Buying a Wall Bed: 10 Things You Need to Know Now (A Quick Guide for Homeowners)
Wall beds, also known as Murphy beds, are popping up in more Aussie homes these days, and for good reason. Buying a wall bed whether you’re trying to reclaim floor space, create a guest room, or make your home office more flexible, can be a clever solution. But before you rush out and order one, here are ten things you’ll want to know to make sure it fits your lifestyle, your space, and your budget. Just before you start though and to make it clear we sell Wall Beds across Australia but only provide professional installation here in Victoria.
1. Wall beds aren’t just for tiny apartments
Sure, they’re great in small spaces, but even larger homes can benefit. Think spare bedrooms, teenage retreats, or that underused rumpus room. A wall bed can turn any room into a multi-tasker: office by day, guest room by night.
2. They’re safer than they used to be
Forget the old slapstick movies where the bed folds up with someone inside. Modern wall beds have sturdy mechanisms and safety locks that keep things secure. When installed properly, they’re just as safe as any regular bed.
3. You don’t need a special mattress
Most wall beds fit a standard Australian mattress usually up to about 30cm thick. That means you can use your current mattress if it’s in good nick, or pick a comfy one that suits your sleep style. (We do supply amazing quality mattresses as well)
4. Quality matters (a lot)
This is not the place to skimp. A cheap wall bed might save you money upfront, but can end up being a hassle later hard to lift, noisy hinges, or wonky alignment. Look for strong hardware, solid cabinetry, and a proper warranty.
5. Professional installation is worth it
Technically, a handy person can install a wall bed themselves, but if you want it flush, safe and long-lasting, call in a pro. Most handy men could do it but it does require two people to be safe. In most cases, the bed gets fixed to the floor or skirting, not the wall itself.
6. Think beyond white
Wall beds come in all sorts of finishes, timber look, matte black, Hamptons style, or even with built-in shelving and desks. If it’s going in a visible room, choose a style that complements the rest of your home.
7. You can get extras
Some systems come with built-in wardrobes, bookshelves, or even hidden desks. If you’re working from home or want to stash away more than just the bed, it might be worth the upgrade.
8. It adds value to your home
Buyers love smart use of space. A well-designed wall bed setup can make a three-bedroom home feel more like a four especially if you’ve created a guest room or home office combo. It’s one of those features that can quietly impress at open for inspections.
9. Measure twice
Sounds obvious, but you’d be surprised how many people get caught out. Make sure there’s enough clearance to pull the bed down and walk around it comfortably. Don’t forget to measure ceiling height too — especially if you’re in an older home or converted space.
10. It’s more comfortable than a sofa bed
Let’s be honest, most sofa beds aren’t great for sleeping. A wall bed, on the other hand, gives you a proper mattress and a good night’s sleep, without taking up permanent space. It’s like having your cake and eating it too.
A wall bed can be a game-changer, especially if you’re looking to squeeze more function out of your home. Just make sure you choose quality over gimmicks, measure your space properly, and think about how you’ll actually use the room. Done right, it’s a feature you’ll enjoy for years to come and your guests will thank you for it.
