The 7 Best Murphy Beds for Small Apartments and Spare Bedrooms

ProsOpen and closed storageBuilt-in power outlets and USB portsOpen shelving and space above the bedSix drawers10-year warranty on frameConsExpensive1-year warranty on mechanismThis high-quality Murphy bed isn't cheap, but it takes the top spot for its quality construction, beautiful design, and varied storage. It's well-suited for daily use and also has nice-to-have extras, like built-in power outlets and USB ports.When opened, the wall above the bed offers space for a painting or decoration to serve as a headboard. You can also display your stuff on shelves on either side of the bed, plus six roomy drawers for discreet items or clothes. The only potential drawback, aside from the hefty price tag, is the 1-year warranty on the mechanism.Key SpecsMattress SizeFull, QueenMaterialsManufactured woodDimensions87.9 x 114.6 x 92.3 in.Weight Capacity1,000 lbMechanismPistonColorsWhite, chocolate, dark grayProsIncludes outlets to keep devices close byMotion-sensor lights help users at nightHas built-in storageAvailable in full and queen sizeConsAssembly can be trickyOnly available in whiteThe Kikihouse Murphy Cabinet Bed is a budget-friendly way to add a full-size sleeping space to a guest room, home office, or small apartment without permanently sacrificing floor space. When it’s not in use, the bed folds into a compact white cabinet with built-in storage, including two drawers and a top shelf for linens, pillows, and other essentials.Motion-sensor lights make it easier to navigate the room at night, while a built-in charging station with two USB ports keeps devices within reach. Fold-down side shelves also provide convenient spots for a phone or a glass of water. Assembly is required, and you’ll need to supply your own compatible folding mattress.Key SpecsMattress sizeFull or queenMaterialsEngineered woodDimensions76 x 79.1 x 51.2 in.Weight Capacity600 lbMechanismAlloy hinges and latchesColorsWhiteAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsDetailed DIY instructionsVertical and horizontal options availableLifetime warrantyConsLengthy construction and installation timeDIY Murphy bed projects can be a lot cheaper if you’re willing to build the bed platform and cabinetry yourself. This kit includes all the hardware you need to create a safe wall bed system with the flexibility to design and build everything else yourself.It also includes step-by-step instructions for building the bed and a list of the materials you’ll need. If you get stuck reading the paper or PDF instructions, watch the provided videos to help troubleshoot. It’s available in vertical and horizontal orientations, and it comes with a lifetime warranty.Key SpecsMattress SizeTwin, Full, QueenMaterialsMetalDimensions30 x 9 x 3 in.Weight Capacity500 lbMechanismGas pistonColorsN/AProsSmaller than a mounted Murphy bed6-inch mattress includedNo installation requiredConsNeeds to be reassembled and remade every time you use itPriceyAvoid the installation process altogether with this chest-style cabinet bed from Night & Day Furniture, which has a much smaller footprint than traditional vertical or horizontal Murphy beds.Made from solid hardwood with a cherry finish, it resembles a classic chest and cleverly conceals a fold-out, cot-size mattress inside. There’s even room to store sheets, pillows, and a blanket.While you have to reassemble the bed each time you open it, it is among the most affordable and least cumbersome options we reviewed. Bonus: It comes with a 6-inch memory-foam mattress for added comfort.Key SpecsMattress SizeQueenMaterialsHardwoodDimensions81 x 64 x 37 in.Weight Capacity500 lbMechanismFoldingColorsCherry, chocolateAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsSolid wood frameIntegrated desk and shelving with doorsBed frame hugs sheets, so everything folds in tightThis Murphy bed combines a solid wood frame, durable pine slats, and a 1,000-pound weight limit for excellent stability and mattress support. Its sleek white design with black trim adds style, while practical extras enhance its functionality.Ideal for dorms or studio apartments, it features an integrated desk and ample storage, including reversible shelving and a mix of open and closed cabinets to keep spaces tidy and organized. Once folded into its compact armoire, it frees up valuable floor space, making it a smart alternative to a loft bed for small living areas.Key SpecsMattress SizeFull, QueenMaterialsWoodDimensions82' x 81.1 x 82.9 in.Weight Capacity1,000 lbMechanismFoldingColorsWhiteProsFits into a closetHolds a lot of weightLifetime warrantyConsSlats visible when folded upPriceyThis foldaway unit delivers what a Murphy bed should: a no-nonsense frame that fits in an existing closet and folds completely out of sight when not in use.Engineered from commercial-grade tubular steel with a white powder-coated finish, it offers exceptional durability and supports up to 1,500 pounds. The European slat system provides excellent mattress support, and the bed comes in Twin, Full, and Queen sizes—a range rarely seen in this category. A lifetime warranty adds to its value and reinforces its sturdy design.For those without closet space, you can also wall-mount it or tuck it into a niche, though the exposed slats when folded may bother some. It’s on the pricier side, but the quality and longevity justify the investment.Key SpecsMattress SizeTwin, full, queenMaterialsAlloy steelDimensions80 x 59 x 12 in.Weight Capacity1500 lbMechanismFoldingColorsWhiteAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsAvailable in three color optionsHas 4 outletsStorage pieces are great for kids' toysTwin, full, and queen size options availableConsFolding can be difficultWeight limit is smaller than other optionsFor kids' rooms that double as play spaces, the Vingli Twin Murphy Bed offers a clever way to reclaim floor space during the day. The bed folds into a cabinet with a warm golden-brown finish that blends rustic charm with Scandinavian-inspired simplicity. Built-in storage, including a drawer and a spacious cabinet compartment, provides room for extra bedding, clothes, toys, or other bedroom essentials.Made from pine and engineered wood, this twin-size design is also practical for smaller bedrooms, shared spaces, or sleepover-ready guest rooms.Key SpecsMattress SizeTwin, full, queenMaterialsPine and manufactured woodDimensions75.2 × 40.5 × 44.3 in.Weight Capcity330 lbMechanismFoldingColorsBrown, beige, whiteArabella Bowen is a seasoned product tester who specializes in travel, design, tech, home improvement, and outdoor essentials. She’s reviewed everything from roller bags and cameras to hiking equipment and home decor for outlets such as The Montreal Gazette, Fodor's, AFAR, and US Park Pass. Arabella can often be found immersed in DIY projects at her mid-century modern house in upstate New York—a hands-on pursuit that inspires many trips to Lowe’s.Sarah Connor is a Reviews Editor for Popular Mechanics. She also contributes to Runner’s World, Bicycling, Best Products, and Biography.com. Before joining the Hearst Magazines team, Sarah was a National Content Editor for Hearst Television. She holds a master's in Journalism from Syracuse University and a dual bachelor's in English and Communications from the University of Pittsburgh. When she isn’t writing up a review of the newest gadgets, you can find her heading to the nearest rink for a figure skating session or enjoying the outdoors with her beloved Australian Shepherd, Rosie.