when in use.
Cut four pieces of thin rope at least twelve inches long. Put the beds as close together as possible. Add two ties to each pair of legs to join the beds together. Tie a knot that won’t be too difficult to untie at the foot of the leg and closer to the bed frame. Repeat for each pair of legs. When you’re done, one leg from each bed should be tied together by a knot in two locations.
Use Plastic Cables To Add Stability To Your Pop-up Trundle Bed
Plastic cable ties that are usually used by police have more uses than just securing criminals. You can find these little things in home improvement stores, and they can be a lot of help when trying to keep beds from separating.
To add another level of stability to your pop-up trundle bed, secure these plastic cables around all of the legs of the bed.
Wrap the cable tie around a pair of legs, on both beds, and slip the tabbed end through the slot in the back of the head. Pull the tail of the cable tie through the head. If it doesn’t make a “zip” sound when pulled, reverse the direction you insert the tail. To remove, cut the table ties with a pair of scissors.
Zip ties are simple and cheap alternatives to using zippered trundle bed mattress covers, to keep trundle beds from separating. Image courtesy of Amazon.Conversion system
Conversion kits like this help keep trundle bed mattresses and parent bed mattresses together. Image courtesy of Amazon.You can also purchase a kit that secures the mattresses together to keep the beds from separating. This kit contains a strap that wraps entirely around the mattresses to keep them from separating when secured by the buckle.
Using a conversion system with your pop-up trundle bed is another easy way to add stability to the bed and prevent the mattresses from separating when in use.
Before securing the two beds together, place the T-shaped piece of foam between the two beds, laying the long leg of the T between the two mattresses. The strap wraps around the mattresses and over the piece of foam to make the beds one single king-sized bed.
The Best Zippered Trundle Bed Mattress Covers
Here are some of the best trundle zippered bed mattress covers we found on Amazon. Take a look at their benefits and highlights.
Utopia Zippered Bed-Bug Proof Mattress Encasement
This zippered mattress cover has a lot to offer. This model is both water-resistant and bed bug resistant.
When it comes to bed bugs and even scabies bugs, you want to be as protected as possible. The zipper extends to three sides of the mattress, making it easy to put on and remove. Additionally, the hypoallergenic, stretchable material helps to keep problems with allergies away.
SafeRest Premium Waterproof Mattress Encasement
This model was designed and lab tested to protect you and your mattress against bed bugs, allergens, and spills. The 360° Secure zipper design will prevent this encasement from accidentally opening as well.
It’s made of a soft, breathable, cool fabric that is also machine washable making clean-up easy.
Sleep Defense System Mattress Encasement
This particular zippered mattress cover is made with sturdy seam construction to ensure nothing gets in or out of it.
The polyester knit fabric keeps your bed comfortable while providing optimal protection. One of the nice features of this model is that it is waterproof.
This model is zippered on three sides and features a zipper-lock that helps to ensure that your mattress remains bug-proof. It is also fully breathable and doesn’t trap body heat.
| Product Name and Link | Description of Mattress | Price |
| Utopia Zippered Bed-Bug Proof Mattress Encasement |
Fabric is soft No plastic smell Easy to install Noiseless |
~$30 |
| SafeRest Premium Waterproof Mattress Encasement | Hypoallergenic Velcro flap/micro-zipper Lab-tested and certified Comfortable to sleep on |
~$85 |
| Sleep Defense System Mattress Encasement | May reduce allergies Bug Flap/Zipper lock Waterproof Doesn’t have a plastic smell/sound |
~$40 |
Conclusion
We hope you find this article useful in helping you gain knowledge about zippered trundle bed mattress covers. They can be efficient and beneficial, and in our opinion, are one of the best choices for trundle beds.
We hope you got the answers to all of the questions you might have had regarding these mattresses.
Related Article: