Lost In The Dimensions? Your Guide To Queen Murphy Bed Sizes

With housing costs skyrocketing, more and more people are looking for ways to maximize space in their homes. One ingenious solution is the queen Murphy bed - a bed that folds vertically or horizontally into the wall, freeing up valuable real estate when not in use. But before rushing out to purchase one, it's crucial to understand the specific dimensions and room requirements for a queen Murphy bed.

You'll learn about vertical vs. horizontal orientations, closed and open dimensions, mattress sizes, ideal wall and ceiling heights, and more. We'll even cover built-in storage options to help you make the most of unused nooks and corners. Read on to finally make sense of the numbers and confidently integrate a queen Murphy bed into your home!

Different Queen Murphy Bed Orientations

The first key factor in sizing up a queen Murphy bed is understanding the two main orientation options: vertical and horizontal.

Vertical Orientation

A vertically oriented queen Murphy bed folds up into the wall to a height of approximately 83 inches. When closed, it has a width of 64 inches and a depth of 23 inches. This slimmer profile is ideal if you have a room with a higher ceiling but limited floor space width-wise.

When fully open for sleeping, a vertically oriented queen Murphy bed drops down to a height of just 10 inches from the floor. But the width remains 64 inches to comfortably fit a queen mattress.

Horizontal Orientation

Alternatively, a horizontally oriented queen Murphy bed folds down parallel to the floor instead of upward. When closed, it measures 64 inches high by 84 inches wide by 23 inches deep. As you can see, the width is greater on a horizontal model while the height is reduced.

With a horizontal configuration, the bed extends out wider from the wall, requiring more floor space to that side when open. But the lowered height of just 10 inches makes it perfect if you have a room with a shorter ceiling.

Mattress Size and Thickness

Now that you know the basic closed and open dimensions for queen Murphy beds, it's important to understand mattress specifications as well. Queen Murphy beds are designed to accommodate standard queen-sized mattresses measuring 60 inches wide by 80 inches long. Many models can also fit a slightly smaller double or full mattress if desired.

In terms of mattress thickness, most queen Murphy beds can handle a maximum thickness of around 12 inches. This allows you to use a plush pillowtop mattress or thicker coil mattress if desired. However, mattresses exceeding 100 pounds in weight are generally not recommended for Murphy beds.

Measuring Your Room

Taking careful ceiling, wall, and floor measurements of the intended Murphy bed area is crucial before making a purchase. Here are some key room dimensions to keep in mind:

• Ceiling Height: Aim for a minimum ceiling height of 8 feet. Any lower and you may not have space for the bed to open properly.
• Wall Width: Plan for a wall width of at least 7 feet to accommodate a queen Murphy bed. Wider is even better for ample sleeping space.
• Projection/Depth: Factor in the depth the bed will extend out from the wall when open. Horizontal models require the most projection space.
• Clearance: Allow for sufficient clearance on all three sides of the bed when open - usually 16 to 24 inches minimum.

Closed vs. Open Positions

One of the coolest features of Murphy beds is the ability to instantly switch between closed and open positions with ease. When closed, the bed is folded vertically or horizontally into a cavity in the wall or an enclosed cabinet. This position minimizes its footprint, leaving room for other furniture or activities.

Then, when you're ready to sleep, the bed can be lowered down into the open position in seconds thanks to smooth hydraulic or spring-assisted mechanisms. The mattress rests on a metal frame, transforming the space into a comfortable sleeping area. Murphy beds allow you to alternate between maxed-out floor space and a practical guest bed or main bed on demand.

Storage Options and Configurations

Many modern Murphy bed units come with built-in storage options to maximize unused space even further. Some feature shelving or cabinetry housed in the cavity around the bed frame when closed. Others have storage drawers integrated right into the base of the bed that pull out for access to clothes, linens, and other essentials.

When selecting a unit, think carefully about your needs. Do you require shelves for folded items or hanging space for garments? Deep drawers for bulky bedding and towels? Or perhaps just a simple metal frame without storage works for your minimalist style. There are Murphy beds to fit just about any storage configuration if you measure carefully.

Safety Tips and Precautions

While queen Murphy beds provide an ingenious use of space, they do require some safety precautions during use:

• Carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper installation and operation.
• Use all provided bolts/fasteners and secure to studs in the wall if possible for maximum stability.
• Take care when opening and closing the bed slowly to avoid pinched fingers or slammed doors.
• Do not exceed the recommended mattress weight to avoid straining the lifting system.
• Ensure no obstructions are in the way before lowering the bed.
• Do not allow children to play on or operate the bed without supervision.

Queen Murphy beds provide a multifunctional, space-saving sleeping solution perfect for guest rooms, studios, offices, and other tight spaces. By understanding the dimensions, clearance requirements, and configurations, you can confidently assess if a unit will function well in your available room.

Just be sure to measure twice and plan thoroughly before installation. With smart planning, a queen Murphy bed can maximize every inch of room height, width, and depth that goes otherwise unused. No more feeling lost in the dimensions - you're now equipped to unlock the potential of your square footage with a queen Murphy bed!