A Murphy bed, also known as a wall bed, is a bed frame that can be folded up and stored against the wall when not in use. This can save you a lot of floor space and make your room more versatile. You can use a Murphy bed in a guest room, an office, a studio apartment, or even your main bedroom.
But how do you choose the right Murphy bed for your needs? There are many factors to consider, such as the size, style, material, mechanism, and features of the bed. Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision.
Size
The first thing you need to measure is the space where you want to install the Murphy bed. You need to know the height, width, and depth of the wall, as well as the clearance space in front of the bed when it is open. Most Murphy beds fold vertically, so you need to make sure you have enough ceiling height and floor length to accommodate the bed. If you have low ceilings or limited space, you may opt for a horizontal-folding Murphy bed instead.
You also need to choose the right mattress size for your Murphy bed. The most common sizes are twin, full, and queen, but some models may also offer king or custom sizes. You should check the weight limit and thickness limit of the Murphy bed frame before buying a mattress. Generally, you want a mattress that is less than 12 inches thick and weighs less than 100 pounds.
Style
The style of the Murphy bed refers to how it looks when it is closed. Some Murphy beds have a simple cabinet or panel design that blends in with the wall. Others have more decorative or functional features that add to the aesthetic of the room. For example, some Murphy beds have shelves, drawers, cabinets, or desks attached to them. These can provide extra storage or work space when the bed is folded up.
You should choose a style that matches your personal taste and your room decor. You can also customize your Murphy bed with different colors, finishes, hardware, and accessories. Some Murphy beds even have lighting or sound systems built into them for added convenience and comfort.
Material
The material of the Murphy bed affects its durability, weight, and appearance. The most common materials used for Murphy beds are wood, metal, or a combination of both. Wood is a natural and warm material that comes in various types and finishes. It can be solid wood or engineered wood such as plywood or particleboard. Solid wood is more durable and sturdy but also heavier and more expensive than engineered wood.
Metal is a sleek and modern material that is usually lighter and cheaper than wood. It can be steel or aluminum and can have different coatings or colors. Metal is more resistant to scratches and dents but may rust or corrode over time.
You should choose a material that suits your budget and preference. You should also consider the quality and warranty of the material and how easy it is to maintain and clean.
Mechanism
The mechanism of the Murphy bed refers to how it operates and how easy it is to fold and unfold. There are two main types of mechanisms: spring-loaded and piston-based. Spring-loaded mechanisms use metal springs to balance the weight of the mattress and make it easier to lift and lower. Piston-based mechanisms use gas or air cylinders to provide smooth and quiet operation.
Both types of mechanisms have their pros and cons. Spring-loaded mechanisms are usually cheaper and simpler but may require more maintenance and adjustment over time. Piston-based mechanisms are usually more expensive and complex but may last longer and offer more safety features.
You should choose a mechanism that fits your budget and preference. You should also check the warranty and customer service of the mechanism and how easy it is to install and repair.
Features
Features are optional extras that can enhance your experience with your Murphy bed. Some features are integrated into the bed frame while others are separate accessories that you can add on later. Here are some examples of features that you may want to look for:
- Mattress straps: These are straps that secure the mattress to the frame when it is folded up. They prevent the mattress from sliding or falling off when you open or close the bed.
- Locking system: This is a system that locks the bed in place when it is closed or open. It prevents accidental opening or closing of the bed and adds safety and stability.
- Ladder: This is a ladder that attaches to the side of the bed when it is open. It helps you access higher beds such as bunk beds or loft beds.
- Headboard: This is a headboard that attaches to the top of the mattress when it is open. It adds comfort and style to your bed.
- Side tables: These are tables that attach to the sides of the bed when it is open. They provide extra surface space for your belongings such as lamps, books, or phones.
You should choose features that suit your needs and preferences. You should also consider the cost and availability of these features and how they affect the overall look and function of your Murphy bed.
Where to Buy
There are many places where you can buy a Murphy bed online or offline. Some examples are:
- Online retailers: These are websites that sell various types of Murphy beds from different brands and manufacturers. They usually offer competitive prices, free shipping, easy returns, customer reviews, and installation services.
- Specialty stores: These are stores that specialize in selling Murphy beds or other space-saving furniture. They usually offer more customization options, expert advice, showroom displays, and delivery services.
- Local dealers: These are local businesses that sell Murphy beds from specific brands or manufacturers. They usually offer more personal service, local support, warranty coverage, and installation services.
You should compare different sources before buying a Murphy bed online or offline. You should also check their reputation, policies, prices, quality, customer service before making a purchase.
