Rollaway Bed Guide: Sizes, Mattress Thickness, Weight Capacity, Folded Size and Comfort Tips
Quick answer: a rollaway bed is a folding guest bed on wheels with a built-in mattress. Twin-style models are about 75 by 38 inches, most mattresses are 3 to 6 inches thick (4 to 5 is common), weight ratings run roughly 220 to 640 pounds with many at 250 to 350 and you should check the folded size against your closet. A spring-supported deck is described as more comfortable than slats or wire mesh.
This article is part of our bed frame guide, where you can compare related options.
A rollaway bed is the classic answer for overnight guests: it folds into a closet and rolls out when needed. Modern ones are slimmer and comfier than old ones, but quality still varies. This guide explains sizes, mattress thickness, weight capacity, folded dimensions, comfort factors, safety and how to choose. It overlaps with the foldable bed guide, which covers folding beds more broadly. Figures come from retailer listings and review sites, so confirm exact specs on the product page.
What Is a Rollaway Bed?
A rollaway bed is a folding bed with wheels, a metal frame and a thin mattress. The frame folds in half or thirds, so the bed stores upright or flat. Types: Twin-size rollaway. About 38 by 75 inches. Cot-size rollaway. Narrower, about 31 by 73.5 inches. Full-size rollaway. Wider, about 45 inches (Sesslife lists a 75 by 45 inch model). Heavy-duty rollaway. For heavier users. Rollaway with adjustable backrest. HomCom sells one. Hotel-style rollaway. The Hollywood Rollaway with a twin fiber mattress is sold at Cymax.
See the foldable bed guide for bi-fold and tri-fold designs.
Sizes
Twin-style models are often about 75 by 38 inches. One listing gives a full 38 by 75 inch resting area with a mattress thickness of 4 to 5 inches. Cot-size models are narrower, such as 31 by 73.5 by 4 inches (length, width, thickness). Costway lists a 74 by 31 inch cot-size folding bed. One listing is a 75 by 45 inch rollaway adult bed with a 5 inch memory foam mattress.
See the twin mattress dimensions and how wide is a twin bed guides. A 31 inch cot is narrow for adults.
Mattress Thickness
Most listings fall between 3 and 6 inches, with 4 to 5 inches common. One guide notes that the manufacturer recommends a mattress no more than 6 inches thick for one model. Some reviewers say heavier users should look for 6 inch options or plan to add a separate topper. See the mattress topper and best memory foam mattress guides. A thicker mattress is more comfortable but may not fold properly.
Weight Capacity
Ratings range from roughly 220 to 640 pounds across the results. Many are 250 to 350 pounds. One reviewer advises that you look for a rollaway with a weight capacity of 300 or more pounds if heavier adults will use it. A heavy-duty 640 pound model with memory foam appears in a listing. Check the rating, and remember it is the maker’s claim. See the best mattress for heavy people guide for heavier sleepers.
Folded Size and Storage
Folded depths vary widely. One model measures 44 inches high by 31 inches wide by 14 inches deep when folded, and another has an ultra-slim 12.8 inch folded thickness for tight storage. Check the folded height and width against your closet or under-bed space, not just the sleeping size. Also check: weight of the bed (heavy models are hard to move); wheel quality for rolling on carpet and hard floors; a carry handle or storage cover.
Comfort Factors
Frame design matters as much as the mattress. One listing says a spring-supported deck is more comfortable and supportive than the wooden slats or wire mesh used by many other rollaway beds. A guide also notes that bed width, support, height, room temperature, bedding and ease of getting in and out all matter. Tips: Add a mattress topper for extra cushion. Use fitted sheets sized for a 4 to 6 inch mattress. See the fitted sheet guide. Place on a flat floor, away from drafts. Test the bed before guests arrive. Add a pillow and blanket. See the standard pillow size and comfort blanket guides.
Safety Checks
Key points: check the weight limit and inspect the bed before each use; make sure the locks click and hold; keep fingers clear of hinges when folding; lock the wheels when in use; don’t let children jump on it; check for rust or bent parts; check CPSC.gov for recalls.
Rollaway vs Other Guest Beds
| Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Rollaway | Folds and rolls, built-in mattress | Thin mattress, can be heavy |
| Inflatable mattress | Very compact | Can leak. See the inflatable mattress guide |
| Daybed with trundle | More comfortable | Takes space. See the day beds guide |
| Futon or sofa bed | Doubles as seating | Bulky. See the futon sofa bed guide |
| Foldable bed | Many types | Varies. See the foldable bed guide |
Bob Vila and AOL publish best rollaway bed roundups. Costway has a guide to the best temporary beds for guests.
What are the main strengths and weaknesses?
On the plus side: quick guest bed; stores in a closet; rolls easily; affordable. On the downside: thin mattress; can squeak; heavy to lift in some models; not for daily use.
How to Choose a Rollaway Bed
Decide the guest and use: occasional or frequent. Choose size: twin-style (38 by 75) or cot. Check mattress thickness: 4 to 5 inches. Check weight capacity: 300 pounds or more if possible. Check folded size against storage. Check deck type: spring-supported if possible. Check wheels and locks. Read reviews on squeaks and comfort. Check the warranty.
What mistakes should you avoid?
A few common mistakes are worth avoiding: not checking the folded size; buying a cot size for adults; ignoring the weight rating; skipping a topper; not locking wheels; using it for daily sleep.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big is a rollaway bed?
Twin-style models are about 75 by 38 inches. Cot sizes are narrower.
How thick is the mattress?
Usually 3 to 6 inches, with 4 to 5 common.
How much weight can it hold?
Ratings range from about 220 to 640 pounds. Many are 250 to 350.
How big is it folded?
It varies. One is 44 by 31 by 14 inches, and one is 12.8 inches thick.
Is a rollaway bed comfortable?
A spring-supported deck is more comfortable than slats or mesh, per one listing. Add a topper.
Can I use it every night?
It is made for guest use.
Conclusion
A rollaway bed gives guests a place to sleep without taking up space. Choose a size and weight rating that fit your guests, check the folded size and look for a spring-supported deck and a decent mattress.
Add a topper and bedding, and check the locks before each use. With a good rollaway, guests sleep well.
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