Murphy Madness: The Pros and Cons of Investing in a Wall Bed

Are you tired of cluttered living spaces?

Do you want to maximize your limited square footage without sacrificing comfort or style?

If so, a wall bed might be the perfect solution for you.

Also known as Murphy beds, these innovative pieces of furniture fold up against the wall when not in use, freeing up valuable floor space while still providing a comfortable sleep surface.

But before you invest in one, there are some pros and cons to consider.

Read on to learn more about what makes wall beds such an attractive option, as well as their potential drawbacks.

Introduction to Wall Beds

Wall beds have been around since the early 20th century, but they’ve gained renewed popularity in recent years due to rising real estate prices and growing demand for multifunctional furniture.

These beds are typically made from wood or metal and feature a mattress that can be easily lowered and raised using a set of hinges.

When fully extended, a wall bed looks much like any other standard bed frame, complete with a headboard and footboard.

However, when it’s time to tidy up, simply pull down the bedding, flip the mattress over, and push the whole thing back into its compact storage position.

The Pros and Cons of Investing in a Murphy Bed

One of the biggest advantages of owning a wall bed is the extra space it provides.

With a traditional bed taking up most of the room, it can be challenging to fit anything else in the same area.

But by tucking away the bed during the day, you suddenly have plenty of open floor space for activities like yoga, reading, or even working at home.

Additionally, wall beds tend to be more affordable than larger pieces of furniture, making them an accessible option for those on a budget.

They also come in a wide range of styles and sizes, allowing you to customize your purchase based on your specific needs.

However, there are some potential drawbacks to consider as well.

For example, because wall beds are designed to be stored vertically, they may not offer the same level of support as a regular bed frame.

This could lead to discomfort or even chronic pain if not properly addressed. Additionally, wall beds require specialized hardware and installation, which can drive up costs and make repairs difficult.

See also The Comfort and Convenience of Wall Beds: Why You Should Consider a Murphy Bed for Your Home

Finally, depending on how often you plan to use your wall bed, you may need to factor in additional expenses related to maintenance and replacement of the mattress and linens.

What is the Difference Between a Wall Bed and a Murphy Bed

While “wall bed” and “Murphy bed” are often used interchangeably, technically speaking, all Murphy beds are wall beds, but not all wall beds are Murphy beds.

The term “Murphy bed” actually refers specifically to a type of wall bed patented by William L. Murphy in 1916.

Today, however, many different manufacturers produce similar products under various brand names.

So whether you choose a Murphy bed or another type of wall bed ultimately depends on personal preference and factors like price, quality, and design.

Common Questions About Murphy Beds Answered

Here are answers to some common questions people ask about Murphy beds:

How do I know if a wall bed will work in my space?

Measure the available area carefully and compare it to the dimensions of the specific model you’re interested in.

Make sure to account for clearance both above and below the bed, as well as any necessary access points for opening and closing the unit.

It’s always best to consult with a professional installer or designer who has experience working with wall beds.

What kind of mattress should I get for my wall bed?

Most wall beds come with a standard twin or full-size mattress, but you can also find models that accommodate queen or king-size mattresses.

Look for a high-quality mattress that offers good support and comfort, and keep in mind that you may need to replace it more frequently than a regular mattress due to increased usage.

Can I add storage to my wall bed? Yes!

Many wall beds come equipped with built-in shelves, drawers, or cabinets that allow you to store books, clothes, and other items neatly out of sight.

You can also install additional storage units nearby to help maximize your space even further.