Best Murphy Beds
Murphy beds have served as a reliable space-saver for well over 100 years.
They’ve stood the test of time because they offer a great sleeping solution for small or multi-functional spaces — since they fold up into a wall or cabinet and can be used for storage and an additional bed when you need it most.
While this type of bed may seem outdated to some, there are many modern Murphy beds that offer convenient features and sleek designs…
When space is at a premium but you need somewhere to sleep, a Murphy bed might be an ideal solution.
At the most basic level, this style of bed can be hidden as a piece of furniture with a relatively small footprint until you need it.
Most Murphy beds come equipped with specially designed mechanisms to make them easy to pull down and put back.
Lifting Mechanisms
Most Murphy beds raise and lower using spring or piston lifting mechanisms. These mechanisms keep the beds from springing open when they’re stored upright and lock them in place for safe use when they’re laid down.
People who live in small apartments have long looked to Murphy beds to provide a sleeping arrangement that doesn’t sacrifice living space.
In addition to hiding a sleeping space, some Murphy beds are designed as accent pieces or storage solutions.
Storage Options
Murphy beds with built-in storage are ideal for smaller spaces. They give you extra room to store or display your belongings, without taking up any additional floor space.
Every Murphy bed is different — some units are better equipped for long-term storage needs, while others have shelves that you must clear before you can lower the frame flat for sleeping.
Whether they’re your primary sleep surface or a guest room option, this style of bed frame may be worth considering if you need extra space.
Assembly & Safety
Modern Murphy beds are designed to be safe and easy to assemble, made from high-quality, durable materials.
The frames are especially designed to withstand the weight of an adult without breaking or bending under pressure.
How To Choose A Murphy Bed
Several different factors influence which Murphy bed will be best for you.
Here are just a few of the more important ones for you to keep in mind while you shop around.
Size
The size of your room will dictate what Murphy bed you buy.
If you have limited space at your disposal, too big of a bed will leave you feeling cramped and closed in.
On the other hand, if you have more room and opt for a tinier bed, the space might end up feeling empty or bare.
Style
Murphy beds aren’t just for bedrooms anymore.
Thanks to their versatility and ability to switch configurations, you’ll also find them in living rooms, home offices, and guest rooms.
Additionally, Murphy beds come in a variety of styles — from vertical fold-outs to horizontal designs and cabinet stowaways.
Price
Given their range of features and more complicated design, Murphy beds tend to cost more than traditional bed frames.
As your bed size increases, so does its price.
Not including the cost of the mattress, the average price range for a queen-size Murphy bed is $1200 to $3500.
The mattress will increase this cost.
If you plan on using a mattress you already own, check out the maximum thickness that your new Murphy Bed can accommodate.
Extra-thick mattresses may not fit into your Murphy Bed.
The Best Murphy Beds
Best Overall
Lori Bed
Editors Notes for InsidersGuideToFurniture.com readers:
Lori Bed has offered a Special 15% Discount for IGF blog readers. Use Coupon Code IGF15. (This discount cannot be combined with any other discounts.)
Insiders Guide To Furniture does not solicit or receive commissions from any offered products.
The 10% commission offered to IGF has been added to the normal Lori Bed 5% discount so that our readers can receive a 15% discount.
The Lori Bed is the only Murphy bed that functions without the need for springs, pistons, or other lifting mechanisms.
While owners will need to use a little extra muscle or enlist a partner to lower and lift it into place, the result of the design is a safer, lighter, and more durable Murphy bed.
The Lori Bed is a versatile Murphy bed that gives shoppers a high-quality option at an attractive price-point.
Available in twin and queen sizes, and comes in both vertical and horizontal orientations.
So if low ceilings or limited square footage are a concern, you can rest assured that there’s an option available that will suit you and your space.
In addition, the Lori Bed comes in four finish options — white, paint-ready, natural, and walnut. Each includes storage shelves that display your books and knick knacks when the bed is not in use.
Made from 100% poplar, this Murphy bed mounts directly to the wall.
The Lori Bed is compatible with mattresses up to 12 inches thick and is available in twin and queen sizes.
Shipping is free within the contiguous U.S. Those living in Canada, Hawaii, and Alaska should expect additional shipping charges.
The Lori Bed comes with a 60-night money-back guarantee. For returns within this window, Lori provides a full refund of the purchase price minus $150 for return shipping.
The bed is backed by a lifetime limited warranty.
Best Murphy Bed With Storage
Bestar Nebula
For shoppers who need ample space and long-term storage, Bestar’s Murphy bed is a great option.
This wall bed has drawers and shelving that don’t interfere with its use, so you can set it up without having to rearrange your entire bedroom contents.
This Murphy bed uses a dual-piston lowering mechanism, which makes it quick and easy to fold up and down. The bed uses the weight of your mattress to keep it open, so all you have to do is pull the handle down and protract the bottom leg to set it on the floor.
Additionally, if you have a low-profile mattress, there should be enough room for you to fold the bed back into place without having to take your bedding off — so you won’t have to remake it before you can use it again.
Best Murphy Bed Chest Cabinet
This queen-sized option is one of the most versatile in the roundup. When it’s not in use, the Murphy Cube by Night & Day folds into a cabinet that takes up just 10 square feet of floor space. This makes it an ideal choice for shoppers who don’t want to deal with the hassle of wall mounting Murphy beds.
This Murphy bed has an easy-to-use mechanism that allows you to quickly pull your bed out from inside when you’re ready to sleep. And as an added bonus, this Murphy bed comes equipped with the mattress.
If you want something that saves space and doesn’t require any permanent installation, but still offers plenty of comfort for overnight visitors or kids who need some extra sleeping space once in a while, then this is a great option.
Best Murphy Bed Chest Cabinet
Who it’s best for:
Shoppers who do not want to mount their Murphy bed to the wall
People who prefer not to purchase a separate mattress
Those who want to be able to set up the bed without a partner
Highlights:
Foldable queen size gel memory foam mattress included
Durable solid hardwood construction in multiple finishes
No wall mounting is required
Sleep Foundation Exclusive Offer!
Negatives:
The tri-fold bed mechanism used can only accommodate 6″ thick mattresses. As a result, this bed will be less comfortable for sleeping than other types of Murphy Beds that allow thicker mattresses.
The Murphy Cube by Night & Day Furniture features a unique construction that’s designed to take up very little room without mounting to the wall. When closed, this bed looks like a chest or cabinet.
Once assembled, it requires minimal lifting for easy use. To convert it from a cabinet to a bed, users remove the top, fasten the latches, pull out the legs, and fold it down.
The included mattress unfolds easily to rest on top of the support system. It includes a 6-inch gel memory foam model that folds into the chest.
The Murphy Cube comes in a standard queen size and requires assembly. Return and shipping policies vary by seller, though Night & Day backs this product with a 10-year limited warranty.
What Is a Murphy Bed?
A Murphy bed is invaluable for people who need a versatile sleep surface.
Though there are multiple styles of Murphy bed, each model shares the same overall goal of saving space.
Generally speaking, a Murphy bed packs or folds away when it’s not being used.
The most widely known style is the standard Murphy bed, which sits flush with the wall and is hinged on the bottom.
When pulled, it unfolds so that the bed’s surface is perpendicular to the wall behind it.People who live in studio apartments, mobile homes, or other small spaces may choose to free up additional living space by using a Murphy bed.
Home offices or bonus rooms can also double as a guest bedroom with the addition of a Murphy bed.
There are a few different styles, each of which takes up very little square footage.
In addition to standard styles, horizontal, and chest, Murphy beds are available. Users can also opt for a model that includes storage to maximize the utility of their space.
The type of mattress that is compatible with a Murphy bed varies between models.
Chest or cabinet models often come with a foldable mattress that fits into the base.
Wall-mounted Murphy beds work well with many mattress types, though they won’t close if the mattress is too thick.
How to Choose a Murphy Bed
Picking between Murphy beds largely comes down to your space, aesthetic, and sleep preferences.
You’ll want to consider how often you plan to sleep on it, where you’ll use it, and whether you’d like added storage space.
Certain styles of beds are easy for one person to convert, while others require two people to lift and lower the frame.
Your intended mattress is also a factor due to compatibility guidelines.
What to Look For in a Murphy Bed
Rather than looking at trends or buzzwords, it’s important to think critically about what you need from a Murphy bed.
Most shoppers want to save space, but since designs can vary widely, there typically isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution.
Instead, think about details like your budget, who will use the bed, and the logistics of assembly and operation.
Considering the following factors can help you narrow down the contenders.
Mattress Sizes
Murphy beds are usually designed to work with standard mattress dimensions, the most common being twin, full, and queen sizes. The mattress’ height is also an important factor. Some units require a low-profile model to close properly.
Quality Materials
Potential buyers should look at a Murphy bed’s construction since this can affect its weight and lifespan.
For instance, solid hardwood is durable, though it may be heavier and harder to lower than a particle board or plywood option.
When choosing between materials, think about how often you intend to use the bed and how you plan to lower it.
Weight Capacity
Due to variations in their construction and materials, Murphy beds differ in how much weight they can hold.
Additionally, if it’s a wall bed style, how it is anchored can be a factor in determining the capacity. Surpassing the weight limit could damage the bed and present a safety issue.
Style
Murphy beds come in multiple styles.
Standard Murphy beds, sometimes called wall beds, attach to the wall and are lowered from a hinge.
Normally, they fold out vertically, but some horizontal layouts are available, which can be beneficial if you have low ceilings.
Chest Murphy beds look like a cabinet but have a bed packed away inside.
The best Murphy bed style for you will depend on your preferences and floor plan.
Many manufacturers also offer multiple finishes to match a range of decors.
Price
Since Murphy beds require more parts and features than many traditional bed frames, they can often be more expensive.
As is standard with bedding products, Murphy bed prices typically increase with size.
The average range for a queen-size Murphy bed without a mattress is between $1,000 to $3,500.
Materials, construction, lifting mechanisms, storage, and size factor into the overall cost.
Ease of Assembly
Many Murphy beds require assembly, and it’s critical to make sure they’re put together correctly.
Before purchasing, check to see if additional tools are required or if professional assembly options are available. These factors may add to the total cost of your bed.
Storage
Whether you want drawers for guest use or need to consolidate your belongings, there are many options for storage solutions within Murphy beds.
Perhaps one of the more important aspects to consider is whether you need long-term storage or are comfortable removing your belongings before converting the bed.
Some units have shelves that must be cleared before lowering the frame.
Types of Murphy Beds
With the number of Murphy beds available today, nearly every shopper should be able to find a model that fits their needs and living space.
Though there are many styles and customizable options to choose from, most fall within the following common categories for Murphy bed construction.
Standard Murphy Bed
When folded up, the standard Murphy bed looks like a tall, thin cabinet or piece of furniture. It’s mounted to the wall with hinges at the bottom that allow the user to pull the bed from the top and lower it to the ground. This style is typically sold without a mattress and buyers must supply a compatible model.
Chest Cabinet Murphy Bed
A chest cabinet Murphy bed looks like a rectangular chest or cabinet when it’s not in use.
The exact method for converting the bed varies by model, but typically the top lifts off and becomes support for the mattress, which unfolds from inside the chest.
Many manufacturers include a mattress with the purchase of the frame since the dimensions of the chest dictate the required style and size of sleep surface.
This kind of Murphy bed takes up very little floor space and can often double as a piece of accent furniture.
Murphy Bed With Folding Mattress
Some Murphy beds include a foldable memory foam or polyfoam mattress to fit into a compact space.
Therefore, sleepers who choose this type of Murphy bed should ensure they’re comfortable sleeping on a foam mattress.
The firmness and thickness of the mattress will greatly impact its performance.
Lighter individuals and side sleepers may prefer a softer, thicker option, while heavier individuals, back sleepers, and stomach sleepers are likely to get the support they need from a thinner and/or firmer sleep surface.
Horizontal Murphy Bed
A horizontal Murphy bed functions the same way a vertical model does, but the orientation of the bed is sideways instead of up and down.
This means that when you open the bed, the side will be next to the wall.
For some spaces, especially those with low ceilings, this configuration may be a better fit.
The user also doesn’t have to reach as high to unfold the bed, which may be more convenient.
Do I Need a Murphy Bed?
Murphy beds are often compatible with standard mattresses, which may make them attractive to those looking to use one full-time.
Some also have storage options and inconspicuous designs to fit seamlessly into the room.
Though Murphy beds can be a worthwhile option for people looking to save space, they aren’t the only compact bed available.
Think about your needs and goals and reflect on whether the following options may also be worth considering.
Bunk Beds: Bunk beds save valuable floor space by stacking two sleep surfaces on top of each other.
Some bunk bed mattresses and frames are geared towards children, requiring additional safety features. However, larger frames with higher weight capacities may accommodate adults.
Sofa Beds: If you’re looking for a versatile piece of furniture that occasionally acts as a sleep surface, a sofa bed may be a good option. A sofa bed is a couch that easily converts to a bed, though multiple styles are available.
Loft Beds: Often seen in small apartments or dorms, loft beds create additional floor space, much like a bunk bed. However, instead of two beds, there is one top bed and an open space underneath.
Foldable Mattresses: Foldable mattresses are typically foam models that can be packed accordion style and stored until needed. They may be placed on the floor or a bed frame. Many chest Murphy beds require this type of mattress.
Air Mattresses: An air mattress is typically made of heavy-duty vinyl. This flexible material is inflated using a pump until it reaches its full dimensions.
Air mattresses have long been a staple in guest rooms and on camping trips because they’re easily transported.
However, temporary air mattresses are not the best option for long-term use since they generally don’t offer robust support.
Frequently Asked Questions About Murphy Beds
How much do Murphy beds cost?
Murphy beds vary in price depending on their materials and construction, but the average range for a queen is between $1,000 to $3,500.
Some considerations to factor into the overall cost are expected lifespan, extra features, whether a mattress is included, and whether there are additional assembly-related expenses.
Where is the best place to buy a Murphy bed?
Shoppers can purchase a Murphy bed online or in select stores.
The main advantage of shopping online is that it gives you the flexibility to browse for the best value and fit for your needs.
However, some people prefer shopping in person where they may be able to see the bed before completing their purchase.
Are Murphy beds comfortable?
Due to the wide selection of Murphy beds available today, the vast majority of sleepers should be able to find a comfortable option.
A Murphy bed is essentially a bed frame, and while it can certainly impact your sleep, your mattress will dictate much of your comfort level.
For optimal comfort, you may prefer to choose the kind of mattress you want based on your weight and personal preferences, then find a Murphy bed that’s compatible.
Why is it called a “Murphy” bed?
The Murphy bed is named after the inventor, William Lawrence Murphy. In around 1900, he lived in a one-room apartment in San Francisco. In order to entertain guests, he came up with a disappearing bed as a creative solution to convert the room into a parlor as needed.
Fold-up beds were not a new idea, but Murphy created patents for his versions and helped bring the product into the mainstream.
What kind of mattress should I use for a Murphy bed?
The type of mattress you need depends on the style of Murphy bed you select.
Standard and horizontal Murphy beds work well with most types of mattresses as long as they’re the right profile.
A mattress that’s too thick won’t allow the Murphy bed to close properly.
Chest cabinet Murphy beds often require a foldable mattress, which is usually made of foam.
How do Murphy beds work?
Murphy beds work by folding up to create additional living space.
There are multiple varieties of Murphy beds, and the exact mechanisms differ from bed to bed.
Generally speaking, standard Murphy beds fold away from the wall using a hinge, while chest cabinet styles have a mattress and frame that pack away when not in use.
Still have questions?
Check out The 9 Best Murphy Beds of 2022 by the Spruce.com and
Sleep Foundation Best Murphy Beds for 2022
The Sleep Foundation website SleepFoundation.org is one of the two most comprehensive sources of information about everything related to sleep,
Also check out Tuck.com. Tuck is even better on mattresses, but does not cover Murphy Beds at all.
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