Does a Murphy Bed Require a Special Mattress?

Murphy beds have been around for over a century, but in recent years, they have exploded in popularity.

Many people have grown sick of lumpy, uncomfortable sofa sleepers and are finding that Murphy beds provide the convenience of a sofa sleeper but with the comfort of a traditional guest bed. Do Murphy beds need special mattresses? Unlike sofa sleepers, a Murphy bed mattress does not require a special mattress. However, not every mattress can last in a Murphy bed. A Murphy bed is only as comfortable as the mattresses you put on it. When shopping for a Murphy bed, it is important to know the dos and don’ts of Murphy bed mattresses.

Do Murphy Beds Need a Specific Mattress?

Not exactly! Murphy beds are generally built to fit standard mattress sizes, which makes finding sheets and bedding very convenient. It also opens endless mattress comfort and quality options. 

Do Murphy beds use regular mattresses? Yes, as long as the mattress meets the standard width and length specifications, it should fit in a Murphy bed.

The standard Murphy bed mattress size options for the U.S. are listed below:

Twin/Single– 38” wide x 75” long

Twin XL– 38” wide x 80” long

Full/Double– 54” wide x 75” long

Full XL– 54” wide x 80” long

Queen– 60” wide x 80” long

King-76” wide x 80” long

Murphy beds do have a maximum mattress thickness that will fit. Every mechanism and cabinet is slightly different, so it’s essential to contact the manufacturer of the Murphy bed to find out how thick the mattress can be. 

At Wilding Wallbeds, we’ve designed our beds to accommodate up to a 12” thick mattress. This means you don’t need to settle for a thin pad or cheap mattress.

Murphy bed mattresses do not require box springs. Most Murphy beds function as platform beds and support the mattress without a box spring. Some models may need a thin bunkie board, but that’s much less common. Always consult your Murphy bed manufacturer to confirm details. 

Not All Mattresses Work in a Murphy Bed

We know that a Murphy bed doesn’t require a special mattress, but that doesn’t mean every mattress will work. Mattresses are engineered to perform horizontally and may not hold up when used in a vertical position.

Here are materials and designs to avoid in a Murphy bed mattress:

• Latex: Too heavy and loses shape when upright.
• Gel-tops: Heavy and prone to damage during storage.
• Pocketed coils: Lack structural integrity when stood on end.
• Cheap “bed in a box” mattresses: Often fall apart due to poor-quality materials.

Choosing the best mattress for a Murphy bed means avoiding these pitfalls to ensure longevity and performance.

Which mattresses will work in Murphy beds?

When selecting the best mattress for a Murphy bed, you want to focus on durability, support, and compatibility with the bed’s unique design. There are two main types of mattresses to consider: innerspring and foam core. Both options can work beautifully as long as they meet the quality and construction requirements for Murphy bed mattresses.

• Innerspring mattresses: These use metal coils to provide support, with foam or padding on top for added comfort. When choosing an innerspring mattress for a Murphy bed, opt for continuous coils rather than pocketed coils, as the latter may lack structural integrity when stored vertically. Continuous coils offer a more stable and resilient construction, ensuring your mattress maintains its shape and comfort over time.
  
• Foam core mattresses: These are made of dense foam layers that provide both support and comfort. High-quality foam core mattresses are an excellent option for Murphy beds because they are lightweight and designed to hold their shape even when stored vertically. Avoid cheap foam mattresses, like “bed in a box” models, as their layers are often poorly glued and can separate, leading to sagging and discomfort.

For added peace of mind, consider contacting the mattress manufacturer to verify if the mattress is warranted for use in a Murphy bed. Many high-quality mattress brands will specify whether their products are suitable for vertical storage or alternative bed types.

So remember, when selecting a Murphy bed mattress, you want to look for options with durable materials that are resistant to sagging, such as high-density foam or well-constructed coil systems. Features like breathable fabrics and motion isolation layers can also enhance comfort and ensure your mattress remains inviting for years to come.

Where to Find the Best Mattresses for Murphy Beds

Wilding Wallbeds has struck up a partnership with Serta Mattress Co. to create the best mattresses for Murphy beds. These mattresses have all been designed to fit, function, and last in a Murphy bed. This exclusive line of mattresses offers both innerspring and foam core options in various comfort levels. 

These mattresses also carry Serta’s 10-year warranty in a Murphy bed, which would be void if you try to use any other Serta mattress. All in all, these mattresses are the best way to ensure your guests are comfortable, and you don’t need to worry about the mattress in your Murphy bed falling apart.

Find the Perfect Mattress Fit for Your Murphy Bed

When selecting the best mattress for a Murphy bed, you want to balance comfort, durability, and compatibility. Do Murphy beds need special mattresses? Not exactly—but choosing the right one ensures your bed functions optimally and lasts for years.

At Wilding Wallbeds, we offer a wide variety of high-quality mattresses designed specifically for Murphy beds.

Our exclusive partnership with Serta brings you premium options, including foam core and continuous coil mattresses. Whether you’re looking for the right Murphy bed mattress size or wondering if Murphy beds can use regular mattresses, we’ve got you covered.

Discover the perfect blend of comfort and durability with our premium mattresses, designed specifically for Murphy beds—shop our mattresses today!