Murphy Beds | Everything You Need to Know

A Convenient Tuck-Away Bed

Murphy Beds, also known as wall beds, have been a popular space-saving solution for over a century. Named after William L. Murphy, who patented the first wall bed design in the early 1900s, these beds are designed to be folded up and stored vertically against a wall or inside a cabinet when not in use.

This allows homeowners to maximize their living space, especially in small apartments or studio apartments, by converting a bedroom into a multi-functional room during the day. In recent years, Murphy Beds have seen a surge in popularity due to the rise of tiny homes and micro-apartments, where space-saving solutions are essential.

In this article, we'll dive deeper into the world of Murphy Beds, exploring what they are, how to choose one, the different types, the difference between a Murphy bed and a Wall bed, FAQs and some reviews.

Anything and Everything About Murphy Beds

How to Choose a Murphy Bed

When choosing a Murphy Bed, there are several important factors to consider to ensure you find the right one for your space and needs. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:

Size: Murphy Beds come in various sizes, so it's important to measure your space carefully and choose a bed that fits comfortably. Consider both the dimensions of the bed when it's open and the amount of space it will take up when it's closed.
Style: Murphy Beds come in a range of styles, from traditional to modern. Think about the overall style of your room and choose a bed that complements it.
Functionality: Consider how you plan to use the bed. Do you need additional storage space or shelving? Do you want a bed that folds down vertically or horizontally?
Quality: Murphy Beds are an investment, so it's important to choose a high-quality bed that will last for years to come. Look for sturdy construction and high-quality materials.
Budget: Murphy Beds can range in price, so it's important to set a budget before you start shopping. Keep in mind that a high-quality bed may cost more upfront but will likely save you money in the long run by lasting longer.

By considering these factors, you can choose a Murphy Bed that meets your specific needs and enhances the functionality and style of your space.

The Types of Murphy Beds

Murphy Beds come in a range of styles and configurations to suit different needs and preferences. Here are some of the most common types of Murphy Beds:

Standard: This is the classic Murphy Bed design, where the bed folds vertically against the wall when not in use. It can be mounted to the floor or wall and often comes with a spring or piston system to make it easy to open and close.
Horizontal: This is a variation of the standard Murphy Bed design where the bed folds horizontally, so it's wider than it is tall. This is a great option for rooms with low ceilings or for people who prefer a wider sleeping surface.
Cabinet: This is a Murphy Bed that is built into a cabinet or shelving unit. When the bed is not in use, it can be concealed behind doors or inside the cabinet. This is a great option for people who want to maximize storage space in their room.
Desk: This is a Murphy Bed that is integrated into a desk or work surface. When the bed is not in use, it can be folded up and concealed behind the desk. This is a great option for people who need a workspace and occasional guest sleeping quarters in the same room.
Sofa: This is a Murphy Bed that is integrated into a sofa or couch. When the bed is not in use, it can be folded up and concealed inside the sofa. This is a great option for people who want to maximize space in a small living room or studio apartment.

Murphy Bed vs. Wall Bed

Murphy Bed and Wall Bed are terms that are often used interchangeably to refer to a bed that can be folded up and stored vertically against a wall or inside a cabinet when not in use. However, there is a slight difference between the two.

The Murphy Bed was invented by William L. Murphy in the early 1900s, and the term is often used to refer to any bed that folds up vertically. Murphy Beds are typically spring-loaded and require minimal effort to fold up or down. They are usually mounted on the floor and secured to the wall to ensure stability.

On the other hand, Wall Bed is a broader term that refers to any bed that can be stored vertically against a wall. This includes Murphy Beds but can also include beds that are mounted to the wall instead of the floor. Wall Beds can come in various configurations, including those that fold horizontally, and can be designed to fit into a variety of spaces.

In general, Murphy Beds and Wall Beds are both designed to maximize space in small apartments or multi-functional rooms. They are often used in guest rooms or home offices to create a dual-purpose space. Both types of beds come in various styles and configurations to suit different needs and preferences.

Some FAQs about Murphy Beds

Q: What are the benefits of a Murphy bed?
A Murphy bed can help save space in small apartments or homes, as it can be stored away when not in use, freeing up floor space. It can also be a stylish and practical solution for guest rooms, home offices, or multipurpose rooms. Additionally, modern Murphy beds often come with built-in features such as storage shelves, lighting, and even a desk.

Q: Are Murphy beds comfortable?
Yes, Murphy beds can be just as comfortable as traditional beds. They come in a variety of sizes and styles and can accommodate different types of mattresses, including memory foam, latex, and spring mattresses. Some Murphy bed designs even include a built-in headboard and footboard.

Q: How do you open and close a Murphy bed?
Opening and closing a Murphy bed typically involves pulling it down from the wall or cabinet and using a locking mechanism to secure it in place. Some models may require a bit of strength to lower or raise the bed, while others have hydraulic or pneumatic mechanisms that make the process smoother and easier.

Murphy Bed Reviews

“It's a nice quality piece of furniture. It's heavy, the finish is very nice, and it's very comfortable - no box spring needed, and it uses slats.” Vick K, United States.

“Love this bed and storage unit. I have assembled a lot of furniture over the years so it was so refreshing to have clear, concise instructions, pre-drilled holes that aligned and parts that fit correctly.” E. M. Beardslee, United States.

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Everything To Know About Murphy Beds