Murphy Bed Myths Busted: What Today’s Wall Beds Are Really Like
Murphy beds, also known as wall beds, have come a long way from their humble beginnings in early 20th-century apartments. Despite their modern transformation, a surprising number of people still believe outdated myths about these innovative space-saving beds. At Murphy Beds of San Diego, we’re here to bust those myths wide open and show you what today’s wall beds really offer.
If you think Murphy beds are uncomfortable, unattractive, or difficult to use, read on. You’re in for a surprise.
Myth #1: Murphy Beds Are Uncomfortable
Busted: Modern Murphy beds are just as comfortable as traditional beds.
One of the most persistent myths is that Murphy beds have thin, flimsy mattresses that feel more like sleeping on a fold-out cot. While that may have been true decades ago, it’s no longer the case. At Murphy Beds of San Diego, our wall beds support real, high-quality mattresses — just like a standard bed. You can even select the firmness and material that best suits your sleep preferences.
No bars in your back. No sagging frames. Just a solid night’s sleep on a real mattress.
Myth #2: Wall Beds Are Outdated
Busted: Murphy beds are more stylish and functional than ever.
People often associate Murphy beds with old movies or 1950s apartments, but today’s wall beds are anything but outdated. In fact, Murphy beds have become a modern design feature in homes, condos, and offices.
With fully customizable cabinetry, wood finishes, lighting, and hardware, today’s Murphy beds are built to complement your home’s decor, whether you lean traditional, transitional, or ultra-modern. You can even add side piers with bookshelves, display cabinets, wardrobe closets, or built-in desks.
Myth #3: Murphy Beds Are Hard to Use
Busted: Smooth, counterbalanced systems make opening and closing effortless.
Many people worry that wall beds are heavy or awkward to pull down. But thanks to today’s advanced lift mechanisms — like those in our American-made models with a limited lifetime warranty — operation is smooth and simple.
Most models can be pulled down or lifted back into the wall with just one hand. No strength training required.
Myth #4: You Have to Remodel Your Room
Busted: Murphy beds can be installed with minimal disruption.
Some homeowners worry that installing a wall bed means tearing down walls or completely reconfiguring a room. In reality, Murphy beds are modular systems that are installed against a wall. While cabinet beds are fully freestanding, Murphy beds can be installed quickly and cleanly by a professional team with little to no disruption to your existing layout.
Plus, at Murphy Beds of San Diego, we offer expert design consultations to help you plan the perfect setup with minimal hassle.

Myth #5: They’re Only for Small Apartments
Busted: Murphy beds add value and flexibility to homes of all sizes.
While Murphy beds are a lifesaver in small spaces, they’re also a smart investment in larger homes. Many homeowners use Murphy beds to:
- Create dual-purpose home offices
- Add flexible guest rooms
- Turn a den or media room into an occasional bedroom
- Provide an extra sleep space for grandkids or family visitors
Whether your home is 900 or 3,000 square feet, a Murphy bed can help you make the most of it.
Myth #6: Murphy Beds Are One-Size-Fits-All
Busted: Our wall beds are fully customizable.
At Murphy Beds of San Diego, we offer an incredible range of customization options to fit your needs and style. Choose from:
- Full, queen, or king-sized beds
- Dozens of wood finishes and stains
- Cabinetry styles from traditional to modern
- Side piers for storage or display
- Built-in lighting and USB ports
- Even pet-friendly nooks for your furry co-workers!
Custom sizes are also available to fit your specific room dimensions.
Myth #7: They’re a Temporary Solution
Busted: A well-made Murphy bed is a long-term home upgrade.
When built from solid wood and quality materials, and backed by a mechanism warranty, Murphy beds are designed to last for years. They’re not just temporary fixes; they’re long-term investments in your home’s flexibility and functionality.
And unlike a guest bed that takes up space year-round, your Murphy bed stays tucked away until you need it.
Discover the Truth at Murphy Beds of San Diego
At Murphy Beds of San Diego, we combine form, function, and quality to bring you modern wall beds that truly meet today’s living needs. Our American-made craftsmanship, attention to detail, and personalized service set us apart.
Visit our showroom or schedule a consultation to see for yourself what today’s Murphy beds can do. You’ll discover:
- All-wood construction
- Custom cabinetry
- Lifetime warranty on mechanisms
- Local experts ready to design your perfect wall bed system
Ready to Open the Possibilities?
Let us help you break free from outdated ideas and upgrade your space with a beautiful, modern Murphy Bed. At Murphy Beds of San Diego, we’re not just selling beds — we’re helping you unlock the full potential of your home.