10 Important Things to Consider For Your Murphy Bed Mattress

Intro

So you're clearly interested in the idea purchasing a Murphy wall bed and curious about the mattress requirements. We're glad you're here, because the mattress is an important factor in your Murphy bed's comfort and longevity.

Maybe you're just starting on your Murphy bed journey, searching up questions that come to mind when you imagine that Murphy bed in your Condo, Apartment, or cottage. Or maybe you're well along the way in your Murphy research, and just looking for the last piece to bring it all together before you commit to the investment. Regardless, we're happy your curiosity brought you here to learn more about one of the most important pieces of the Murphy, the mattress.

Some customers have an old mattress they love and want to use in their Murphy bed, and many don't have a mattress at all, so it's important to get educated on the right mattress for your Murphy bed.

Keep reading, and we'll guide you through these 10 Important Things to Consider in Your Murphy Bed Mattress:

1. Size Compatibility
2. Thickness
3. Weight
4. Mattress Type
5. Firmness Level
6. Health & Breathability
7. Motion Transfer
8. Durability
9. Return Policy & Warranty
10. Price

 

1. Size Compatibility

First and foremost, it's important to understand that the Murphy bed frames are made to accept standard mattress sizes. This is great news for you, as it opens up the full spectrum of mattress options and makes it easy to find sheets and bedding, or use your existing sheets and bedding.

Standard mattress sizes are as follows:

Twin/Single – 39” wide x 75” long
Full/Double – 54” wide x 75” long
Queen – 60” wide x 80” long

Twin and Full XL are not supported at this time.

If you plan on using your own mattress for the Murphy bed, make sure to double check the width and length to confirm it'll fit within the frame.

 

2. Thickness

Thickness is the second biggest, if not, the biggest factor in choosing the right mattress for your Murphy bed. Physics will only allow a certain thickness of mattress to fit under the legs of the bed, as well as fold up into the wall bed cabinet. 

The standard Murphy bed will accommodate a mattress up to 10" thick. This allows for a very comfortable mattress, whether using the bed for guests a few times in the year, or for yourself every night. Our go-to mattress that fits the "standard" legs is The Polysleep. The Polysleep is a premium memory foam mattress including a support frame to keep it in form while stored vertically (very important). It's very comfortable and supportive, and at a manageable price point, making it a no-brainer for your wall bed, whether used every now and again, or every night.

By opting for extended legs, the Murphy will accommodate a mattress up to 12" thick. This increases the bed cabinet height, and raises bed panel off the floor, by just over 2". A great option if you already have a thicker mattress you'd like to use, or have guests that require the bed to sit a little higher for ease of entry/exit.

If you need even more room, the long legs will accept a mattress up to 15" thick. This increases the bed height by just over 6", and the bed depth from 16" to 21". Not has common, however nice to have available if needed.

Here's a helpful guide referencing Murphy leg height options, respective mattress thicknesses, and the affected relevant Murphy bed measurements:

Leg size	Mattress thickness	Distance from floor to bed panel	Distance from floor to top of max thickness mattress	Bed cabinet depth
Regular	8-10"	8 3/4"	19 1/2"	16"
Extended	10-12"	11"	23 3/4"	16"
Long	13-15"	14"	29 3/4"	21"

 It's convenient when you already have a mattress on hand that you can take advantage of using. Just keep the thickness in mind so we can properly spec your Murphy bed hardware.

Lastly, it's important to understand, that the thicker the mattress, the heavier it is. This will affect the spring load, how many & what kind of springs we use. More on this in the next point.

 

3. Weight

The mattress’s weight is critical for your Murphy bed’s smooth operation and longevity. Your mattress should weigh no more than about 75 pounds to facilitate easy use and maintain the bed’s mechanics.

Murphy beds rely on spring mechanisms to fold up and down. While lightweight is good, you should also avoid mattresses that are too light as they may shift or move when the bed is closed, and can affect the operation of the bed.

 

4. Mattress Type

While it's great that you have full range of standard size mattresses to choose from for your Murphy, it's important to know that not all mattresses types are suited for a wall bed. Most mattresses are engineered and built to spend their lives laying flat. Many mattresses are even mandated to ship and store flat to avoid damaging the mattress.

These are several mattress types you should try to avoid in your Murphy bed:

Latex - a great mattress material, it is comfortable and sleeps cool, but it is very heavy and doesn’t hold its shape when stood on end. When trying to use a latex mattress in a Murphy bed you will find that it slips off the end of the frame/bed box when you close the bed and it can jam in the mechanism and headboard as you open it.


Gel-topped - a fad that has mostly died out but these mattresses also tend to be heavy and the gel has the tendency to sluff off the top of the mattress when the Murphy bed is closed. For clarification, Gel-infused memory foams work great for wall beds, and only the pure gel tops are an issue.


Pocketed coils (also called individually wrapped coils) - a very popular coil system found in mattresses today. It is a support system built out of many individual springs that are placed in individual socks which are glued or sewn together. They create a great sleeping experience but there is no structure when they are stood on end, so the whole mattress slumps and crumples at the head of the mattress. This bends the frame and coils, and it is irreversible damage.

 The two main types of mattresses to look for are inner spring and foam.

Inner spring uses metal coils underneath the top layers of foam. These coils create support, and the foam layers give comfort. With inner springs, you want to stick to continuous coils (not pocketed coils).

Foam mattresses use dense foam underneath layers of softer foams. The dense foam gives support the same way the coils do in a traditional mattress. You want to make sure that you are getting a high-quality foam mattress, like The Polysleep, which offers a support frame around the mattress for added edge support. 

 

5. Firmness Level

Because it's likely that your Murphy bed will be used for various body types, it's recommended to opt for a medium-firm mattress, as it meets the needs of most people. It the safe choice. 

If you're using the Murphy bed for yourself, then it's a good idea to consider the best level of mattress firmness for you.

Here is a simple guide to help you decide:

Sleep Position:

• Side sleepers generally need softer mattresses to cushion pressure points at the hips and shoulders.
• Back sleepers often prefer medium to medium-firm mattresses that support the spine's natural curve.
• Stomach sleepers usually need firmer mattresses to prevent the hips from sinking, which can lead to lower back pain.

Body Weight:

• Lightweight sleepers (under 130 lbs.) may prefer softer mattresses that offer more cushioning and contouring.
• Average-weight sleepers (130–230 lbs.) generally do well with medium to medium-firm mattresses.
• Heavier sleepers (over 230 lbs.) often benefit from firmer mattresses that offer more support and prevent sagging.

Here is a detailed guide to help you decide:

 

Extra Soft (1-2 on a firmness scale of 1-10)

Feel: Extremely plush and conforming, with a sinking sensation.

Best for: Lightweight sleepers (under 130 lbs) and side sleepers who need significant pressure relief for hips and shoulders.

Pros: Provides deep contouring, ideal for those who like the feeling of "sleeping in" the mattress.

Cons: Lacks support for heavier sleepers and may cause sagging, leading to poor spinal alignment over time.

Soft (3-4 on a firmness scale)

Feel: Plush and slightly sinking, but with more support than extra soft.
Best for: Side sleepers who need pressure relief on their shoulders and hips.

Good for lighter individuals who prefer a more cushioned feel.

Pros: Contours the body well, offers good pressure relief, and is comfortable for side sleeping.

Cons: Can be too soft for back and stomach sleepers, and might lack sufficient support for heavier individuals.

Medium-Soft (4-5 on a firmness scale)

Feel: Balanced cushioning with some sinking but enough support to maintain spinal alignment.

Best for: Side sleepers and combination sleepers (those who switch positions during the night). Works well for lighter individuals or those who like a plush feel but need a bit more support.

Pros: Offers a good mix of contouring and support, providing pressure relief without excessive sinking.

Cons: Still may not be supportive enough for back or stomach sleepers, especially those who are heavier.

Medium (5-6 on a firmness scale)

Feel: A balance between softness and firmness, with moderate cushioning and support.

Best for: Most sleepers, including back, side, and combination sleepers. It’s the most versatile firmness level and suits most body types (130–230 lbs).

Pros: Offers good pressure relief without sacrificing support, making it a comfortable choice for many.

Cons: May feel too firm for those who prefer a softer mattress, and too soft for those who need extra firm support.

Medium-Firm (6-7 on a firmness scale)

Feel: Slightly firm, with minimal sinking but still offering some contouring for comfort.

Best for: Back sleepers and combination sleepers who need extra spinal support. Works well for average to heavier individuals and is one of the most popular firmness levels.

Pros: Provides good lumbar support, prevents excessive sinking, and keeps the spine in alignment. Suitable for a wide range of sleepers.

Cons: May feel too firm for side sleepers or those who prefer more cushioning.

Firm (7-8 on a firmness scale)

Feel: Little to no sinkage, with a firm and supportive surface.

Best for: Stomach and back sleepers who need firm support to keep the spine aligned. Also suitable for heavier individuals who need more support to prevent sinking.

Pros: Offers excellent support, especially for stomach sleepers who need to keep their hips elevated. Helps prevent back pain for those who require firmer support.

Cons: Lacks cushioning, which may make it uncomfortable for side sleepers or people who prefer a softer feel.

Extra Firm (9-10 on a firmness scale)

Feel: Very hard and non-conforming, with almost no give.

Best for: Stomach sleepers and heavier individuals who require the firmest support possible. Often recommended for those with specific medical conditions that need a very firm sleep surface.

Pros: Provides maximum support and minimizes sinking, which is good for spinal alignment and weight distribution.

Cons: Can be too hard and uncomfortable for many people, particularly side sleepers and lighter individuals.

 

Remember, comfort is subjective, so while these guidelines are helpful, it's essential to choose a firmness level that feels best to you. Many mattresses offer trial periods, allowing you to test them out before committing.

 

6. Health & Breathability

Your health, or the health of your friends and family should not be overlooked. If you're using the Murphy bed full time, you could spend almost half your life in this mattress, so it's important to consider the health and breathability of it. 

Look for features like an easily removable, moisture resistant, washable bed cover. It protects your mattress from spills, stains and accidents to ensure the longevity of your mattress. Perfect for breakfast in bed.

With foam mattresses, look for one that has antimicrobial foam. you’ll benefit from a healthier sleeping surface and longer mattress life expectancy.

Mattresses like The Polysleep are ISO 20743 compliant and CertiPUR-US certified. What does this mean for you? That they're made using medical grade foam, which significantly reduces the growth of bacteria that forms in your mattress over time. They're also manufactured without ozone-depleting chemicals and regulated by the Consumer Product Safety Commission for indoor air quality (less than 0.5ppm) and for volatile organic compound emissions (Low VOC). 

A breathable mattress focuses on materials and construction that promote airflow, regulate temperature, and prevent overheating. Look for features like open-cell foam, coil systems, natural materials, and moisture-wicking fabrics which work together to create a cool, comfortable sleep environment.

 

7. Motion Transfer

Mattress motion transfer refers to how much movement is felt on one side of the bed when someone else moves or shifts on the other side. Low motion transfer means less movement is felt, which is ideal for couples or people who share a bed and want to minimize disturbances from their partner's movements.

Most customers that buy our beds are hosting couples who'll share the Murphy bed. When more than one person is using the bed, or you're using the bed with a pet, the motion transfer of a mattress is a good thing to consider when choosing your Murphy bed mattress.

These are some factors that affect motion transfer in a mattress (keep in mind that not all aspects listed here are suited for use in a Murphy bed):

 

MATTRESS TYPE

Memory Foam

Low Motion Transfer: Memory foam mattresses are excellent at absorbing movement because the foam molds to the body and isolates motion.

Ideal For: Couples or restless sleepers, as it minimizes disturbances.

Latex

Moderate Motion Transfer: Latex mattresses are more responsive and bouncy than memory foam but still offer relatively low motion transfer compared to innerspring mattresses.

Ideal For: Those who want a balance of motion isolation and a bit more bounce.

Innerspring

High Motion Transfer: Traditional innerspring mattresses tend to have more motion transfer because the interconnected coils transmit movement across the bed.

Ideal For: Solo sleepers, as couples may feel more disturbances.

Hybrid

Varied Motion Transfer: Hybrids, which combine innerspring coils with foam or latex layers, usually have moderate motion transfer. Pocketed coils (individually wrapped) in hybrids help reduce motion transfer better than interconnected coils.

Ideal For: Couples who want the support of coils with reduced motion transfer.

 

COIL STRUCTURE

Pocketed (Individually Wrapped) Coils

Low Motion Transfer: These coils move independently of each other, reducing motion transfer compared to interconnected coils. They’re often found in hybrid and higher-end innerspring mattresses.

Interconnected Coils

High Motion Transfer: Innerspring mattresses with interconnected coils transfer movement across the bed more easily, leading to higher motion transfer.

 

FOAM LAYERS

Thicker Comfort Layers

Lower Motion Transfer: Mattresses with thick comfort layers of memory foam or latex on top of coil systems will reduce motion transfer, as the foam absorbs much of the movement.

Minimal Foam Layers:

Higher Motion Transfer: Mattresses with minimal foam or padding tend to have higher motion transfer, especially if they rely on an innerspring support system.

 

FIRMNESS LEVEL

Softer Mattresses

Lower Motion Transfer: Softer mattresses often reduce motion transfer because they contour to the body more, absorbing movement.

Firmer Mattresses

Higher Motion Transfer: Firmer mattresses tend to have higher motion transfer since they provide less cushioning and more surface bounce.

Why Low Motion Transfer Matters

To minimize motion transfer on your Murphy bed, try to stick to a memory foam or hybrid memory foam mattress to give you the lowest motion transfer possible, and make sure it has a supportive frame to keep it properly structured while it stands most of it's life on-end. 

 

8. Durability

Since Murphy beds are often used in smaller living spaces or guest rooms, durability is key. Look for a mattress with good edge support and high-quality materials. A lot of what we already discussed is relevant here. 

Mattress durability refers to how long a mattress maintains its original comfort, support, and structural integrity before it begins to sag, lose its shape, or cause discomfort. A durable mattress is one that remains supportive and comfortable over time, providing good value for money by lasting longer.

Durability in a mattress is influenced by materials, construction, and care. To ensure long-lasting comfort and support, consider a mattress made with high-quality materials like high-density foam, or a robust inner-coil system. Regular maintenance and proper use, along with a good warranty, will help extend the life of your mattress.

Here are the key factors that influence mattress durability:

MATERIAL TYPE

Memory Foam: High-density memory foam tends to be more durable than low-density foam. Mattresses made with high-quality foam (5+ pounds per cubic foot for memory foam) will last longer and resist sagging.

Latex:

Natural Latex: One of the most durable mattress materials. Natural latex can last 10-15 years or more due to its resilience and resistance to body impressions.

Synthetic Latex: Less durable than natural latex but still tends to last longer than many other materials.

Innerspring: The durability of innerspring mattresses depends on the quality of the coils and the comfort layers. Lower-gauge coils (thicker) tend to last longer, while mattresses with thinner coils or fewer coils may wear out faster.

Hybrid: Combines foam or latex with a coil system. The durability depends on the thickness and quality of both the foam and coils. Hybrid mattresses with high-quality components (e.g., thicker pocketed coils and high-density foam) are more durable.

 

MATERIAL DENSITY

Foam Density: Higher-density foams (memory or polyfoam) are more durable. For example, memory foam with a density of 4-5 pounds per cubic foot or higher is more resistant to wear and tear than lower-density foams.

COIL SYSTEM

Pocketed Coils: Individually wrapped coils tend to be more durable than interconnected coils because they provide better motion isolation and distribute weight more evenly. That said, pocketed coils are not recommended for Murphy beds as they'll sag and lose their shape when stood on-end.

Coil Gauge: Lower gauge coils are thicker and more durable than higher gauge coils. Coil gauge typically ranges from 12 to 18, with lower numbers indicating thicker, more durable coils.

Coil Count: While more coils can increase support and durability, it’s the quality of the coils (thickness and material) that matters most. Mattresses with a higher coil count tend to offer better durability, but only if the coils are of good quality.

THICKNESS OF COMFORT LAYERS

Mattresses with thicker, high-quality comfort layers tend to be more durable because they resist body impressions and sagging. Thicker layers of high-density memory foam, latex, or hybrid foam reduce the chance of early wear.

If the comfort layers are too thin, the support core (coils or foam) may wear out faster, leading to reduced durability.

EDGE SUPPORT

Reinforced Edges: Mattresses with strong edge support (often found in innerspring and hybrid mattresses) are more durable, especially if you frequently sit or sleep near the edges. Poor edge support can lead to early wear and sagging along the sides. The Polysleep has a proprietary support frame to help with sagging around the edges, or collapsing when standing on-end in your Murphy bed.

 
SLEEPING POSITION AND BODY WEIGHT

Heavier Sleepers (230+ lbs): Heavier individuals put more stress on a mattress, causing it to wear out faster. More durable options for heavier sleepers include high-density memory foam, latex, and mattresses with thicker coils.

Lightweight Sleepers (under 130 lbs): Lighter sleepers tend to put less pressure on the mattress, so most mattresses will last longer for them.

REGULAR MAINTENANCE

Rotating the Mattress: Regularly rotating your mattress (every 3-6 months) helps distribute wear evenly and extends its lifespan.

Flipping (if applicable): If the mattress is flippable, flipping it can significantly improve durability by reducing wear on one side.

Using a Mattress Protector: Protecting the mattress from moisture, dust, and allergens with a mattress protector can prevent deterioration and maintain the quality of the materials.

 

9. Return Policy & Warranty

A longer warranty (e.g., 10-20 years) can be a sign of durability, as manufacturers often back higher-quality mattresses with extended warranties. However, read the fine print to understand what the warranty covers (e.g., sagging depth) and what exclusions apply.

Warranty Expectations by Mattress Type:

Memory Foam: 7-10 years (high-density foam lasts longer).

Latex: 10-15 years (natural latex is more durable than synthetic).

Innerspring: 5-8 years (depends on coil quality and density).

Hybrid: 7-10 years (quality hybrids with strong coils and foam layers tend to last longer).

Airbeds: 7-10 years (durability can vary based on components like air chambers and pumps).

Since comfort can be subjective, look for a mattress with a good return policy or trial period. Many mattresses will come with a 100-night trial, or similar.

10. Price

Mattress prices vary widely depending on the materials, construction, and brand. Budget models can be as low as $150, while luxury and custom-made mattresses can reach well over $5,000, and most of our customers purchasing a mattress in the $900-1,200 range.  

Here is a general overview of mattress price ranges based on type and quality

Budget/Low-End Mattresses ($150 - $600)

Materials: These mattresses typically use lower-density foams, basic innerspring coils, or budget-friendly polyfoam. Some may include thin comfort layers or low-cost memory foam.

Durability: Budget mattresses tend to have a shorter lifespan (around 3-5 years) and may sag or wear out faster.

Pros: Affordable option for temporary use or for guest rooms. Good for sleepers who don’t require specific features like pressure relief or motion isolation.

Cons: May lack durability, comfort, and long-term support. Limited cooling or motion isolation features.

Examples: Basic innerspring mattresses, low-density memory foam beds, and foam-only mattresses.

 

Mid-Range Mattresses ($600 - $1,500)

Materials: These mattresses are often made with higher-density foams, better-quality innerspring coils, or hybrid constructions (a mix of foam and coils). Memory foam, latex, and gel-infused materials are common at this price point.

Durability: Mid-range mattresses typically last 6-10 years, offering better durability and support compared to budget models.

Pros: Good balance of comfort, support, and durability. You can find specialized features like cooling technology, motion isolation, and zoned support for pressure relief.

Cons: While mid-range, some models may not offer the luxury feel or extended lifespan of higher-end mattresses.

Examples: High-quality memory foam, latex hybrids, or coil-and-foam mattresses.

 

3. Luxury/High-End Mattresses ($1,500 - $3,500+)

Materials: High-end mattresses feature premium materials such as natural latex, high-density memory foam, luxury pillow tops, and advanced coil systems. You’ll also find mattresses with organic and eco-friendly materials, like organic cotton or wool.

Durability: Luxury mattresses often last 10-15 years or more, providing long-term comfort and support.

Pros: Superior materials, more advanced construction techniques, and enhanced features like zoned lumbar support, cooling technologies, motion isolation, and pressure relief. They often come with extended warranties and sleep trials.

Cons: Higher initial cost, though they may offer better value due to their longevity.

Examples: Natural latex mattresses, premium hybrid mattresses with pocketed coils, and high-end memory foam bed.

 

Conclusion

When buying a mattress, it’s important to balance your budget with the comfort and support needs of you or your guests. Investing in a quality mattress can lead to better sleep and longer durability, offering greater value over time.

There are many folks like you, who dream to host their friends & family with a stylish, multi-functional, space-saving bed solution, and not have to worry about their comfort in the night. Or maybe you're looking for the perfect bed for yourself, that maximizes your small space, without jeopardizing your comfort.

So there you have it, more info about mattresses than you thought existed. Thanks for reading, and now go make room for more of what you love, and be proud to host again!

As always don't hesitate to reach out with any questions, and we look forward to connecting with you.

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Sources referenced in this article:

Murphy Beds
Wilding Wallbeds
Mattress Insider
Polysleep