The Ultimate Murphy Bed Size Guide: How to Choose the Perfect Fit for Your Space

black sheet folded out murphy bed with wooden shelves next to it

Deciding on the ideal Murphy bed size to suit your space can be intimidating. With so many sizes, styles, and types of Murphy beds on the market, it can be challenging to determine the best fit for your home. Before deciding whether a Murphy bed is right for you, compare the dimensions of your sleeping space to those of a standard wall bed. This guide will give you all the information you need to decide on the perfect Murphy bed size for your space. We’ll discuss sizing, materials, and design elements to help you make the perfect choice for your home.

Murphy beds, also known as cabinet beds or wall beds, are an excellent way to conserve space in a small city apartment. These bed frames have a wall cabinet into which the mattress and foundation lift and fold. Crown molding or open shelves are common additions to the exterior of a Murphy bed.

Murphy beds are much safer today than they were 10 to 15 years ago. Many newer models include safety locks and mattress ties to ensure that the bed remains securely in place throughout the night.

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Best Modern Murphy Bed Ideas

What is a Murphy Bed?

Built in murphy bed closet and shelves folded out bed
What is murphy bed

A Murphy bed is a piece of furniture that can be folded up against the wall to free up floor space. It can be easily opened and closed with the mattress and bedding already in place. Murphy beds have been around since the early 1900s, and they come in various sizes and styles to suit any space. The most popular type of Murphy bed is the fold-up Murphy bed, which is designed to be stored in a closet or corner of the room. Many people install a Murphy bed in their homes, providing more space for other activities and furniture.

Advantages of a Murphy Bed

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What are the advantages
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Murphy beds are an excellent choice for homeowners looking to maximize the space in their homes. They are great for small apartments, guest rooms, or any other space where floor space is limited. A Murphy bed creates a comfortable sleeping area without taking up much room. Murphy beds are also easy to use and can be installed quickly and easily. They are also relatively inexpensive, making them an affordable option for homeowners on a budget.

How to Choose the Right Size for Your Space

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Choosing the right size murphy bed

When choosing a Murphy bed, it is important to consider the available space in your room. If you have a small room, you may want to opt for a twin-size bed or a full-size bed. If you have a larger room, a queen-size bed or a king-size bed may be a better option. It is also important to consider the height of the bed and the height of the ceiling. If the bed is too tall for the ceiling, it may not be able to fold up properly.

How to Turn a Regular Bed into a Murphy Bed

Black wooden cabinet and shelves with murphy bed folded out
Murphy beds are useful

If you already have a regular bed in your home, you don’t have to buy a new one to enjoy the benefits of a Murphy bed. Instead, you can turn your regular bed into a Murphy bed with the help of a Murphy bed kit. These kits are widely available online and in stores, and they typically include all the tools and instructions you need to transform your bed into a Murphy bed.

How to Measure for a Murphy Bed?

When measuring a room for a Murphy bed, consider the bed’s height, width, and depth when closed. You should also consider the bed’s projection when it is open. This is the distance between the wall and the edge of the bed frame. Knowing these measurements will help you understand how the bed will fit in your space.

This article’s dimensions are for fully assembled Murphy beds. Furthermore, these dimensions are for wall beds designed to accommodate standard-size mattresses, such as twin, twin XL, full/double, queen, and king-size mattresses.

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Factors to Consider When Selecting the Right Murphy Bed Size

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Choosing right size for your murphy bed
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It is essential to carefully consider what murphy bed size will be most suitable for your needs. Consider the size of the space you have available – this should be considered for both when the murphy bed is in an open position and in a closed position. Additionally, consider how many people will use it and if extra storage space or workspace is needed around the bed when it’s pulled up or put away. Taking these factors into account can help you make sure that your murphy bed size selection will be both convenient and comfortable.

Vertical Murphy Bed Sizes

Double murphy bed folded in to its wooden closet with shelves
Vertical murphy beds

Vertical Murphy beds are the most common because, when open, they resemble a standard bed frame. You can enter the bed from either side with this model. Vertical Murphy beds work best in rooms with high enough ceilings to accommodate the cabinet. It is also necessary to account for any ceiling fans when calculating height. When lowering the bed, ensure there is enough clearance to avoid fans and chandeliers.

The most common dimensions for a standard vertical Murphy bed are a height of 82-87 inches, a width of 43-46 inches, a depth of 18-21 inches, and a projection of 80-82 inches

Once you’ve decided on a size, make sure you have enough ceiling height and floor space for the bed to fit comfortably. You should also leave 30 to 36 inches on each side of the bed. This open space will allow you to move around the bed freely.

Horizontal Murphy Bed Sizes

Horizontal Murphy beds are less common, but they are an excellent choice for a child’s bedroom, a guest room, or a room with low ceilings. Because these frames are side-mounted, you can only enter the bed from one side (the side not attached to the wall). Horizontal Murphy beds typically require heights between 62 and 64 inches, widths between 80 and 85 inches, and projection lengths between 58 and 60 inches

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Murphy Bed Size Options for Small Spaces

The most common Murphy bed size is the twin, which is perfect for small bedrooms. Twin beds are also great for kids’ rooms and guest bedrooms since they take up less space than a full or queen-size bed. If you need a bit of space, a full-size Murphy bed might be the right choice for you. Full-size beds are slightly larger than twin beds, but they save much space compared to standard beds. If you need even more space, you can go with a queen-size Murphy bed. Queen-size beds provide ample space for couples or those who need a little more room to stretch out.

Murphy Bed Size Options for Large Spaces

Murphy bed folded out from dark wooden closet and shelves
Size options for murphy beds

Queen-size Murphy beds are an excellent choice for spaces with more room. They offer plenty of sleeping space without taking up too much visual real estate. They also come with various features, including storage drawers and cabinets, making them even more functional.

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If you’re looking for a Murphy bed that will fit a larger room, you can also consider a king-size option. King-size Murphy beds offer plenty of sleeping space, but they don’t take up as much space as a regular king-size bed, making them a great option for larger rooms.

Tips for Selecting the Right Murphy Bed Size

There are various factors to consider when selecting the appropriate size for your needs. The first thing to consider is the amount of space available in the room. Twin size is likely the best option for maximizing space if the space is limited. A full or queen-size bed may be a better choice if there is more room to work with.

The next factor to consider is who will be using the bed. If only one person sleeps in the bed, a twin or full size may be the best option. However, if two people use the bed, a queen size may be the best choice to ensure everyone is comfortable. Additionally, if the people using the bed are larger in stature, a king size may be the most suitable choice regardless of the space available.

The type of bed frame you choose can also influence the size of the mattress. Some bed frames may require a specific size, so choosing a mattress size compatible with the frame is essential. If the mattress and bed frame sizes don’t match, they may not fit together correctly.

Finally, you may want to consider the room’s décor when selecting a Murphy bed size. A twin-size bed is an excellent option for a child’s bedroom or a guest room due to its small footprint, while a full or queen-size bed may be better suited for a master bedroom. It is important to ensure that the bed size fits in with the style and design of the room.

Murphy Bed Sizes Side Cabinet

Folded out murphy bed with cabinets on both sides
Side cabinets for more storage

Many Murphy beds include side cabinets on one or both sides of the bed. Adding cabinets to your vertical or horizontal wall bed is an excellent way to add shelving for photos or books. These cabinets can also be used as extra storage space. Remember to account for cabinets when measuring for your new Murphy bed if this is a feature you want your new frame to have.

Most Murphy bed cabinets are half an inch to an inch lower than the top of the bed (when in the closed position). This is true for horizontal as well as vertical models. The depth of the cabinet is usually the same as the depth of the bed.

The width of the cabinets, on the other hand, can range between 18 and 30 inches. As a result, the wall on which you intend to mount your Murphy bed must be long enough to accommodate the width of the bed and the cabinets.

How to Choose a Mattress for Your Murphy Bed

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Most Murphy beds are designed to accommodate mattresses up to 12 inches thick. Because most mattresses are between 9 and 12 inches thick, you should have no trouble finding one that will fit comfortably inside your wall bed.

A Murphy bed can be used with most mattress types, including memory foam, latex foam, hybrid, and innerspring mattresses. When using a wall bed, however, slumping can be an issue. Because the mattress must sit upright for long periods of time, pressure can cause bunching on either end of the mattress.

Slumping is common with innerspring and hybrid mattresses because the coil springs are heavier and put more pressure on one end of the mattress. As a result, most Murphy bed manufacturers recommend using mattresses made of memory foam or latex foam. Because foam mattresses are more durable, they will not bunch as much, even if they are vertical, for an extended period of time.

Conclusion

A Murphy bed is a great way to save space while still getting a good night’s sleep. If you and your partner prefer a larger mattress but don’t have enough floor space for a queen or king bed, a Murphy bed may be the best option for you. The measurements and dimensions outlined above can assist you in determining whether a wall bed is appropriate for you and your space.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are wall beds dangerous?

A high-quality Murphy bed that has been properly installed and assembled should not pose a risk to you or your family. Many models on the market today include locks that keep the bed secure when it is open. These locks are frequently placed at the top of the bed to keep them out of reach of your child.

Are Murphy beds attached to the wall?

Yes, Murphy beds are attached to the wall studs with 3 to 4 brackets. Some wall beds are also floor-mounted, though newer models do not require floor mounting due to carpet and linoleum damage.

Can I use a memory foam mattress on a Murphy bed?

Yes! Murphy beds perform best when used in conjunction with memory and latex foam mattresses. When upright, foam beds are solid and sturdy enough to prevent bunching. Furthermore, they typically have a 10 to 12-inch depth, which is ideal for a wall bed.

Do campers come with Murphy beds?

Murphy beds are included in some campers and RVs to help maximize the small interior space. This is an excellent feature to look for when purchasing a camper because it provides more living space while also providing a comfortable bed. When looking for the best mattress for your camper’s Murphy bed, make sure to take depth into consideration. Some camper wall beds may be shallower than standard Murphy beds.

Do Murphy beds ruin mattresses?

When used with a Murphy bed, some innerspring and hybrid mattresses can become ruined. This is due to the fact that they sit in an upright position for long periods of time, causing bunching at one end of the mattress. A high-quality foam mattress, on the other hand, should not have this issue.

Can a Murphy bed fit in a closet?

What’s the best place for Murphy beds? The answer might be in your closet! Putting one of these sleepers up against a wall or out on display can give you extra room to store clothing while hiding that pesky bed when not being used.

How wide is a full Murphy bed?

For a horizontal full-size Murphy bed, the typical height is between 62 and 64 inches with an 80 to 85-inch width. The depth ranges from 16-20 inches for your room flexibility regarding decorating or storage needs!

Are all Murphy beds the same size?

The most popular type of Murphy bed is the vertical one. It’s usually thicker than horizontal ones, and side cabinets can be added for more space to sleep on top as well!

What is the standard size of a Murphy bed?

The ideal size for a Murphy bed is usually between 62 and 64 inches in height and 57 to 61 inches in width.

How much room is needed for a Murphy bed?

When installing a Murphy bed, you must leave at least 1-3 feet of space between it and the wall and 8-11 inches from the floor. Once opened, 6-8 feet should also be reserved for its length for a mattress to fit comfortably.

How deep is a Murphy bed?

A standard murphy bed has a depth of 16″, but if you want more space, 20″ and 23″ alternatives are available.

How deep is a Murphy bed frame?

The depth of a Murphy bed frame typically ranges from 16 to 24 inches when closed, depending on the model and design. This measurement includes the cabinet or wall unit that houses the bed when it’s folded up. When opened, the bed will extend into the room by its full length, usually around 80-90 inches for a queen-sized bed.

Can Murphy beds be king size?

Yes, Murphy beds can be designed in king size, although they are less common than twin, full, or queen-sized options due to the larger space requirements. A king-size Murphy bed will need a more substantial wall or cabinet space to accommodate the larger mattress and frame.

What size mattress can you use in a Murphy bed?

Murphy beds can accommodate various mattress sizes, including twin, full, queen, and king. The specific mattress size will depend on the design and dimensions of the bed frame and cabinet. Most Murphy beds can hold mattresses up to 10-12 inches thick, but it’s essential to check the manufacturer’s recommendations for your specific bed model.

Are Murphy beds comfy?

Murphy beds can be quite comfortable since they use standard mattresses similar to those found on traditional beds. The comfort level will largely depend on the quality and type of mattress used, as well as individual preferences. Ensure that the mattress meets the recommended thickness and weight specifications for your particular Murphy bed frame.

How deep is a full-size Murphy bed?

A full-size Murphy bed typically has a depth of 16-24 inches when folded up, similar to other Murphy bed sizes. This measurement includes the cabinet or wall unit that houses the bed when not in use. When opened, the bed will extend into the room by its full length, usually around 75-85 inches.

Will a 13-inch mattress fit in a Murphy bed?

Most Murphy beds are designed to accommodate mattresses up to 10-12 inches thick. A 13-inch mattress may fit, but it’s essential to check with the manufacturer or consult the bed’s specifications to ensure compatibility. Using a mattress that is too thick for the frame could result in improper folding, damage to the bed mechanism, or safety issues.

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

There is no significant difference between a Murphy bed and a wall bed, as both terms refer to the same type of space-saving furniture. The name “Murphy bed” originates from its inventor, William L. Murphy, while “wall bed” is a more generic term used to describe a bed that folds up against a wall or into a cabinet when not in use. Both designs aim to maximize floor space in small rooms or multi-functional areas.

What size is a standard Murphy bed?

A standard Murphy bed comes in various sizes, similar to traditional beds. These include Twin, Full or Double, and Queen sizes. The dimensions can vary slightly depending on the manufacturer, but typically, a Queen-sized Murphy bed measures around 68 to 70 inches in width and 85 to 90 inches in height.

How long is a full size Murphy bed?

A full-size Murphy bed, also known as a double bed, generally measures between 80 to 85 inches in length. The width can range from 62 to 64 inches. This size comfortably accommodates two people and is a popular choice for guest rooms or small apartments.

What size is a horizontal Murphy bed?

The size of a horizontal Murphy bed depends on the mattress size it’s designed to accommodate. For instance, a horizontal Twin or Twin XL Murphy bed typically requires heights between 45 and 48 inches, widths between 80 and 85 inches. A horizontal Full or Double Murphy bed usually measures around 62 to 64 inches in width and 80 to 85 inches in length.

What size sheets fit a Murphy bed?

The size of the sheets required for a Murphy bed will depend on the size of the bed itself. For example, for a Queen size Murphy bed, you would use standard Queen size sheets. Similarly, for a Full or Double size Murphy bed, you would use Full or Double size sheets. It’s always recommended to check the specific measurements of your Murphy bed before purchasing sheets to ensure a proper fit.

Author
Jessica holden

Experienced Executive Assistant with a demonstrated history of working within the furniture industry. Skilled in furniture styling, visual communication, project management, and proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite. Strong arts and design professional with a (BA) Creative Direction for furniture design focused on Industrial Design from School of the Art Institute of Chicago.