Is There A Murphy Bed That Converts Into A Closet?

Have you ever considered whether a Murphy bed can double as a fully functional closet so you can maximize your small space without sacrificing storage?

Is There A Murphy Bed That Converts Into A Closet?

Yes — there are Murphy bed systems designed to look and function like a closet or wardrobe when the bed is stowed. These hybrid units combine the space-saving benefits of a wall bed with built-in storage elements such as hanging rods, shelves, drawers, and cabinet doors, so the unit serves as usable closet space during the day and a comfortable bed at night. You’ll want to understand the types, mechanisms, sizing, installation needs, costs, and safety details before choosing the right option for your home.

Short answer and quick overview

You can find both off-the-shelf and custom solutions that convert from closet to bed. Some systems are essentially wardrobes with internal fold-down beds, while others are full wall-bed systems with a wardrobe-style facade and internal storage. The difference in approach affects how much hanging space and shelving you get, how thick the unit needs to be, and how complicated installation will be.

How Murphy Beds Work

Murphy beds rely on balance mechanisms and a secure frame to fold the mattress vertically into a cabinet or closet-like enclosure. Understanding the basic mechanics helps you see how a closet-style front is possible and how much usable storage you can realistically include.

Basic mechanism types

There are a few common mechanisms: spring-balanced systems, piston (gas-strut) systems, and pivoting frames. Spring systems use torsion springs to offset the bed’s weight, while pistons offer smoother, often slower motion and can feel safer for light-handed operation. Pivot frames shift the center of gravity to allow more compact cabinetry.

Cabinet and facade integration

When you want closet functionality, the front facade needs to provide the appearance and function of a wardrobe while allowing the bed to fold back inside. That typically means deeper cabinets or cleverly arranged storage areas at the bed’s head and foot so hanging space and shelves don’t interfere with the mattress when it stows.

Types of Murphy Bed + Closet Solutions

Different approaches give different balances of storage, aesthetics, cost, and ease of installation. You’ll want to match the type to your practical needs and budget.

Armoire-style (wardrobe) Murphy bed

These look like a freestanding wardrobe or armoire. The bed folds into a cabinet with doors that shut like a closet. You’ll get a finished closet appearance and some internal shelving or hanging space, but storage depth is limited by the need to house the mattress.

Pros: Attractive, relatively easy to place in a room, can be movable.
Cons: Limited hanging depth; not ideal for long dresses or coats without clever internal design.

Integrated wall bed with closet facade

This uses a full wall-bed (Murphy) mechanism but with a wardrobe-style exterior and built-in storage around the bed frame. You can get more substantial hanging space by placing shelving and closet modules next to or above the bed compartment.

Pros: More storage options, sturdier installation, often custom-finished.
Cons: Requires wall attachment; more expensive than freestanding armoire models.

Pivoting wardrobe/transforming bed systems

Some designers create custom pivoting frames where part of the wardrobe swings down into a bed and other parts remain as a closet. These are more rare and usually custom solutions tailored to a specific space.

Pros: Highly customized; can maximize both bed comfort and closet function.
Cons: Higher price and complexity; needs professional design and installation.

Hybrid closet + shelving wall bed

Instead of trying to put hanging space behind the bed, this approach uses the bed compartment for the mattress and places closet modules (open shelving, drawers, rods) alongside it in a built-in wall unit. The final look is a continuous closet wall that conceals a bed.

Pros: Best storage capacity; visually seamless.
Cons: Requires wall length and professional build.

What You Can Expect From Closet Functionality

You’ll need realistic expectations about how much closet functionality you’ll get based on the type you choose. Closet-like features in the unit depend on cabinet depth, mattress size, and mechanism clearance.

Typical closet features included

Short-hang rods for shirts, blouses, folded items.
Shelves for folded clothes, bins, or linen storage.
Drawers for small items or undergarments.
Shoe shelves or cubbies.
Mirrored or paneled doors to hide the bed.
Integrated lighting and electrical options for convenience.

Limitations to accept

Because the bed occupies significant depth when stowed, true full-depth hanging (for long coats or dresses) is harder to achieve inside the bed enclosure. You can usually get short-hang space or place long-hang sections alongside the bed compartment. Also, deep shelves may reduce the structural space available for the bed hardware.

Sizing and Space Planning

Sizing is critical. You’ll need to measure carefully so the bed can open and close safely and so closet storage is functional. The following guidance will help you plan.

Mattress sizes and their implications

Choose the mattress size first — twin, full, queen, or king — because the mattress determines the cabinet width and height.

Twin and twin XL: Best if you want to maximize wardrobe depth and storage.
Full: A balance between sleep space and storage compromise.
Queen: Very common but requires more cabinet width and depth.
King: Rare in closet-converting units because of space and weight.

Cabinet depth and closet depth

To include useful hanging space, the cabinet or adjacent closet modules should be at least 18–24 inches deep. The bed enclosure itself typically requires 12–18 inches of depth beyond the mattress thickness when stowed, so combining storage and bed depth requires careful layout.

Clearance and operation space

Ensure you have wall-to-floor clearance for the mechanism and sufficient floor space in front of the cabinet when the bed is down.

Allow at least the mattress length plus 6–12 inches at the foot for bedding and foot clearance.
Ensure there’s unobstructed space for bed legs to touch the floor when opened.
Check ceiling height: for most wall beds you’ll need a minimum ceiling height of 8 feet to accommodate vertical lift and cabinetry height comfortably.

Example measurements table

Mattress Size	Typical Cabinet Width (min)	Minimum Depth for Closet Function	Typical Finished Height
Twin (38″ x 75″)	40–42 inches	18–22 inches	42–52 inches
Twin XL (38″ x 80″)	40–42 inches	18–22 inches	44–54 inches
Full (54″ x 75″)	56–58 inches	20–24 inches	52–60 inches
Queen (60″ x 80″)	62–66 inches	22–26 inches	56–64 inches
King (76″ x 80″)	78–80+ inches	24–30 inches	56–68 inches

Note: These are typical ranges. Specific models and custom builds may differ. Always verify exact dimensions with the manufacturer or carpenter.

Mechanism and Hardware Considerations

The mechanism you choose affects ease of use, long-term durability, and how you design the closet space.

Springs vs. gas pistons

Springs: Often more compact and lower cost. They require precise calibration and can be strong to operate.
Gas pistons (struts): Provide smoother and quieter motion and are perceived as safer for everyday operation. They can be more expensive and sometimes bulkier.

Frame and mounting hardware

A sturdy steel frame is crucial for safety. Wall-mounted units need secure anchoring to studs or a load-bearing wall. If you’re installing into a non-load-bearing partition, you’ll need a structural ledger or reinforcement.

Doors and closures

Closet doors that hide the bed can be hinged, sliding, or bifold. Sliding or bifold doors save swing space; hinged doors can be more visually classic but may require clearance when opened.

Design and Style Options

You should be able to match a Murphy bed closet to most interior styles, from minimalist and modern to classic and traditional.

Exterior finishes

Choose from painted panels, veneered plywood, laminate, or solid wood faceframes. Mirrored doors can make the room feel larger and serve closet functions at the same time.

Internal organization

Customize rod placements, adjustable shelving, pull-out baskets, tie racks, and shoe storage. If you want true closet utility, plan your internal organization before building so the carpenter or manufacturer can allocate internal dimensions accordingly.

Color and hardware choices

Handles, knobs, trim, and lighting all affect the perception of a closet versus a hidden bed. Slim recessed pulls and continuous panel faces create a true closet look.

Installation: DIY or Professional?

You can install some freestanding armoire-style units yourself, but integrated wall bed systems that carry significant weight and require secure wall attachment are better handled by professionals.

When to hire a pro

If the unit mounts to studs or requires wall reinforcement.
If you want integrated electrical, lighting, or in-cabinet outlets.
If the mechanism needs calibration for safety.
If you’re getting a custom built-in unit or have non-standard wall conditions.

DIY-friendly options

Freestanding armoire Murphy beds that are preassembled or have clear instructions.
Units that come with floor-to-ceiling supports and don’t require wall anchoring (verify safety ratings).
Simple cabinet fronts that conceal existing wall beds.

Safety Considerations

Your safety concerns should be front and center, especially if children will be around or if the unit gets frequent daily use.

Locking and safety latches

Choose units that include a reliable latch or lock when the bed is stowed. Soft-close or locking mechanisms prevent accidental opening.

Weight limits and mattress selection

Check the manufacturer’s rated weight capacity — this includes mattress weight plus occupants. Use mattresses that fit the recommended thickness; very thick mattresses can interfere with mechanism operation.

Anchoring and wall load

Always mount to studs or a reinforced substrate. For heavy units, a ledger board or plywood backing that’s secured to multiple studs is often required.

Child and pet safety

Train kids to treat the unit as furniture, not play equipment. Keep hands and small body parts away from moving parts and pinch points. Some manufacturers supply protective guards or slow-motion mechanisms to reduce risks.

Cost Breakdown

Costs vary widely based on size, mechanism, finish, and whether you choose custom cabinetry. Here’s a general guide to help you plan.

Typical price ranges

Freestanding armoire wall bed: $1,000–$3,000 (mass-market finishes).
Basic wall bed with closet-like facade (ready-made): $2,000–$6,000.
High-end or custom built-in wall bed with extensive closet cabinetry: $6,000–$15,000+.
Installation: $300–$1,500 depending on complexity and whether electrical work is needed.

What drives price

Mechanism quality (pistons cost more than simple springs).
Cabinetry materials and finishes (solid wood vs. MDF vs. laminate).
Custom sizing and built-ins vs. stock sizes.
Interior organization systems (drawers, pull-outs, lighting).
Labor and shipping, especially for heavier units.

Example cost table

Component	Typical Cost Range
Ready-made armoire Murphy bed	$1,000 – $3,000
Wall-mounted Murphy bed (standard)	$1,500 – $5,000
Custom built-in wall bed + closet	$6,000 – $15,000+
Professional installation	$300 – $1,500
Custom interior closet fittings	$200 – $2,000+

Brands and Where to Look

While many regional makers and custom carpenters can build a closet-Murphy-bed hybrid, several types of vendors are good starting points.

Manufacturers and specialty retailers

Look for reputable wall-bed manufacturers and companies that specialize in transforming furniture. Resource Furniture is known for transforming systems. Other companies focus on custom wall beds and built-ins. Always check reviews and ask for references and warranty information.

Custom closet companies and cabinet shops

A local custom closet or cabinet shop (like California Closets or a local cabinetmaker) can integrate a wall bed into a larger closet wall. They’ll usually provide personalized layouts and finishes and can coordinate the mechanism with cabinet construction.

Things to ask before buying

What is the mechanism type and warranty?
Does the price include installation and anchoring?
Will you receive clear measurements and drawings before production?
What are the return, repair, and parts policies?

Pros and Cons — Should You Choose a Closet-Converting Murphy Bed?

Weigh benefits against limitations to decide whether this hybrid is right for your space.

Pros

Greatly increases usable space in studios and small rooms.
Allows one piece of furniture to serve two functions.
Can look like a wardrobe or integrated built-in rather than a “bed in a box.”
Offers creative storage solutions that can be tailored to needs.

Cons

Limited depth for long-hang clothing inside the bed enclosure.
Costs can be high for custom built-ins.
Installation can be complicated and often requires professional help.
Heavier moving parts mean potential maintenance down the line.

Maintenance and Care

You’ll want to keep the mechanism in good working order so the bed opens and closes safely for years.

Routine maintenance tips

Periodically check bolts and fasteners and tighten as needed.
Clean tracks and pivot points from dust.
Lubricate moving parts only if the manufacturer recommends a specific lubricant.
Inspect gas pistons or springs for wear or sag and replace them if operation feels uneven.

Mattress care

Use the recommended mattress thickness and weight. Rotate and vacuum the mattress regularly to extend its life since access to both sides may be limited.

Step-by-Step Planning Checklist

Follow these steps to go from idea to finished installation.

Measure your space carefully: wall width, ceiling height, floor clearance, and surrounding furniture.
Choose mattress size based on comfort and space priorities.
Decide how much closet functionality you need: hanging length, shelves, drawers.
Research mechanism types and select one that suits your use frequency and budget.
Get quotes from multiple manufacturers or cabinet shops and compare warranties.
Verify structural requirements for wall anchoring and arrange installation.
Inspect the unit and test the mechanism after installation.
Organize the closet interior for balanced weight and accessibility.

Design Ideas and Use Cases

You can use a closet-Murphy-bed in many settings. Knowing typical use cases helps you choose elements to prioritize.

Studio apartment living

You can keep clothing and daily-use items accessible in the same footprint where a bed would otherwise dominate, making your studio feel like a real one-bedroom when the bed is stowed.

Guest room that doubles as a dressing room or home office

Install a Murphy bed with wardrobe facade and add a fold-away desk to create a multifunctional guest space that can also be used as a dressing room or workspace.

Children’s rooms and teen rooms

For growing kids, a closet-Murphy-bed frees floor space for play and study and can adapt to changing storage needs with adjustable shelves and rods.

Entryway or multipurpose hall

A shallow wardrobe-style unit with a fold-down twin can become a guest sleeping nook while providing coat and shoe storage for daily household use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Answering common questions will clarify practical concerns you’ll have as you plan.

Will a Murphy bed closet feel like a real closet?

Yes, if you plan the internal dimensions carefully and accept that long-hang clothing may need to be placed in adjacent modules. Many homeowners find short-hang and shelving configurations perfectly adequate for daily wear.

Can I keep a mattress on the bed while it’s stored?

Absolutely — these systems are designed to store a mattress. You should use a mattress with the recommended thickness and weight for the mechanism you choose.

Do I need a special mattress?

No special mattress is required in many cases, but memory foam and hybrid mattresses are popular because they compress and fit well into cabinet spaces. Avoid very thick, heavy mattresses unless the mechanism is rated for the weight.

How durable are the mechanisms?

High-quality piston or spring systems from reputable manufacturers can last many years with proper maintenance. Check for warranties and consider brands that offer replacement parts.

Can I retrofit an existing closet to house a Murphy bed?

Possibly, but retrofitting requires checking depth and structural support. Most retrofits need a professional to ensure the bed has enough clearance and the wall or floor can take the load.

Final recommendations and next steps

If you’re trying to maximize space while keeping closet functionality, a Murphy bed that converts into or is disguised as a closet can be an excellent solution. Start by deciding your priorities: do you need maximum hanging depth, or is a short-hang/ folding solution acceptable? Will this be a daily bed or a guest bed? Once you choose the use case, measure carefully, consult a reputable vendor or cabinetmaker, and verify installation and safety details before committing.

Measure twice, plan once: take careful wall and ceiling measurements.
Prioritize mechanism quality and warranty for frequent use.
Consider a custom approach if you need significant storage or specific internal layouts.
Budget for installation — secure mounting is crucial for safety.

You can transform a small room into a multi-purpose, organized space with the right Murphy bed + closet solution. With careful planning, you’ll get both a comfortable sleeping surface and meaningful closet storage without losing style or safety.