Can a queen size Murphy bed be placed on its side?
Introduction
You probably have limited space and are considering creative ways to fit a queen bed into a compact room. This detailed article will help you understand whether a queen-size Murphy bed can be placed on its side, what that really means, and what you need to consider if you plan to reorient or build a Murphy bed horizontally.
What “On Its Side” Means
When people ask if a Murphy bed can be placed “on its side,” they usually mean turning the bed orientation so the mattress folds up along its long edge instead of its short edge. You need to be clear about whether you mean a horizontal (sideways) cabinet mount versus the more common vertical (tall) wall mount, because the mechanical, structural, and clearance issues differ for each.
Vertical (Standard) Murphy Bed
A vertical Murphy bed typically pivots near the headboard so the mattress lifts up with the head near the wall and the foot pointing outward when down. This is the most common configuration and many ready-made mechanisms and cabinetry systems are built specifically for this orientation.
Horizontal (Sideways) Murphy Bed
A horizontal or “sideways” Murphy bed usually mounts the pivot along a long side of the mattress, so the bed pulls down with the length running parallel to the wall and the head/foot along the wall. This layout is popular for low ceilings, short rooms, or spaces where you want the bed to function like a daybed when folded up.
Short Answer: Can a Queen Murphy Bed Be Placed on Its Side?
Yes, you can place a queen-size Murphy bed on its side in many cases, but it depends on the mechanism, cabinet design, and the mattress type. You must check manufacturer specifications, ensure wall structure and hardware can support the orientation, and adapt the mechanism or cabinet if necessary.
When It Works and When It Doesn’t
You will find that some Murphy bed hardware is specifically made for horizontal mounting, while other systems are strictly vertical-only. If you try to reorient a vertical-only mechanism to a horizontal position, you may void the warranty, damage the mechanism, or create unsafe conditions.
Structural and Mechanical Considerations
You will need to assess both the cabinetry and the mechanism when thinking about mounting a queen Murphy bed on its side. The load path, pivot location, and gravity assist (springs or pistons) are oriented differently for horizontal setups, and these differences affect how forces transfer to wall anchors and cabinetry.
Wall and Stud Strength
Your wall must be able to support the static and dynamic loads of the bed assembly and mattress. You should anchor into studs or a load-bearing structure, and consider using a ledger or back cleat for distributed load. A queen mattress plus frame and mechanism often exceed 200–300 lbs total, and dynamic forces during operation add to that.
Hinge, Spring, and Gas Strut Orientation
Mechanisms rely on gravity and counterbalance systems calibrated for a particular pivot axis. Springs and gas pistons exert force along specific vectors; mounting them in a different orientation can change the required force and stroke. You must use mechanisms rated for the intended orientation or modify/replace components with manufacturer-approved parts.
Cabinet Design and Depth
A sideways queen Murphy bed typically requires a deeper cabinet along the wall to house the mattress width. The cabinet depth and internal bracing must be designed to handle the mattress depth and to provide adequate clearance for the pivoting motion.
Weight Distribution and Center of Gravity
When you place the pivot along a long side, the center of gravity shifts relative to the pivot, often increasing leverage and stress on the mounting points. You’ll need stronger braces and possibly additional anchoring points for a horizontal queen bed versus a vertical one.
Mattress Considerations
Your choice of mattress affects whether a sideways installation is practical. Mattress weight, flexibility, thickness, and materials all influence storage behavior and mechanical requirements.
Mattress Type and Flexibility
Memory foam and latex mattresses usually store well in any orientation because they compress and flex evenly. Innerspring mattresses can be heavy and may not fold or stand on edge as well, potentially causing coil deformation when stored upright or sideways for long periods.
Thickness and Storage Clearance
Thicker mattresses require deeper cabinets and more robust mechanisms. A typical queen mattress thickness ranges from 8″ to 14″ or more. You must ensure the cabinet can hold the thickness plus any covering or frame. Also consider mattress ventilation to prevent moisture buildup.
Long-Term Effects on Mattress Warranty and Performance
Some mattress warranties require laying the mattress flat and may not cover long-term storage on its side. Prolonged storage in an unusual orientation can contribute to sagging or internal wear, so check the mattress manufacturer’s recommendations.
Murphy Bed Mechanism Types and Compatibility
Different mechanisms behave differently when reoriented. You should identify which mechanism you have or plan to buy and whether a sideways installation is supported.
Spring Counterbalance Systems
Spring-based systems provide a predictable counterbalance and are commonly tuned for a specific orientation. If you attempt to rotate these systems, the spring rate may no longer match the torque, causing difficulty raising or lowering the bed.
Gas Piston (Hydraulic) Support
Gas struts offer smoother motion and are often more forgiving with limited reorientation, but they still need to be specified for the correct stroke and orientation. Gas pistons can lose effectiveness if mounted in extreme angles that differ from the manufacturer’s intent.
Motorized or Electric Mechanisms
Motorized Murphy beds can often be adapted more easily, because a motor provides the force independent of gravity. However, the mechanical linkages, track geometry, and limit switches must be reconfigured and possibly reprogrammed to handle the horizontal movement. Safety interlocks must remain functional.
Custom Hardware and Retrofit Kits
You can sometimes retrofit or custom-build hardware meant for horizontal operation. Look for kits or mechanisms explicitly designed for horizontal mounting. If you choose a custom route, have an engineer or experienced installer verify the design.
Measurements, Clearance, and Space Planning
You must measure carefully to ensure the bed will fit, operate, and leave adequate living space when down. Below is a useful table summarizing key dimensions and clearance guidelines for a queen Murphy bed both in vertical and horizontal configurations.
| Item | Typical Vertical Orientation | Typical Horizontal Orientation (Sideways) |
|---|---|---|
| Mattress size (queen) | 60″ x 80″ | 60″ x 80″ |
| Required cabinet width | ~64″–68″ (to house mattress + frame) | ~82″–86″ (length of mattress plus frame along cabinet height) |
| Cabinet height | ~84″–90″ (to store mattress upright) | ~30″–36″ (height of cabinet usually corresponds to mattress thickness) |
| Cabinet depth | ~16″–20″ | ~24″–28″ (to store mattress on its side, cabinet depth must match mattress width) |
| Clearance in front when open | ~80″ length of bed projection | ~60″ width of bed projection (depends on room layout) |
| Ceiling height considerations | Standard ceiling heights okay | Lower ceilings easier to accommodate because bed runs parallel to wall |
| Ideal room length/width | Room depth should be at least mattress length + walkway | Room width should allow mattress width + walkway |
You will need to measure the room, ceiling height, and any obstructions (doors, windows, radiators). Always add several inches for trim, bedding, and clearance.
Pros and Cons of Placing a Queen Murphy Bed On Its Side
You need to weigh the trade-offs when deciding whether to install a sideways queen Murphy bed. The advantages and disadvantages differ based on your room layout and usage patterns.
Pros
- You can use the bed in narrow but long rooms where a vertical cabinet wouldn’t fit. This often frees up vertical wall space and can provide better traffic flow.
- When folded, the sideways orientation can look more like a sofa or daybed, creating a multifunctional living area. This makes the space feel more like a living room when the bed isn’t in use.
Cons
- The mechanism and cabinet must be custom or specifically rated for horizontal installation, which can increase cost. You may need to pay for engineering or custom hardware.
- A queen-sized mattress is heavy and creates larger leverage on the pivot when mounted along the long side, increasing demands on wall anchors and hardware. Accelerated wear or safety hazards are possible if not designed properly.
Cabinet and Hardware Modifications You Might Need
If you decide to place a queen Murphy bed on its side, you may need to modify or build custom cabinetry and hardware. This section explains typical modifications and reinforcements.
Reinforced Back Panel and Ledger
You should build a reinforced back panel that distributes load across multiple studs or uses a ledger block to spread the forces. This reduces the risk of the bed pulling away from the wall.
Additional Anchors and Bracing
Use through-bolts or heavy-duty lag screws into studs rather than relying on drywall anchors. Consider diagonal bracing or internal frames to stiffen the cabinet and reduce torsion.
Reconfigured Legs and Support When Open
A horizontal configuration may require secondary legs or a support system that deploys reliably when the bed is lowered. These legs must lock solidly and be flush when the bed is stored.
Modified or Replaced Mechanism
Replace manufacturer-supplied hardware with units explicitly rated for horizontal installation if necessary. If you retrofit, ensure the spring rates or gas piston specifications match the torque requirements of a sideways queen bed.
Step-by-Step Guide to Installing a Queen Murphy Bed Sideways
You will find the following checklist useful if you plan to install or reconfigure a Murphy bed on its side. These steps assume you are comfortable with carpentry and mechanical work, otherwise hire a qualified installer.
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Measure the room carefully: width, height, door swing, window placement, vents, and any obstacles.
- Add clearance allowances for bedding and trim. Double-check that the mattress, when lowered, won’t block an egress path.
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Check the mattress: weigh it and measure thickness and flexibility.
- If the mattress is too heavy or not suited for vertical storage on its side, consider replacing it with a lighter foam model.
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Choose or acquire a mechanism rated for horizontal installation.
- If using springs or pistons, confirm stroke length, force, and mounting orientation with the manufacturer.
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Design the cabinet and reinforcement: plan internal framing, back cleats, and anchoring points into wall studs.
- Use solid plywood backers or a ledger to distribute load across multiple studs.
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Assemble cabinet and install mechanism at a low point so it can be tested safely.
- Use temporary supports and braces during assembly.
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Anchor cabinet to wall studs using lag bolts or through-bolts and check for deflection.
- Have a second person help you hold and align the unit during bolting.
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Attach mattress platform and test motion slowly, checking for binding, uneven forces, and proper leg deployment.
- Adjust springs or pistons to get a smooth counterbalanced motion; readjust if the bed is too stiff or too loose.
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Install safety hardware: locking latches, leg locks, and soft-close stops if needed.
- Verify that the bed locks securely when stored and that supports engage automatically when lowered.
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Final inspection: test with repeated cycles and with someone sitting or lying on the bed to check stability.
- Confirm no studs are pulling, no hardware is heating up, and no unusual sounds occur.
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Seal and finish the cabinet and provide ventilation openings if mattress storage could trap moisture.
- Consider thin breathable panels or vents to aid airflow.
Safety and Building Code Considerations
You must prioritize safety. Murphy beds can tip, pinch, or fall unexpectedly if not installed and maintained properly. Always follow local building codes and manufacturer instructions.
Anti-Tip Anchoring and Leg Locks
Install anti-tip hardware and verify that pivot and mounting bolts are torqued to specification. Leg locks that engage securely when the bed is down are essential for load transfer.
Egress and Fire Safety
In a bedroom, a bed should not block egress routes or firefighting access. If the sideways Murphy bed interferes with exit paths, consider alternatives. Local building departments may have specific rules about sleeping areas and egress.
Warranties and Manufacturer Recommendations
Altering the orientation of a pre-built Murphy bed can void warranties. You should consult your manufacturer or supplier and obtain written approval if you plan to deviate from standard installation.
Maintenance and Long-Term Care
Once installed, you should maintain the mechanism and check connections periodically. Routine maintenance will extend mechanism life and keep the bed safe.
Periodic Tightening and Inspection
Check bolts, lag screws, and hinge fasteners every 6–12 months. Tighten any connections that show loosening and replace worn hardware immediately.
Lubrication and Strut Replacement
Lubricate pivot points and replace gas struts or springs per manufacturer recommendations. If you hear squeaks or notice uneven motion, service the mechanism right away.
Mattress Care While Stored
Rotate or flip the mattress periodically to avoid permanent indentations and ensure even wear. If the mattress is stored on its side for long periods, consider removing it and storing it flat on a firm surface whenever possible.
Alternatives if Side Placement Is Problematic
If you determine a sideways queen Murphy bed isn’t feasible, you still have options that can achieve similar space-saving goals. Consider alternatives that may be safer, less expensive, or easier to install.
Vertical Murphy Bed Options
A traditional vertical Murphy bed is often easier to source and install, and typically has greater availability of off-the-shelf mechanisms. This orientation is a proven, standard solution for many small spaces.
Sofa Beds, Daybeds, and Fold-Out Couches
A quality sofa bed or futon provides multiple functions without the mechanical complexity of a Murphy bed. These options are often lighter and easier to move.
Custom Loft or Platform Solutions
If ceiling height allows, lofting the bed on a platform can free floor space without complex wall-mounted mechanisms. This is especially useful in studios or tiny homes.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
You may run into operational issues after reorienting a Murphy bed. This section helps you diagnose common problems and suggests fixes.
Bed Too Heavy or Hard to Lift
If the mechanism can’t counterbalance the mattress, upgrade to stronger springs or gas struts rated for the heavier load. Alternatively, replace the mattress with a lighter model.
Cabinet Flexing or Fasteners Pulling Out
If you see cabinet flex or wall fasteners pulling, add internal bracing or move to through-bolts that go into studs. Distribute load across multiple points to reduce stress.
Uneven or Jerky Motion
Uneven motion often indicates misaligned hardware, worn pivots, or incorrect spring struts. Stop using the bed until the mechanism is adjusted or parts are replaced.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
You likely have specific practical concerns, so below are answers to common questions about placing a queen Murphy bed on its side.
Will a regular queen mattress fit in a sideways Murphy bed cabinet?
It will fit dimensionally but you must confirm the cabinet depth and internal clearance can accommodate the mattress thickness and any frame or rails. Some modifications are usually needed to house a queen mattress sideways safely.
Can I convert a vertical Murphy bed to horizontal without replacing the mechanism?
Often not safely. Vertical mechanisms are calibrated for their pivot axis and may not work properly if reoriented. It’s safer to obtain a mechanism specifically designed for horizontal use.
Are gas pistons better than springs for sideways installation?
Gas pistons can be easier to tune and provide smoother motion, but they still must be the correct force rating and stroke for the orientation. If you choose gas pistons, select units tested for the horizontal orientation.
Do I need a professional installer?
If you lack carpentry or mechanical experience, hire a professional. A qualified installer can confirm structural adequacy, align hardware correctly, and ensure safety features are installed.
Cost Considerations
You should plan for potentially higher costs for a sideways queen Murphy bed compared to a standard vertical installation. Custom cabinetry, heavier-duty hardware, additional reinforcement, and possibly engineering or installer fees increase the price.
Typical Cost Breakdown
- Cabinet materials and construction: moderate-to-high, depending on finish.
- Mechanism (horizontal-rated): more expensive than standard vertical kits.
- Installation and reinforcement: additional labor for anchoring and testing.
- Optional extras (motorization, soft-close): increase cost further.
Final Recommendation
If your room layout truly benefits from a sideways queen Murphy bed and you select hardware and cabinetry designed for horizontal installation, it can be an excellent space-saving choice. You must verify mechanism compatibility, reinforce mounting points, and choose a mattress suited to the orientation.
You should get written confirmation from manufacturers when modifying or reorienting equipment, and consider hiring a professional to avoid safety and warranty issues. With proper planning and execution, a sideways queen Murphy bed can work well and provide flexible living space without compromising safety or durability.
