Common Questions About Murphy Beds

Last updated September 2026 by the Forward Furniture team

What is a Murphy Bed?

A Murphy bed, also known as a wall bed or pull-down bed, is a space-saving furniture piece that is designed to fold up against a wall when not in use. These beds are ideal for guest rooms, small apartments, and more such as a home office. They provide a comfortable sleeping space without taking up precious floor space when not in use.

Are Murphy Beds Comfortable?

One of the most common questions is whether they are comfortable. The good news is that modern Murphy beds are designed to provide a restful night's sleep, just like a conventional bed. With advancements in mattress technology, you can find a variety of mattresses, including memory foam, that are specifically designed for use with Murphy beds. These mattresses are usually 8 to 10 inches thick, the most that most Murphy beds allow, and they sleep comfortably.

How Do Murphy Beds Work?

Murphy beds work by using a combination of metal frames, springs, and locking legs to support the memory foam mattress when it is in use. To access the bed, simply pull on the door panel or handle to lower the bed down. The locking legs will automatically engage to provide stability and safety during sleep. When not in use, the bed can be easily folded back up against the wall to save floor space.

What is a Cabinet Bed?

A cabinet bed is another space-saving furniture option, similar to a Murphy bed, but with a different design. Instead of folding up against the wall, it's housed inside a beautiful piece of furniture, which can double as a functional piece of furniture such as a credenza or a TV stand. When you need to use the bed, simply pull out the bed frame, and the mattress unfolds to create a comfortable sleeping surface.

They are an excellent alternative for those who may not have the space required for a Murphy bed, or for those who prefer the aesthetic style furniture piece. Like Murphy beds, they come in various sizes and designs, allowing you to choose one that fits your room's décor and space requirements.

What's the Difference Between a Cabinet Bed and a Murphy Bed?

While both cabinet beds and Murphy beds are space-saving solutions, they differ in their design and functionality. The primary difference is how they are stored when not in use. A Murphy bed folds up against the wall, requiring walls for installation, while the alternative is stored inside a cabinet, allowing for more versatile placement within a room.

In terms of mattress support, Murphy beds use springs or pistons to hold the mattress in place, while the alternative typically have a foldable wooden slat system to support the mattress. Both types of beds can accommodate various mattress types and thicknesses, but it's essential to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for a safe and comfortable sleeping experience.

Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference, available space, and desired aesthetics. To learn more about the differences between the two, check out this informative blog post.

What Sizes Do Murphy Beds Come In?

Murphy bed's are available in various sizes to accommodate different sleeping needs and room sizes. The most common sizes include twin, queen, and king. Twin sizes are perfect for smaller rooms, while queen and king sizes can provide a more spacious sleeping area for couples or guests.

Can I Use a Regular Mattress with a Murphy Bed?

In most cases, you can use a standard mattress with a Murphy bed. However, it is essential to ensure that the mattress is the right size and thickness for the specific bed model. Check the manufacturer's recommendations for maximum mattress thickness and weight to ensure a proper fit and safe operation.

Are Murphy Beds Safe?

Safety is a top priority when it comes to Murphy beds. Modern wall beds come with a variety of safety features, such as locking and mechanisms to prevent the bed from accidentally falling. As long as the bed is installed correctly and used according to the manufacturer's instructions, a Murphy bed is a safe and secure sleeping solution.

Do Murphy Beds Require Special Bedding?

While Murphy beds do not necessarily require special bedding, it is essential to choose bedding that can easily be tucked away when the bed is folded up. Fitted sheets, blankets, and pillows that are not overly bulky are ideal for use with a Murphy bed. Some wall bed models even come with built-in storage options for bedding and pillows, making it even more convenient to set up the bed for a good night's sleep.

How Much Wall Space Do I Need for a Murphy Bed?

The amount of wall space required for a Murphy bed depends on the size and style of the bed. In general, you will need enough space the width of the bed, plus a few additional inches for clearance. For a queen size Murphy bed, for example, you will typically need a minimum of 65-70 inches of wall space. It is important to measure your room and space carefully before purchasing a Murphy bed to ensure a proper fit.

For the exact closed and open sizes of every model we carry, and the ceiling height each one needs, see our Murphy bed dimensions guide.

In conclusion, Murphy beds are an excellent solution for those looking for comfortable space while still providing a comfortable and stylish sleeping area. By understanding the answers to these common questions about Murphy beds, you can make an informed decision and find the perfect wall bed for your needs.

Are Murphy Beds Easy to Operate?

One common question is whether Murphy beds are easy to operate. The answer is yes, modern wall beds are designed to be user-friendly, with smooth mechanisms that make it easy to fold and unfold the bed as needed. Most wall beds use a counterbalanced spring system or pistons that help to lift and lower the bed effortlessly. With a little practice, you'll find that operating a Murphy bed is a simple process that can be done by almost anyone.

Can Murphy Beds Be Used in Small Apartments?

Another frequently asked question is whether Murphy beds are suitable for small apartments or living spaces. The answer is a resounding yes! Hidden beds are an excellent solution for small storage space, as they can be folded up against the wall when not in use, freeing up valuable floor space. This makes them perfect for studio apartments, an office, or any room where storage space is at a premium.

Additionally, many wall beds come with built-in storage or desk options, providing even more functionality in a compact design. With a murphy bed it's easy to save space in any bedroom or office with a desk. If a wall mounted bed is not an option where you live, we compared 7 Murphy bed alternatives side by side.

How Do Murphy Beds Compare to Sleeper Sofas?

People often wonder how Murphy beds compare to sleeper sofas in terms of comfort and convenience. While both options provide solutions, there are some key differences. Murphy beds typically offer a more comfortable experience, as they can have a thicker mattresses, similar to those found on conventional beds. Sofas, on the other hand, usually have special mattress and may not provide the same level of comfort and support for a restful night's sleep.

In terms of convenience, a wall bed need to be folded up against the wall when not in use, while sleeper sofas can remain as seating during the day. However, setting up a Murphy bed can be quicker and easier than unfolding a sleeper sofa, as there are no cushions or pillows to remove and store.

Both options have their advantages and drawbacks, so the choice ultimately depends on personal preference and the specific needs of your living space. For a fuller side by side, see our guide to a Murphy bed vs a sofa bed.

Can a Murphy Bed Be Installed in a Room with a Low Ceiling?

Another common question is whether a Murphy bed can be installed in a room with a low ceiling. The answer depends on the specific model and size of the wall bed you are considering.

Most wall beds require a minimum ceiling height of around 8 feet, but some models may be designed for lower ceilings. It's essential to carefully measure your guest bedroom ceiling height and check the manufacturer's recommendations before purchasing a Murphy bed to ensure proper installation and safe operation. Perfect for any guest bedroom.

Looking for a Murphy Bed Alternative That Needs No Drilling?

The Olivia Queen Cabinet Bed transforms from a beautiful cabinet to a queen bed in just 30 seconds, with no wall mounting or drilling required. It includes a premium memory foam mattress, USB charging ports, and comes in 3 finishes: Cherry, Black, and White. All real hardwood construction, with a 90-day home trial and a lifetime warranty on the cabinet. The Olivia is sold on preorder. The current price and delivery month are always on the Olivia product page.

See the Olivia Cabinet Bed →

Browse All Cabinet Beds →

How Long Do Murphy Beds Last?

People often ask about the durability and lifespan of a wall bed. With proper care and maintenance, a high-quality wall bed can last for many years. The longevity of a Murphy bed depends on factors such as the quality of materials, construction, and the frequency of use.

Regularly checking and maintaining the bed's hardware, such as springs, pistons, and locking mechanisms, can help ensure a long-lasting and safe solution. Additionally, investing in a good-quality mattress and following the manufacturer's guidelines for weight limits and usage can contribute to the overall durability and lifespan of your Murphy bed. It's more about how long the mattresses last and if the murphy bed comfortable still.

Murphy Bed or Cabinet Bed: Which Fits Your Room?

Olivia figures are from its product page: closed 62.5 inches wide, 24 inches deep and 40 inches tall; the queen opens to 83 inches long.

Murphy Beds and Cabinet Beds We Sell, With Live Prices

Olivia Cabinet Bed
Preorder, charged in full at checkout: see the current price

Freestanding, no wall anchoring; queen or double with a 6 inch mattress.

Heidi Horizontal Murphy Bed
Twin $1,424.99

Sideways folding wall bed in white; takes a standard mattress.

Wallie Vertical Murphy Bed
From $1,899.99

Vertical wall bed in white on pistons, twin or double.

Heidi Murphy Bed, Brown
Queen $1,824.99

The Heidi in brown, queen size.

Prices are live from our catalogue. The Olivia is sold on preorder and charged in full at checkout; its product page shows the current price and delivery month.

More Murphy Bed Questions (FAQ)

What is the difference between a Murphy bed and a wall bed?

There is none. Wall bed is simply another name for a Murphy bed, named after William L. Murphy, who patented a folding wall bed in the early 1900s.

How long does a Murphy bed last?

The cabinet and frame last as long as any good furniture. The parts that wear are the lift springs or pistons and the mattress, so check the hardware once a year and replace the pistons if the bed starts to drop or feel heavy.

How much space do you need in front of a Murphy bed?

Roughly the length of the open bed plus room to walk. A queen opens to about 80 to 85 inches from the wall, and the Olivia cabinet bed opens to 83 inches long, so plan on about 7 feet of clear floor.

What to do next

If you are weighing one of these up, the Olivia queen cabinet bed is the freestanding one that needs no wall anchoring, and the murphy bed range covers the wall mounted sizes. We are a Canadian company with showrooms in Kelowna, Calgary and Edmonton, so if you would rather see something before you buy it, find your nearest store.