Quick Answer: How Much Space Does a Single Murphy Bed Need?
A Single (Twin) Murphy Bed is incredibly compact. When closed, the cabinet is roughly 45 inches wide and 16 inches deep. When opened, it extends about 85 inches into the room. This makes it perfect for narrow home offices, multi-purpose dens, or even a wide hallway. Unlike a sofa bed, it uses a real Twin mattress (up to 10-12 inches thick), offering genuine comfort for guests.
Brad, Owner, 40+ years of experience: "We have been helping Brantford families sleep better since 1997. Every customer gets personal attention, honest advice, and the kind of follow-up service you just do not get from big box stores."
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In Brantford's growing condo market and renovated century homes, square footage is precious. You want a guest room, but you don't want to dedicate an entire room to a bed that is used twice a year. The Single Murphy Bed is the answer.
At Mattress Miracle, we specialize in the mattresses that make these beds comfortable. A wall bed shouldn't feel like "camping." It should feel like a real bed.
Why Choose a Single?
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A Queen Murphy bed is great, but it requires a lot of wall space (approx. 65 inches wide). A Single Murphy bed is sleek.
- The "Home Office" Companion: It fits easily next to a desk without dominating the room.
- The "Grandchild" Bed: Perfect for grandparents who want a sleepover option that tucks away instantly to create a playroom.
- The "Studio" Solution: In a bachelor apartment, it disappears during the day to make room for living.
Vertical vs. Horizontal (Side Tilt)
Vertical (Traditional):
Shape: Tall and narrow (like a wardrobe cabinet).
Best for: Rooms with standard ceiling height (8ft+) and enough floor depth to open the bed.
Horizontal (Side Tilt):
Shape: Wide and low (like a credenza or sideboard).
Best for: Rooms with low ceilings (basements, attics) or very narrow rooms where a vertical bed would hit the opposite wall. You can even mount a TV or art above it!
Mattress Requirements
Don't Use Your Old Mattress
Wall beds have specific weight and thickness limits.
Thickness: Usually max 10-12 inches. A thicker mattress won't let the legs fold in or the cabinet close.
Weight: The piston mechanism is calibrated for a specific weight range. A heavy latex mattress might be too heavy to lift. A cheap foam pad might be too light to stay down.
We recommend a High-Density Foam or Pocket Coil mattress with a firm edge, specifically chosen for wall bed use.
Installation Safety
A Murphy bed is a piece of furniture that MUST be anchored to the wall studs. It is not freestanding.
DIY or Pro? If you are comfortable finding studs and using lag bolts, you can DIY. If not, hire a professional. The tension in the pistons is strong, and safety is paramount.
Medical Disclaimer: The information in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. If you are experiencing chronic pain, sleep disorders, or other health conditions, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.
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Find Your Perfect Mattress at Mattress Miracle
We are a family-owned mattress store in Brantford, helping our community sleep better since 1997. Come try mattresses in person and get honest, no-pressure advice.
441 1/2 West Street, Brantford, Ontario
Call 519-770-0001Frequently Asked Questions
Can I close it with the bedding on?
Yes! Most models have straps to hold the mattress and sheets in place. You usually just need to remove the pillow.
Is it comfortable for adults?
Yes. It uses a standard Twin mattress (39" x 75"). It comfortably sleeps one adult up to 6 feet tall.
Do you sell the cabinet mechanism?
Mattress Miracle specializes in the mattresses. We partner with local cabinet makers and suppliers who build the units, ensuring you get the complete package.
Does it need a box spring?
No. Murphy beds have a built-in slat system or platform face that supports the mattress directly.
Maximize Your Brantford Home
Whether you are in a new build in West Brant or a smaller home in Eagle Place, space is valuable. Visit Mattress Miracle at 441 1/2 West Street to find the perfect low-profile mattress for your wall bed project.
Visit Our Brantford Showroom
Mattress Miracle
441 1/2 West Street, Brantford
Phone: (519) 770-0001
Hours: Mon-Wed 10-6, Thu-Fri 10-7, Sat 10-5, Sun 12-4
Our team has 38 years of experience helping customers find the right sleep solution. Call ahead or walk in any day of the week.
Sources
- Walker M. Why We Sleep: Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams. Scribner. 2017. ISBN: 978-1501144318.
- Okamoto-Mizuno K, Mizuno K. Effects of thermal environment on sleep and circadian rhythm. J Physiol Anthropol. 2012;31(1):14. DOI: 10.1186/1880-6805-31-14
- Krauchi K. The thermophysiological cascade leading to sleep initiation in relation to phase of entrainment. Sleep Med Rev. 2007;11(6):439-451. DOI: 10.1016/j.smrv.2007.07.001
- Haskell EH, Palca JW, Walker JM, Berger RJ, Heller HC. The effects of high and low ambient temperatures on human sleep stages. Electroencephalogr Clin Neurophysiol. 1981;51(5):494-501.
Sources
- Jacobson, B. H. et al. (2008). "Grouped comparisons of sleep quality for new and personal bedding systems." Applied Ergonomics, 39(2), 247-254. PubMed 17662962.
- Radwan, A. et al. (2015). "Effect of different mattress designs on promoting sleep quality, pain reduction, and spinal alignment." Sleep Health, 1(4), 257-267. PubMed 29073401.
- Kovacs, F. M. et al. (2003). "Effect of firmness of mattress on chronic non-specific low-back pain." The Lancet, 362(9396), 1599-1604. PubMed 14630439.
Visit Our Brantford Showroom
We are located at 441½ West Street in downtown Brantford. Free parking available. Our team does not work on commission, so you get honest advice based on your needs.
Mattress Miracle , 441½ West Street, Brantford, ON · (519) 770-0001
Hours: Monday–Wednesday 10am–6pm, Thursday–Friday 10am–7pm, Saturday 10am–5pm, Sunday 12pm–4pm.