Key Takeaways
- Murphy Beds for Space-Saving: Murphy beds, also known as cabinet beds or wall beds, are an excellent solution for saving space in small city apartments. They feature a wall cabinet that allows the mattress and foundation to be lifted and folded up, often with stylish exterior additions like crown molding or shelves.
- Modern Murphy Beds are Safe: Modern Murphy beds are designed with safety in mind, with features like safety locks and mattress ties to ensure the bed stays securely in place during the night. These safety improvements make Murphy beds a reliable choice for space-saving sleep solutions.
- Measuring for a Murphy Bed: Before choosing a Murphy bed, it’s crucial to measure your room’s dimensions to ensure it fits comfortably. Consider the height, width, depth in closed and open positions, and any additional features like side cabinets.
Murphy bed frames, also called cabinet beds or wall beds, are a great way to save space in a small city apartment. These bed frames feature a wall cabinet that the mattress and its foundation lift and fold up into. The outside of a Murphy bed often features stylish additions such as crown molding or open shelves.
Modern Murphy beds are also much safer than they were 10 to 15 years ago. Many newer models come with safety locks and mattress ties to ensure that the bed stays firmly in place during the night.
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Before deciding if a Murphy is the right bed foundation for you, it is important to compare the dimensions of your sleep space with those of a standard wall bed. Throughout this article, we outline the measurements of both vertical and horizontal Murphy beds.
How to Measure for a Murphy Bed
When measuring a room for a Murphy bed, you should consider the height, width, and depth of the bed when it is in the closed position. You should also look at the projection of the bed when it is open. This is the length from the wall to the edge of the bed frame. Knowing these dimensions will give you a better understanding of how the bed will fit in your space.
The dimensions outlined in this article are for fully assembled Murphy beds. Also, these measurements are for wall beds designed to accommodate standard size mattresses, such as twin, twin XL, full/double, queen, and king size mattresses.
Vertical Murphy Bed Dimensions
Vertical Murphy beds are the most common because they resemble a normal bed frame when in the open position. This model allows you to enter the bed from either side. Vertical Murphy beds work best in spaces with ample ceiling height to accommodate the cabinet.
When considering height it is also important to account for any ceiling fans, a necessity for many who sleep with a fan on at night. When pulling down the bed, be sure you have enough clearance to avoid fans and chandeliers.
The following chart shows the most common dimensions for a standard vertical Murphy bed.
Once you determine the size you want, be sure you have the ceiling height and floor space for the bed to fit comfortably. You will also want to leave 30 to 36 inches of space on each side of the bed. This open space will allow you to move freely around the bed.
| Mattress Size | Height | Width | Depth | Projection |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Twin | 82 - 87 inches | 43 - 46 inches | 18 - 21 inches | 80 - 82 inches |
| Twin XL | 87 - 89 inches | 43 - 46 inches | 18 - 21 inches | 85 - 87 inches |
| Full/Double | 82 - 87 inches | 57 - 61 inches | 18 - 21 inches | 80 - 82 inches |
| Queen | 87 - 89 inches | 64 - 68 inches | 18 - 21 inches | 85 - 87 inches |
| King | 89 - 92 inches | 84 - 86 inches | 18 - 21 inches | 85 - 87 inches |
Horizontal Murphy Bed Dimensions
Horizontal Murphy beds are less common, but they are a great option for a child’s bedroom, guest room, or in a space with low ceilings. These frames are side-mounted, so you can enter the bed only from one side (the side not attached to the wall).
The chart below outlines the typical dimensions for a standard horizontal Murphy bed.
| Mattress Size | Height | Width | Depth | Projection |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Twin | 45 - 48 inches | 80 - 85 inches | 16 - 20 inches | 44 - 46 inches |
| Twin XL | 45 - 48 inches | 85 - 90 inches | 16 - 20 inches | 44 - 46 inches |
| Full/Double | 62 - 64 inches | 80 - 85 inches | 16 - 20 inches | 58 - 60 inches |
| Queen | 68 - 70 inches | 85 - 90 inches | 16 - 20 inches | 65 - 68 inches |
| King | 68 - 70 inches | 85 - 90 inches | 16 - 20 inches | 78 - 80 inches |
Murphy Bed Side Cabinet
Many Murphy beds also come with side cabinets on one or both sides of the bed. Adding cabinets to your vertical or horizontal wall bed is a great way to add shelving for pictures or books. You can also use these cabinets for additional storage space. When measuring for your new Murphy bed, be sure to account for cabinets if this is a feature you want your new frame to have.
Most Murphy bed cabinets have a height that is about half an inch to an inch below the top of the bed (when in the closed position). This applies to both horizontal and vertical models. The depth of the cabinet is typically the same at the bed.
However, the width of the cabinets can vary between 18 and 30 inches. Therefore, it is important that the wall you plan to place your Murphy bed on be long enough to accommodate the width of the bed and the cabinets.
Vertical Side Cabinet Dimensions
| Size | Height | Width | Depth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Twin | 79.25 inches | 18 inches, 24 inches, 30 inches | 16 inches |
| Twin XL | 84.75 inches | 18 inches, 24 inches, 30 inches | 16 inches |
| Full/Double | 79.25 inches | 18 inches, 24 inches, 30 inches | 16 inches |
| Queen | 84.75 inches | 18 inches, 24 inches, 30 inches | 16 inches |
| King | 84.75 inches | 18 inches, 24 inches, 30 inches | 16 inches |
Horizontal Side Cabinet Dimensions
| Size | Height | Width | Depth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Twin | 43 inches | 18 inches, 24 inches, 30 inches | 16 inches |
| Twin XL | 64 inches | 18 inches, 24 inches, 30 inches | 16 inches |
| Full/Double | 58 inches | 18 inches, 24 inches, 30 inches | 16 inches |
| Queen | 64 inches | 18 inches, 24 inches, 30 inches | 16 inches |
| King | 64 inches | 18 inches, 24 inches, 30 inches | 16 inches |
How to Choose a Mattress for Your Murphy Bed
Most Murphy beds are designed for mattresses that measure 12 inches thick. Since most mattresses are between 9 and 12 inches thick, it is not difficult to find a mattress thickness that will fit comfortably inside your wall bed.
Most mattress types, including memory foam, latex foam, hybrid, and innerspring mattresses, can be paired with a Murphy bed. However, slumping can be an issue when using a wall bed. Since the mattress has to sit in an upright position for long periods of time, the pressure can cause bunching on either end of the mattress.
Slumping is common with innerspring and hybrid mattresses because the coil springs tend to weigh more, creating more pressure on one end of the mattress. Therefore, most Murphy bed manufacturers recommend using memory foam or latex foam mattresses. Since foam mattresses are more durable, they won’t bunch as much, even if they are vertical for a long time.
Pair Your New Murphy Bed With an Amerisleep Mattress
Whether for a home office or a vacation rental, Murphy beds are a great addition to your home. To create an inviting sleep environment, we recommend pairing your new Murphy bed with one of our advanced memory foam mattresses.
Our AS2 and AS3 models each have a 12-inch depth, while our AS1 has a 10-inch depth. Either of these options will work well with a wall bed, no matter which style you choose. Read more about the pros and cons of these respective mattress thicknesses in 10 Inch vs 12 Inch Mattresses.
Plus, each Amerisleep mattress comes with a 20-year warranty that covers manufacturing defects, such as sagging or indentations.
We also offer a 100-night risk-free sleep trial that allows you to test out the mattress at home and make sure it offers the support you are looking for.
Bio-Pur®
The top layer of each Amerisleep mattress features our unique plant-based memory foam, Bio-Pur®. During manufacturing, we remove a portion of the petroleum-based oils from the foam and replace them with plant-based oils.
This process allows us to create a material that is non-toxic and eco-friendly. Plus, Bio-Pur® won’t trap heat the way most memory foam varieties do—allowing you to sleep cool and comfortable every night.
HIVE®
Every Amerisleep all-foam mattress, except for our firmest model, the AS1, features our Affinity foam with HIVE® technology. This transition layer has hundreds of hexagonal cutouts across the surface of the foam. These cutouts are designed to respond differently to pressure for more adequate contouring.
Near the hip and shoulder joints, cutouts are further apart, allowing them to compress more easily and prevent painful pressure points from forming near these sensitive areas. Along the back and lumbar region, cutouts are closer together to create a firmer, more stable support system.
Bio-Core® Base
The base of our memory foam mattresses is made with Bio-Core® foam—a sturdy support foam that helps maintain the structure and integrity of bed. This foam base guards against sagging and indentations, so the mattress can support you correctly for many years.
Best Amerisleep Mattresses for Murphy Beds
AS1
The AS1 is our firmest model—perfect for back and stomach sleepers who prefer a mattress with very little give. This bed has a 2-inch Bio-Pur® layer and an 8-inch base of our sturdy support foam, Bio-Core®.
The AS1 has a firm, yet gentle support system. The Bio-Pur® ensures body weight is distributed evenly, so the hips and shoulders experience minimal sinking. This firmness reduces any pressure on the spine, so back sleepers wake up with fewer aches and pains.
AS2
The AS2 has a medium-firm feel that works well for back sleepers who prefer a bit more contouring. The AS2 is 1 inch thicker than our AS1 model. It has a 2-inch Bio-Pur® comfort layer, a 3-inch Affinity foam layer with HIVE® technology, and a 7-inch Bio-Core® base.
This mattress is ideal for those with back pain because it is firm enough to support the lumbar spine and prevent excessive sinking of the hips and shoulders. The slight softness of the AS2 also helps protect sensitive areas, like the hip and shoulder joints. With the joints protected and the spine aligned, the muscles in the back can fully relax and recover.
AS3
The AS3 is our most popular mattress because it has the most universal comfort level. The medium firmness of this bed works well for most body types and sleep positions, including side sleepers, back sleepers, and combination sleepers.
The 3-inch Bio-Pur® comfort layer cradles the body with pressure-free support, no matter which position you rest in. Beneath the comfort layer is 2-inches of our Affinity foam with HIVE® technology that helps keep the heaviest parts of the body lifted and aligned to alleviate any pressure on the spine. The base of the AS3 features 7-inches of our Bio-Core® foam, which provides further protection against uncomfortable sinking and helps to maintain the shape of the mattress.
More Mattress and Bedding Size Guides
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- Mattress Sizes and Dimensions in Canada
- Hospital Bed Mattress Sizes and Dimensions
- Bunk Bed Mattress Size Guide
- Bed Sheet Sizes and Dimensions Guide
- Bed Frame Sizes and Dimensions Guide
- Mattress Protector Sizes and Dimensions Guide
- Adjustable Bed Sizes and Dimensions Guide
- Blanket Sizes and Dimensions Guide
- Bed Pillow Sizes Guide
- Headboard Sizes Chart and Dimensions Guide
- Pillowcase Sizes and Dimensions
- Mattress Foundation Sizes and Dimensions Guide
- Duvet Sizes and Dimensions Guide
- Comforter Sizes and Bedding Chart
Frequently Asked Questions
Are wall beds dangerous?
A high-quality Murphy bed that has been installed and assembled correctly should not be a danger to your or your family. Many models on the market today come with locks that keep the bed secure when in the open position. These locks are often placed at the top of the bed to keep them out of your child’s reach.
Are Murphy beds attached to the wall?
Yes, Murphy beds are attached to the studs in the wall using 3 to 4 brackets. Some wall beds are also floor-mounted, though newer models do not require floor mounting as it can damage carpet and linoleum.
Can I use a memory foam mattress on a Murphy bed?
Yes! Murphy beds work best when paired with a memory and latex foam mattresses. Foam beds are solid and sturdy enough to prevent bunching when in an upright position. Plus, they typically have a 10 to 12-inch depth, which is the best option for a wall bed.
Do campers come with Murphy beds?
Some campers and RVs come with Murphy beds because they help maximize the small interior space. This is a great feature to look for when shopping for a camper because it affords you more living space, while also providing a comfortable bed.
When purchasing the best mattress for your camper’s Murphy bed, be sure to measure the depth. Some camper wall beds may not have the same depth as standard Murphy beds.
Do Murphy beds ruin mattresses?
Some innerspring and hybrid mattresses can become ruined if used with a Murphy bed. This is because they sit in an upright position for long periods of time and bunching can occur at one end of the mattress. However, a high-quality foam mattress should not have this problem.
Conclusion
A Murphy bed is a great way to maximize your space and still get a good night’s sleep. If you and your partner prefer a bigger mattress, but you don’t have adequate floor space for a queen or king bed, a Murphy may be your best option.
The measurements and dimensions outlined above can help you determine if a wall bed is right for you and your space, whether it’s a studio bedroom apartment, a small guest bedroom, or an otherwise tiny bedroom.
About the author
Stacy Liman is a journalism graduate student and a freelance writer with a focus on mindfulness and content marketing. Her passion for understanding and writing about the science of sleep enables her to provide valuable insights into achieving healthier and deeper rest. Stacy's commitment to helping people improve their sleep drives her exploration of new mattresses and sleep-promoting gadgets.
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