Step-by-Step Guide to Measuring Your Room for a Murphy Bed

Everything you need to know to measure your space before purchasing a Murphy Bed

By Caden

Questions?

Our team is ready to help you answer any questions.

(866) 877-7803

Introduction

Murphy beds, also known as wall beds, are a fantastic space-saving solution for any room. Whether you’re looking to create a multifunctional home office, make the most of a small living space, or simply add versatility to a guest room, a Murphy bed can be a game-changer. However, before you invest in one, it’s crucial to measure your room correctly to ensure a seamless installation. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to measure your room for a Murphy bed.

Why Accurate Measurements Matter

Measuring your room accurately is the first and most crucial step when considering a Murphy bed. An ill-fitting bed can lead to installation problems, wasted time and money, and a less-than-ideal final result. Here’s why precise measurements are essential:

1. Proper Fit: A Murphy bed must fit snugly within the available space. If it’s too large, it won’t fold away neatly, and if it’s too small, it may not provide the desired sleeping space.
2. Safety: An improperly sized Murphy bed can compromise safety. It may not latch securely when in the upright position or could pose risks during operation.
3. Aesthetic Appeal: Accurate measurements ensure that the Murphy bed aligns well with the room’s decor and doesn’t look out of place.
4. Functionality: The right measurements allow for the inclusion of additional features like storage cabinets or shelves that complement your needs.

Tools You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather the following tools:

• Measuring tape: A flexible measuring tape is essential for accurately measuring distances.
• Pencil and paper: These are necessary for recording measurements and sketches.

Step-by-Step Guide to Measuring for a Murphy Bed

1. Clear the Room

Before you start measuring, clear the room of any obstructions. Move furniture and decor items out of the way to get an unobstructed view of the space.

2. Identify the Wall for Installation

Determine which wall you want to install the Murphy bed on. This should be a flat, clear wall with no windows, doors, or other obstacles that could interfere with the bed’s operation.

3. Measure Wall Width

Use the measuring tape to measure the width of the wall where you plan to install the Murphy bed. Measure from one corner to the other, ensuring the tape is level for accurate measurements. Note down this width.

4. Measure Ceiling Height

Measure the height of the ceiling in the room from the floor to the ceiling’s highest point. Ensure you measure at multiple points along the wall, as ceilings can sometimes be uneven. Record the lowest measurement to ensure your Murphy bed will fit when folded down.

5. Check for Obstructions

Take note of any outlets, light switches, or other fixtures on the wall. Measure their distance from the floor and from each side of the wall to ensure they won’t interfere with the bed mechanism or mattress.

6. Consider Clearance Space

A Murphy bed needs clearance space both in front of it to operate smoothly. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations for the specific bed you plan to install, but a general guideline is to allow at least 8 feet of space in front of the bed.

7. Sketch Your Room

Create a rough sketch of the room, noting the wall’s width, ceiling height, and the positions of any obstructions. This sketch will serve as a visual reference when you’re shopping for a Murphy bed.

8. Consult a Professional

If you’re unsure about any measurements or the suitability of your room for a Murphy bed, it’s always a good idea to consult a professional Murphy Bed company like Wilding Wallbeds. We have installed thousands of Murphy Beds and we’re totally confident that we’ll be able to help you with your measurements.

Shop Popular Murphy Bed Styles Now

Shop Now →

Conclusion

Measuring your room accurately is the crucial first step when considering a Murphy bed installation. It ensures not only a perfect fit but also safety and functionality. Take your time with measurements, consult manufacturer guidelines, and if in doubt, seek professional assistance. With the right measurements, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying the benefits of a space-saving Murphy bed in your room.

Caden Wilding

Director of Digital Marketing

Caden is our in-house guru on all things digital marketing. But, before he was building advertising campaigns he was building Murphy beds and TV Lift Furniture. Woodworking is in Caden’s blood…