A murphy bed (also called a wall bed or cabinet bed) is one of the smartest investments you can make for a small space. Whether you're furnishing a studio apartment, a guest room, or a home office that doubles as a bedroom, this guide will help you choose the right murphy bed for your needs and budget.
What Is a Murphy Bed?
A murphy bed is a bed that folds up into a wall unit or freestanding cabinet when not in use, freeing up floor space during the day. Modern murphy beds are easy to operate, stylish, and built to last, far removed from the wobbly fold-downs of decades past.
There are two main types:
Murphy Wall Beds mount directly to the wall and fold up vertically. They require wall installation but offer a seamless, built-in look.
Murphy Cabinet Beds are freestanding units that look like a dresser or cabinet when closed. No wall mounting required, making them ideal for renters or anyone who wants flexibility.
Murphy Wall Bed vs. Murphy Cabinet Bed: Which Is Right for You?
| Murphy Wall Bed | Murphy Cabinet Bed | |
|---|---|---|
| Installation | Wall-mounted (requires studs) | Freestanding, no installation |
| Floor space (closed) | Minimal, flush to wall | ~23" deep footprint |
| Best for | Permanent rooms, homeowners | Renters, guest rooms, flexibility |
| Mattress | Use your own (not included) | Often includes mattress |
| Price range | CA$2,190 to $2,800+ | CA$1,400 to $2,800+ |
| Assembly | More involved | ~10 minutes final assembly |
How Much Space Do You Need for a Murphy Bed?
For a Murphy Wall Bed (Queen):
At least 70" wide by 90" tall of wall space is needed.
Example: Bestar Versatile Queen Size Murphy Wall Bed at 69.4"W by 89.9"H when closed.
For a Murphy Cabinet Bed (Queen):
Approximately 64"W by 23"D of floor space when closed, just 10 square feet.
Example: Night and Day Murphy Cube Cabinet Bed at 64.1"W by 26.4"D when closed, opening to 64.1"W by 80"D.
What Size Murphy Bed Should I Get?
Most murphy beds come in Full and Queen sizes. Queen is the most popular choice for guest rooms and primary bedrooms. Full is better suited for tighter spaces or single sleepers.
Full size: ~54"W, good for single adults or tight rooms.
Queen size: ~60"W, the most versatile option for couples or guest rooms.
Do Murphy Beds Come with a Mattress?
Murphy Wall Beds typically do not include a mattress. You'll use your own standard mattress. The Bestar Versatile accommodates mattresses 8" to 12" thick, weighing 60 to 90 lbs.
Murphy Cabinet Beds usually include a tri-fold mattress. The Night and Day Murphy Cube Cabinet Bed includes a 6" Tri-Fold Gel Memory Foam Queen mattress. If you already have a mattress you love, you can also purchase the cabinet only.
How Much Does a Murphy Bed Cost?
| Product | Type | Price (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| Stow Queen Size Murphy Bed Cabinet Only | Cabinet Bed | From $1,399.95 |
| Night and Day Murphy Cube Cabinet Bed (cabinet only) | Cabinet Bed | From $1,499.95 |
| Stow Queen Size Murphy Bed Cabinet with Gel Memory Foam Mattress | Cabinet Bed + Mattress | From $1,799.95 |
| Night and Day Murphy Cube with Gel Memory Foam Mattress | Cabinet Bed + Mattress | From $1,899.95 |
| Bestar Versatile Queen Murphy Wall Bed | Wall Bed | $2,189.95 |
| Brussels Queen Murphy Cabinet Bed in Ash | Cabinet Bed + Mattress | $2,599.95 |
| Caspian Queen Murphy Cabinet Bed in White | Cabinet Bed + Mattress | $2,669.95 |
| Stockholm Queen Murphy Cabinet Bed in Brushed Grey | Cabinet Bed + Mattress | $2,699.95 |
| Medison Queen Murphy Cabinet Bed in Grey | Cabinet Bed + Mattress | $2,799.95 |
Are Murphy Beds Safe and Sturdy?
Yes. Modern murphy beds are engineered for safety and durability:
- The Stow Cabinet Bed is rated to support up to 300 kg
- Cabinet beds like the Night and Day Murphy Cube are structurally tested to hold 500+ lbs (rated to 250 lbs for warranty purposes)
- Wall beds use dual piston systems for smooth, controlled folding
- The Murphy Cube uses a solid rubberwood hardwood frame with a durable metal bed frame inside
- Most products carry 10-year warranties on the cabinet/frame
Can I Get a Murphy Bed Assembled for Me?
Yes. White Glove Delivery with professional assembly is available in select markets for cabinet beds like the Night and Day Murphy Cube. This is ideal if you'd rather not tackle assembly yourself. The cabinet arrives, gets assembled in your room, and all packaging is removed.
Which Murphy Bed Is Right for Me?
Best value entry point:
Stow Queen Size Murphy Bed Cabinet Only at $1,399.95, made from Acacia wood and plywood, available in 4 colours (White, Stone, Cherry, Beachwood), and rated to support up to 300 kg. Bring your own mattress and save.
Best value with mattress included:
Stow Queen Size Murphy Bed Cabinet with Gel Memory Foam Mattress at $1,799.95, with a 6" tri-fold gel memory foam mattress and the same 300 kg capacity. A great pick for guest rooms on a budget.
Best for renters or those who want zero installation:
Night and Day Murphy Cube Cabinet Bed with Gel Memory Foam Mattress, freestanding, includes mattress, 10-year warranty, 6 colour options, solid rubberwood hardwood construction.
Best for a permanent built-in look:
Bestar Versatile Queen Size Murphy Wall Bed, wall-mounted, sleek profile, 10-year warranty, use your own mattress.
Best premium cabinet bed:
Medison Queen Murphy Cabinet Bed in Grey, real wood veneer, 10" storage drawer, 500 lb capacity.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to set up a murphy cabinet bed?
Most murphy cabinet beds require about 10 minutes of final assembly once delivered. The main cabinet arrives pre-assembled.
Do murphy beds require a box spring?
No. Murphy cabinet beds do not require a box spring. The tri-fold mattress sits directly on the bed frame.
Can a murphy bed be used every night?
Absolutely. Murphy beds are designed for nightly use. The Night and Day Murphy Cube is built with solid hardwood and a durable metal frame rated for long-term daily use.
What colours are available?
The Night and Day Murphy Cube Cabinet Bed comes in 6 colours: White, Stonewash, Cherry, Dark Chocolate, Rustic Brown, and Vintage White. The Stow Cabinet Bed comes in 4 colours: White, Stone, Cherry, and Beachwood.
Is delivery available across Canada?
Yes. We ship across Canada. White Glove Delivery with assembly is available in select markets.
Browse our full Murphy Beds collection or contact us if you need help choosing the right bed for your space.