What Is The Best Mattress For A Murphy Bed?

? Are you trying to pick the best mattress for your Murphy bed and want to avoid buying something that won’t fit, won’t fold properly, or won’t last?

What Is The Best Mattress For A Murphy Bed?

Choosing the best mattress for a Murphy bed is about matching mattress construction, thickness, and weight to the bed’s mechanism and the way you sleep. You’ll want comfort and support without interfering with the cabinet or wall mechanism, and you’ll want a mattress that won’t deform while stored upright.

This article walks you through the core factors to consider, how different mattress types behave in Murphy beds, sizing and measurement steps, installation and maintenance tips, and a clear buying checklist so you can make a confident choice.

How Murphy Beds Work and Why Mattress Choice Matters

A Murphy bed (wall bed) folds into a vertical cabinet or pivots into a horizontally stored position. The bed’s mechanism is engineered for a mattress of a certain thickness, weight, and rigidity. If the mattress is too thick, heavy, or rigid, the bed might not close or may damage the frame and mechanism. If the mattress creases or loses shape while stored upright, your sleep quality will suffer.

You need a mattress that balances comfort with flexibility and weight constraints. Different Murphy bed styles (vertical vs. horizontal, piston vs. spring-assisted) will influence the ideal mattress.

Types of Murphy Bed Configurations

Understanding your Murphy bed’s configuration helps narrow mattress choices.

Vertical wall bed: Stores upright against the wall. Requires a mattress that won’t crease badly and typically has stricter thickness limits.
Horizontal (fold-down) Murphy bed: Stores flat in a cabinet, folding down from the short side. Often allows slightly thicker mattresses because it doesn’t store fully vertical.
Desk/Cabinet hybrid: Has furniture built around the bed; may have stricter clearance requirements for thickness and profile.

Key Mattress Selection Criteria for Murphy Beds

You’ll want to evaluate these primary factors before buying a mattress for your Murphy bed:

Thickness (profile): Most mechanisms recommend 10–12 inches max, but many prefer 8–10 inches.
Weight: Heavier mattresses strain the mechanism and hinges; check manufacturer limits.
Flexibility: How well the mattress handles being stored upright without permanent creasing.
Material construction: Memory foam, latex, innerspring, and hybrid behave differently when stored.
Edge support and firmness: For comfort and to keep the mattress stable in the frame.
Breathability and moisture control: Mattresses stored upright can trap moisture; breathable covers help.
Certifications and safety: Check fire barriers and VOCs (off-gassing) for enclosed storage.

Quick Rule of Thumb

If you have a vertical Murphy bed: aim for a mattress 8–10 inches thick, light to medium weight, and with flexible construction (like certain foam or soft latex). If you have a horizontal cabinet-style bed: you can usually go up to 10–12 inches, but confirm the manufacturer’s specs.

Mattress Types: Pros, Cons, and Suitability for Murphy Beds

Different mattress constructions react differently to being stored vertically or horizontally. Here’s a helpful comparison.

Mattress Type	How It Behaves in a Murphy Bed	Typical Thickness Range	Pros for Murphy Beds	Cons for Murphy Beds
Memory Foam	Conforms and can crease temporarily but often recovers; can be heavier	6–12 in	Excellent contouring, low motion transfer, flexible	Heavy; some models retain crease longer; potential off-gassing
Latex (Natural/Synthetic)	Very resilient and springy; resists permanent creasing	6–12 in	Highly durable, breathable (natural), flexible, quick recovery	Heavier for solid latex, can be pricey
Innerspring (Bonnell or Offset)	Stiffer and less flexible; coil systems may not fold well vertically	6–14 in	Good airflow, familiar feel, strong edge support	Heavier; may not fold or store vertically without damage
Pocketed Coil / Hybrid	Hybrid behaves variably; thin hybrids can work if coils are pocketed and layers flexible	8–12 in	Balanced support and comfort, good edge support	Heavier; thicker hybrids may be too stiff for vertical storage
Futon / Folding Mattress	Designed to fold; ideal for cabinet beds or limited thickness	4–6 in	Specifically built for folding, lightweight	Usually less pressure relief and durability for nightly sleep
Airbed (Internal Pump)	Varies widely; many are not designed for vertical storage	6–12 in	Adjustable firmness	Mechanical components may be affected by storage; risk of damage

What These Mean for Your Purchase

If your bed stores vertically, prioritizing flexible foam or thin latex is often the safest route.
If your bed stores horizontally inside a cabinet, you have more freedom to choose hybrids or thicker mattresses.
Avoid thick, heavy innersprings in vertical storage unless manufacturer explicitly permits it.

Thickness and Clearance: Exact Measurements You Need

Before ordering, measure the mattress footprint and the cabinet clearance precisely.

Steps to measure:

Measure the interior depth of the cabinet where the mattress sits when closed.
Check the pivot/hinge area for any clearance limitations when the mattress is upright.
Measure mattress thickness (profile) you plan to buy and add the thickness of mattress protector and topper if you’ll keep them attached.
Confirm the bed’s recommended maximum mattress thickness and the manufacturer’s weight limit.

Storage Type	Recommended Maximum Thickness	Notes
Vertical wall bed	8–10 in (safe) — up to 12 in only if manufacturer allows	Thicker mattresses can crease and put stress on mechanism
Horizontal cabinet bed	10–12 in	More forgiving; check cabinet depth
Fold-in-half or bi-fold designs	6–8 in (or specialized folding mattress)	Designed to fold with mattress — use specific folding mattresses if required

Remember to account for mattress encasements, protectors, and toppers — these add height and may prevent closure if you’re near the tolerance limit.

Weight Limits and Mechanism Stress

Murphy bed hardware is rated for a maximum mattress weight combined with occupant weight in some cases. You must confirm the bed’s specs. If you exceed the weight rating, the hinges and gas springs can wear prematurely or fail.

Check manufacturer documentation for mattress maximum weight.
If documentation is unavailable, measure the weight of similar mattress types: foam is lighter, latex and hybrids tend to be heavier.
Consider pocket coils or hybrid models only if weight remains within limits.

Mattress Flexibility and Creasing Concerns

Long-term storage in a vertical position can cause permanent indentations or creasing for some mattresses. Here’s how common materials behave:

Memory foam: Conforms to shape and may crease at the fold line; some modern memory foams are formulated to recover quickly, but very dense or thick memory foam may keep a crease longer.
Latex: Naturally resilient; rubbery recovery helps prevent lasting creases.
Innerspring: Coils resist folding; storing vertically might damage the coil system or frame.
Pocketed coils: More flexible than continuous coils but still heavier and less fold-friendly than foam.

If your bed stores vertical and you want to use memory foam or hybrid, choose a lower-profile model with a flexible transition layer and verify it’s rated for wall-bed storage.

Breathability, Moisture, and Mold Prevention

When a mattress is stored upright and enclosed, moisture can build up, promoting mold and mildew. You should prioritize breathable materials and covers, and practice airing routines.

Tips:

Use moisture-wicking covers and avoid leaving the mattress fully sealed in plastic.
Open storage panels or allow the cabinet to breathe periodically.
If your climate is humid, consider a desiccant or periodic airing to prevent mustiness.

Fire Safety and Codes for Enclosed Beds

Some jurisdictions require bedding and upholstered products used in enclosed furniture to meet certain fire retardancy standards. You should:

Check local building or fire codes if the bed will be used in a rental property or commercial setting.
Look for mattresses with appropriate fire barrier certifications.
Avoid DIY modifications that could violate safety standards.

Measuring for Size: Mattress Dimensions and Murphy Beds

Make sure your mattress dimensions match the Murphy bed frame. Murphy beds typically use standard mattress sizes.

Standard mattress sizes (approximate):

Twin: 38″ x 75″
Twin XL: 38″ x 80″
Full: 54″ x 75″
Queen: 60″ x 80″
King: 76″ x 80″
California King: 72″ x 84″

Always measure the inside frame dimensions and compare with mattress dimensions. Remember that bedding and fitted sheets add thickness but not width/length.

Mattress Installation and Securing in a Murphy Bed

Proper installation prevents shifting and damage. Follow these steps when you fit a mattress:

Confirm mattress thickness and weight fit within the bed’s specifications.
Place mattress aligned with bed frame so side panels close flush.
Use straps or anchors provided by the Murphy bed manufacturer to secure the mattress vertically (if applicable).
If your bed has a hold-down bar or latch, ensure the mattress compresses appropriately against it.
Test opening and closing multiple times to ensure smooth operation and no pinching or rubbing.

Securing Without Damage

Use soft straps to secure the mattress, avoiding adhesives.
If mattress tends to slide, place thin non-slip pads between mattress and frame contact points.
Avoid metal or rigid fasteners that could puncture the mattress cover.

Mattress Protectors, Toppers, and Accessories

Be cautious with toppers and covers:

Thick toppers add height; remove them if they cause closure problems.
Use a breathable, thin protector while stored.
If you add a mattress pad for nightly comfort, remove it before closing the bed if it creates extra thickness.
Consider a fitted sheet stored separately so it doesn’t trap moisture when the bed is stored.

Maintenance and Care for Mattresses in Murphy Beds

To maximize mattress life and hygiene, follow a regular maintenance routine:

Air the mattress: If stored upright for extended periods, open the cabinet and let the mattress air out for a few hours every few weeks.
Rotate (if maker recommends): Some foam mattresses don’t need flipping, but rotating head-to-foot periodically can distribute wear evenly.
Clean promptly: Use a mild cleaner for spots; avoid soaking. Use a breathable mattress protector to minimize spills.
Inspect straps and hardware: Check for wear on bed straps and hinge components, especially if mattress is heavy.
Address creases early: If a crease forms, lie the mattress flat for several hours or days; warmth and time often help memory foam recover.

Buying Checklist: What to Ask and Verify

Before making a purchase, verify these points:

What is the Murphy bed manufacturer’s recommended maximum mattress thickness and weight?
Is the bed vertical or horizontal storage? Which mattress types are recommended?
Does the mattress come compressed/rolled in a box? If so, how long to fully expand?
Does the mattress manufacturer guarantee use in wall beds? Any restrictions?
What is the return or exchange policy if the mattress doesn’t work with your Murphy bed?
Are there certifications for flame resistance and VOC emissions?
Are replacement or custom mattresses available if you need a thin or special model?

Which Mattress Types Are Best for Different Sleepers?

Your sleeping position and personal comfort preferences still matter.

Side sleepers: Need pressure relief at shoulders and hips. Memory foam or soft latex in 8–10 in thickness often works well.
Back sleepers: Need lumbar support. Medium-firm foam, latex, or a thin hybrid can work; ensure adequate support layer.
Stomach sleepers: Prefer firmer support to keep hips aligned. Aim for medium-firm to firm options while staying within thickness limits.
Combination sleepers: Choose responsive materials (latex or responsive foam layers) that recover quickly.

Pros and Cons Recap by Mattress Type

Memory Foam

Pros: Great contouring, quiet, low motion transfer, flexible.
Cons: Heavier, potential for longer crease retention; choose lower-profile options for vertical beds.

Latex

Pros: Resilient and durable, breathes well (natural latex), resists creases.
Cons: Can be heavy if solid latex; higher price point.

Innerspring

Pros: Classic feel, good airflow.
Cons: Not ideal for vertical storage unless bed explicitly allows it; risk of coil damage.

Hybrid

Pros: Balanced support and comfort.
Cons: Weight and thickness sometimes exceed safe limits for wall beds.

Futon/Folding

Pros: Specifically designed to fold; excellent for cabinet-style beds that require folding.
Cons: Often less durable and less comfortable for nightly use compared to full mattresses.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Problem: Bed won’t close with mattress inside.

Check mattress thickness and remove topper/extra padding.
Ensure mattress center is aligned with frame; reposition if needed.
Confirm it’s not caught on inner hardware.

Problem: Mattress creases and won’t smooth out.

Lay mattress flat for several days; apply gentle warmth with room heat (not direct heat).
If crease persists, contact mattress maker — some offer warranties for permanent deformities.

Problem: Musty odor when opening stored bed.

Air mattress in a well-ventilated area.
Use moisture absorbers in poor humidity climates.
Clean mattress surface and use a breathable protector.

Problem: Mechanism strains or squeaks.

Check for over-weight mattress.
Lubricate hinges (manufacturer guidance) and tighten mounting screws.
Replace springs or gas pistons if worn.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use a memory foam mattress in a Murphy bed? A: Yes, if it’s within the bed’s thickness and weight limits. Choose a lower-profile, flexible memory foam known for quick recovery.

Q: Is a box spring allowed in a Murphy bed? A: No. Box springs are bulky and will prevent the bed from closing. Murphy beds use only mattress tops without box springs.

Q: Will a hybrid mattress work? A: Many hybrid mattresses are too thick or heavy for vertical storage. Thin hybrid models or those approved by the Murphy bed manufacturer can work.

Q: How often should I air out the mattress? A: Aim for airing every 2–6 weeks, especially in humid climates or if used nightly.

Q: Does a mattress warranty cover use in a Murphy bed? A: Only if the mattress manufacturer specifically permits it. Confirm warranty terms before purchase.

Example Buying Scenarios

You have a vertical wall bed and sleep on your side.

Recommended: 8–10 in memory foam or soft latex with quick recovery foam layers. Avoid thick hybrid or heavy latex.

You have a horizontal cabinet Murphy bed used nightly by a guest.

Recommended: Up to 12 in hybrid or latex for comfortable guest sleep. Use a breathable protector and ensure cabinet depth.

You need a folding mattress for a bi-fold Murphy bed with a desk.

Recommended: A specialized folding mattress or futon-style mattress designed to fold along the hinge, 4–6 in thick.

Final Checklist Before You Buy

Measure inside cabinet depth and verify hinge clearance.
Confirm manufacturer’s max mattress thickness and weight.
Choose mattress type based on storage orientation and sleep preferences.
Check mattress recovery characteristics (especially for memory foam).
Verify warranty and return policy for use in a Murphy bed.
Remove toppers and thick protectors when storing if they add excessive thickness.
Plan for periodic airing and inspection to prevent moisture buildup.

Conclusion

Choosing the best mattress for your Murphy bed is a balance between comfort and practicality. You’ll need to weigh mattress thickness, weight, flexibility, and material against the bed’s mechanism and storage style. In most vertical Murphy bed setups, a lower-profile memory foam or latex mattress between 8–10 inches often delivers the best mix of comfort and compatibility. For horizontal cabinet beds, you can lean toward thicker hybrids or plush options, provided they fit within the cabinet depth and weight constraints.

If you follow the measurement and verification steps outlined here, ask the right questions of both the bed and mattress manufacturers, and use sensible maintenance routines, you’ll find a mattress that keeps you sleeping well and preserves the bed’s function for years.

If you want, tell me the Murphy bed model, whether it stores vertically or horizontally, and your sleep preferences (side/back/stomach and firmness). I can recommend specific mattress constructions and ideal thicknesses for your situation.