The Murphy Bed: Overview & Buying Guide

Are you frustrated with a tight bedroom, and looking to make the most of your limited space?

You aren’t alone. Space-saving furniture is on the rise – here’s why Murphy beds have become a favorite for many people.

The average size of newly built homes in the US dropped to 2,411 square feet in 2023 from 2,537 square feet in 2022. With houses getting smaller and people preferring a minimalist lifestyle, it makes sense why space-saving furniture has been increasingly popular. 

Murphy beds are the perfect example of space-saving furniture. They seamlessly transform from a comfortable bed to a hidden wall unit, instantly freeing up floor space and visual clutter. And when you choose Amish-made Murphy beds, you’re investing in handcrafted quality and timeless design.

Are you wondering if it’s worth the investment? Keep reading, and we’ll tell you exactly why a Murphy bed might be the perfect choice for your home. 

What is a Murphy Bed?

A Murphy bed is a specific type that folds up and disappears into a wall cabinet when not in use. This allows you to maximize space in your home by hiding away your additional bedding. When you need the bed, you only have to lower it from the cabinet.

The bed mechanism typically has hinges and either springs or gas struts, which make it easy to lower and raise the bed. Murphy beds come in all sizes, from twin to king. You can also customize them to fit different spaces and design preferences. 

Murphy beds are not just a stylish solution, but also a practical and efficient one for small apartments, guest rooms, home offices, or any space that could use some extra breathing room. They’re designed to free up a visually cluttered room and make the most of your space, providing a flexible and efficient living space.

Core Components of a Murphy Bed

As great as this space-saving bed sounds, you may be wondering: how exactly does it work? Let’s dive into the inner workings of a Murphy bed.

Cabinet

The cabinet is the stylish shell that houses your Murphy bed when it’s tucked away. The highest-quality Murphy bed cabinets are made from solid hardwood and are available in various styles. From sleek and modern to classic, traditional, and intricate – the list goes on. You can choose any design that complements your existing decor so your Murphy bed can seamlessly blend into your room. 

To maximize their usefulness, some cabinets also have integrated features, like shelves, drawers, or workspaces.

Bed Mechanism

This is where the magic happens. The bed mechanism is what makes a Murphy bed a space-saving investment. It’s the system that allows your bed to rise and fall easily for a quick room transformation.

With springs properly installed into the mechanism, accessing or stowing the bed is a one-handed operation.

You’ll also occasionally see barn-door styles, where the doors roll out of the way before allowing the bed to be lowered. This differs from the more typical style, where the cabinet front swings down with the mattress attached.

Mattress

Choosing the right mattress is the key to maximum comfort and function in a Murphy bed.

Mattress thickness plays a vital role. If the bed is too thick, it might become difficult to raise and lower. If it’s too thin, it may not be comfortable. 

Standard mattress sizes like twin, full, and queen are generally compatible, but double-check the specifications before ordering. Regarding mattress types, you can opt for innerspring, memory foam, and hybrid options. As with any mattress purchase, consider how firm and supportive you prefer. Alternatively, you can breathe new life into an older mattress with an inexpensive memory foam topper.

Does a Murphy Bed Help You Save Space?

Absolutely! Traditional beds, especially larger sizes like queen or king, take up a large portion of a room. Even moderately sized spaces can feel cramped and limited with a bed present, leaving little space for other activities or furniture. 

The entire idea of a Murphy bed is to free up a visually cluttered room and make the most of your room.

These beds allow you to create a flexible and efficient living space, whether in a small apartment, a studio, a dorm, or a spare bedroom. There’s a reason the global Murphy bed market valuation is a whopping $1.5 billion in 2024 – it’s a great way to maximize space.

Should I get an Amish-Made Murphy Bed?

Yes, a Murphy bed could be the answer to your space constraints, but remember, not all Murphy beds are created equal. If you’re looking for furniture that’s built to last and crafted with exceptional care, consider an Amish-made Murphy bed.

While there are some furniture pieces that don’t have to be the very best quality due to infrequent use, a Murphy bed isn’t so forgiving. Trying to save money upfront will only lead to the headache of mechanism failure, poor door alignment, or general breakdown in integrity with any amount of use.

Materials 

Amish craftsmen only use high-quality, sustainably sourced materials. You can expect to find furniture crafted from solid hardwoods like oak, maple, and cherry – all known for their durability and timeless beauty. Many Amish workshops also use eco-friendly finishes and paints free of harmful chemicals, which means your Murphy bed will be beautiful and safe for your home.

Construction

Amish furniture is known for its impressive craftsmanship. Each piece is handcrafted using traditional joinery techniques, which means your Murphy bed will be bed made to last.

The attention to detail in Amish craftsmanship is evident in every joint, every curve, and every finish. This dedication to quality results in reliable furniture that will stand the test of time, ensuring you can enjoy your Murphy bed for decades. With an Amish-made Murphy bed, you’re not just buying a piece of furniture, you’re making a long-term investment in comfort and quality.

Philosophy of the Design

The Amish philosophy focuses on three things: simplicity, functionality, and timeless design. They’re all about creating pieces that are both beautiful and practical. 

Customization

One of the biggest advantages of choosing an Amish-made Murphy bed is the high level of customization available. You can often work directly with the craftsman to personalize your bed, selecting the wood species, finish, and even the hardware. This allows you to develop a truly unique piece that perfectly complements your existing room decor and meets your specific needs. See available wood options here.

Price

It’s important to know that Amish-made furniture typically has a higher price tag. However, this won’t be a short-lived purchase. The price reflects the exceptional quality of materials, craftsmanship, and the time and skill involved in creating each piece. 

Consider it an investment in furniture that will serve you well for many years.

Environmental Impact 

Many Amish workshops follow sustainable practices, sourcing local materials and doing their best to reduce waste. By choosing an Amish-made Murphy bed, you support local artisans and contribute to a much more sustainable furniture industry. What more could one ask for? 

Murphy Bed: Complete Buyer’s Guide

Are you ready to invest in a Murphy bed? Now comes the fun part: picking the perfect one for your space and needs. This buyer’s guide will help you consider your space and lifestyle to find a reputable manufacturer. 

Style

You’ll probably quickly find the style that excites you the most. Just remember, almost anything can be customized exactly how you want it. Don’t settle for less than exactly what will work best for you and your home.

Space Availability

Before shopping, don’t forget to measure the space where you plan to install the Murphy bed. Measure the width, height, and depth of the available wall space. You’ll also need to factor in any existing trim or molding that might affect the installation. 

Lastly, you must measure the ceiling height to make sure you have enough clearance for the bed to operate smoothly.

Lifestyle and Needs

Think about how you’ll use the Murphy bed. Will it be used daily as your primary sleeping space, or will it be primarily for guests?

Next, do you need a lot of storage space? Some Murphy beds come with integrated shelves, drawers, or desks, which can be a nice bonus.

Budget

The price of Murphy beds can vary drastically, depending on certain factors like size, materials, and the complexity of the mechanism. You’ll likely need to do some shopping before you’re able to determine a realistic budget.

Last but not least, don’t be afraid to explore different options within your budget to find the best value for your money! 

Shop Amish-Made Murphy Beds Now and Reclaim Your Space

Murphy beds are a smart and stylish way to maximize space in any home. If you have a small apartment or guest room, these space-saving beds are the perfect way to enjoy some flexibility and functionality without sacrificing comfort. 

Now that you’ve read our guide, you can find the right Murphy bed to transform your living space. You might discover a whole new level of living.