What Is a Murphy Bed? What to Know Before You Buy

Imagine trying to fit all your essential furniture into a tiny studio apartment. Many people in busy city centers experience this because space is limited and rents are high. For example, fitting a bed, desk, and storage into a tiny room is nearly impossible without sacrificing comfort or functionality.

This article explores Murphy beds, focusing on their space-saving design, various materials, and integrated features. Learn how these beds transform small living areas into versatile, functional spaces. Keep reading to discover how a Murphy bed can enhance your home's functionality and style.

What Is a Murphy Bed and Its History?

A Murphy bed is perfect for saving space. It folds up into a wall or cabinet, creating more room. This is especially useful in small homes, like studio apartments or tiny houses. It’s also suitable for rooms that serve multiple purposes during the day. By folding up, they turn a bedroom into an office or playroom. This gives you extra space for daily activities.

It was created in 1900 in San Francisco by William Lawrence Murphy. He desired an additional room because he only had one room in his residence. By creating a bed that folds away, he made his room versatile. This clever design meant he could entertain guests in his home more appropriately. The bed was named after its creator, though Murphy called it "The Disappearing Bed."

Types of Murphy Beds

There are six types of Murphy beds, each for different spaces. You can find one that fits your needs, whether for a small apartment or guest room.

1. Regular Murphy beds

Standard Murphy beds, commonly referred to as wall beds, offer a multitude of space-saving solutions. Numerous sizes and designs are available to suit your needs. There are vertical and horizontal options to suit different spaces. These are great for guests and make rooms more versatile. Many models also feature built-in storage, adding functionality without sacrificing style.

2. Murphy Desk Beds

Murphy desk beds combine a home office and guest bed in one compact solution, which is ideal for small spaces like studio apartments. The front panel functions as a desk and can be lifted to reveal a bed hidden behind it. An always-level desk maintains its position even when the bed is deployed. This allows items to remain undisturbed on the desktop. However, it's essential to consider the vertical clearance to avoid having to remove items when using the bed.

3. Bookcase Wall Beds

Bookcase wall beds are great for people who want both style and function. When not in use, they look like regular bookcases and offer storage for books and decor. The Standard Bookcase Wallbed opens like french doors, while the Bi-fold Bookcase Wallbed has doors that fold back to save space. This type transforms seamlessly from a storage piece to a comfortable sleeping area.

4. Murphy Bunk Beds

Ideal for families or those hosting multiple guests, Murphy bunk beds are an efficient use of vertical space. These beds stack one above another and can be folded away to reclaim living space when not needed. Some models include enhancements like integrated lighting or side cabinets, which enhance both functionality and comfort.

5. Murphy Cabinet Beds

Murphy cabinet beds are a stylish and space-saving option. They look like a cabinet or chest of drawers when closed. They are popular because they are affordable and include a memory foam mattress. Unlike other Murphy beds, they don’t need to be attached to a wall. Their compact design makes them perfect for small spaces.

6. Sofa Murphy Beds

Sofa Murphy beds are a dual-function piece, serving as a comfortable sofa by day and a bed by night. This option is perfect for living rooms or any space where watching TV or enjoying a view is important. The transition from sofa to bed is seamless, making it ideal for small apartments with limited space.

Factors to Consider Before Buying

Several factors can help ensure that a Murphy bed meets your needs. Understanding these elements can help you choose the perfect bed for your space.

Materials and Build Quality

Murphy beds come in many materials for different needs. Solid wood beds are firm and last long. However, they are very heavy and hard to move. Manufactured wood is a lighter option. It’s easier to handle but might not hold as much weight. Metal beds are also durable and have lighter frames. This makes it easier for them to lift and move around.

When choosing a Murphy bed, consider its weight limit. This is necessary for safety and durability. Many of them can sustain up to 1,000 pounds when uniformly distributed. High-quality materials help prevent the bed from breaking. Natural wood is often the best choice for durability. It offers a high weight limit and a stylish look to your home.

Mechanism Types

The lifting mechanism of a Murphy bed is crucial for ease of use. There are three main types: 

• Spring mechanisms: These feature an adjustable spring to help lift the bed. However, they can be bulky and need careful handling to prevent sudden closures.
• Piston mechanisms: These work with gas pressure. They provide smooth operation and often include a locking feature, which helps keep the bed secure when stored away.
• Manual opening mechanisms: These are the simplest. They do not use springs or pistons. You need to lift the bed using your strength, which can be heavy. It's often recommended that two people operate a manual Murphy bed safely.

Each type of mechanism has its benefits. Choose one that suits your strength and space. This will ensure your Murphy bed is both functional and easy to use.

Mattress Size

Murphy beds fit standard mattress sizes: twin, full, queen, and king. Twin and queen are most common. Ensure the mattress depth matches the bed's limits, usually between 8 and 12 inches.

If you use a thicker mattress, like 13 inches, ensure the bed's cabinet is deep enough, possibly needing 18 inches. This could make the bed heavier. For space-saving, a 12-inch cabinet might limit you to a 6-inch mattress. Thicker mattresses may extend the bed further when opened. Always check the bed's closed and open dimensions to ensure it fits your room.

Features and Styles to Look For

Integrated Storage and Lighting

Many come with built-in storage options. You can find shelves or cabinets around the bed. These are perfect for storing blankets, clothes, or other items. Some beds also include a desk. This is handy when the bed is tucked away. You can use the desk for work or study. Another useful feature is integrated lighting. This can be helpful if you like to read in bed. All these features make Murphy beds versatile and practical. Each feature adds value and convenience, enhancing small living spaces.

Orientation: Horizontal vs. Vertical

Start by deciding whether a horizontal or vertical bed suits your space best. Vertical beds are the most common. They fold up towards the ceiling, saving wall space. However, they require more floor space when extended. Horizontal beds, on the other hand, fold sideways. This makes them ideal for rooms with lower ceilings or less depth. Measure your space carefully to choose the proper orientation.

Installation Considerations

Before you make a purchase, think about the installation process. Some items are easy to install, while others might need professional help. Always check if you need special tools. Ensure enough space in your room for the item to fit comfortably. It should not block any doors or air vents.

Consider the product's weight to ensure your floor can handle it, especially for heavier items. If it needs to be attached to a wall, make sure your wall has studs to secure it safely. If studs aren't available, high-quality wall anchors can be used. Read the installation manual or watch online tutorials to understand the process and avoid damaging your walls or floors.

When choosing a location for a Murphy bed, measure your room carefully. Check the ceiling height and wall space to ensure the bed will fit. Avoid placing the bed on a wall with windows for easier installation. Also, ensure the bed won’t block any doorways or interfere with electrical outlets and ceiling fixtures like lights or fans when opened. If your wall has baseboards, choose a Murphy bed with a notch cutout to fit snugly against the wall.

Conclusion

Murphy beds are an excellent way to save space. They offer a cozy place to sleep and make rooms versatile. This makes them ideal for small homes, apartments, or guest rooms. You can choose from different types, like wall beds, desk beds, and sofa beds. When picking a Murphy bed, consider the materials, how it opens, mattress size, and installation needs. This will help you find the right bed for your space.

Explore our selection of Murphy beds to find your perfect match. See how these beds can transform any room into a stylish, multipurpose space. Upgrade your home with a Murphy bed today!