Best Murphy Beds

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. People who live in small apartments have long looked to Murphy beds to provide a sleeping arrangement that doesn’t sacrifice living space.

With so many different styles of Murphy beds available, you’ll likely find a model that addresses your needs. In addition to hiding a sleeping space, some Murphy beds are designed as accent pieces or storage solutions. 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. Among other details, we’ll highlight the different types of Murphy beds, common prices, and materials as well as our top picks.

In-Depth Reviews

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.