A modern Murphy bed is shown pulled down and ready for use in a compact room.

The Complete Guide to Murphy Beds in Australia (2025)

Posted by Luxo Living on

Murphy beds (wall beds) transform small Australian homes by folding vertically into cabinets, freeing floor space instantly. They're ideal for studio apartments, guest rooms, and home offices. Quality models support 200kg, include hydraulic lift systems, and cost between $719-$2,799 AUD. Installation requires securing to load-bearing walls, and compatible foldable mattresses ensure comfort without compromising functionality. 

What Are Murphy Beds and Why Are They Popular in Australia? 

Murphy beds, also called wall beds or foldout beds, are space-saving beds that fold vertically into a wall-mounted cabinet or closet. When not in use, they disappear completely, transforming bedrooms into living rooms, offices, or play areas within seconds. 

Australia's urban housing crisis has made Murphy beds essential furniture. With average apartment sizes shrinking to 50-70 square metres in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne, every square metre counts. Murphy beds allow Australians to maintain guest accommodation without sacrificing valuable living space. 

The concept dates back to 1900 when William Lawrence Murphy invented the mechanism in San Francisco. Today's designs incorporate modern safety features, hydraulic systems, and multi-functional elements like integrated desks and storage solutions. 

 

Types of Murphy Beds Available in Australia 

Standard Vertical Murphy Beds 

These classic designs fold up into a vertical cabinet, typically 160cm wide by 105cm high when closed. They're the most space-efficient option, requiring minimal floor depth (around 63cm). 

Best for: Studio apartments, small guest rooms, and compact spaces where floor space is the primary constraint. 

Murphy Beds with Integrated Storage 

Modern Australian models often include built-in drawers, shelving units, or cabinets. These provide dual functionality—sleeping space at night and storage capacity during the day. 

Best for: Bedrooms lacking adequate wardrobe or drawer space, children's rooms, and properties where storage is limited. 

Murphy Beds with Desks (Wall Bed Desk Combos) 

These innovative designs feature fold-down desks or workstations that deploy when the bed is stored. Some models include shelving for books, computers, and office supplies. 

Best for: Work-from-home professionals, students, and anyone needing a dedicated workspace that converts to a bedroom for guests. 

Murphy Sofa Beds (2-in-1 Designs) 

These premium units combine a Murphy bed with an integrated sofa. When the bed is stored, a comfortable 2-seater sofa remains, creating a functional living room setup. 

Best for: Studio apartments, granny flats, Airbnb properties, and spaces that need to function as both bedroom and living area. 

Single vs Queen Murphy Beds 

Single Murphy beds suit children's rooms, narrow spaces, and solo guest accommodations. They're more affordable (starting around $2,100 AUD) and require less wall space. 

Queen Murphy beds are the most popular choice for Australian homes, accommodating couples and providing standard bed sizing (153cm x 203cm). They represent the best balance between comfort and space efficiency. 

Key Factors When Choosing Murphy Beds in Australia 

Safety Standards and Certifications 

Murphy beds must comply with Australian furniture safety standards. Look for models with: 

  • Safety locking mechanisms that prevent accidental opening or closing 

  • Hydraulic lift systems or gas pistons for controlled, smooth operation 

  • Fixed positioning locks on cabinet fronts and side safety latches 

  • Weight capacity ratings (quality models support 200kg minimum) 

  • Middle leg support systems that automatically deploy for bed stability 

Always verify that the manufacturer provides detailed safety certifications. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) oversees furniture safety standards, and reputable retailers should reference compliance. 

Installation Requirements 

Critical: Murphy beds must be secured to load-bearing structural walls, never drywall alone. This is the most important safety consideration for Australian installations. 

Professional installation is strongly recommended. DIY installation requires: 

  • Locating wall studs or solid masonry walls 

  • Heavy-duty screws (typically 8-10cm long) into structural supports 

  • Level mounting to ensure proper bed operation 

  • Two people minimum for safe assembly 

Rental properties should verify landlord approval before installation. Most Murphy beds can be disassembled and relocated when moving. 

Materials and Build Quality 

Solid pine wood Murphy beds outperform engineered wood alternatives in Australian conditions. The durability matters in humid coastal climates and dry inland regions. 

Quality indicators include: 

  • Solid hardwood frames (pine, oak) vs particleboard 

  • Metal hinges and hardware rated for repeated daily use 

  • Powder-coated metal components resistant to rust (important in coastal areas) 

  • Smooth-gliding mechanisms with minimal friction points 

  • Reinforced corner joints and dowel construction 

Engineered wood and melamine blends work well for cabinet exteriors but check that structural components use solid timber. 

Size and Room Dimensions 

Measure twice, purchase once. Australian Murphy beds require: 

For Queen Murphy Beds: 

  • Ceiling height: Minimum 240cm (standard Australian ceiling height) 

  • Wall width: Minimum 160cm clear space 

  • Floor clearance when deployed: 210-220cm depth 

  • Side clearance: 50cm on each side for bed access 

For Single Murphy Beds: 

  • Wall width: Minimum 110cm 

  • Floor clearance: 200cm depth 

  • Ideal for rooms 3m x 3m or larger 

Account for door swings, windows, and furniture placement when planning installation. 

Mechanisms: 3-Fold vs Hydraulic Systems 

3-fold mechanisms use hinged panels that fold accordion-style. They're: 

  • More affordable ($719-$859 AUD) 

  • Simpler to operate manually 

  • Require foldable mattresses specifically designed with fold lines 

  • Best for occasional use (guest rooms) 

Hydraulic lift systems use gas pistons or springs for assisted lifting. They're: 

  • Easier to operate (minimal effort required) 

  • More durable for daily use 

  • Compatible with standard mattresses up to 15cm thick 

  • Premium pricing ($2,000-$2,800 AUD) 

Most Australian families prefer hydraulic systems for daily use, while 3-fold models suit guest-only applications. 

Storage Solutions and Multi-Functionality 

The best Murphy beds do double duty. Consider models with: 

  • Hidden drawer storage beneath or beside the bed frame 

  • Integrated shelving for books, décor, and personal items 

  • Cabinet storage that functions when the bed is closed 

  • Fold-down desks for workspace functionality 

  • USB charging ports and electrical outlets (premium models) 

Multi-functional designs justify the investment by replacing multiple furniture pieces—a Murphy bed with desk eliminates the need for separate bedroom and office furniture. 

 

Benefits of Murphy Beds for Australian Homes 

Maximising Small Space Living 

Murphy beds reclaim 4-6 square metres of floor space instantly. In Australian property markets where every square metre costs $7,000-$15,000, this represents significant value. 

Studio apartments transform from cramped single-purpose spaces into flexible living environments. Guest rooms become yoga studios, home gyms, or children's play areas when not hosting visitors. 

Multi-Functional Room Design 

One room, multiple purposes. Murphy beds enable: 

  • Bedroom → Home office (morning work, evening sleep) 

  • Bedroom → Living room (day entertainment, night accommodation) 

  • Bedroom → Exercise space (yoga, Pilates, workout area) 

  • Bedroom → Children's playroom (safe play during day, sleep at night) 

This flexibility appeals to Australian families adapting to work-from-home arrangements and multi-generational living situations. 

Increasing Property Value and Rental Appeal 

Investment properties with Murphy beds command higher rental prices. Airbnb hosts report: 

  • 15-20% higher nightly rates for studio apartments with Murphy beds 

  • Improved booking rates due to "flexible space" appeal 

  • Better reviews mentioning "clever use of space" 

Property investors use Murphy beds to market compact apartments as "1.5 bedroom" units, bridging the gap between studio and one-bedroom pricing. 

Guest Accommodation Without Dedicated Rooms 

Australians host guests 8-12 nights per year on average, according to Australian Bureau of Statistics household surveys. Dedicating an entire room to occasional use is inefficient. 

Murphy beds provide comfortable queen-size accommodation for family visits, holidays, and overnight guests without permanently converting valuable living space. 

Modern Aesthetic Appeal 

Contemporary Murphy bed designs enhance room décor rather than detracting from it. When closed, quality models resemble: 

  • Stylish modern cabinets with clean lines 

  • Functional storage furniture with white and oak finishes 

  • Decorative features that can display lightweight décor items 

  • Minimalist pieces that complement Scandinavian and contemporary interiors 

This aesthetic versatility suits Australian design preferences for light, airy, modern spaces. 

Safety Considerations for Murphy Beds in Australia 

Installation Safety Requirements 

Improper installation is the primary safety risk with Murphy beds. Follow these critical guidelines: 

  1. Always secure to structural walls: Use wall studs, masonry, or solid timber framing—never drywall or plasterboard alone 

  1. Professional installation recommended: Qualified furniture installers understand load-bearing requirements 

  1. Use manufacturer-supplied hardware: Generic screws and brackets may not meet safety specifications 

  1. Test stability before use: Verify the bed deploys smoothly and locks securely in both positions 

  1. Regular maintenance checks: Inspect hinges, hydraulics, and locks every 6 months 

Operating Safety Guidelines 

Educate all household members on proper operation: 

  • Never allow children to operate Murphy beds unsupervised 

  • Keep the deployment area clear of obstacles, pets, and people 

  • Use both hands when lowering or raising the bed 

  • Engage safety locks every time the bed is stored or deployed 

  • Never overload storage compartments when bed is raised 

Child Safety Measures 

Murphy beds pose entrapment risks if misused. For households with young children: 

  • Install childproof locks on cabinet fronts 

  • Teach children that Murphy beds are not play equipment 

  • Supervise bed deployment when children are present 

  • Consider single-size models for children's rooms (lighter weight) 

  • Ensure middle leg supports deploy correctly for bed stability 

The ACCC recommends treating Murphy beds similarly to heavy furniture requiring anti-tip anchoring for child safety. 

Weight Capacity and Mattress Compatibility 

Exceeding weight limits voids warranties and creates safety hazards. Quality Australian Murphy beds support: 

  • 200kg minimum for queen models (two adults comfortably) 

  • 120-150kg for single models 

Use only manufacturer-recommended mattresses. Foldable foam mattresses designed for Murphy beds weigh less and maintain proper weight distribution compared to traditional spring mattresses. 

How to Choose the Right Mattress for Your Murphy Bed 

Foldable vs Traditional Mattresses 

Murphy beds with 3-fold mechanisms require foldable mattresses. These specialised mattresses feature: 

  • Designated fold lines for clean, easy folding 

  • Medium-firm foam construction (no springs) 

  • 10-15cm thickness (thinner than standard mattresses) 

  • Lightweight design for easier bed operation 

Hydraulic Murphy beds accommodate traditional mattresses up to 15cm thick, but many Australians still prefer foldable options for easier operation and secure storage. 

Mattress Material Options 

Memory foam foldable mattresses provide excellent comfort for Murphy bed applications. Look for: 

  • High-density foam (30-40kg/m³ density rating) 

  • CertiPUR-US certification ensuring no harmful chemicals 

  • Bamboo or cotton covers for breathability in Australian climates 

  • Medium-firm support balancing comfort and foldability 

Avoid traditional innerspring mattresses for 3-fold Murphy beds—they don't fold cleanly and add unnecessary weight. 

Australian Climate Considerations 

Heat retention is a concern in tropical and subtropical Australian regions. Choose mattresses with: 

  • Gel-infused memory foam for temperature regulation 

  • Bamboo fabric covers (naturally breathable and moisture-wicking) 

  • Open-cell foam construction for improved airflow 

  • Washable, removable covers for humid climates 

Foldable mattresses in Australia typically cost $249-$499 AUD for queen sizes, significantly less than premium traditional mattresses. 

Murphy Bed Installation Guide for Australian Homes 

Pre-Installation Planning 

Before purchasing, complete these essential steps: 

  1. Measure your wall space accurately: Include ceiling height, width, and any obstructions (light switches, power outlets, windows) 

  1. Identify wall type: Timber frame, brick, concrete, or steel frame construction 

  1. Locate wall studs: Use a stud finder or knock test to find structural supports 

  1. Check ceiling clearance: Ensure adequate height when bed is vertical (240cm minimum) 

  1. Plan electrical requirements: Consider adding outlets or USB ports before installation 

DIY vs Professional Installation 

Professional installation costs $200-$500 AUD but provides: 

  • Warranty protection (many warranties void with DIY installation) 

  • Proper structural assessment and securing 

  • Correct hydraulic adjustment and calibration 

  • Faster installation (2-4 hours vs 6-8 hours DIY) 

  • Peace of mind regarding safety compliance 

DIY installation is feasible for experienced home renovators with: 

  • Power drill and impact driver 

  • Level (laser level ideal) 

  • Stud finder 

  • Measuring tape and pencil 

  • Two helpers for lifting and positioning 

Installation Timeline and Process 

Typical professional installation follows this sequence: 

  1. Site assessment (15 minutes): Verify wall structure and measurements 

  1. Cabinet assembly (60-90 minutes): Construct the outer cabinet frame 

  1. Wall mounting (45 minutes): Secure cabinet to wall with heavy-duty fasteners 

  1. Mechanism installation (45 minutes): Install hydraulic pistons or fold mechanisms 

  1. Bed frame attachment (30 minutes): Connect bed frame to lift mechanism 

  1. Testing and adjustment (30 minutes): Calibrate lifting tension, test locks and safety features 

Total installation time: 3-5 hours depending on model complexity. 

Common Installation Mistakes to Avoid 

  • Insufficient wall anchoring: Using too few screws or inadequate fastener depth 

  • Ignoring wall studs: Relying on drywall anchors alone (never acceptable for Murphy beds) 

  • Incorrect hydraulic pressure: Lift mechanism too strong or weak for mattress weight 

  • Poor levelling: Uneven mounting causes binding and uneven wear 

  • Blocking ventilation: Placing Murphy beds against exterior walls without air gaps (mould risk in humid climates) 

Murphy Bed Costs in Australia (2025 Price Guide) 

Price Ranges by Type 

Budget-Friendly Options ($700-$900 AUD): 

  • Basic queen 3-fold mechanisms without storage 

  • Simple white or oak finishes 

  • Manual operation (no hydraulics) 

  • Ideal for guest rooms with occasional use 

Mid-Range Options ($1,000-$1,500 AUD): 

  • Queen beds with integrated drawer storage 

  • Improved materials (solid pine frames) 

  • Basic hydraulic assistance 

  • Better warranty coverage (3+ years) 

Premium Options ($2,000-$2,800 AUD): 

  • Murphy sofa beds (2-in-1 designs) 

  • Murphy beds with full desk systems 

  • Single beds with extensive cabinet storage 

  • Superior hydraulic systems and soft-close mechanisms 

  • Extended warranties and premium finishes 

Additional Costs to Consider 

Complete Murphy bed setup includes: 

  • Mattress: $249-$499 AUD for foldable queen mattress 

  • Professional installation: $200-$500 AUD (strongly recommended) 

  • Bedding retention straps: $30-$60 AUD (keeps sheets in place when folded) 

  • Wall patching and painting: $100-$300 AUD if relocating later 

  • Delivery: Varies by location (often free for major Australian cities) 

Total investment range: $1,500-$4,000 AUD for complete setup including installation and mattress. 

Value Comparison: Murphy Beds vs Traditional Furniture 

Murphy beds replace multiple furniture pieces: 

  • Traditional bed + frame: $800-$2,000 AUD 

  • Desk or work surface: $300-$800 AUD 

  • Storage cabinet/dresser: $400-$1,200 AUD 

  • Combined value: $1,500-$4,000 AUD 

The space savings alone justify the investment in high-cost property markets. At $12,000 per square metre property value in Sydney, reclaiming 5 square metres represents $60,000 in spatial value. 

Top Reasons to Choose Quality Murphy Beds for Australian Homes 

Australian-Designed for Local Conditions 

Murphy beds built for Australian homes account for local factors: 

  • Humidity resistance for coastal regions (rust-proof hardware) 

  • Heat management in Queensland and Northern Territory climates 

  • Standard Australian ceiling heights (240cm) and room dimensions 

  • Compliance with Australian furniture safety standards 

  • Sizing compatible with Australian queen mattresses (153cm x 203cm) 

Local retailers like Luxo Living specialise in Murphy beds designed specifically for Australian properties, rather than importing generic international models requiring modifications. 

Comprehensive Warranty and Support 

Quality Murphy bed providers offer: 

  • Minimum 3-year furniture warranties (exceeding industry standards) 

  • Peace of Mind guarantees covering parts, replacements, and returns 

  • 30-day price protection with loyalty points 

  • Fast Australia-wide delivery from local warehouses 

  • Accessible customer service for assembly and troubleshooting questions 

Australian consumers benefit from ACL (Australian Consumer Law) protections ensuring furniture lasts a reasonable lifetime—typically 5-10 years for quality Murphy beds. 

Trusted by Australian Families for 20+ Years 

Established Australian furniture retailers bring experience and reliability. Look for providers with: 

  • Physical showrooms in Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane 

  • Extensive product ranges specifically curated for Australian markets 

  • Hundreds of verified customer reviews on Product Review and Google 

  • Active social media presence showing real customer installations 

  • Transparent pricing without hidden fees or surprise charges 

Explore space-saving Murphy bed designs at Luxo Living to see the complete range available for Australian homes. 

Eco-Friendly Options Available 

Sustainable Australian consumers can choose: 

  • Bamboo fabric mattress covers (rapidly renewable resource) 

  • Solid timber frames from responsibly managed forests 

  • Low-VOC finishes and adhesives (better indoor air quality) 

  • Durable construction reducing furniture replacement frequency 

  • Local manufacturing reducing carbon footprint from international shipping 

Murphy beds inherently support sustainability by maximising space efficiency and reducing overall furniture consumption. 

Flexible Payment and Delivery Options 

Australian Murphy bed retailers typically offer: 

  • Interest-free payment plans (Afterpay, Zip Pay, Humm) 

  • Delivery across all Australian states and territories 

  • White-glove delivery services (room-of-choice placement) 

  • Assembly services bundled with delivery 

  • Returns and exchanges within reasonable timeframes 

Murphy Bed Maintenance and Care Tips 

Regular Maintenance Schedule 

Quarterly maintenance (every 3 months): 

  • Vacuum cabinet interior and bed frame to remove dust 

  • Wipe down surfaces with damp microfibre cloth 

  • Check all visible screws and hardware for tightness 

  • Test safety locks and latches for proper engagement 

  • Inspect bed legs for smooth deployment 

Annual maintenance: 

  • Tighten all mounting hardware at wall connection points 

  • Lubricate hydraulic pistons and hinges with silicone spray 

  • Check for wood cracks, splitting, or deterioration 

  • Verify weight capacity hasn't been exceeded (sagging indicators) 

  • Professional inspection recommended for daily-use installations 

Troubleshooting Common Issues 

Problem: Bed difficult to lower or raise 

  • Solution: Check hydraulic pressure adjustment, lubricate hinges, verify mattress weight matches specifications 

Problem: Squeaking or creaking noises 

  • Solution: Apply silicone lubricant to all moving metal parts, tighten loose hardware, check for rubbing wood surfaces 

Problem: Bed doesn't stay closed/locked 

  • Solution: Adjust latch mechanism, verify correct hydraulic tension, check for obstructions preventing full closure 

Problem: Uneven deployment or tilting 

  • Solution: Verify level installation, check for damaged hydraulic pistons (one side weaker), tighten wall mounting screws 

Cleaning and Upkeep 

For white and oak finishes (most common Australian Murphy beds): 

  • Use pH-neutral cleaners designed for furniture (avoid harsh chemicals) 

  • Immediately wipe spills to prevent water damage or staining 

  • Apply furniture polish quarterly to maintain finish lustre 

  • Use felt pads under decorative items on top of closed cabinets 

  • Avoid placing Murphy beds in direct sunlight (fading risk) 

Mattress care for foldable foam mattresses: 

  • Rotate mattress every 3 months to distribute wear evenly 

  • Use mattress protectors (waterproof for households with children) 

  • Air out mattress weekly when bed is deployed 

  • Spot clean stains immediately with mild detergent solution 

  • Professional mattress cleaning every 12-18 months 

Murphy Beds for Specific Australian Living Situations 

Studio Apartments and Tiny Homes 

Murphy beds are essential for studio living under 40 square metres. Optimal configurations include: 

  • Queen Murphy sofa bed for combined living/sleeping in single-room layouts 

  • Position against the longest wall for maximum remaining floor space 

  • Choose white finishes to enhance light and spaciousness 

  • Pair with foldable dining tables and multi-functional furniture 

Australian tiny home dwellers (under 30 square metres) often use Murphy beds as the primary bed solution, reclaiming 60-70% more usable floor space compared to traditional beds. 

Guest Rooms and Spare Bedrooms 

Convert dedicated guest rooms into functional daily-use spaces: 

  • Murphy bed with desk transforms guest room into home office 

  • Add storage cabinets for office supplies and guest linens 

  • Use 3-fold mechanisms for cost savings (guest-only usage doesn't require daily-use durability) 

  • Include bedside lighting integrated into cabinetry 

Australian families host guests an average of 10 nights per year. Murphy beds allow spare rooms to serve productive purposes the remaining 355 days. 

Airbnb and Holiday Rental Properties 

Murphy beds increase rental property income potential: 

  • Studio apartments command higher rates with Murphy beds vs traditional beds 

  • "Flexible space" appeals to business travellers needing workspace 

  • Improved property photos showcasing spacious living areas 

  • Faster turnover between guests (easier cleaning and preparation) 

Property managers report 18-22% rental income increases for studio apartments after installing Murphy beds, based on Australian Airbnb market data from 2024. 

Multi-Generational Family Homes 

Murphy beds support flexible living arrangements: 

  • Adult children returning home temporarily (university, career transitions) 

  • Elderly parents moving in requiring occasional accommodation 

  • Teenagers needing study space that converts to sleeping areas 

  • Playrooms that accommodate overnight guests during holidays 

Single Murphy beds work exceptionally well in children's rooms, growing with the family from toddler play spaces to teenage study bedrooms. 

Home Offices and Work-From-Home Setups 

Murphy bed desk combinations solve the WFH bedroom dilemma: 

  • Maintain professional video call backgrounds (bed hidden during work hours) 

  • Separate work and sleep spaces psychologically 

  • Fold-down desks provide proper ergonomic work surfaces 

  • Integrated shelving accommodates office equipment and supplies 

Post-pandemic work-from-home arrangements make Murphy bed offices increasingly relevant for Australian professionals lacking dedicated study rooms. 

 

Comparing Murphy Beds to Other Space-Saving Solutions 

Murphy Beds vs Sofa Beds 

Feature Murphy Beds Sofa Beds
Space saved 4–6 square metres 1–2 square metres
Comfort level Full queen mattress comfort Variable (often less comfortable)
Daily setup effort 30–60 seconds to deploy 2–3 minutes to convert
Durability 10–15 years typical lifespan 5–8 years (mechanism wear)
Price range (AUD) $700–$2,800 $600–$2,500
Best for Primary guest accommodation Occasional overnight guests

Verdict: Murphy beds provide superior comfort and space savings but require wall installation. Sofa beds offer portability and flexibility. 

Murphy Beds vs Loft Beds 

Feature Murphy Beds Loft Beds
Space utilisation Folds vertically (floor space freed) Vertical space (floor space below bed)
Ceiling height required 240cm standard 270cm+ for comfort
Accessibility Floor level (easy for all ages) Ladder access (challenging for elderly)
Installation Wall-mounted Freestanding or wall-secured
Australian suitability Excellent (standard ceiling heights) Limited (requires high ceilings)

Verdict: Murphy beds suit standard Australian homes better. Loft beds work for warehouses, converted industrial spaces, or properties with high ceilings. 

Murphy Beds vs Trundle Beds 

Feature Murphy Beds Trundle Beds
Space when closed Complete floor space reclaimed Requires bed frame footprint
Guest capacity 1–2 people (queen) 2–3 people (main + trundle)
Setup complexity Moderate (fold down) Easy (pull out)
Aesthetic appeal Cabinet furniture (stylish) Visible bed frame (bedroom-specific)
Price range (AUD) $700–$2,800 $400–$1,200

Verdict: Trundle beds suit children's rooms hosting frequent sleepovers. Murphy beds excel in adult spaces and multi-functional rooms. 

Logan & Cybele Queen Murphy Bed & Mattress Set in White, featuring a fold-down desk with potted plants and a laptop, framed by wooden paneling, enhancing a sleek, minimalist home-office nook.

Frequently Asked Questions About Murphy Beds in Australia 

Are Murphy beds comfortable for everyday sleeping? 

Yes, Murphy beds provide identical comfort to traditional beds when fitted with quality mattresses. The folding mechanism doesn't affect mattress quality—comfort depends entirely on your mattress choice. 

Use medium-firm foldable foam mattresses (recommended density 35kg/m³ or higher) for optimal comfort. Many Australians use Murphy beds as their primary bed for years without comfort complaints. 

How much weight can Murphy beds hold? 

Quality Australian Murphy beds support 200kg minimum for queen sizes, accommodating two adults comfortably. Single models typically support 120-150kg. 

Exceeding weight capacity damages hydraulic mechanisms and voids warranties. Always verify specifications before purchase, especially for above-average weight users. 

Can I install a Murphy bed myself? 

DIY installation is possible but professional installation is strongly recommended. Murphy beds require: 

  • Securing to load-bearing structural walls (never drywall alone) 

  • Precise levelling for smooth operation 

  • Correct hydraulic adjustment based on mattress weight 

  • Heavy lifting (two-person minimum requirement) 

Professional installation costs $200-$500 AUD and protects warranty coverage. Most Australian retailers offer installation services. 

Do Murphy beds work in rental properties? 

Yes, with landlord approval and understanding that wall patching is required when moving. Murphy beds drill into walls, leaving 8-12 holes requiring repair upon departure. 

Many Australian renters successfully install Murphy beds by: 

  • Obtaining written landlord permission 

  • Using professional installers (better hole placement) 

  • Budgeting $100-$300 for wall repairs when vacating 

  • Taking Murphy bed to next rental property 

The mobility benefits often outweigh installation costs for long-term renters. 

How long do Murphy beds last? 

Quality Murphy beds last 10-15 years with proper maintenance. Factors affecting lifespan: 

  • Daily use: 8-12 years typical for primary beds 

  • Guest room use: 15-20 years (less mechanism wear) 

  • Hydraulic quality: Premium pistons outlast basic spring mechanisms 

  • Material quality: Solid timber frames exceed engineered wood alternatives 

  • Maintenance frequency: Annual servicing extends operational life 

Australian 3-year minimum warranties indicate manufacturer confidence in durability. Reputable brands offer extended warranty options. 

What happens if the Murphy bed accidentally closes with someone on it? 

Modern Murphy beds include safety locks preventing accidental closure when deployed. Quality models feature: 

  • Manual locks that must be disengaged before folding 

  • Hydraulic resistance requiring deliberate force to close 

  • Weight sensors preventing closure under load (premium models) 

Accidental closure is extremely rare with properly installed, well-maintained Murphy beds. Always engage safety locks immediately after deploying the bed. 

Can Murphy beds be used for children? 

Yes, Murphy beds are safe for children when properly supervised and installed. Safety considerations include: 

  • Using single-size models for children under 12 (lighter weight, easier operation) 

  • Installing childproof locks on cabinet fronts 

  • Teaching children never to operate Murphy beds unsupervised 

  • Ensuring middle leg supports deploy correctly for stability 

  • Mounting nightlights or integrated lighting for safe nighttime use 

Many Australian families successfully use Murphy beds in children's rooms, creating flexible play and study spaces. 

Do I need a special mattress for Murphy beds? 

3-fold Murphy beds require foldable mattresses with designated fold lines. These specialised mattresses: 

  • Fold cleanly without damage or permanent creasing 

  • Weigh less than traditional mattresses (easier operation) 

  • Cost $249-$499 AUD for queen sizes 

  • Come in foam, memory foam, and bamboo-covered options 

Hydraulic Murphy beds accommodate traditional mattresses up to 15cm thick, but foldable mattresses still offer easier operation and better weight distribution. 

How much electricity do Murphy beds use? 

Murphy beds use no electricity—they operate entirely mechanically. Hydraulic pistons, gas springs, and fold mechanisms require no power source. 

Some premium models include: 

  • LED lighting strips (battery or AC powered) 

  • USB charging ports built into cabinetry (require nearby electrical outlet) 

  • Motorised operation (rare in Australian market, adds significant cost) 

Standard Murphy beds add zero to your electricity bill and function during power outages. 

Are Murphy beds suitable for people with mobility issues? 

Hydraulic Murphy beds work well for people with moderate mobility limitations. The assisted lift mechanism requires minimal strength to operate—often less than 2kg of pulling force. 

Considerations for mobility-impaired users: 

  • Hydraulic systems strongly preferred over 3-fold manual mechanisms 

  • Soft-close features prevent sudden movements 

  • Ensure adequate space for wheelchair or walker access when bed deployed 

  • Consider professional daily operation assistance for severe mobility limitations 

  • Some Australians use motorised Murphy beds (custom order, higher cost) 

Consult with occupational therapists for severe mobility impairments before purchasing. 

Can Murphy beds be customised to match existing furniture? 

Many Australian Murphy bed retailers offer customisation options including: 

  • Custom colour matching to existing furniture 

  • Specific wood species and stains 

  • Cabinet depth modifications for shallow walls 

  • Custom shelving and storage configurations 

  • Hardware finish options (chrome, brushed nickel, matte black) 

Customisation typically adds 15-30% to base prices and extends delivery timeframes by 4-8 weeks. Standard white and oak finishes complement most Australian interior designs without customisation. 

Do Murphy beds require ongoing maintenance? 

Minimal maintenance keeps Murphy beds operating smoothly: 

Quarterly tasks (15 minutes): 

  • Vacuum and wipe down surfaces 

  • Check hardware tightness 

  • Test safety locks 

Annual tasks (30-45 minutes): 

  • Lubricate hinges and hydraulics 

  • Tighten wall mounting screws 

  • Inspect for wear or damage 

Total annual maintenance commitment: approximately 2-3 hours. This is significantly less than maintaining traditional bed frames, which require regular tightening and adjustment. 

Where can I see Murphy beds in person before buying? 

Australian Murphy bed showrooms include: 

  • Luxo Living Sydney showroom (view full range, expert consultation) 

  • Furniture retailers in Melbourne, Brisbane, and Adelaide 

  • Space-saving furniture specialists in major cities 

Seeing Murphy beds in person helps assess: 

  • Actual size and scale in a room setting 

  • Operation smoothness and effort required 

  • Finish quality and colour accuracy 

  • Storage capacity and configuration options 

Many retailers offer video consultations for regional Australian buyers unable to visit physical showrooms. 

Conclusion: Are Murphy Beds Right for Your Australian Home? 

Murphy beds excel in specific situations—small apartments, multi-functional rooms, and guest accommodation—but aren't necessary for every home. 

Consider Murphy beds if you: 

  • Live in spaces under 70 square metres where floor space is premium 

  • Need guest accommodation without dedicating entire rooms 

  • Work from home requiring office/bedroom combinations 

  • Rent investment properties or Airbnb units 

  • Value multi-functional, flexible living spaces 

  • Want to increase property appeal and potential value 

Traditional beds may be better if you: 

  • Have adequate space with dedicated bedrooms for all uses 

  • Prefer simpler furniture without installation requirements 

  • Rarely host overnight guests (infrequent use doesn't justify investment) 

  • Rent short-term without landlord approval for wall mounting 

  • Have very high ceilings unsuitable for standard Murphy bed dimensions 

The Australian housing landscape increasingly favours space-efficient solutions. Murphy beds represent smart investments for urban dwellers, property investors, and families adapting to flexible living arrangements.