Do you dream of turning your cramped home office into a cozy guest bedroom in seconds? A Murphy bed is the ultimate secret weapon for small spaces, but the real magic happens behind the scenes. The hardware kit is the heart of your bed, and picking the wrong one can turn a fun DIY project into a frustrating headache.
Many homeowners feel overwhelmed by the technical jargon and complex designs found online. You might worry about safety, ease of use, or whether the mechanism will actually hold the weight of your mattress. Choosing the wrong kit can lead to a bed that is impossible to lift or, even worse, one that feels unstable. You deserve a solution that is both reliable and smooth to operate.
In this guide, we will clear up the confusion. We break down the most important features to look for, from spring-loaded systems to piston-driven designs. You will learn how to match the right hardware to your specific bed size and cabinet style. By the end of this post, you will feel confident in your purchase and ready to start your build.
Ready to reclaim your floor space? Let’s dive into the essential details you need to choose the perfect Murphy bed hardware kit for your home.
Top Murphy Bed Hardware Kit Recommendations
- TIME TESTED: Our kits have stood the test of time for over 35 years. If you’re going to build a high-quality murphy bed, you want it to last a lifetime. American-made steel, labor, and support are behind each kit.
- DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS: Decades of building beds and supporting our customers has allowed us to develop crystal clear instructions and diagrams that are easy to follow. Every question or comment we’ve received has gone into making these the best plans around. Online instructional video, illustrated instruction booklets, cut sheets, bills of materials, and templates are included with each kit.
- MADE IN THE USA - LIFETIME WARRANTY: Proudly made in the USA for over 35 years - trusted by major hotel chains. We’re big on quality, and to back it up, each bed comes with a lifetime warranty. The design, thickness of steel, and commercial grade pistons are meant to last a lifetime and then some.
- Vertical QUEEN finished measurements: 87-1/8 in H x 65-7/8 in W x 15-7/8 in D (closed) x 87 in D(open)
- NOT INCLUDED: Lumber and Mattress (Innerspring Queen Mattress size up to 60"W x 80"L x 6-12H)
- 𝐐𝐔𝐄𝐄𝐍 𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐓𝐈𝐂𝐀𝐋 𝐖𝐀𝐋𝐋 𝐁𝐄𝐃 (𝐓𝐀𝐋𝐋 𝐂𝐀𝐁𝐈𝐍𝐄𝐓 𝐒𝐓𝐘𝐋𝐄) — Finished cabinet measures 86⅞"H × 66⅜"W × 16"D when closed. Opens to 86" depth — requires 86" of clear floor space in front of cabinet. Minimum 9-ft ceiling recommended for vertical orientation. Vertical means the bed stores upright (tall cabinet); horizontal kits fold sideways for lower ceilings. Choose the orientation that fits your ceiling height before ordering.
- 𝐂𝐎𝐌𝐏𝐋𝐄𝐓𝐄 𝐌𝐔𝐑𝐏𝐇𝐘 𝐁𝐄𝐃 𝐇𝐀𝐑𝐃𝐖𝐀𝐑𝐄 𝐒𝐘𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐌 — WHAT’S IN THE KIT — Includes gas piston lift system (smooth open/close rated for daily use), patented 2-in-1 auto-locking stainless steel pivot plates, heavy-duty square tube folding legs, quick-release mattress retention strap, all mounting hardware and fasteners, plus 3 fully illustrated guidebooks (Cut List Guide, Construction Guide, Assembly Handbook). No separate hardware store runs needed for the mechanical components.
- 𝟕𝟎𝟎+ 𝐋𝐁 𝐂𝐀𝐏𝐀𝐂𝐈𝐓𝐘 — 𝐌𝐀𝐃𝐄 𝐈𝐍 𝐍𝐎𝐑𝐓𝐇 𝐀𝐌𝐄𝐑𝐈𝐂𝐀 — 𝐄𝐒𝐓. 𝟐𝟎𝟏𝟑 — Gas pistons and pivot system manufactured in North America, not imported. Patented auto-locking pivot plates eliminate complex measurements required by competitor C-clip systems. Heavy-duty construction engineered for daily use in guest rooms, home offices, studio apartments, and Airbnb rentals. Built to last a lifetime — trusted by thousands of DIY builders since 2013.
- 𝟑 𝐆𝐔𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐁𝐎𝐎𝐊𝐒 + 𝟐𝟒/𝟕 𝐁𝐔𝐈𝐋𝐃 𝐕𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐎𝐒 — 𝐏𝐑𝐄𝐕𝐈𝐄𝐖 𝐁𝐄𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐄 𝐘𝐎𝐔 𝐁𝐔𝐘 — Step-by-step construction videos available online before you buy so you can assess the project first. Kit includes printed Cut List Guide, Construction Guide, and Assembly Handbook (also available as PDFs). Complete lumber cut list included — take it directly to the hardware store. Most builders complete in 1–2 weekends with basic woodworking tools and a helper.
- 𝐓𝐎𝐓𝐀𝐋 𝐁𝐔𝐈𝐋𝐃 𝐂𝐎𝐒𝐓: $𝟑𝟓𝟎–$𝟓𝟎𝟎 𝐕𝐒. $𝟐,𝟎𝟎𝟎+ 𝐏𝐑𝐄-𝐁𝐔𝐈𝐋𝐓 — Hardware kit is $197. Budget approximately $150–$300 additional for ¾" plywood sheets from any hardware store, plus a wooden stabilizer leg rod (~$10 at Home Depot). Tools needed: circular saw or table saw, drill, measuring tape, clamps. Your completed queen Murphy bed costs a fraction of pre-built wall beds ($800–$2,000+) and you built it yourself.
- Build With the Experts: With over two decades of proven reliability, our kits are designed to last a lifetime, making them perfect for constructing a premium Murphy bed. Commercial grade steel, exceptional strength, and durability are behind each kit. Engineered to support up to 2,000 lbs, our kits are the ultimate solution for maximizing your living area.
- Available in All Standard Bed Sizes: Whether you have a twin, full, queen, or king bed, our universal mechanism is designated to fit them all. Enjoy the flexibility of adapting your Murphy bed to your preferred mattress size.
- Unique Spring Mechanism: Our Murphy bed mechanism kit features innovative spring technology, providing the perfect amount of stored energy to effortlessly lift and lower the bed. No more straining yourself to store your bed. Experience a smooth, easy, and controlled transition.
- Durable & Reliable: Our high-quality spring lift mechanisms are known for their durability and long lifespan, designed to withstand frequent use without losing their effectiveness. Their reliability ensures that the bed remains functional for years to come with built-in safety features such as locking mechanisms that keep the bed securely in place when raised or lowered.
- Detailed Instructions: Decades of building beds and supporting our customers has allowed us to develop crystal clear instructions and diagrams that are easy to follow. Choose a premium product, with substantially less build time. Our products come with illustrated instruction booklets, cut list, construction plans, and bills of materials.
- 🛏️【Complete Queen-Vertical Murphy Bed Kit】Finished size reference: 87-1/8-inch H x 65-7/8- inch W x 15-7/8- inch D (closed) x 87 inches deep (open).A complete Murphy bed queen hardware kit can easily mount your cabinet folding bed on the wall and save space for your guest room & living room.
- 💡【Tested Gas Pistons】Rated for 60,000+ cycles. This Murphy Bed Kit Queen runs with little sound, easy to operate, and you can pull down the collapsible wall bed very easily. And the larger force at its lower end also prevents the wall bed from bouncing back quickly when you fold it, safer and easier to use.
- 🛠️【Quenched & Thickened Stainless Steel】WEIGHT-BEARING BED LEGS--Load capacity up to hundreds of pounds. This Murphy bed hardware kit features greater resistance to bending and torsion compared with traditional round --square tubes have a larger moment of inertia and cross-sectional modulus.
- 📖【DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS】Provide more complete instructions based on your feedbacks: tools needed, lumber cutting details, bed assembly instructions. There is a 24-hour after-sales service to solve your problems pertaining the Murphy bed hardware kit queen.
- 🚩【Lumber and Mattress are EXCLUDED】Lumber and Mattress are EXCLUDED. Queen size mattress measures up to 80 "L x 60 "W x 6-12H, mattress weight: 50-85lbs.
- High Quality Powder Coated Steel Hardware: The Queen size murphy bed kit comes with sturdy hardware capable of holding up to 550 lbs on the murphy bed frame. This Queen Hideaway bed kit is a durable space saving furniture solution.
- XL, In-Color, and Easy To Follow Instruction Guides: Our booklet is 80% larger than a standard 8.5x11"". It's linked to detailed animations to make it a diy murphy bed project suitable for slightly-beyond-beginner DIYers to intermediate skill levels.
- An Affordable DIY alternative to Pre-built Murphy Beds: You won't find a queen size murphy bed on clearance, but you can build one in a weekend for a fraction of the cost. Our murphy bed hinges and hardware make building a pull down bed easy.
- Hideaway Includes Specialty Tools You'd Have to Purchase Elsewhere: An edge band trimmer, and forstner & countersink drill bits are required for any queen size murphy bed cabinet DIY kit. We're the only ones that include them - saving you money!
- Lifetime Warranty On All Foldable Murphy Bed Hardware: The Hideaway murphy wall bed queen hardware kit is covered by a lifetime warranty and supported by USA-based customer service.
- 𝐐𝐔𝐄𝐄𝐍 𝐒𝐈𝐙𝐄 𝐇𝐎𝐑𝐈𝐙𝐎𝐍𝐓𝐀𝐋 𝐌𝐔𝐑𝐏𝐇𝐘 𝐁𝐄𝐃 — 𝐒𝐈𝐃𝐄-𝐅𝐎𝐋𝐃 𝐖𝐀𝐋𝐋 𝐁𝐄𝐃 (𝐖𝐈𝐃𝐄 𝐂𝐀𝐁𝐈𝐍𝐄𝐓 𝐒𝐓𝐘𝐋𝐄) — Finished cabinet measures approximately 67 7/8"H × 86 3/8"W × 16"D when closed. Opens to approximately 67" of floor depth from the wall. HORIZONTAL means the bed folds sideways from a wide cabinet — ideal for rooms with standard 8-ft ceilings or lower where a vertical murphy bed won't fit. The cabinet is wider than it is tall. Fits mattresses up to 10–12" thick. Available in Queen, Full, and Twin sizes in both vertical and horizontal orientations.
- 𝐂𝐎𝐌𝐏𝐋𝐄𝐓𝐄 𝐇𝐎𝐑𝐈𝐙𝐎𝐍𝐓𝐀𝐋 𝐌𝐔𝐑𝐏𝐇𝐘 𝐁𝐄𝐃 𝐇𝐀𝐑𝐃𝐖𝐀𝐑𝐄 𝐊𝐈𝐓 — 𝐄𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐘𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐓𝐎 𝐁𝐔𝐈𝐋𝐃 𝐘𝐎𝐔𝐑 𝐖𝐀𝐋𝐋 𝐁𝐄𝐃 — Includes gas piston lift mechanism calibrated for side-fold operation (smooth open/close rated for daily use), patented 2-in-1 auto-locking stainless steel pivot plates, heavy-duty folding crossbar leg system, quick-release mattress retention strap, all mounting hardware and fasteners, plus 3 illustrated guidebooks (Horizontal Cut List Guide, Construction Guide, Assembly Handbook). No separate hardware store runs needed for the murphy bed mechanism components.
- 𝟕𝟎𝟎+ 𝐋𝐁 𝐂𝐀𝐏𝐀𝐂𝐈𝐓𝐘 — 𝐌𝐀𝐃𝐄 𝐈𝐍 𝐍𝐎𝐑𝐓𝐇 𝐀𝐌𝐄𝐑𝐈𝐂𝐀 — 𝐄𝐒𝐓. 𝟐𝟎𝟏𝟑 — Heavy-duty murphy bed frame queen with gas pistons and pivot system manufactured in North America, not imported. Patented auto-locking pivot plates eliminate complex measurements required by competitor C-clip systems. Engineered for daily use as a guest room murphy bed, home office hideaway bed, studio apartment space-saving bed, or Airbnb rental. The horizontal queen murphy bed kit is especially popular for basement guest rooms, bonus rooms, and converted garages with lower ceilings.
- 𝟑 𝐆𝐔𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐁𝐎𝐎𝐊𝐒 + 𝟐𝟒/𝟕 𝐁𝐔𝐈𝐋𝐃 𝐕𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐎𝐒 — 𝐏𝐑𝐄𝐕𝐈𝐄𝐖 𝐁𝐄𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐄 𝐘𝐎𝐔 𝐁𝐔𝐘 — Step-by-step construction videos available online before you buy so you can assess the DIY murphy bed project first. Murphy bed kit queen includes printed Horizontal Cut List Guide, Construction Guide, and Assembly Handbook (also available as PDFs). Complete lumber cut list included — take it directly to the hardware store. Most builders complete their horizontal queen murphy bed in 1–2 weekends with basic woodworking tools and a helper.
- 𝐓𝐎𝐓𝐀𝐋 𝐁𝐔𝐈𝐋𝐃 𝐂𝐎𝐒𝐓: $𝟒𝟎𝟎–$𝟓𝟓𝟎 𝐕𝐒. $𝟐,𝟎𝟎𝟎+ 𝐏𝐑𝐄-𝐁𝐔𝐈𝐋𝐓 — Murphy bed hardware kit is $197. Budget approximately $200–$350 additional for ¾" plywood sheets from any hardware store (horizontal cabinets use slightly more lumber than vertical). Tools needed: circular saw or table saw, drill, measuring tape, clamps. Your completed queen horizontal murphy bed costs a fraction of pre-built wall bed furniture ($800–$2,000+) — and you built it yourself.
- 🛏️【Complete Full-Vertical Murphy Bed Kit】Finished size reference: 82 -1/8 in H x 59- 7/8 in W x 15-7/8 in Deep (closed) x 83 in D (open).A complete Murphy bed full size hardware kit can easily mount your cabinet folding bed on the wall and save space for your guest room & living room.
- 💡【Tested Gas Pistons】Rated for 60,000+ cycles. This DIY Murphy Bed Kit Full runs with little sound, easy to operate, and you can pull down the collapsible wall bed very easily. And the larger force at its lower end also prevents the wall bed from bouncing back quickly when you fold it, safer and easier to use.
- 🛠️【Quenched & Thickened Stainless Steel】WEIGHT-BEARING BED LEGS--Load capacity up to hundreds of pounds. This Full Murphy Bed Hardware features greater resistance to bending and torsion compared with traditional round --square tubes have a larger moment of inertia and cross-sectional modulus.
- 📖【DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS】Provide more complete instructions based on your feedbacks: tools needed, lumber cutting details, bed assembly instructions. There is a 24-hour after-sales service to solve your problems pertaining the Murphy Bed Full Size Kit.
- 🚩【Lumber and Mattress are EXCLUDED】Lumber and Mattress are EXCLUDED. Full size mattress measures up to 75 "L x 54 "W x 6-12H, mattress weight: 50-85lbs.
- 𝐅𝐔𝐋𝐋 𝐒𝐈𝐙𝐄 𝐇𝐎𝐑𝐈𝐙𝐎𝐍𝐓𝐀𝐋 𝐌𝐔𝐑𝐏𝐇𝐘 𝐁𝐄𝐃 — 𝐒𝐈𝐃𝐄-𝐅𝐎𝐋𝐃 𝐖𝐀𝐋𝐋 𝐁𝐄𝐃 (𝐖𝐈𝐃𝐄 𝐂𝐀𝐁𝐈𝐍𝐄𝐓 𝐒𝐓𝐘𝐋𝐄) — Finished cabinet measures approximately 61 7/8"H × 81 3/8"W × 16"D when closed. Opens to approximately 61" of floor depth from the wall. HORIZONTAL means the bed folds sideways from a wide cabinet — ideal for rooms with standard 8-ft ceilings or lower where a vertical murphy bed won't fit. The cabinet is wider than it is tall. Fits mattresses up to 10–12" thick. Available in Queen, Full, and Twin in both vertical and horizontal orientations.
- 𝐂𝐎𝐌𝐏𝐋𝐄𝐓𝐄 𝐇𝐎𝐑𝐈𝐙𝐎𝐍𝐓𝐀𝐋 𝐌𝐔𝐑𝐏𝐇𝐘 𝐁𝐄𝐃 𝐇𝐀𝐑𝐃𝐖𝐀𝐑𝐄 𝐊𝐈𝐓 — EVERYTHING TO BUILD YOUR FULL SIZE WALL BED — Includes gas piston lift mechanism calibrated for side-fold operation (smooth open/close rated for daily use), patented 2-in-1 auto-locking stainless steel pivot plates, heavy-duty folding crossbar leg system, quick-release mattress retention strap, all mounting hardware and fasteners, plus 3 illustrated guidebooks (Horizontal Cut List Guide, Construction Guide, Assembly Handbook). No separate hardware store runs needed for the murphy bed mechanism components.
- 𝟕𝟎𝟎+ 𝐋𝐁 𝐂𝐀𝐏𝐀𝐂𝐈𝐓𝐘 — 𝐌𝐀𝐃𝐄 𝐈𝐍 𝐍𝐎𝐑𝐓𝐇 𝐀𝐌𝐄𝐑𝐈𝐂𝐀 — 𝐄𝐒𝐓. 𝟐𝟎𝟏𝟑 — Heavy-duty murphy bed frame with gas pistons and pivot system manufactured in North America, not imported. Patented auto-locking pivot plates eliminate complex measurements required by competitor C-clip systems. Engineered for daily use as a guest room murphy bed, home office hideaway bed, studio apartment space-saving bed, or Airbnb rental. The horizontal full murphy bed kit is especially popular for basement guest rooms, bonus rooms, and converted garages with lower ceilings.
- 𝟑 𝐆𝐔𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐁𝐎𝐎𝐊𝐒 + 𝟐𝟒/𝟕 𝐁𝐔𝐈𝐋𝐃 𝐕𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐎𝐒 — 𝐏𝐑𝐄𝐕𝐈𝐄𝐖 𝐁𝐄𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐄 𝐘𝐎𝐔 𝐁𝐔𝐘 — Step-by-step construction videos available online before you buy so you can assess the DIY murphy bed project first. Murphy bed kit includes printed Horizontal Cut List Guide, Construction Guide, and Assembly Handbook (also available as PDFs). Complete lumber cut list included — take it directly to the hardware store. Most builders complete their horizontal full size murphy bed in 1–2 weekends with basic woodworking tools and a helper.
- 𝐓𝐎𝐓𝐀𝐋 𝐁𝐔𝐈𝐋𝐃 𝐂𝐎𝐒𝐓: $𝟑𝟓𝟎–$𝟓𝟎𝟎 𝐕𝐒. $𝟐,𝟎𝟎𝟎+ 𝐏𝐑𝐄-𝐁𝐔𝐈𝐋𝐓 — Murphy bed hardware kit is $197. Budget approximately $150–$300 additional for ¾" plywood sheets from any hardware store (horizontal cabinets use slightly more lumber than vertical). Tools needed: circular saw or table saw, drill, measuring tape, clamps. Your completed full horizontal murphy bed costs a fraction of pre-built wall bed furniture ($800–$2,000+) — and you built it yourself.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Choosing the Perfect Murphy Bed Hardware Kit
Building a Murphy bed is a rewarding DIY project that saves space and adds style to any room. However, the secret to a safe and smooth-operating bed lies entirely in the hardware kit. If you pick the wrong mechanism, the bed will be heavy to lift or, worse, unsafe to use. This guide helps you navigate your options so you can build with confidence.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for a kit, look for a counterbalance system. Most modern kits use either a piston (gas strut) system or a spring system. Piston systems are generally quieter and easier to install. Spring systems are very durable and allow you to adjust the tension easily as your mattress weight changes. Always check if the kit includes a “locking mechanism” to keep the bed securely closed when not in use.
Important Materials
Durability is non-negotiable for furniture that moves daily. High-quality kits are made from heavy-duty steel or powder-coated iron. Avoid kits that use plastic components for the pivot points or tension brackets. These parts take the most stress and will crack over time. If you live in a humid climate, look for hardware with a rust-resistant finish to ensure longevity.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality is determined by the engineering of the pivot points. A high-quality kit features smooth ball bearings or nylon bushings. These parts allow the bed to glide down without jerking. Poor-quality kits often have thin metal plates that bend under the weight of a mattress. Check the weight rating on the box. A kit that fits a “Queen” size bed must be rated for the combined weight of the mattress and the wooden frame. Never exceed these weight limits.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about who will use the bed. If a child or an older adult will operate it, look for a “soft-open” feature. This prevents the bed from slamming shut or dropping too quickly. Murphy beds are perfect for guest rooms, home offices, or studio apartments. Because they fold into the wall, they turn a workspace into a bedroom in seconds. Choose a kit that includes a clear, step-by-step assembly manual. If the instructions are vague, your installation time will double.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use any mattress with a Murphy bed kit?
A: Most kits work with standard mattresses. However, check the maximum thickness allowed by your specific hardware kit to ensure the cabinet doors close properly.
Q: Are piston kits better than spring kits?
A: It depends on your preference. Piston kits are easier to install and operate quietly. Spring kits are more adjustable and often last longer, but they are harder to set up.
Q: Is this a good project for a beginner?
A: If you can use a drill and follow instructions, you can build a Murphy bed. Having a friend help you lift the frame is highly recommended for safety.
Q: Do I need to bolt the bed to the wall?
A: Yes. For safety, every Murphy bed must be securely anchored to the wall studs. Never skip this step.
Q: What happens if the bed feels too heavy to lift?
A: If you have a spring system, you can tighten the tension. If you have a piston system, you may need to upgrade to stronger gas struts.
Q: How long does the hardware usually last?
A: A high-quality steel kit should last for 10 to 20 years with regular use and occasional maintenance.
Q: Does the kit include the wooden cabinet?
A: No. Most kits only provide the metal hardware, pivot points, and springs. You must buy and cut the lumber yourself.
Q: Can I install a Murphy bed in a rental apartment?
A: Yes, but you will need to patch the screw holes in the wall when you move out. Always check your lease agreement first.
Q: What tools do I need?
A: You will need a power drill, a level, a tape measure, and a socket wrench set.
Q: Is the bed safe for children?
A: Yes, provided the unit is anchored to the wall and the locking mechanism is engaged when the bed is in the upright position.