Can Murphy Beds Be Used Daily? Helpful Facts (Explained)

One of the biggest concerns about Murphy beds is how they hold up over time.  Because they are meant to lift up when not in use, they get more wear than traditional beds.

Can you use Murphy Beds every day?

You can use a Murphy bed every day. The lift mechanism will get worn after 5-7 years whether the bed use pistons or a spring-based lifting mechanism.

Here is everything you need to know about the durability and comfort of Murphy beds so that you can rest easy!

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!)

How Long Do Murphy Beds Last When Used Daily?

Most Murphy beds last on average 15 years.  This depends on how much use it will get and how well the springs or the pistons are made.

A Murphy bed is only as good as it’s hardware.

This means that every brand will be different.  While it is common to see beds last for around 50 years, this isn’t the case with a Murphy bed.

If you are looking to install a Murphy bed in your home for full-time use, you can expect it to last around 13 years.  Beds that are only meant for guests or part-time use can last up to 20 years.

This is because of the special brackets and hinges that are used in the mechanics of a Murphy bed.

Once the bolts start to wear down, the bed will no longer be useable in the sense that you can fold it up when done.  Depending on the style of bed you choose, you may be able to order replacement parts.  However, once the bed stops lifting, its time to get a new one!

One of our other writers sleeps in a Murphy bed every night with his wife. Their bed is around 6-7 years old and they tell me that the whole system around the bed is holding up just fine.

Related Article: Are Murphy Beds Comfortable? 6 Facts You Should Know

How Can You Extend The Life Of Your Murphy Bed?

This solution is from Lori Beds who make affordable bed systems.

>> Check their solutions here

While Murphy beds don’t last as long as traditional beds, there are ways to ensure you will get the most out of them.  This all begins with the installation.

Your Murphy bed is only as good as the installation. 

This is why it is so important to follow the instructions perfectly when setting up your bed.

Next, you want to make sure that you re taking good care of the joints.  This is the system that allows your bed to tuck into the wall when you don’t need it.  Once the joints break, the bed altogether is fairly useless.  One thing you can do is make sure the joints stay well-oiled.

This will help them last longer as well as keep them from squeaking.

You also want to make sure that the joint system is free from clutter.  Make sure that any loose bedding doesn’t get tangled into the joints.

This can cause them to wear down faster.  Lastly, it is important to treat your bed well when it isn’t tucked away to the wall.  Things like jumping and extreme stress can cause the joints to loosen and springs to break.

Related Article: Are Murphy Beds Dangerous? Here’s What You Need To Know!

Are Murphy Beds Comfortable For Daily Use?

Another big question people have about Murphy beds is, are they comfortable?

Murphy beds often get unfairly compared to cot beds.  Cot beds are roll-away beds that can be folded up for storage when not in use.

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

We have all slept on a rollaway cot before and know just how uncomfortable they can be.

However, Murphy beds are much more sophisticated than roll-away cots.  Even though you fold the bed up when you’re done with it, it still offers amazing comfort.

The comfort of a bed is judged by three major points:

• First, it needs to have ideal back support
• Next, it needs to be firm but not hard
• Lastly, it can’t shift with your body weight making it feel unsteady.

A Murphy bed hits all of these key points which means you can expect a world class sleep.

But, it isn’t only on the bed frame to offer you comfort.  There are plenty of ways for you to increase your comfort.  Especially if you worry about your Murphy bed not offering up enough support.  Here are some things that will elevate your sleep game:

Related Article: How To Build A Murphy Bed (With Or Without A Kit)

It’s All About The Mattress!

The key to your sleep comfort is in the mattress you select.  While you can use just about any mattress with a Murphy bed, you will have to measure first.

Read our guide here to find a mattress that will work with a Murphy bed. Not all mattresses work with wall beds and there are some things you need to consider before you get a mattress.

Not all bed frames are created equal and you may find that your frame isn’t deep enough to support every mattress.

If you find that your Murphy bed isn’t as deep, you will more than likely have to settle for a foam mattress.  However, there are plenty of foam mattresses that are just comfortable as big fluffy mattresses.

If your frame has room for it, try to invest in a great memory foam mattress.

Unlike cot beds, Murphy beds do not need to fold in the middle.  This means that you don’t need a specialized mattress that helps to improve your quality of sleep.

Having the freedom to personalize your sleep experience is just one of the reasons why Murphy beds are great!

Top It Off

If you find that you need a foam mattress because of the size of your frame, you have options for comfort as well!  One thing you can do is invest in a great mattress topper for your bed.  Mattress toppers come in all different styles and materials.

From memory foam to down feathered, there are plenty of comfort options.  This is just one little extra step you can take to ensure your best will be the peak of comfort.  But, did you know that mattress topper offers much more than just extra comfort?

Toppers also work to protect your mattress.  Mattresses are expensive.  A mattress topper can help to keep your mattress dry and keep bacteria and germs from traveling to your mattress.  Plus, the best part about a great mattress topper is that you can throw them in the washing machine for quick clean up!

Related Article: 13 Clever Pull-Out Beds You Can Hide (In Stairs & Platforms)

Best Places to Find Murphy Beds Online

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

Choose Your Bedding Wisely

Even if you have found the most comfortable mattress and topper for your Murphy bed, there is always more you can do.

Finishing touches like bedding can really elevate your bed from a place to sleep to your own slice of utopia.

Stock your bed with ultra plush comforters and blankets and don’t skimp on the pillows.

However, there is one important thing to keep in mind!  You don’t want any loose bedding hanging off your bed when you’re ready to store it.  This way you don’t have to worry about the hinges on the bed snagging one loose bedding.  One great way to get the best of both worlds is to store your heavy bedding separately when folding up your bed.  This way you can unpack what you need each night without missing a beat.

Murphy Bed FAQs

Still confused about how Murphy beds work when it comes to comfort and durability?  Have no fear!  Plenty of people have been right where you are now.  Luckily for you, they also have the answers to many of your burning Murphy bed questions.

Here are some of the commonly asked questions regarding Murphy beds as well as some comforting facts:

How Much Do Murphy Beds Cost?

Luckily, Murphy beds have become increasingly popular during the last decades.

This means more volume in sales and therefore more competition and lower prices!

Here’s a guide we made to cheap Murphy beds you can find online.

Do You Need To Use A Murphy Bed With A Box Spring?

Traditional beds require a box spring to add height and support to your bed.  However, with a Murphy bed, things are a little different.  You do not need to use a box spring with this type of bed.  Also, you don’t want to use one either.

The whole point of a Murphy bed is to fold up to the wall when you need some extra floor space.  It would be impossible to fold away the bed flat if you were using a box spring.  But, not using a box spring will not make your bed any less comfortable.  Just think of it like you have one less thing to buy!

Can A Murphy Bed Be Dangerous?

The only way your Murphy bed can be dangerous is if it is used improperly.  You never want to lay on your bed unless it is fully extended to the ground.  Make sure that all hinges and joints are free of loose bedding so that it will touch the floor completely.

It is also important that your bed is installed correctly to keep it safe.  Another thing to keep in mind is tiny fingers and hands.  Because this bed uses joints to lift and extend, you want to make sure that children are out of the way when moving it.  They can easily get their fingers pinched if not supervised properly.

How Does A Mattress Stay In Place?

While there are so many things to control, there is one thing that is out of our control and this is gravity.  When a bed is completely verticle you can expect gravity to do its job and pull the stuff to the floor.  However, Murphy beds have already prepared for this.

Most Murphy beds come with mattress straps.  These straps will hold your mattress and bedding in place when the bed is folded up.  Did you Murphy bed not come with any additional straps or hardware?  Don’t worry!  You can easily purchase these add-ons from any Murphy bed company.

How Much Space Does A Murphy Bed Need?

The most important thing you will want to know before buying a Murphy bed is if it will fit in your place.  A standard Murphy bed needs at least 82 inches for a full mattress and up to 90 for a queen.  Not only will you need to make sure you have the space on the floor, but on the wall as well.

You will also make sure that you installing your bed on a proper wall.  Walls that are meant to sperate rooms may not have the right support to hold the bed.

The last thing you would want to do is pull down a wall when using your bed!

Final Thoughts

A Murphy bed is only as comfortable as you let it be.  If you know that you are someone who needs a seriously firm bed, keep that in mind when mattress shopping.  Like most bed frames, you can completely customize your comfort level with a Murphy bed as well.

The most important thing to remember is that you want to properly install and operate your Murphy bed.  This will not only extend the life of your bed but will help greatly with safety and comfort.  Good luck!