The 7 Burning Questions to Ask Before Buying a Murphy Bed Online
- Beril Yilmaz
- 9 hours ago
- 4 min read
Many Murphy beds are available in the market. However, it can be hard to find one, especially online. Some models may offer the same functionality, but with different materials and price points. Settling on a Murphy bed that you haven’t screened well may cost you more in the future.
Asking questions before clicking the “Buy” button can help you find the perfect wall bed. Below are seven critical questions that will help you get the best Murphy bed worth the price.
1. How Much Room Do I Have?

Before you ask yourself where to buy a Murphy bed, measure the area where you plan to put it. Then answer these questions:
-How much room is available upon folding the bed down?
-Do I have enough wall space for the bed’s frame?
-Will the bed block doors, windows, or storage cabinets when opened?
A Murphy wall bed uses less floor space than a traditional bed. However, you still need to consider clearance. Tight spaces like studio apartments and small guest rooms can benefit from the optimization Murphy wall beds bring.
2. Which Wall Bed Configuration Works Best?
The right one depends on your lifestyle and the room’s dimensions. Consider the following wall bed configurations:
Vertical wall bed: These beds work in rooms with high ceilings and fold down from the top.
Horizontal wall bed: They work best for rooms with low ceilings and narrow spaces, usually opening from the side.
Other Murphy bed types: These can include beds with desks, shelving, and storage units attached.
Not all Murphy beds fit every space. Decide on the bed you’ll get based on the room’s wall space, ceiling height, and size.
3. What Are the Materials Used in the Murphy Bed Frame?
The materials used in the Murphy bed frame usually determine the bed’s look and durability. Ask the manufacturer if they use:
Solid wood: Strong, visually appealing, and long-lasting.
Wood veneer: Lightweight, cheaper, but delivers a polished look.
Metal: Lightweight, durable, but may not match your home’s interiors.
Choose solid wood if you want a bed you can use daily. Wood veneer is the safer and more cost-effective option if you’re using the Murphy bed for a guest room.
4. What Mattress Size and Type Can the Bed Hold?

Murphy beds can fit different mattress sizes. However, there are limits on how much they can hold.
Queen-size mattresses are popular for regular guests or couples. Full-size mattresses are perfect for younger kids in smaller rooms. While most Murphy beds can accommodate standard mattresses, you still need to double-check their thickness limits.
Memory foam mattresses can fit many Murphy wall beds. However, some bed models may need thinner mattresses.
5. Is the Murphy Bed Easy to Install?
Make sure the bed you choose is easy to install, whether it’s a floor mount or wall-mounted design. It should have clear installation instructions and an easy-to-follow video guide. Some brands even offer professional installation to ensure your safety.
Murphy wall beds must be securely attached to the wall or floor to avoid accidents, especially in homes with younger kids or older family members. Hire a professional to install this space-saving furniture if you don’t know how.
6. Does It Offer Storage Features?
As opposed to a traditional wall bed, some Murphy wall beds have built-in storage cabinets or a storage unit to keep your room organized and clutter-free. Ask the manufacturer if the bed has:
Side shelving for books and essential stuff
Overhead compartments for sheets
Drawers for extra clothing and seasonal items
A Murphy wall bed with storage makes all the difference if you live in a studio apartment or a small room.
7. How Often Will I Use It?

If you use the bed every day, a solid wood Murphy bed with a comfortable memory foam or high-quality mattress is your best option. If you only accommodate guests, horizontal wall beds can do the job.
If your guest bedroom also serves as an office, choose Murphy beds that fold into desks or have extra shelving. Get a durable and comfortable Murphy bed over the same model with extra storage for daily sleeping in studio apartments.
The Story Behind Murphy Beds
William Lawrence Murphy invented the Murphy bed in the early 1900s to save space in his small apartment. It evolved into the modern space-saving bed we know today. These sleek vertical wall beds and practical horizontal wall beds blend seamlessly into the wall when not in use.
You can buy these beds online in different styles and finishes to choose the best bed for your room.
Final Thoughts
Buying a Murphy bed is a smart investment, whether you’re optimizing a studio apartment or just want to save space without compromising comfort. Asking questions about its size, materials, and configuration makes sure the bed meets your practical and aesthetic needs.
The right Murphy bed choice will serve you with its stylish visuals and functional appeal for many years.