Your Complete Expert Resource For Choosing the Best Murphy Bed
Your Complete, Expert Resource for Choosing the Best Murphy Bed
Murphy beds have become one of the most effective solutions for maximizing space in modern homes. At Xtraroom, we design, test, and manufacture high-performance Murphy beds engineered for safety, durability, and everyday comfort. This guide explains everything you need to know before purchasing a wall bed, including how to choose the best Murphy bed, how to evaluate Murphy beds with desks, and what makes a Murphy bed safe.
1. What Makes a Murphy Bed “The Best”?
Key Performance Standards That Define Top-Quality Murphy Beds
The best Murphy beds share several essential characteristics:
1. Strong, Reinforced Frames
A top-tier Murphy bed uses high-strength steel or engineered wood frames to support weight and resist long-term wear.
2. Smooth, Counterbalanced Lift Mechanisms
Quality mechanisms allow the bed to be raised and lowered with minimal effort, preventing strain and improving safety.
3. Secure, Multi-Point Wall Anchoring
The best Murphy beds include heavy-duty hardware designed for multiple wall types and long-term stability.
4. Compatibility With Real Mattresses
Premium wall beds accommodate standard mattresses for comfort equal to a traditional bed.
5. Rigorous Safety and Durability Testing
Cycle tests, load tests, hinge testing, and anti-drop safety reviews ensure dependable long-term use.
Xtraroom beds are engineered to exceed these standards, making them among the best options for homeowners, designers, and small-space dwellers.
2. Best Murphy Bed With Desk: What to Look For
Murphy beds with desks offer dual functionality, but not all models are designed with stability or everyday use in mind. The best versions include:
Stay-Level Desk Engineering
A desk that stays perfectly horizontal—allowing laptops, drinks, and paperwork to remain in place when transitioning between bed and desk modes.
Commercial-Grade Hinges & Supports
These prevent wobbling and allow for daily use without loosening or degrading.
Integrated Storage Options
Shelving, overhead cabinets, or side modules help create a fully functional home office.
Balanced Mechanism Design
Ensures that the added weight of the desk does not affect the smooth operation of the bed.
Xtraroom’s Murphy Bed Desk Systems use precision-engineered stay-level mechanisms specifically designed for modern work-from-home needs, making them among the best on the market.
3. Are Murphy Beds Safe?
Yes—When Properly Engineered and Installed
A well-made Murphy bed is extremely safe. Modern systems include engineered counterbalances, anti-tip technology, and lock-in-place hardware that prevent unexpected movement.
Murphy bed safety depends on four main factors:
1. Quality of the Lifting Mechanism
A well-calibrated lift system ensures controlled motion during opening and closing.
2. Strength of the Wall Anchoring System
Heavy-duty anchors and multi-point installation prevent shifting or tipping.
3. Structural Frame Integrity
Reinforced attachments and rigid frames ensure the bed stays secure over time.
4. Correct Installation
Professionally installed or carefully DIY-installed units eliminate risk.
At Xtraroom, every Murphy bed uses dual-stage pistons, a reinforced steel frame, a multipoint anchoring system, an anti-tip kit, mattress straps, and cabinet and leg locks to ensure the highest protection for homeowners and guests.
4. What Makes a Murphy Bed the Safest?
Safety Features to Look For
The safest Murphy beds include:
Anti-Drop Protection
Prevents the bed from falling open unexpectedly, even if released suddenly.
Soft-Close and Assisted-Lift Technology
Reduces speed and force, improving both safety and ease of use.
Heavy-Duty Anchors
Secure attachment to studs, concrete, brick, or metal framing to ensure stability.
High-Cycle Tested Mechanisms
Assurance that the bed will perform reliably after thousands of uses.
Rigid Frame Engineering
Prevents structural flexing or mechanical stress over time.
Xtraroom systems are designed with these safety principles as standard, making them a trusted choice for families, seniors, and daily use.
5. How to Choose the Right Murphy Bed
Selecting a wall bed depends on your needs, room size, and intended use. Consider:
Room Dimensions & Clearance
Measure ceiling height, wall width, and projection distance for open/close clearance.
Horizontal vs. Vertical Orientation
Vertical beds are ideal for most bedrooms; horizontal beds work better in low-ceiling rooms or narrow spaces.
Frequency of Use
Daily sleepers require premium mechanisms and real-mattress compatibility.
Desk, Sofa, or Storage Add-Ons
Choose a model that supports your lifestyle—working, lounging, or hosting guests.
Installation Requirements
Professional installation may be recommended for certain wall types or complex configurations.
6. Why Xtraroom Is the Industry Authority in Murphy Beds
Xtraroom stands out due to:
- Engineering-led product development
- Strict safety and durability standards
- Precision lift systems
- Reinforced frames and hardware
- Compatibility with everyday mattresses
- Comprehensive installation and support resources
- High-quality finishes and customizable options
Our commitment to performance, safety, and user experience makes Xtraroom a leading, trusted source for Murphy bed guidance.
A Few of Xtraroom's Features
Cabinet and Leg Locking Mechanisms
Xtraroom beds come equipped with cabinet locks to prevent the beds from being unintentionally opened. All of our beds with legs that swing down are also are equiped with leg locks to secure them in place.
Steel Frame & Multi-Point Anchoring
Xtraroom beds have a steel frame that is securely attached to the wall at six points, three of which MUST be into the wall studs.
Precision Lifting Systems
We use dual-stage pistons on all of our beds to provide maximum assistance in lifting the bed while also providing a soft close mechanism that prevent the bed from falling open or slamming shut.
Compatible with Standard Mattresses
Xtraroom beds can accommodate standard size mattresses up to 12" thick. So, you can select the mattress that matches your sleep preferences and budget.
7. Quick FAQs
Is a Murphy bed safe to use every day?
Yes. High-quality Murphy beds with reinforced frames and smooth lift mechanisms are designed for daily use.
What is the best Murphy bed with a desk?
A stay-level desk design—such as Xtraroom’s—offers the most stable and functional workspace.
Which Murphy beds are the safest?
Models with anti-drop features, multi-point anchoring, and soft-close mechanisms provide the highest safety.
Are Murphy beds good for small rooms?
Yes. They free up floor space while providing a full-size sleeping surface.