What is a Murphy Bed and How to Choose the Right One for You!

Last updated September 2026 by the Forward Furniture team

What is a Murphy Bed and How to Choose the Right One for You!

Introduction

Murphy beds, also known as wall beds, are a popular space-saving solution that allows you to maximize the functionality of your living area. In this blog, we will explore what Murphy beds are, their benefits, and how to choose the perfect one for your needs.

Understanding Murphy Beds

What is a Murphy Bed?

A Murphy bed is a type of bed that mounts to the wall and features a folding mechanism to raise and lower the mattress as needed. When not in use, the bed may appear to look like a cabinet, shelving unit, or built-in storage space. A Murphy bed is an excellent option for small spaces, guest rooms, home offices, or studio apartments where floor space is limited.

Types of Murphy Beds: Cabinet, Horizontal, and Wall Beds

Cabinet-Style Murphy Beds

A cabinet bed is a freestanding cabinet that houses a foldable bed inside, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer not to have a wall-mounted Murphy bed. A Cabinet bed is easy to move and often features additional storage space for added functionality.

Horizontal Murphy Beds

Horizontal wall beds are designed to fold horizontally, which can save vertical space and provide a more streamlined appearance. These beds are an excellent option for rooms with low ceilings or limited wall space.

Vertical Murphy Beds

Vertical Murphy beds fold vertically, saving floor space while still offering a comfortable sleeping area. This type of Murphy bed is more common and works well in most living spaces.

Types of Murphy Beds Compared

Anchoring notes are from each product page: the Heidi twin needs no wall anchoring, the double and queen attach to the wall.

How to Choose the Right Murphy Bed for Your Needs

Assess Your Room Layout

Before choosing a Murphy bed, measure the dimensions of your space, considering both the wall space and the room's depth when the bed is fully extended. This will help you determine whether you need a vertical or horizontal folding Murphy bed and the appropriate size for your room.

Consider the Material

Murphy beds can be made of various materials, including solid wood, manufactured wood, or particleboard, and metal. Each material has its pros and cons regarding durability, weight, and cost, so consider which option best suits your needs and preferences.

Examine the Opening Mechanism

The lifting mechanism of a Murphy bed is crucial for ease of use and safety. Common options include spring, piston (hinge), or manual mechanisms. Evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of each type to determine the best option for your situation.

Look for Integrated Features

Some Murphy beds come with integrated features like storage, built-in desks, or LED lighting, which can enhance the functionality and aesthetic of your space. Consider your specific needs and preferences when deciding on the right features for you.

Choose the Style

Two common styles of Murphy beds are wall beds and cabinet beds. Wall beds are usually integrated into a fixture that spans the majority or entire span of the wall, while cabinet beds are freestanding cabinets that fold the bed inside. Determine which style best suits your space and requirements. If the names blur together, here is what separates a wall bed, a Murphy bed and a cabinet bed.

If you rent or simply do not want to drill into your walls, a freestanding cabinet bed gives you the same fold-away convenience with no installation at all.

Factor in the Cost

The cost of a Murphy bed can vary based on its size, materials, opening mechanism, and additional features. Set a budget and consider which factors are most important to you when making your decision.

Tips for Choosing the Perfect Murphy Bed

Frequency of Use

Consider how often the Murphy bed will be used and whether it will serve as a primary sleeping space or an occasional guest bed. If it is only for the occasional visitor, one of these Murphy bed alternatives may suit the room better.

Additional Storage or Functional Uses

If you require additional storage or multi-functionality, look for Murphy beds with built-in storage, convertible features like a desk or workspace, or even integrated shelving units. Murphy beds are perfect if you have limited square footage or not enough space in your home. Having a hideaway bed is perfect for any sleeping quarters.

Customization Options

Many Murphy bed manufacturers offer customization options, such as different finishes, hardware choices, and added features. Consider these options if you want a bed that matches your interior design and personal preferences.

Safety Considerations for Murphy Beds

Are Wall Beds Dangerous?

While some people might have concerns about the safety of Murphy beds, high-quality Murphy beds are designed with safety features to prevent accidents. Proper installation, maintenance, and use of the bed are essential to ensure it remains safe and functional. Additionally, installing a Murphy bed in a guest room or studio apartment can provide a comfortable sleeping area without compromising safety.

Securing Your Murphy Bed

To ensure the bed is securely stored when not in use, choose a Murphy bed with a reliable locking mechanism and strong wall studs. This can prevent the bed from accidentally folding down, protecting both your home and your occasional guests.

Murphy Bed Materials and Styles

Solid Wood Veneers and Particle Board

Many Murphy beds use solid wood veneer or particle board for their construction. These materials offer a balance between durability, weight, and cost. Medium-density fiberboard (MDF) is another option, providing a more affordable alternative to solid wood.

Modern Murphy Beds and Various Styles

Modern Murphy beds come in various styles, such as horizontal folding Murphy beds, vertical wall beds, metal Murphy beds, and even hideaway beds. Some models feature a bed frame that is hidden within a shelving unit or a wood cabinet, while others may have a more minimalist design.

Murphy Bed Cabinets and Other Options

Murphy bed cabinets, also known as cabinet beds, are an excellent option for those who prefer a freestanding, versatile solution. They often come with built-in storage, such as drawers or shelves, which can be useful for guests or in a master bedroom.

Bedding and Mattress Options

Memory Foam and Box Springs

Memory foam mattresses are a popular choice for Murphy beds, as they offer both comfort and support. Box springs are generally not necessary for Murphy beds, as the bed frame provides adequate support for the mattress. A high quality Murphy bed doesn't require use of box spring and most take an 8 to 10 inch memory foam mattress.

Choosing the Right Size

Murphy beds come in various sizes, including queen size beds, which are ideal for accommodating sleeping visitors or for use in a guest bedroom. Make sure to select a bed that fits how much space you have and provides enough sleeping area for your needs.

Understanding Murphy Bed Mechanisms

Piston-Equipped Beds

Many Murphy beds use piston-equipped mechanisms to assist with the folding process. These pistons use air pressure to provide a smooth and controlled motion when raising or lowering the bed. They are typically low-maintenance and can support a wide range of mattress weights. A vertical bed is great to keep your bed securely stored.

Maximum Weight Limits and Bed Durability

When selecting a Murphy bed, it is essential to consider the maximum weight limit it can support. This limit often depends on the bed's construction and materials, such as solid hardwood, which offers more durability and support compared to other options.

By understanding the different types of lower maximum weight limit Murphy beds, their mechanisms, and materials, you can make an informed decision on the perfect bed for your needs. These versatile and space-saving beds can enhance the functionality and comfort of any living space.

Where to Shop for a Murphy Bed

You can shop for a Murphy bed both in-store and online. In-store shopping allows you to inspect the bed's finish, exterior surface, and function before purchasing, while online shopping offers a wider variety of styles, finishes, and prices.

Remember to read customer reviews and check for warranty information when shopping online to ensure you are purchasing a high-quality new Murphy bed that meets your needs.

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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. It comes in queen and double. 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 →

Murphy Beds and Cabinet Beds We Sell, With Live Prices

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.

Conclusion

Choosing the right Murphy bed or wall bed for your living space requires careful consideration of factors such as room layout, materials, opening mechanism, style, and cost. By following the guidelines and tips outlined in this blog, you'll be well-equipped to select the perfect Murphy bed that not only saves space but also provides comfort and functionality for your home.

Murphy Bed Types FAQ

What are the different types of Murphy beds?

Vertical Murphy beds fold up head first and are the most common. Horizontal Murphy beds fold sideways, so they suit low ceilings and spots under a window. Cabinet beds fold a mattress into a freestanding cabinet with no wall mounting.

Is a cabinet bed a type of Murphy bed?

Loosely, yes. It hides a real bed the same way, but it stands on the floor like a dresser instead of attaching to the wall, so it works in rentals and moves with you.

Do Murphy beds need a special mattress?

Most take a standard memory foam mattress up to about 8 to 10 inches thick; check the limit on the product page. Our guide on whether Murphy beds need a special mattress has the details.

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.