What Is a Murphy Bed and Why Moms Love It

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If you’re a mom looking to maximize your home’s functionality without sacrificing style, a Murphy bed might be the perfect solution for your living space. Also known as a wall bed, this ingenious piece of furniture folds up vertically when not in use, freeing up valuable floor space for playtime, work, or entertainment.  

But what exactly is a Murphy bed, and why do busy moms swear by it? Dive into its history, benefits, and why it’s an excellent option for modern homes through this article. Read on!

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The History of the Murphy Bed

William Lawrence Murphy invented the Murphy bed in the early 1900s. As an opera singer living in a small one-room apartment in San Francisco, Murphy needed a way to entertain guests while adhering to the strict moral code of the time, which frowned upon unmarried couples sharing a bedroom.

His solution? A fold-up bed that could be tucked away when not in use.  

The original design featured a bed frame that pivoted into a closed position, allowing his studio apartment to transform from a bedroom at night into a sitting area by day. Today, the modern Murphy bed comes in a variety of styles, from contemporary sofa beds to the wooden Murphy bed with built-in shelves for additional storage space.  

Why Moms Love Murphy Beds

Moms are constantly searching for innovative ways to maximize space without sacrificing comfort—and that’s where Murphy beds come in.

Here are some of the main reasons why they’ve become a household-and Mom’s- favorite item:

1. Space-Saving Superhero

For moms juggling guest bedrooms, home offices, or play areas, Murphy beds are an ideal space saver. Unlike bunk beds or trundle beds, they don’t take up ample floor space when not in use. Instead, they fold neatly against the wall space, leaving ample space for kids to play or for a home office setup.  

Some models even feature sofa sleepers or cabinet beds, blending seamlessly into your bedroom design while providing additional floor space during the day.  

2. Smart Storage Solutions

Many Murphy beds come with storage cabinets, shelving units, or even office components, making them a space-saving furniture dream. A Murphy cabinet bed, for example, offers ample cabinet space stores for toys, linens, or office supplies, keeping clutter at bay.  

3. Versatile Design Options

From contemporary style to feminine finish, Murphy beds come in a variety of finishes to match any décor. Whether you prefer a modern design with leather shelves or a custom design with light wood accents, there’s a bed choice for every aesthetic.  

Some bed manufacturers even offer sideways-mounted Murphy beds for rooms with low ceiling height, ensuring a flawless finish in any space.  

4. Comfort & Durability

Gone are the days of flimsy fold-up beds. Today’s Murphy beds feature quality springs, hybrid mattresses, and soft motion mechanisms for smooth operation. Many come with a lifetime warranty or an outstanding warranty on hardware, giving moms peace of mind.  

5. Perfect for Guests & Multi-Functional Rooms

Whether you’re hosting overnight guests or converting a backyard studio into a guest bedroom, a Murphy bed provides a comfortable place to sleep. Some bed styles even include models with sofas, which function as sofas by day and beds by night.  

With their unbeatable versatility, storage perks, and stylish designs, Murphy beds have earned a permanent spot in the hearts (and homes) of busy moms everywhere.

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Choosing the Right Murphy Bed

Picking the perfect Murphy bed involves balancing functionality, style, and practicality. Here’s what to consider before making your bed choice:  

  • Bed sizes: From twin to queen, ensure the mattress fits both your space and sleeping needs. Measure your room’s square footage to avoid overcrowding.  
  • Attachment to wood studs: Proper installation is key for safety. Some models require wall mounts, while freestanding bed cabinets offer flexibility.  
  • Lifting mechanisms: Look for dual-mount wall bed mechanisms or soft motion mechanism options for smooth, easy operation.  
  • Mattress compatibility: Foam mattresses or hybrid mattresses work best; avoid bulky box springs for seamless folding.  
  • Storage features: If extra organization is a priority, opt for built-in shelves, adjustable shelves, or storage cabinets.  
  • Assembly & delivery: Assembly time varies; some retailers offer assembly service, while DIY Murphy bed kits include all hardware pieces.  
  • Design & finish: Choose from modern sofa beds, side-tilt designs, or traditional wooden Murphy beds to match your décor.  

For sleek aesthetics and refined touch, a Murphy bed frame and Hardware Kit in solid laminate or painted wood adds both durability and style.  

With the proper selection, your Murphy bed will be more than just a space-saving solution—it’ll be a seamless part of your home’s functionality.  

Conclusion

For moms who crave beautiful space without sacrificing function, a Murphy bed is a game-changer. Whether in a college dormitory, art studio, or family home, this space-saving solution keeps your home organized and stylish.  

With bespoke design details, attractive style options, and ample ceiling height compatibility, it’s no wonder moms everywhere are embracing the Murphy bed revolution!  

Julie Higgins
Author
Julie is a Staff Writer at momooze.com. She has been working in publishing houses before joining the editorial team at momooze. Julie's love and passion are topics around beauty, lifestyle, hair and nails.