Which Mattresses Can Murphy Beds Use? (Explained) -

Finding creative ways to save space is vital when downsizing your life. Bulky furniture, like large beds, will eat up any extra floor space you have. But, what is a better option for sleeping?

Murphy beds are a great way to still get comfort from sleeping without sacrificing square footage.

But, how do they work? Here is everything you need to know about Murphy bed mattresses.

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But before we start, you have to check out our complete list of cheap Murphy beds you can find online. We put a TON of research into this article:
9 cheap murphy beds found online (the very best!)

What Mattresses Can Bed Used With Murphy Beds?

You can really use any mattress style you prefer with a Murphy bed. As long as the bed frame depth and overall size of the bed frame can support it. Having mattress options help to make Murphy beds very desirable among those who are looking to downsize.

The Murphy bed is folded down and you can see the storage cabinets behind the bed

The mattress you choose to sleep on is such a personal decision. This is because everyone has their own special preferences when it comes to how they want to sleep. While some prefer firm and shorter mattresses, others love a deep soft style of sleep.

Here are the most preferred types of mattresses that can be used with Murphy beds:

Box Spring Mattresses

The most common style of mattress you will find is a box spring mattress. While these are sometimes referred to as “dated”, they still hold up!

These mattress use layers of cotton filling with springs to offer support and bounce. These are great options for people who need a great deal of back support while sleeping.

They can often be very heavy which can be a problem if your Murphy bed is fitted for a certain weight load.

However, with the perks of a box spring mattress, comes to the downsides as well. The biggest complaint about box spring mattresses is that they get loud over time. This is because as the mattress ages, so do the springs! One way to prevent this is to make sure to flip your mattress every three months.

Also, the depth of a box spring mattress is typically around 6 inches. So, keep that in mind when measuring your Murphy bed frame.

Memory Foam Mattresses

Using a special bed like a Murphy bed allows you to open your options up when it comes to mattresses. One mattress that is popular among those looking for extra comfort are memory foam mattresses.

Memory foam mattresses use special filling and foam so offer a custom sleep.

The number one perk of a memory foam mattress is that it forms to your body to offer a more comfortable sleep. Over time, your mattress will adjust to the special way you sleep. It almost feels like the mattress was made especially for you! When it comes to finding a memory foam mattress for your Murphy bed, you have options!

This is because these mattresses come in all sizes and depths. So, you are sure to find the right fit for your bed!

Foam Mattresses

If you have a Murphy bed that isn’t very deep, the only option for mattresses you have is foam mattresses. Unlike larger memory foam mattresses, foam mattresses roll up for easy delivery and lay completely flat once unrolled.

It may be hard to imagine a flat foam mattress being comfortable. However, foam mattresses have come a long way over the years.

Nowadays you can find some amazing foam mattresses that offer both support and comfort. While they may not be as fluffy or firm as traditional mattresses, they are perfectly fine to sleep on.

Queen size Murphy bed folded down

Do Murphy Beds Ruin Mattresses?

Mattresses are expensive. Some can run for thousands of dollars. While there are plenty of low-cost options, it will still be a larger purchase. This is because mattresses are built to last.

This means that you should only have to replace your mattress every 10 years or so, depending on how well made they are.

Since it is a larger purchase, many people have concerns with how a Murphy Bed will wear them out. Since Murphy beds get moved around more than traditional beds, you can expect more wear and tear than usual.

But, will a Murphy Bed actually ruin your mattress?

The simple answer is no.

All mattresses will break down over time. Yes, a Murphy Bed will cause more strain on your mattress then traditional beds. This is because they will be in constant motion with having to lift it away when not in use. But, it won’t ruin your mattress too quickly!

We have personally used the same Murphy bed mattresses for well over 8 years and they are keeping up just fine!

Can You Extend The Life Of Your Mattress?

While a Murphy bed can cause extra strain, there are some ways to keep it protected. The number one thing to remember is that you will want to make sure you are using the correct mattress. You can do this by properly measuring your bed frame as well as the mattress to ensure they are a fit.

You will also want to make sure to regularly clean and rotate your mattress. This way the pressure points are in constant rotation.

This will help to prevent your mattress from sagging or springs from breaking easily. Another option is to invest in a great mattress protector.

Mattress protectors will not only help increase your comfort but will also protect your mattress from staining. Another reason why a mattress protector is a great investment is that is can help reduce the chance of your mattress tearing. This is important with a unique style of bed frame like a Murphy bed.

It also depends on how much space you have for your Murphy bed.

Do Murphy Beds Require Special Mattresses?

One thing you will have to decide when shopping for a Murphy bed is what type of mattress you should get. Unique beds often require you to purchase a special mattress so that you don’t ruin the bed.

Foldaway beds like cots and sofa beds will require a mattress that folds up. These special mattresses have creases in them that make them easier to fold. The same goes for chest beds (check the cool designs in our article here).

However, Murphy beds are not designed to fold.

Since they lift up flat against the wall, you will not be required to buy a folding mattress. This means that you are free to use any mattress you like with your Murphy bed. But, there are some things to keep in mind when shopping for the right mattress.

Here is everything you need to know:

Consider Size Of The Bed When Choosing The Right Mattress

The first thing you need to consider when shopping for a mattress is the size of your Murphy bed. The best part about a Murphy bed is that you have options when it comes to size. Murphy beds come in all sizes, from a twin all the way up to a king.

One thing to remember when choosing the size of your bed is how much space you have in your home. While Murphy beds can fold up, you will still need the floor space to support it. You will also need to know how many people are going to sleep in it.

If it’s just you, a twin or full sized bed would suffice. For more than one person, you will want to up the size to a queen or king.

The Depth Of The Bed

The most important thing to keep in mind when shopping for a mattress for your Murphy bed is the depth of the bed. All beds will have a different depth size.

Some are very shallow so that they can seamlessly fit up against the wall. Others are much more generous with the depth size.

Having a Murphy bed that isn’t very deep will mean that you are limited to one style of mattress. For these types of Murphy beds, a foam mattress will work best. This is because foam mattresses are fairly short and don’t take up much height.

To know what type of mattress will work best, make sure to measure the depth of the bed frame before making the purchase.

Murphy Bed Have Become More Affordable!

As they have become more popular and widespread the prices have also gone down a lot!

Check the prices here at the main online stores with Murphy beds:

Stores	Price range	Murphy beds	Visit
Wayfair	$-$$	179	Visit here
the Lori Bed	$-$ (!)	4	Visit here
Expand Furniture	$$-$$$	35	Visit here
Amazon	$-$$$	+200	Visit here

Here’s a list of the 9 best Murphy beds we have found online (that are cheap).

A Murphy Bed is often times referred to as a “wall bed”. This is because you lift the bed up to fit flat against the wall when not in use. This is possible because of the special hinges that attach to the bottom and the top of the bed. These hinges adhere to the wall for a quick and smooth transition.

The best part about Murphy beds is that you can get multiple purposes out of your bed.

Some beds are flat on the underneath. This way when it is folded up, it will flush with the wall seamlessly. However, other beds feature extra storage and space.

Some beds feature bookshelves or cabinets on the underside. This means when the bed is up against the wood, you will have a neat place to store your things. When the bed is pull down for use, all of your stuff will be protected and safe under the bed.

Wrapping It Up!

While a Murphy bed is a perfect option for smaller living spaces, they do come with some growing pains. Because they are unique beds, you will have to care for them in a special way. This all starts with the right mattress.

The mattress you choose will make all the difference when it comes to comfort and longevity of your mattress.

So, make sure to measure your bed and know the level of comfort you are looking for.

Luckily for you, mattresses are really easy to test out. Even if you are planning on making the purchase online, chances are a local store will feature a similar mattress to test. This way you can sure that you made the right choice! Good luck.

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