Quick Answer: IKEA daybeds like the HEMNES and SÄBÖVIK are affordable and functional, but they use non-standard mattress sizes that limit your options. If you need a daybed that converts to a full guest bed, look at models that take standard twin or double mattresses, these give you the widest mattress choice and the best long-term value.
In This Guide
Reading Time: 7 minutes
What Is a Daybed?
A daybed is a cross between a sofa and a bed, designed to function as seating during the day and sleeping space at night. They typically have three sides (back and two arms) and hold a single mattress, usually twin or single size. Some models include a trundle underneath that pulls out to create a second sleeping surface.
Daybeds are popular in home offices, spare bedrooms, teen rooms, and studio apartments where space is limited. They're also useful in cottages and family rooms where occasional guest sleeping matters more than dedicated bedroom space.
Main IKEA Daybed Models in Canada
IKEA carries a rotating selection of daybeds. The core models available in Canada as of 2025-2026:
| Model | Mattress Size | Price Range (CAD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| HEMNES daybed | 80x200cm (non-standard twin) | $499-699 | Most popular; includes trundle; pull-out to double |
| SÄBÖVIK | 80x200cm | $229-299 | Simpler frame; no trundle; budget option |
| FLEKKE | 80x200cm | $399-499 | Kids daybed with two drawers underneath |
| UTÅKER | Standard twin 99x200cm | $399-499 | Stackable bed pair; used as daybed alternative |
Note that most IKEA daybeds use an 80x200cm mattress dimension, this is narrower than a North American twin (99x190cm). IKEA sells matching mattresses (MOSHULT, MINNESUND, MALFORS) to fit their daybed frames.
Mattress Fit: The Key IKEA Limitation
This is the biggest practical issue with IKEA daybeds, and it's worth understanding before you buy.
The standard North American twin mattress is 38" x 75" (97x190cm). IKEA's daybed frames take an 80x200cm mattress, which is a European single dimension. This means:
- Standard North American twin mattresses don't fit properly in IKEA daybed frames
- You're limited to IKEA's own mattress selection, which is narrower in quality range
- If your mattress wears out or you want an upgrade, your options are restricted
- The daybed mattress choice affects long-term sleep quality significantly
Can You Make a Regular Twin Work?
Some people put a standard 99cm twin mattress in an 80cm IKEA daybed frame. The mattress overhangs the sides slightly and the three-sided frame doesn't fully contain it. It works, but it looks and functions better with the right-sized mattress. If you want the widest mattress choice, look at daybeds with standard North American twin dimensions from other manufacturers.
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IKEA Daybeds: Pros and Cons
HEMNES Daybed: Honest Assessment
- Pro: Pull-out trundle converts to a double sleeping space, genuinely useful for guests
- Pro: Solid wood frame (pine), more durable than many competitors at this price
- Pro: Multiple colour finishes (white, black-brown, grey)
- Pro: Widely available across Canada with easy parts replacement
- Con: Non-standard 80cm mattress width limits mattress selection
- Con: Assembly is time-consuming (2-3 hours for most people)
- Con: Slatted base can creak over time as wood dries
- Con: IKEA mattresses are entry-level quality, fine for occasional use, not ideal for primary sleeping
For casual use, a guest room that gets used a few times a year, or a teen's study room that doubles as overflow sleeping, IKEA daybeds are practical and affordable. For someone sleeping on a daybed every night, the mattress quality becomes a serious consideration.
Talia, Showroom Specialist at Mattress Miracle: "We get customers who come in because they've been sleeping on an IKEA daybed mattress for a year and their back is bothering them. The IKEA mattresses that come with daybeds are thin, 10-14cm usually. That's fine for the odd overnight guest but not for nightly use. The problem is you can't just drop in a better mattress because of the 80cm width. If you know you'll be sleeping on it regularly, I'd look at a daybed that takes a standard twin from the start."
Alternatives to IKEA Daybeds
Several Canadian and North American furniture retailers offer daybeds that take standard twin mattresses, giving you full access to the quality mattress market:
| Brand / Source | Mattress Size | Price Range (CAD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Article.com | Standard twin (38"x75") | $600-1,200 | Modern aesthetic; Canadian company; flat-pack |
| Structube | Standard twin | $400-900 | Wide style range; flat-pack assembly |
| Wayfair.ca | Standard twin (most models) | $300-1,000 | Large selection; verify dimensions carefully |
| Local solid wood furniture | Standard twin | $800-2,000+ | Longest lifespan; custom mattress options |
| Walmart.ca / Amazon.ca | Standard twin (most) | $200-500 | Budget options; quality varies widely |
When evaluating any daybed, always confirm the exact interior frame dimension. "Twin size" is used loosely and some manufacturers mean European twin (80cm) when they write twin. Look for 38" or 99cm interior width to confirm North American standard sizing.
Best Uses for a Daybed
Daybeds work best in specific situations. Where they make the most sense:
Home office / spare room, a daybed lets the room serve dual purpose without committing to a permanent bed setup. During the day it's a couch; when guests arrive, it's a bed.
Teen bedrooms, gives teens extra seating for hanging out with friends while still being a functional sleep surface. Trundle models let a friend sleep over easily.
Sunroom or reading nook, daybeds create a lounging area that functions as an occasional sleeping space for summer guests.
Studio apartments, in a small space where a full sofa and bed aren't possible, a daybed with good pillows can serve both roles reasonably well.
Where daybeds often disappoint: as a primary sleeping surface for adults. The three-sided frame limits sleeping positions, the typically narrow width is restrictive, and the mattress options are often more limited than a standard bed setup.
Twin Mattresses for Daybeds at Mattress Miracle
If you have a daybed that takes a standard North American twin mattress, we carry twin options from Restonic and Sleep In starting at around $790 for a twin ComfortCare. A proper mattress makes a substantial difference to how a daybed feels for regular sleeping. We're at 441 1/2 West Street in Brantford, call Brad at (519) 770-0001 to find out what's available in twin size.
IKEA Daybeds in Quebec
IKEA Canada uses the same product names in Quebec stores (HEMNES, FYRESDAL, BRIMNES, NORDLI). Mattress sizing follows standard Canadian dimensions, so a queen IKEA daybed in Quebec accepts the same 60 by 80 mattress as Ontario. French descriptions are available on ikea.com/ca/fr.
Frequently Asked Questions
Shop: Daybeds at Mattress Miracle
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Popular picks at Mattress Miracle:
- Restonic ComfortCare Dalton & Albany pocketed-coil mattress
- Whitney two-sided bamboo mattress
- Somnia 3.0 support pillow
Or see all our mattresses in our Brantford showroom.
Find Your Perfect Mattress at Mattress Miracle
We are a family-owned mattress store in Brantford, helping our community sleep better since 1997. Come try mattresses in person and get honest, no-pressure advice.
441 1/2 West Street, Brantford, Ontario
Call 519-770-0001Do IKEA daybeds come with a mattress?
No, IKEA daybed frames are sold separately from mattresses. You need to purchase a compatible IKEA mattress (80x200cm) or find a mattress that fits. IKEA sells several options in this size including the MOSHULT foam mattress and the HAFSLO spring mattress. These are entry-level and suitable for occasional use.
Can two people sleep on an IKEA daybed?
The HEMNES daybed converts to a double sleeping space when the trundle is pulled out and raised to the same level as the main frame. Two mattresses are placed side-by-side, creating a wide sleeping surface. Note that there's a slight gap between the two mattresses, and the combined surface works better for children or occasional adult guests than as a permanent couple's bed.
How long do IKEA daybed frames last?
The HEMNES range uses solid pine, which is more durable than IKEA's engineered wood products. With reasonable use, a HEMNES daybed frame can last 10-15 years. The most common issue is the slat system, individual slats can crack or warp over time. IKEA sells replacement slats. Frames in high-humidity spaces (cottages) may warp faster.
What's the best mattress thickness for a daybed?
For daybeds with three-sided frames (back and two arms), a mattress of 10-14cm (4-5.5") is typically recommended so it fits within the frame visually. Thicker mattresses can look awkward and may not fit flush within the frame sides. If you want a thicker mattress for comfort, ensure the frame sides are tall enough to contain it. For daily sleeping, aim for the thickest mattress your frame allows.
Visit Our Brantford Showroom
We are located at 441½ West Street in downtown Brantford. Free parking available. Our team does not work on commission, so you get honest advice based on your needs.
Mattress Miracle, 441½ West Street, Brantford, ON · (519) 770-0001
Hours: Monday–Wednesday 10am–6pm, Thursday–Friday 10am–7pm, Saturday 10am–5pm, Sunday 12pm–4pm.