So you're thinking about getting a queen Murphy bed. Smart move.
A queen Murphy bed is one of the best ways to reclaim space in a bedroom, guest room, or studio apartment. It folds up against the wall when you're not using it, giving you back that floor space you've been missing. And unlike a sofa bed or an air mattress, a wall bed actually sleeps like a real bed. Guests won't complain, and you won't have to sacrifice comfort just to save space.
But before you order one, there are a few things worth thinking through first. Here's what to look at before you buy.
1. Room Size and Wall Space
Start with your measurements. A Murphy bed needs enough wall space and floor clearance to work properly.
As a general rule, plan for:
- 6 to 8 feet of wall space, depending on whether the bed mounts horizontally or vertically
- 7 to 8 feet of floor clearance in front of the bed so it can open fully
- Ceiling height of at least 8 feet, especially for vertical orientations
Don't guess on this. Measure twice before you order anything. A few inches of difference can make or break the whole setup.
2. Vertical vs Horizontal Orientation
This is a bigger decision than most people realize.
A vertical orientation mounts the bed portrait-style, taller than it is wide. It works well in rooms with higher ceilings and limited wall width. If you're tight on horizontal space, a Murphy bed queen vertical setup is usually the better fit. Its space-saving design means the room stays functional even during the day.
A horizontal orientation mounts landscape-style and works better in rooms with more wall width to spare. Think about the layout of your room and which direction makes the most sense before choosing.
3. Mattress Compatibility
Not every mattress works with a Murphy bed. This is one of the most overlooked parts of the buying process.
For a queen Murphy bed, you want:
- Memory foam only - avoid latex, which tends to slump and flop when the bed is stored upright
- No thicker than 10 inches for most standard Murphy bed frames
- As lightweight as possible - a heavy mattress puts extra stress on the lift mechanism
If you're using a spring or innerspring mattress, check with the manufacturer first. Most Murphy beds are not designed specifically for them. Getting the mattress right from the start saves you a lot of hassle later.
4. Build Quality and Materials
Murphy beds are a long-term investment. The materials matter.
Look for:
- Sturdy construction - frames made with quality materials like HPL (high-pressure laminate) hold up better over time than cheaper alternatives
- Smooth operation - the way the bed opens and closes should feel controlled, not jerky
- Built-in storage - side shelves are a huge bonus, especially in smaller rooms
- Wall anchoring - every Murphy bed should be anchored to the wall for safety. This is non-negotiable
Lori Beds builds its Murphy beds with HPL and includes a wall-anchoring system on every unit. No MDF or particle board used. Their queen options come in vertical and horizontal configurations. If you want a setup that's been thought through from frame to mattress, it's worth checking out what they offer.
5. Installation Requirements
Murphy beds aren't usually a solo project. Most require two people to install properly, especially when you're working with a queen-size frame and mounting hardware.
Before you buy, ask yourself:
- Do you have someone to help with installation?
- Is your wall type compatible with the anchoring hardware?
- Do you have the basic tools needed?
If the answer to any of these is unclear, check the brand's installation guides or reach out to their customer support before placing an order. Being prepared ahead of time makes the whole process a lot smoother.
6. Storage and Style
Many frames include shelves on the sides, which is a practical space-saving solution that keeps the room feeling open and organized.
Think about:
- How much storage do you actually need?
- Do you want shelves on both sides or just one?
- Does the finish match your existing furniture?
Murphy beds come in different styles. Pick one that fits the room, not just the space. The right style makes the guest bed feel like it belongs there, not like it was just crammed in.
7. Budget and Long-Term Value
Price matters, but don't let it be the only thing you look at. Before settling, it helps to compare other Murphy beds on the market to understand what features you're actually paying for.
A lower-cost bed option might save you money upfront, but cheaper hardware wears out faster. Think about how often the bed will be used. The more frequently it's used, the more it makes sense to invest in the best Murphy bed you can afford within your budget. A bed that lasts ten years is a better deal than one you replace in three.
Find the Best Murphy Bed
A queen Murphy bed can genuinely change how a room feels and functions. But the right choice comes down to your room's layout, the mattress you pair it with, the build quality of the frame, and how well the installation is planned out.
Do those things, and you'll end up with a bed that works exactly the way it should, for a long time.
