What’s the Difference Between a Murphy Bed and a Wall Bed?

If you’re looking for an innovative way to save space in your home or apartment, you may have heard about the Murphy bed or wall bed as an amazing way to expand the functionality of almost any room. Although these two terms are frequently used interchangeably, there are some key differences to be aware of as you shop for the perfect solution for your home. Check out this guide to learn about the unique features of each type of space saving bed as you decide which choice is best for you!

What’s the Origin of Murphy Bed?

The Murphy bed was first developed in San Francisco in the late 1800s by a man who needed a way to fold a bed into the wall so that he could utilize his small apartment space for multiple purposes. With this goal in mind, he developed a metal bed frame that could fold into a closet so that the space was open. Modern Murphy beds have been further developed so that they no longer use closet space, but are often paired with a sofa, desk, bookcase, or cabinet for storage in order to provide an aesthetic appearance.

How Did Wall Beds Evolve as an Alternative to Murphy Beds?

Although the Murphy bed was popular, some people did not want to use a closet for storing the bed, so the wall bed was developed. This model typically folds into a cabinet that is mounted to the wall. When a person was ready to sleep, they could simply open the cabinet and pull out the bed, rather than using an entire closet to store the bed. The cabinet feature gave wall beds more furniture-like design options. Modern wall beds primarily use gas-charged pistons to make the bed fold up and back, which greatly reduces the weight that individuals must lift when they want to use the bed or put it away.

Murphy Beds vs. Wall Beds: Which One is Right for Your Space?

Both Murphy beds and wall beds are innovative ways to save space and make a comfortable bed fit into almost any room of your home. Both are available as combinations with sofas, couches, desks, cabinets, and even revolving bookcases in order to provide ultimate storage solutions while remaining out of the way when not in use. The mattresses are available in twin, full, and queen size with plenty of comfort and cushion to promote a good night’s sleep. Both types of beds are popularly used in studio apartments, living rooms, spare bedrooms, cabins, and more.

The main difference between these two types of space saving beds is the frames in which they are built. Murphy beds generally use metal frames with springs, while wall beds tend to be built with wood and utilize a piston or other alternative lifting system.

What Are the Key Factors to Consider When Deciding Between a Murphy Bed and a Wall Bed?

Both of these space-saving beds offer unique advantages. One is not necessarily better than the other. Some additional considerations you may want to look at before making a decision include the following:

Construction Materials

Ensure that you purchase a Murphy bed or wall bed from a company who has a reputation for quality mechanics and hardware. Don’t purchase a cheap bed from a manufacturer who cuts corners on quality. Not only will the bed be difficult to move and uncomfortable, but it won’t last long.

Weight Capacity

Murphy beds generally test to 2500 lbs, while wall beds may hold as much as 4000 lbs. This is well above what is needed, but it’s still good to be aware of the weight capacity of the space saving furniture you’re looking to purchase.

Ease of Assembly

Wall beds are usually shipped partially assembled, which means you’ll need to take a couple of hours to finalize the assembly once you’ve gotten the boxes into your home. Unfortunately, this means the boxes will be heavier and larger, and may be more difficult to maneuver into your home. On the other hand, Murphy beds may be shipped completely unassembled and will require additional time to assemble, although the packages will be smaller and more manageable.

Style

A quality space saving furniture supplier offers attractive style options for both Murphy beds and wall beds, which means you’re sure to find one that you love. You can find both types of beds combined with comfortable sofas, attractive cabinets, shelving space, rotating bookcases, desks, and other combinations that help you save space and maximize storage.

Size

Most Murphy beds have queen or king size mattresses, while it may be easier to find wall beds in twin, twin XL, and full sizes.

Orientation

Some Murphy and wall beds secure to the wall at the head of the bed, while others will hinge on the long side of the bed. There are pros and cons to each type, and it may take some measuring to see which will be a better fit in your home.

Maximize The Potential of your Home with Expand Furniture’s Murphy & Wall Beds

If you’re ready to learn more about the benefits of space saving furniture or want to find the perfect model for your home, visit Expand Furniture to discover your options! We offer the widest selection of high quality Murphy beds and wall beds in various sizes, styles, and colors, combined with sofas, desks, bookcases, and more. Our customer service team is ready to walk you through the options and help you discover the perfect fit for your home. Visit our website and contact us today!