When space is at a premium, the choice between a wall bed and a trundle bed often comes down to functionality, style, and comfort. While both options save space and provide sleeping arrangements for guests, a closer look reveals that wall beds (also known as Murphy beds) offer a key advantage: they allow the use of a real mattress, which leads to much greater comfort.
The Basics
Source: Living Spaces
A wall bed, or Murphy bed, is designed to fold up vertically into a cabinet or frame mounted on the wall, blending seamlessly into your living space when not in use. This makes it ideal for studio apartments, home offices, or multi-purpose rooms where you’re trying to make more use out of your space.
A trundle bed, on the other hand, consists of a standard bed frame with a second, smaller bed stored underneath. This hidden lower bed can be pulled out when needed, making it a popular choice for kids’ rooms, guest bedrooms, or shared spaces.
While both beds help save space, the difference in comfort and overall functionality is where Murphy beds truly shine.
The Mattress Difference
The biggest drawback of a trundle bed is the type of mattress it uses. Because the lower bed must fit beneath the upper frame, the mattress is often thin, limited in size, and not designed for long-term use. For a child or a short-term guest, this might suffice. However, the lack of adequate support and cushioning can lead to restless nights, making trundles less appealing for adults or frequent overnight stays.
Murphy beds, on the other hand, use a full-sized, high-quality mattress, comparable to what you’d find on a traditional bed. Unlike sofa beds or futons that fold and compromise mattress integrity, Murphy beds allow the mattress to remain flat, preserving its comfort and longevity. You have the freedom to choose a mattress that suits your needs, whether that’s memory foam, innerspring, or hybrid, ensuring restful sleep night after night.
Space and Aesthetic
While trundle beds can be practical, they come with aesthetic limitations. The frame often takes up visible space, and the pull-out mechanism can be cumbersome. In contrast, Murphy beds are sleek and versatile. When folded up, they can resemble a wardrobe, bookshelf, or even a decorative panel, allowing them to blend effortlessly into your décor.
Murphy beds also open up more floor space when not in use, creating a clutter-free environment. This is especially important in smaller homes where every square foot counts. When not in use, the average trundle still takes up about 43”x75” of floor space. A Murphy bed, on the other hand, can take up as little as 16” x 64”.
Longevity and Investment
Investing in a high-quality Murphy bed, especially a real wood Murphy bed, means you’re prioritizing durability and long-term usability. These beds are built to handle everyday use, making them ideal for primary sleeping arrangements or guest rooms. Trundle beds, while affordable, are often not designed for the same level of daily wear and tear, making them a temporary solution rather than a lasting one. If you’ve ever slept on a trundle, you’ve likely experienced the mechanism getting jammed when trying to open or close it. They can be finicky contraptions!
Final Thoughts
In the categories of comfort, functionality, and durability, a wall bed is the clear winner. With the ability to use a real mattress, it offers unparalleled support and quality of sleep. Whether you’re hosting guests or maximizing your living space, a Murphy bed combines practicality with luxury, making it a smart, stylish investment. If you want a portion of the bed to be constantly present (like in a kid’s room, for example) then maybe the downsides of a trundle are not as important and that’s the right call.
So, the next time you’re weighing your options, remember: when it comes to getting a good night’s sleep, there’s no substitute for a real mattress—and no better choice than a Murphy bed.