A guest bedroom is a wonderful space to have, especially if you love hosting, but dedicating an entire room to a bed that only gets used a handful of times a year isn't always the best use of square footage. A Murphy bed offers a clever alternative. Originally touted as "The Disappearing Bed" in the early 20th century, the foldaway design eventually took on the name of its inventor, William Lawrence Murphy. More than a century later, it's still helping homeowners turn home offices, playrooms, and other hardworking spaces into comfortable guest rooms at a moment's notice.

And while the appeal of a Murphy bed is largely practical, there's room to get creative. Some designs come with built-in storage or shelving, while others offer a blank canvas for paint, trim, or custom cabinetry. Daniella Hoffer, AD PRO Directory designer and owner of Daniella Hoffer Interiors, prefers a custom approach but says even a Murphy bed purchased online can be elevated with thoughtful details. “Creating millwork on the wall or making it look like cabinetry—similar to how we approach pantry doors in the kitchen today—is a beautiful way to incorporate a Murphy bed into the space, and frankly, hide it,” she says. “Or even putting a piece of artwork that you can remove easily before pulling down the bed.”

Ahead, find the Murphy beds that prove a little less furniture on the floor can open up a lot more styling possibilities in any given space.

Our Top Picks:

Please note that prices reflect queen-size beds. However, most of the featured frames are available in additional sizes and finishes.

Murphy bed frame with bookshelves on both sides.

Oakland Living Easy-Lift Full Murphy Bed

  • Dimensions: 85” H x 99” W x 78" D unfolded
  • Mattress included? No
  • Frame material: MDF
  • Weight capacity: 1,000 pounds
  • Warranty: Manufacturer’s warranty can be requested

Boasting a sleek design and dual bookcase towers, this Murphy bed gives the appearance of custom-built-ins when unfolded. It can easily replace your primary bedroom furniture thanks to the clean lines and ample storage. Although it does require baseboard removal, sturdy wall-mounting hardware adds extra security to the build (a must if you have little ones or pets running around). The dual-piston lift mechanism allows for easy lifting and lowering by any family member. And unlike most Murphy beds, you have the option to choose between a twin, full, queen, or even a king-sized base size.

Partially pulled down murphy bed with desk.

  • Dimensions: 84” H x 66” W x 86” D unfolded, 16” D folded
  • Mattress included? Optional add-on
  • Frame material: Cabinet-grade plywood
  • Weight capacity: Unknown
  • Warranty: Manufacturer’s warranty can be requested

Lori Beds offers the best Murphy bed customization on the market. Whether you’re looking for a vertical pull-down or horizontal fold-out, a desk or shelving, or a manual lift instead of an assisted mechanism, you can mix and match to create the bed that best suits your space. Ideal for an elevated work-from-home setup, the desk upgrade adds a 16-inch-deep desk surface that spans the entire width of the bed (whether vertically or horizontally oriented). Seven finishes allow you to complement your existing design rather than create an unintentional focal point. And if you’re in need of a mattress that will actually fit your bed, Lori offers two add-ons: their signature mattress or an organic option that utilizes recycled coils and New Zealand wool. If you opt for a manual lift, there’s a lighter-weight version of the Lori mattress that doesn’t put too much strain on the base or your upper body. Careful craftsmanship is at the heart of their designs, using cabinet-grade plywood for durability.

Shelf, Plywood, Wood, Furniture, and Table

Mjkone Murphy Bed with Storage Shelf

  • Dimensions: 83” H x 63” W x 83" D unfolded, 14" D folded
  • Mattress included? No
  • Frame material: Engineered wood
  • Weight capacity: 1,000 pounds
  • Warranty: Manufacturer’s warranty can be requested

While many Murphy beds feature shelving or cabinetry on either side, this budget-friendly option makes smart use of the bed's underside, turning it into open shelving when folded away. The light wood finish is a nice touch for warm, Scandi-inspired interiors. The staggered compartments offer plenty of room to display books, plants, and larger pieces of artwork. The only catch? You'll need to clear the shelves before pulling the bed down, but it's a small trade-off for storage you would otherwise have to find elsewhere. Available in both vertical and horizontal configurations, both versions accommodate a queen-size mattress, so you can choose the layout that works best for your space.

Most Ornate: Keiki Murphy Bed Cabinet

Unfolded murphy bed.

  • Dimensions: 41” H x 62” W x 81” D unfolded, 24” D folded
  • Mattress included? No
  • Frame material: Solid pine and wood veneer
  • Weight capacity: 500 pounds
  • Warranty: Manufacturer’s warranty can be requested

This is actually a cabinet bed—a close neighbor to a Murphy bed but distinct in that it looks more like a bohemian credenza or sideboard than an occasional sleeping place for visitors. This is all thanks to the woven cane accents on the “doors.” Until it unfurls, dinner guests may never know it’s containing a mattress and not your collection of dinnerware. Unfolding to create a queen-sized bed, this piece also features two storage drawers (that further support the slatted base) and charging ports on both sides.

Drawer, Furniture, and Cabinet

Ebern Designs Athena Murphy Bed Chest

  • Dimensions: 41.75” H x 50.39” W x 80.59" D unfolded, 22.44" D folded
  • Mattress included? Yes
  • Frame material: Solid and manufactured wood
  • Weight capacity: 800 pounds
  • Warranty: One-year limited warranty

With its understated arched detailing and range of finishes, like walnut and light toffee, this Murphy bed could easily pass as a traditional sideboard. A roomy bottom drawer tucks away spare pillows and bedding, and the included six-inch folding queen mattress means one less purchase to worry about. Reviewers do note that the mattress feels pretty soft, so it’s likely most ideal for side sleepers or anyone who likes a cushy bed to sink into every night. Built-in charging ports mean your guests won't have to hunt for an outlet in the wee hours.

Furniture, Bed, Plant, Home Decor, Bedroom, Indoors, and Room

BEQAI Murphy Bed with Storage Cabinet

  • Dimensions: 87.6” H x 94.9” W x 85.8" D unfolded, 15.7" D folded
  • Mattress included? No
  • Frame material: Wood (type unspecified)
  • Weight capacity: 900 pounds
  • Warranty: One-year limited warranty

A rustic wood finish gives this Murphy bed the character of farmhouse cabinetry, making it a natural fit for a cozy guest room or country-inspired home. If you’re a minimalist at heart, the white finish is just as good. Unlike fixed shelving, the adjustable shelves let you play with different heights and arrangements as your needs change. It's an easy way to get the look of built-in cabinetry without commissioning custom millwork.

A wooden murphy bed unfolded from its shelf

Murphy Bed by Hans J. Wegner for Ry Mobler

  • Dimensions: Closed: 80” H x 39” W x 14” D
  • Mattress included? Not listed
  • Frame material: Oak
  • Weight capacity: Not listed
  • Warranty: N/A

Bring home a piece of history with this vintage Murphy bed, designed by renowned Danish furniture designer Hans J. Wegner for Ry Mobler. Dating back to the 1960s, the bed features charming warm oak and caning on the front. Sold by the Hamptons’ premier furniture specialists at Wyeth, there is only one in stock, so you’ll need to act fast.

How We Chose the Best Murphy Beds

For a comprehensive understanding of Murphy beds, we turned to designers Ania Agárdy, Daniella Hoffer, and Sarah Storms for their shopping tips and specific product recommendations. From there, we explored best-selling, top-reviewed products on the market today and analyzed a number of accounts from real customers. We prioritized the functionality and style of each piece, and took note of special features that could appeal to homeowners.

FAQs

What to Look for in a Murphy Bed

Here are the key components to assess while you’re shopping for a Murphy bed, per our research and feedback from Agárdy, Hoffer, and Storms.

  • Function: Think about the space and your expectations. Who will use this room, and is there an alternative purpose for it? “I have been using them frequently in empty-nester households where the children’s rooms have been redesigned to serve as multi-purpose spaces like a guest room/office or guest room/gym, or both,” Agárdy says. Hoffer also sees Murphy beds in secondary homes, such as a summer house.
  • Style: Evaluate your home and the overall design elements you’ll need to coordinate with prior to purchasing your Murphy bed. Fortunately, there are plenty of styles to choose from, so you’ll find one for a midcentury modern guest room, bright and eccentric children’s room, and so on. “I always look for ones that can be customized to blend with the overall look of the room,” Agárdy adds.
  • Size: While Murphy beds are space-saving by nature, sizes can range depending on the functionalities. For instance, a Murphy bed with a cabinet or desk attached will take up significantly more room (closed or open) than a classic Murphy bed without those bonus bells and whistles. You’ll also need to factor in the size of the mattress you’d like, since there are Murphy beds that can accommodate twins to kings. Make sure to measure your space prior to checkout.
  • Installation: The customer reviews don’t lie—even the best Murphy beds are a pain to install, and some even require a specific type of wall for proper mounting. It’s technically one piece of furniture, but it comes with lots of parts and most manufacturers (and our design experts) recommend a professional installer. If you feel up to the DIY challenge and the manufacturer gives you the okay, follow the instructions and exercise as much patience as possible. Otherwise, enlist a pro to help you out. Because of the installation requirements, this is not considered a renter-friendly solution.

What’s the Best Type of Mattress for a Murphy Bed?

“There isn’t any reason to sacrifice quality sleep and wall beds can be just as comfortable as a traditional frame, as long as the platform and mattress are solid and supportive,” Storms says.

Storms says any high-quality mattress will do, and Agárdy often suggests hybrid mattresses for support and comfort.

“Getting the right size can be tricky. Choose one on the thinner side (10 inches or less) to ensure it fits when folded,” she says. “I normally go with the Murphy bed manufacturer’s recommendation to ensure the fit is just right. They are all different, so the standards do vary according to the model.”

Are Murphy Beds Really Worth It?

Perhaps the most overwhelming concern is whether Murphy beds are safe. While there have been recalls over the years due to unexpectedly detaching and posing crush hazards, most modern Murphy beds are made with locking legs to keep them down or up (if it’s in use as a bed or not). With that in mind, if you can afford the investment and need a more open room in your home, experts say it’s worth the splurge.

“I think it all depends on your particular budget and lifestyle needs,” Agárdy says. “If the room is small but fully furnished and you just need some extra walking space, then a wall bed frame would work perfectly.”

For a more personalized approach to the Murphy bed, both Storms and Hoffer say places like California Closets offer more semi-custom solutions to seamlessly blend these pieces into your existing interior design.

How Do Wall Beds Compare to Murphy Beds?

Traditionally, wall beds featured wood frames and pistons, while Murphy beds often used metal frames and springs. Compared to Murphy beds, wall bed frames are more budget-friendly and easier to install, since there are fewer parts involved. Agárdy issues a warning, however, that they’re not quite as aesthetically appealing and are more difficult to integrate into an overall room design. “Murphy beds are full systems where the bed folds vertically into a cabinet or closet, often with shelving or a desk attached,” she says.

What Is the Average Lifespan of a Murphy Bed?

Solid wood is always your best bet when you’re seeking furniture with lasting quality. In the case of most beds—Murphy or otherwise—you can expect a minimum of 10 to15 years. Materials like particleboard are far more finicky, but they generally come at a much more affordable price point, so the trade off is yours to make. Even a particleboard piece will likely get you five years.

Can I Sleep on a Murphy Bed Every Night?

Absolutely! Like any other bed, a Murphy bed—or those on our list, anyway—are designed to be durable, safe, and suited for a good night’s sleep. It’s often the case that the mattress matters a bit more for comfort than the bed itself.

Where Is the Best Place to Buy a Murphy Bed?

The best places to shop all come down to your budget. If you’re able to splurge and want a fully customized design, we highly recommend Lori Beds. They offer simple or ornate facades, varying lift mechanisms, and no professional assembly is required. Plus, you can add on one of the company’s mattresses to complete your system.

Need a Murphy bed quickly and at an affordable price? There’s a reason why nearly half of our top picks are all from Amazon. With thoughtful touches like charging ports and under-$1,000 price tags, it’s the most accessible retailer for furniture.

For more customizable, high-end Murphy beds, experts share that retailers like California Closets and Italian brand Clei have style-forward, high-quality lineups.

What Are Common Problems With Murphy Beds?

Murphy beds are having a serious comeback, and Agárdy says she’s been adding them to homes for empty-nesters needing multi-purpose spare rooms, such as a place for gym equipment or a desk. “I always look for ones that can be customized to blend into the overall look of the room,” she says. That said, experts and reviewers have shared their gripes with the Murphy bed. Ranging from aesthetics and functions, here’s what to keep in mind while shopping:

  • Visual limitations. Agárdy notes that Murphy beds tend to be more budget-friendly, compared to traditional models, but less aesthetically appealing and often more difficult to integrate with the overall room design.
  • Challenges for renters. Because some Murphy beds require wall-mounting, they’re not the best option for renters. If you’re looking for a bed for a small studio apartment, a Murphy bed makes sense functionally, but might not comply with your building’s rules. One alternative to the classic Murphy bed style is a freestanding cabinet bed.
  • Complicated installation instructions. Murphy beds present tipping hazards, which is why many of them—particularly those that need wall-mounting—require professional installation. This increases the cost of your bed overall, and can make setup more difficult.
  • Finding a mattress that fits (and is comfortable). While some Murphy beds are sold with mattresses, others require a separate purchase. “Choose one on the thinner slide (10 inches or less),” Agárdy advises. “I normally go with the Murphy bed manufacturer’s recommendation to ensure the fit is just right. They are all different, so the standards do vary according to the model.”