Common DIY Murphy Bed Questions: Everything You Need to Know

Explore our most frequently asked questions about building and installing your own Murphy bed.

What is DIY Murphy bed hardware, and how does it work?

A Murphy bed is a space-saving bed that folds up into a wall or cabinet, allowing you to maximize your floor space. The purpose of using Murphy bed hardware is that it operates on a set of gas pistons together with a pivot mechanism that makes it easy to pull down and lift back up. Our Murphy bed hardware is available in all popular mattress sizes like Queen, Full, Twin in vertical and horizontal style and King and California King sizes.

For more information on the various mattress sizes available click here.

Click here to learn more about our quality hardware.

What’s included in your DIY Murphy bed hardware kits?

Our Murphy bed hardware kits include all the necessary hardware and parts to build install a functional Murphy bed, such as pistons, piston brackets, hinges, and all fasteners you will need to attach the hardware. Detailed instructions are included along with 24/7 online step by step videos.  You will also receive a cut-list guide to make measuring and cutting wood easy and quick.
Click here to learn more about our Murphy bed hardware.

What sizes of Murphy bed hardware do you offer?

Our regular hardware kits are available in both vertical mount and horizontal mount configurations that you can choose from for the sizes listed below:

Twin/Single Size- 39” X 75”

Full/Double Size- 54” X7 5”

Queen Size- 60” X 80”

We also offer premium hardware that’s designed to be even stronger than our standard options, perfect for larger sizes like:

King Size (76” x 80”)

California King Size (76” x 84”)

This upgraded hardware ensures extra durability and smooth operation for your larger Murphy bed, giving you peace of mind and long-lasting performance.

What are the benefits of building my own DIY Murphy bed?

A DIY Murphy bed allows you to save space while maintaining comfort and functionality even for very small spaces. It is perfect for small rooms, guest rooms, apartments or home offices. It also offers a customizable and cost-effective solution compared to pre-built options.

A Murphy bed is a perfect solution for studio apartments or one-bedroom homes where space is limited. It helps you create a multifunctional living area without cluttering the room with bulky furniture or standard beds.

How can I build my own Murphy bed using Easy DIY Murphy Bed Hardware?

Our DIY Murphy bed kits come with easy-to-follow instructions that make the process simple, even for beginners. The hardware is designed to be user-friendly, and you don’t need advanced skills to complete your project. You can build your own Murphy bed with our Easy DIY Murphy Bed hardware if you have the basic woodworking skills and a few woodworking tools. Our step-by-step videos cover all the steps required to successfully complete your project. Our support staff are always available when you require help.

Need more information watch the construction and assembly videos by clicking on the links below:

Watch the Easy DIY Murphy bed construction Video here

Watch the Easy DIY Murphy bed assembly video here

How do I start my DIY Murphy Bed project?

The first step is to select the right size Murphy bed for your space. This is best done by measuring your existing space where you are planning on putting the bed.

After you have measured your space refer to our finished cabinet dimensions to determine the proper size and layout for your space. Order the right size and orientation hardware to start.

Finished Cabinet Dimensions Refence Chart  (Imperial)

Accurate finished exterior cabinet measurements for Easy DIY Murphy Bed cabinets.

SizeWidth (in)Height (in)Depth, Closed (in)Projection, Open (in)
Twin45 3/881 7/81681
Full (Double)60 3/881 7/81681
Queen66 3/886 7/81686
King82 1/488 1/41685 1/4
California King78 1/492 1/41689 /14
Notes: Dimensions are finished cabinet exterior. Projection is cabinet front to folding leg edge when open. Keep mattress thickness ≤ 12″ for best clearance and if you want to use the optional leg cross bar.

How do I choose the correct size hardware kit for my space?

After you measure your space, you should choose a kit based on the size and orientation of your bed (Vertical or Horizontal). Our kits are available for:

  • Twin size mattress
  • Full size mattress
  • Queen size mattress
  • King size mattress
  • California King size mattress

How much does it cost to build my Murphy bed?

After purchasing your murphy bed hardware, you will need to purchase the wood separately at a home improvement store.
We strongly recommend using veneered plywood to build your bed cabinet and solid wood for the inner wood bed frame. The wood and other materials you’ll need to purchase are all available at your local home improvement store and will cost around $300 to $550 depending on the bed you are building.

How long will it take to build a DIY Murphy bed?

Depending on your skill level, the construction and assembly of a Murphy bed can take anywhere from 15 to 20 hours. This includes time for measurements, cutting, assembling the frame, and installing the hardware. If you are painting or staining the lumber parts extra time may be required since recommend painting the lumber parts before you install the hardware metal parts.

How long will my DIY Murphy bed last?

If you use plywood, with proper installation and maintenance, your DIY Murphy bed can last for many years. The quality materials and durable hardware offered by Easy DIY Murphy Bed ensure long-lasting performance.

What woodworking skills do I need to build my own Murphy bed?

To build your own Murphy bed, you don’t need to be a master woodworker, but having some basic woodworking skills will help. Here’s what you should be comfortable with:

  • Measuring & Cutting: Accurate measurements are essential for ensuring that your bed frame and hardware fit together perfectly. You’ll need to be able to measure wood accurately and make straight cuts using a saw. You can also get the wood cut at your local hardware store.
  • Drilling & Screwing: You’ll need to drill holes for to attach the brackets, and pivot hardware. Being familiar with using a drill and screwdriver is important to build the frame and cabinet properly.
  • Construction & Assembly: The most important skill is being able to follow our detailed instructions. Our DIY Murphy bed kits come with easy-to-follow guides to help you put everything together, and step by step online videos.
  • Mounting: You’ll need to mount the bed frame to the wall, which will require installing wall anchors or lag bolts into the studs in the wall.  Understanding how to use a stud finder, impact drill or ratchet is important for safety.

Even if you’ve never tackled a woodworking project before, our kits are designed for DIYers like you. With patience and attention to detail, you can build your own high-quality Murphy bed! If you ever feel stuck, our customer support and video tutorials are here to guide you.

Where can I find all the finished dimensions for all the Murphy bed sizes?

All the finished dimensions for all our Murphy bed sizes can be found on the finished dimensions page along with recommended mattress sizes.

Please click here to see the finished dimensions.

What is the difference between a vertical and a horizontal style wall bed?

The main difference between a vertical and horizontal Murphy bed lies in their orientation and how they close into the wall cabinet:

  • Vertical Murphy Bed: This style of cabinet folds up with the bed’s length going vertically. It’s perfect for smaller rooms where floor space is limited but you have more height to work with. When the bed is folded up, it typically takes up less wall space on the sides, making it a great choice for narrow rooms or spaces with regular height ceilings.
  • Horizontal Murphy Bed: This bed folds horizontally, with the bed’s width going up against the wall. It’s ideal for larger rooms or spaces where you have more wall width than height. Horizontal beds are often chosen when you have lower ceiling heights or want to add a TV on top.

Both options save space and offer great flexibility, but the choice depends on your room’s dimensions and how you want to use the space efficiently.

Craft Your Perfect Space With Easy DIY Murphy Bed

Creating a DIY Murphy bed is not just about saving space; it’s about transforming your home into a versatile living area. Our kits come with detailed instructions and all the hardware you need to build a bed that suits your style and needs. Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a beginner, our resources make the process straightforward and enjoyable.
crafting the perfect diy murphy bed guestroom

Common Murphy Bed Questions:

DIY Murphy Bed Installation, Materials, and Hardware Explained

What type of wood should I use to build my own Murphy bed?

Our instructions for the regular hardware kits (Twin through Queen, vertical and horizontal) include two sections: the yellow section is for using plywood, and the pink section is for building your wall bed with particle board or MDF. The type of wood you use is very important when you build a DIY Murphy bed.

We offer two options in our cutting guides, and each guide provides measurements for two types of wood:

  • Plywood (e.g., Birch, Maple, Oak)
  • Particle Board or MDF

You can build the entire Murphy bed out of plywood if you have a saw and cut the wood yourself. If you choose to use particle board or MDF, you must use plywood for the bed frame parts, because this is where most of the stress takes place. Our guides and videos cover all the necessary steps and details for selecting and cutting the lumber.

How many sheets of wood do I need for building a DIY Murphy bed?

The number of plywood sheets and other lumber you need will depend on the bed size you are building:

Double or Queen Size:

  • 3/4″ plywood – 4 sheets
  • 1/4″ plywood – 2 sheets
  • 12 pieces of 6-foot 1×2 pine or similar (for frame struts)
  • 2 pieces of 8-foot 1×2 pine or similar (for frame sides)
  • 1 piece of 8-foot 1×3 pine or similar (for cabinet top rear bracket)

Twin Size:

  • 3/4″ plywood – 3 sheets
  • 1/4″ plywood – 1 sheet
  • 2 pieces of 8-foot 1×2 pine or similar 

King or California King Size:

  • 3/4″ plywood – 5 sheets
  • 1/4″ plywood – 2 sheets
  • 21 pieces of 8-foot 1 x 2 pine or similar for the larger frame

What’s included in your DIY Murphy bed hardware kits?

Our Murphy bed hardware kits include all the necessary hardware and parts to build and install a functional Murphy bed, such as pistons, piston brackets, hinges, and all the fasteners you will need to attach the hardware. Detailed instructions are included along with 24/7 online step-by-step video guides. You will also receive a cut-list guide with cut templates to make measuring and cutting wood easy and quick.
Click here to learn more about our Murphy bed hardware.

How much does it cost to build my Murphy bed?

After purchasing your Murphy bed hardware kit, you will need to purchase the wood separately at a home improvement store. We strongly recommend using veneered plywood to build your bed cabinet and solid wood for the inner bed frame. The wood and other materials you’ll need are available at your local home improvement store and will cost around $300 to $550, depending on the size of the bed you are building.

Can I get the wood cut at the hardware store?

You can get the wood cut at a local hardware store or Home Depot, but there may be a few cuts that you need to make yourself, so a circular saw can help with those cuts.

  • Cutting Your Own Wood: If you’re cutting the wood yourself, you can use any leftover plywood for smaller pieces like the “L”-shaped frame structures.
  • Pre-Cut Wood: If you’re not cutting the wood yourself, the additional 1 x 2 and 1×3 pine pieces are still necessary for the frame structure.

Are the hardware parts interchangeable?

No. There are a couple of major differences between each size of hardware, so you need to make sure that you choose the right hardware when you place an order. The King and California King hardware parts are also not interchangeable because they are made of thicker steel and feature stronger pistons compared to our regular hardware.

How long will it take to build a DIY Murphy bed?

Depending on your skill level, assembling a Murphy bed can take anywhere from 15 to 20 hours. This includes time for measurements, cutting, assembling the frame, and installing the hardware. If you are painting or staining the lumber parts, extra time may be required since we recommend painting the wood parts before you install the metal hardware.

When do I stain or paint my Murphy bed?

This is a decision you should make when planning the construction of your Murphy bed. If you want to get better results and make a professional-grade Murphy bed, you should make the holes and attach the hardware, then take the hardware off to paint or stain the wooden parts. After you finish the staining or painting process, you can place the hardware back on the parts and assemble your wall bed.

Ready to Start Your Murphy Bed Project?

Common Murphy Bed Questions:

Assembly & Disassembly of Your DIY Murphy Bed

Our DIY Murphy bed kits come with comprehensive visual step by step instructions and all necessary hardware. To make the process even easier, we provide detailed online videos illustrating each step of the installation. From identifying the right wall space to securing the frame, these visuals guides and videos walk you through every step. Ensure you have the essential tools ready: a drill, level, and stud finder and a circular track saw or table saw if you decide to cut the wood yourself. Transform your space with ease and confidence, knowing you have all the resources at your fingertips. 

Watch our construction and assembly videos to get familair with the project before you decide to order your hardware!

Murphy Bed Assembly Made Simple: Start-to-Finish Video

Watch the complete process using our piston-lift hardware: cabinet assembly, attaching cabinet sides to frame, intalling pistons, leveling, and final safety test. Pause, rewind, and assemble at your pace.

Time: 21:15

DIY Murphy Bed Disassembly: Start-to-finish Video

Follow along as we remove the mattress, bed frame, remove gas pistons, and undo cabinet from the wall. Includes safety notes, labeling tips, and reassembly advice for smooth reinstall later.

Time: 5:38

Mattress Compatibility for Murphy Beds

Common Questions Related to Mattresses used for DIY Murphy Beds

Is there a weight chart for the mattress?

Yes, here is the recommended weight chart for each Murphy bed size.
See chart below in Imperial and Metric units. 

What kind of mattress can I use when I build my own Murphy bed?

Our wall bed kits are designed to be used with any regular innerspring or foam mattresses up to 12 inches thick if the weight of the mattress is within the range.  See chart below in Imperial and Metric units. 

What if I have a lighter mattress?

If you have a lighter mattress, you can follow the instructions on our troubleshooting page.

Murphy Bed Mattress Comparison

Compare mattress sizes and recommended weight ranges. Keep mattress thickness at or below 12″ for best operation if using the optional leg cross bar.

Mattress SizeTypical Dimensions (L × W)Recommended Mattress WeightMax Thickness
Twin75″ × 39″40–70 lb≤ 12″
Full(Double75″ × 54″45–75 lb≤ 12″
Queen80″ × 60″50–85 lb≤ 12″
King80″ × 76″50–85 lb≤ 12″
California King84″ × 72″50–85 lb≤ 12″
Notes: Weight ranges are for the bare mattress (no bedding). Staying within range helps maintain smooth, balanced lifting/closing.

Murphy Bed Mattress Comparison

Compare mattress sizes and recommended weight ranges. Keep mattress thickness at or below 12″ for best operation if using the optional leg cross bar.

Common Technical Questions

Common Questions Related  DIY Murphy Bed Hardware Customization & Troubleshooting

How do I attach the Easy Lift pistons?

The video below will show the steps required to install the gas pistons on the DIY Murphy bed.

How to change the depth of the cabinet

The video below will show the steps required to install the gas pistons on the DIY Murphy bed.

How do I add moldings to my wall bed?

The short video below will show the steps required if you decided to add decorative molding to the front of your DIY Murphy bed.

How to balance the Murphy Bed?

This step by step post will show how to balance the DIY Murphy bed if the mattress is too light. 

Click on image to learn more:

Balancing diy murphy bed frame steps

Common Murphy Bed Questions:

Shipping & Warranty Questions

How long will it take to receive my Murphy bed hardware kit?

Once you order your hardware you will receive tracking details when the hardware ships and it will take 2 to 5 business days for you to receive it in USA and Canada. International orders may take up to 3 weeks.

Do you ship internationally? Do customs, duties and taxes apply?

Yes, we use FedEx Express for international shipping, and it will take less than 2 weeks in most cases. The cost of shipping internation is $110, you may need to pay import taxes on top of the shipping cost. Depending on the country, the import taxes are 5% -20% of the cost of product.

What courier company do you use to ship my order?

We use FedEx ground service within North America. 2 Day service is also available. For international orders we use FedEx Express.

Do you ship with USPS/Canada Post?

Yes, we sometimes ship with USPS/Canada Post to Alaska and Hawaii. You will receive tracking details via email or text if you optoed into our text messaging system. 

 

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept major credit cards like VISA and Mastercard, as well as PayPal. All transactions are securely processed to ensure your information is protected. We accept USD, CAD and Euro currencies.

Is there a difference between ordering on your website and ordering on Amazon?

When you buy on our website and you provide us with your order number, usually in minutes or at the most in a few hours you will get access to the pdf guides as soon as you purchase your hardware kit and provide us with your order number. Amazon uses their own shipping couriers, and we cannot access Amazon’s shipping information.

Lifetime Hardware Warranty — Built to Last, Backed for Life

We stand behind our Murphy Bed hardware components. If a hardware part ever fails due to a manufacturing defect, we’ll replace it — for as long as you own your DIY Murphy bed.

Free Replacement Parts*
Manufacturing-defect hardware parts replaced at no charge.

Original Owner Coverage
Warranty follows the original purchaser for the life of the bed.

Original Owner Coverage
Warranty follows the original purchaser for the life of the bed.

Takes just 60 seconds. Have your order number ready.

*Replacement hardware parts are free; shipping charges may apply. Coverage applies to metal hardware components only and excludes wood, finishes, normal wear, improper installation, and misuse.

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