Murphy Beds: The Ultimate Space-Saving Solution
Discover wall beds, fold-down beds, and cabinet beds — perfect for studios, guest rooms, and multi-purpose spaces. Transform any room in seconds.
Shop Top Murphy BedsWhat is a Murphy bed? A Murphy bed (or wall bed) is a bed that folds up vertically against the wall or into a cabinet, freeing up floor space during the day. Named after William Lawrence Murphy, these beds are the ultimate solution for small spaces, home offices, and guest rooms that need to serve multiple purposes.
Why Choose a Murphy Bed?
Maximize Your Space
Murphy beds are the most efficient way to reclaim floor space. When folded up, they leave your room free for work, yoga, play, or entertaining. Ideal for studio apartments, tiny homes, and multi-functional rooms.
Versatile Design Options
From classic vertical wall beds to horizontal sofa-bed combos and cabinet beds with built-in shelves. Choose from wooden bed frames, metal frames, or upholstered finishes to match your decor.
Easy to Use
Modern Murphy beds feature gas piston systems or spring mechanisms that make them easy to lower and raise — even one-handed. No more heavy lifting or struggling with bulky sofa beds.
Perfect for Guests
Create a comfortable sleeping space for visitors without dedicating a whole room to a bed. Add a quality mattress and your guests will enjoy a restful night's sleep.
Types of Murphy Beds
Murphy beds come in several styles to suit different spaces and needs. Here’s what you need to know about each type:
Vertical Murphy Beds
The classic design: the bed folds vertically against the wall. Available in twin, full, queen, and king sizes. When folded, they are about 16–18 inches deep. Choose between wooden bed frames for a classic look or metal bed frames for a modern industrial aesthetic.
Horizontal Murphy Beds
Fold down from the side, parallel to the floor. Ideal for rooms with low ceilings or for placing under windows. They often come with integrated shelving or desks — a smart choice for home office setups.
Cabinet Murphy Beds
These beds fold into a stylish cabinet that can also serve as a sideboard, desk, or entertainment unit. When closed, you’d never guess there’s a bed inside. Perfect for studio apartments and living rooms.
Sofa Murphy Beds
A two-in-one solution: functions as a comfortable sofa during the day and a bed at night. Great for small living rooms and guest rooms where you want to maximize seating and sleeping options.
Murphy Bed Buying Guide
Choosing the right Murphy bed involves more than just picking a style. Here are the key factors to consider:
- Size: Measure your ceiling height and wall space. Vertical beds require about 80 inches of height, while horizontal beds need width. Consider twin beds for a single sleeper, full beds for one adult, or queen beds for couples.
- Mattress Compatibility: Not all mattresses work with Murphy beds. Look for a mattress that is 8–10 inches thick, and consider memory foam or hybrid mattresses that are flexible and comfortable.
- Mechanism Quality: The piston or spring system should be smooth and durable. Test the lift and lower mechanism before buying, if possible.
- Material & Finish: Choose between solid wood, engineered wood, or metal. Consider the style of your room — modern, rustic, or minimalist.
- Additional Features: Built-in shelves, lighting, or a fold-down desk can add functionality. Some models even include a storage bed base below the mattress.
Installation & Safety Tips
Professional Installation Recommended
Murphy beds are heavy and must be securely anchored to wall studs and the floor. Hire a professional installer or follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Improper installation can lead to serious injury.
Always check that the mechanism is properly aligned and that all bolts are tight. Test the bed with light pressure before using it regularly.
Child Safety
If you have children, ensure the bed has a safety lock to prevent accidental folding. Keep the area around the bed clear when lowering or raising it. Teach children not to play with the mechanism.
Consider a kids beds model with built-in safety features if the bed will be used in a child’s room.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any mattress on a Murphy bed?
Not all mattresses are suitable. You need a mattress that is flexible enough to fold without damage. Memory foam and latex mattresses are great choices. Avoid innerspring mattresses that are too thick or rigid.
How much floor space do I need for a Murphy bed?
You need enough space for the bed when it's folded down — about the size of the mattress (e.g., 60" x 80" for a queen) plus clearance for walking. When folded, it protrudes about 16–20 inches from the wall, depending on the model.
Are Murphy beds comfortable?
Yes! With a quality mattress, a Murphy bed is just as comfortable as a traditional bed. Many people prefer them because they can use a high-quality mattress rather than a thin sofa bed mattress.
Can I install a Murphy bed myself?
If you are handy with tools and have help, you can install it yourself. However, due to the weight and safety risks, professional installation is strongly recommended.
Ready to Transform Your Space?
Browse our top-rated Murphy beds and find the perfect wall bed for your home. Shop now and enjoy free shipping on most orders.
Explore Murphy Beds
