Choosing the right guest bed can be tricky – you need something comfortable enough for a good night's sleep, practical for your space, and suitable for different types of visitors. In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about picking the perfect guest bed, from the different types available to finding the right mattress firmness for every visitor.
Types of Guest Beds
Any kind of bed can work as a guest bed - it all depends on your space, how often you host visitors, and what kind of comfort you want to offer. From folding beds for last-minute guests to stylish day beds that double as seating, here are some of the most popular options to consider.
Sofa Beds
Sofa beds are the perfect space-savers, functioning as a comfy sofa by day and transforming into a bed at night. Modern designs are easy to use and provide a supportive sleep surface, making them ideal for everyday living and occasional guests.
Best for: Living rooms, home offices and studio flats.
Day Beds
Day beds combine the look of a sofa with the comfort of a full single bed - no folding required. Add cushions during the day for a stylish seating area, then use proper bedding at night for guests. Some come with a pull-out trundle that adds an extra sleeping space and a touch of elegance to any bedroom.
Best for: Guest rooms, home offices, and children’s bedrooms.
Folding Beds
If you’re short on space or only host guests occasionally, a folding bed combine the look of a sofa with the comfort of a full single bed - no folding required. Add cushions during the day for a stylish seating area, then use proper bedding at night for guests. Some come with a pull-out trundle that adds an extra sleeping space and a touch of elegance to any bedroom.
Best for: Households with limited space or occasional visitors.
Trundle Beds
A trundle bed is a single bed with another pull-out bed stored neatly underneath. It’s an excellent way to sleep two guests without taking up extra floor space when not in use. Trundles are perfect for rooms where space is limited.
Best for: Children’s rooms, spare bedrooms, and hosting multiple guests.
Ottoman Beds
Ottoman beds combine practicality and style, featuring a lift-up mattress base that reveals generous hidden storage underneath. They look like standard beds but offer plenty of extra space for bedding, luggage, or seasonal items. They’re heavier and usually more expensive than simple frames, but they're perfect if you want a permanent guest bed that doubles up as storage in your spare room.
Best for: Dedicated guest rooms and homes needing extra storage.
Divan Beds
Divan beds are classic and comfortable, with sturdy bases and integrated drawers for storing guest bedding and towels. They take up permanent space but are ideal if you host guests regularly. Their traditional height makes them particularly accessible for older visitors.
Best for: Guest rooms and smaller bedrooms.
Bed Frames
Simple bed frames are a timeless choice for guest rooms. Available in wood, metal, or upholstered finishes, they offer sturdy support and a stylish look. Pair with a quality mattress for long-term comfort. They don’t provide storage on their own, but you can easily add under-bed boxes.
Best for: Dedicated guest rooms and style-led rooms.
Air Beds
Modern air beds are much more advanced than basic camping inflatables. Many include built-in pumps and raised designs that mimic the height of a real bed. They’re ideal for last-minute stays or when you need an extra bed quickly, and can be easily deflated and put away when not in use. However, they can deflate overnight and aren’t suited for long-term use or elderly guests.
Best for: Emergency stays, short-term guests, and children’s sleepovers.
What to Consider When Choosing a Guest Bed
Where Will It Be Placed?
If your guest bed is going in a spare bedroom, you can choose a permanent frame, divan, or ottoman bed. For multi-purpose spaces like home offices or living rooms, a sofa bed or day bed provides flexibility without sacrificing floor space and looks better suited in the room.
How much space is there?
Measure your room carefully before choosing your guest bed to determine the size you need and ensure there’s enough space to extend sofa beds, open ottoman storage, or pull out a trundle without blocking walkways. Leave at least 60cm around the bed for easy movement.
What’s your budget?
Set a budget that reflects how often your guest bed will be used. If it’s for regular visitors, investing in a high-quality frame or sofa bed will pay off in comfort and longevity. For occasional guests, folding beds or air beds can be more cost-effective. Remember that a durable guest bed can last 8-10 years, making it worthwhile to spend slightly more for better construction and comfort.
How many people does it need to sleep?
Think about the type of visitors you host most often. If you often have families or couples coming to stay a double or even king size bed would be more comfortable for your guests. Whereas, for children or solo adults, a single bed, trundle bed or even a folding bed will do the trick.
How often will it be used?
Frequent guests will benefit from a permanent setup, such as a divan or ottoman bed with a full mattress. On the other hand, if your guests visit only once or twice a year, a folding or air bed will likely be sufficient for irregular use.
Do you need storage space?
If space is at a premium, opt for beds that double up as storage. Ottoman and divan beds provide built-in solutions, while under-bed boxes are a handy addition for standard frames.
Who’s sleeping on it
Consider who your regular guests are. For elderly relatives, choose a standard-height bed that’s easy to get in and out of. For children or teenagers, day beds or trundles are a practical choice.
Your room style and décor
Finally, think about how the bed fits into your home’s aesthetic. Choose a design and finish that complements your décor - whether that’s a sleek upholstered ottoman, a modern metal frame, or a cosy wooden bed for a traditional touch.
How to choose a mattress for a guest bed
Since guests can vary in their sleeping preferences, a medium-firm mattress is the safest and most versatile option for your guest bed. It offers balanced comfort and support for most sleeping styles, ensuring all of your visitors are comfortable and well supported. Memory foam or hybrid mattresses are great choices, adapting to different body shapes and providing reliable comfort for occasional use.
If you’re choosing a folding or sofa bed, make sure the included mattress is at least 10cm thick for proper support.
How to make a guest bed more comfortable
A few simple touches can make all the difference in making your guest bed more comfortable. Start with good-quality bedding and a soft mattress topper to add extra cushioning. This can be especially useful for firmer mattresses or folding beds. Offer at least two pillows per person with different firmness levels, so your guests can choose what suits them best. Don’t forget a quality mattress protector to keep things fresh and extend the life of your mattress. And for sofa beds or day beds, always use proper fitted sheets rather than throws - it instantly makes the space feel more like a real bed and ensures your guests get a great night’s sleep.