Create additional space in your bedroom or guest room by incorporating a Murphy bed, also referred to as a wall bed. This unique bed frame can be folded up when not in use, concealing the mattress and presenting a solid exterior, often resembling a cabinet. The primary benefit of a Murphy bed is the ability to reclaim floor space when the bed is not in use.
The decision to invest in and set up a Murphy bed may seem overwhelming if you are not familiar with the available features and styles. It’s important to choose a bed that aligns with your room’s purpose, is easy to operate, and is built to last. This guide provides information on the different types of Murphy beds, key factors to consider when making a purchase, and where to locate and purchase a wall bed.
Murphy Bed: What Is It?
A Murphy bed, also called a wall bed, is attached to the wall and has a folding mechanism to raise and lower the mattress when necessary. When not being used, the bed can resemble a cabinet or built-in shelving.
Before Purchasing A Murphy Bed
If you need to maximize your floor space, a Murphy bed is a great option. These beds fold up and out of the way when not in use, making them ideal for guest rooms, offices, or even primary bedrooms where space is limited. They are also well-suited for tiny houses or studio living spaces, allowing you to set up your bed at night and fold it up during the day to create more room in your living space.
Purchasing Considerations for Murphy Beds
Room Layout
Considering your room layout is crucial when selecting a Murphy bed. Before starting your search, measure the dimensions of the space. Most Murphy beds fold vertically, so you need to determine the floor-to-ceiling space available. If your ceiling heights are low, you may consider horizontal-folding Murphy beds.
If you intend to use a Murphy bed in a small space, take note of the fully extended length of the bed when open. Ensure that there is enough space to open and access the bed, including at the end to raise it back up.
Material
Murphy beds can be constructed from a variety of materials, such as solid wood, manufactured wood or particleboard, and metal. Solid wood is highly durable but also very heavy. Particleboard is lighter, but it may have a lower maximum weight limit and some long-term durability issues. Murphy beds made of metal are robust and are frequently paired with wooden cabinets or shelves.
Opening Mechanism
When shopping for a Murphy bed, it’s essential to consider the lifting mechanism. These beds typically come with one of the following lifts: piston (hinge) or spring. Alternatively, some Murphy beds have a manual opening mechanism, which requires the use of your strength to raise and lower the bed.
Spring opening mechanisms were originally the most widely used method for lifting Murphy beds. The tension of the spring is typically customizable to facilitate the lifting of the bed. Many contemporary spring-assisted opening mechanisms include safeguards to avoid abrupt retraction.
A piston-based system with pressurized arms provides a simple method for raising and lowering a Murphy bed. Most beds equipped with pistons also include a locking mechanism to keep the bed securely stored when it’s not being used.
Manual opening mechanisms are uncomplicated, as they do not involve springs or pistons for adjustment. Nonetheless, this implies that you will need to bear the full weight of the mattress and frame when raising or lowering the bed. Therefore, certain manufacturers of Murphy beds equipped with manual opening mechanisms suggest that it is advisable to have two people assist with setting up or storing the bed.
Features
Murphy bed set-up can benefit from integrated features. Storage is often a key selling point for Murphy beds, especially for those setting up a studio space. Shelves or cabinets incorporated into the bed frame provide storage for blankets, bedding, clothes, and other essentials. Some Murphy beds also come with a built-in desk for multi-purpose use and integrated LED lighting for reading in bed.
Styles of Murphy Beds
Wall Bed
The terms Murphy bed and wall bed are often used interchangeably, but a wall bed can also refer to a specific style of Murphy bed. Wall beds are typically built into a fixture that spans most, if not all, of the wall. When closed, a wall bed might resemble cabinets, a shelving unit, or a bookcase.
This style of Murphy bed could be an ideal choice for someone seeking a discreet appearance. The built-in fixture conceals the presence of a bed. Wall beds that occupy most or all of a wall are usually more expensive and may need to be custom-built for a fully integrated look.
Cabinet Bed
A different type of Murphy bed is the cabinet bed. Some of these beds are not attached to the wall; instead, they are standalone cabinets that the bed folds into. A cabinet bed is a more flexible choice than a larger, built-in Murphy bed. It is a better option for renters or those who do not have enough wall space for a mounted version. However, they may not have the same size, stability, or storage as wall beds.
Cost
The price of a Murphy bed depends mainly on its size and materials. For a queen-size Murphy bed made of solid wood, the cost typically ranges from $2,000 to $4,000. If you choose a Murphy bed made of manufactured wood or particle board, the cost will be somewhat lower, around $1,000 to $1,800.
Other factors that affect pricing include the opening mechanism. Piston-assisted lifting systems increase the price, while manual opening mechanisms are the most basic and cost-effective option. Additionally, features like storage or lighting can also increase the cost of a Murphy bed.
How to Choose a Murphy Bed
Murphy beds have become increasingly popular since they were first introduced to the mainstream market around a century ago. This trend has been driven by various factors, including the push to optimize space and efficiency as part of the tiny house movement. Consequently, there are numerous options available to suit different needs and budgets.
When selecting a Murphy bed, it’s important to consider the elements that will enhance the bed’s functionality, user-friendliness, and style in your space. Here are some of the key factors to take into account when choosing a Murphy bed.
Horizontal vs. Vertical
Begin by deciding if you want a horizontal or vertical wall bed, which determines the mattress’s orientation. Vertical wall beds are the most popular and have a raising and lowering foot. They take up less wall space but more room space when fully extended. Horizontal wall beds are an alternative, especially in shallow rooms, folding along their long edge instead of raising and lowering the foot of the bed.
Mattress size
Murphy beds come in standard mattress sizes, including twin, full, queen, and king. However, twin and queen sizes are the most commonly found. When looking for a Murphy bed, remember to check that your mattress depth fits the bed design, as most Murphy beds can handle mattresses from 8 to 12 inches thick.
Will someone assist you in raising or lowering the bed?
Consider that Murphy beds can have a significant weight, particularly when you consider the added weight of a mattress. Consider whether you will be responsible for raising and lowering the bed by yourself or with assistance. If you will be assembling and storing the bed independently, it is wise to seek a lifting mechanism that can aid one person or is specifically designed for solo use.
How often will you use the Murphy bed?
Think about whether you plan to use the Murphy bed daily or just for occasional visitors. If the bed is for a room that serves other purposes besides accommodating guests, a freestanding, cabinet-style Murphy bed might be a better fit. However, if the bed will be used every night in a bedroom or living area, you may have additional requirements for comfort, convenience, or storage.
Other storage or functional uses
If you have specific goals for the Murphy bed beyond just providing a cozy place to sleep, consider a wall bed with built-in storage to help with your closet or storage limitations. You can store bed linens and other belongings in the cabinets or drawers, and use open shelves for decorative items or books.
Additionally, some wall beds can serve as multi-purpose furniture, converting into a desk or workspace when needed.
Where to Shop
Buying In-Store
When you shop for a Murphy bed in a store, you can see its finish and function before making a purchase. You should be able to view the bed in both open and closed positions and test the lifting mechanism. Typically, the bed will be purchased in boxes and assembled at home. Some stores may provide white glove delivery to simplify the process.
Buying Online
You can find the largest selection of Murphy beds on the internet, providing you with a wider range of styles and finishes to select from. When researching on a website, be sure to carefully review the dimensions, lifting mechanism, warranty terms, and return policies. Additionally, take into account the assembly requirements and whether the company provides white glove delivery.
Where to Buy a Murphy Bed
Several retailers offer Murphy beds for sale. If you prefer to make an in-person purchase, your best option is likely a regional or national furniture store. However, numerous online retailers sell wall beds.
Popular online shopping destinations for Murphy beds include Wayfair and Amazon, as well as the online platforms of major retailers like Costco, Walmart, and Home Depot.
Additionally, you can explore retailers that specialize in wall beds, such as Lori Wall Beds, BredaBeds, or Resource Furniture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it necessary to connect a Murphy bed to the wall?
Typically, Murphy beds need to be secured to the wall and may also need to be fastened to a stud for extra support. However, certain models can be affixed to the floor.
Will I need to remove baseboards to install a Murphy bed?
It is not always necessary to take out baseboards in order to put in a Murphy bed, but the bed does need to be able to attach flat against the wall. Since most rooms have baseboards already in place, the majority of Murphy beds come with a notch to accommodate this. In certain situations, you can even adjust the size of the notch if your baseboards have unique dimensions.
What kind of mattress is best for Murphy bed?
A durable, dense foam mattress is the ideal choice for a Murphy bed. Memory foam and latex mattresses are commonly suggested because their solid foam is unlikely to lose shape or develop lumps, even when stored upright for a long time.