How to Safely Use a Murphy Bed with Desk for Your Daily Chores

A Murphy bed with desk is a brilliant space-saving solution that maximizes valuable space in your small room. Whether you’re creating a guest bedroom, a multipurpose living space, or a home office, Murphy wall beds with built-in desks exude style and functionality.

Proper installation and maintenance are important to keep Murphy beds safe. This guide details the best practices for using your Murphy bed with desk for everyday activities.

More About Murphy Bed with Desk

A Murphy bed with desk is a pull-down bed that folds into a cabinet or a wall unit when you’re not using it. Also called a fold-down bed or a wall bed, these beds come with integrated desks to efficiently use wall space for rest and work.

Proper use is essential for Murphy beds with desks, whether you’re looking for a twin model, queen bed, or a custom Murphy bed.

Safely Using a Murphy Bed with Desk for Daily Chores

You can safely use the Murphy bed with desk in multi-use spaces and switch between work and sleep. Here’s how:

When the Bed is Folded Up

• Make sure the locking mechanism is engaged before using the desk for work.
• Don’t hang heavy objects on the cabinet.
• Clear the desk surface to prevent obstruction.

When Lowering the Bed

• Move furniture or items that can block the floor space when you lower the bed.
• Pull the bed down gently.
• Position the legs firmly before using the bed.

When Sleeping

• Use a suitable mattress that fits well with the bed frame.
• Extend the queen or twin bed before use.
• Secure the mattress with straps and tighten the hinges for a restful night’s sleep.

When Raising the Bed

• Remove excess bedding to make the bed close smoothly.
• Make sure the mechanism functions properly as you lift the bed.
• Lock the bed into an upright position.

When Using the Desk

• Don’t overload the desk with unnecessary stuff.
• Avoid leaning your entire body weight on the desk for long periods of time.
• Keep the desk free from dust, dirt, and stain.

Key Safety Features of a Murphy Bed with Desk

• Secure Bed Frame: Murphy beds with desks have a high-quality bed frame, typically made of metal or wood, for better durability.
• Locking Mechanisms: These locks prevent the bed from unexpectedly unfolding from its upright position and pose risks.
• Wall Stud Anchors: Wall studs can secure the bed to prevent accidents.
• Sturdy Legs: The legs should lock after lowering the bed for perfect stability.

Proper Installation Process of a Murphy Desk Bed

Pick the Right Location

• Install the bed against a solid wall. Use strong wall studs for maximum support.
• Make sure you have enough floor space for the bed to fully extend after unfolding it.
• Don’t place the bed near vents, electrical outlets, or windows.

Secure the Bed Frame Properly

• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when installing the bed.
• Use brackets and heavy-duty screws to anchor the bed frame to the wall studs. Properly align all of the hardware to ensure safety.
• Check if the bed’s upright position is stable before using it.

Test the Mechanism

• Slowly lower and raise the bed to see if it operates smoothly.
• Check if the pull-down bed remains locked when folded against the wall.

Proper Maintenance of Murphy Beds with Desks

Murphy desk beds are designed to save space in your small room. To use them for a long time, follow these practical maintenance tips:

Regularly Inspect the Mechanism

The moving parts of Murphy beds with desks can get worn and torn. Check for loose screws, misalignment in the lifting mechanism, or worn-out springs at least once a month. If you notice resistance upon pulling the bed down or any unusual noises, it can be a sign of adjustment or replacement.

Address small issues early to avoid dealing with bigger problems with your bed later on.

Lubricate Moving Parts

Apply a dry or silicone-based lubricant to the bed’s moving components to prevent stiffness, strain, or squeaking. Don’t use too much lubricant to avoid attracting dirt and dust. 

Tighten Screws and Bolts

Since you’re using the desk bed frequently, expect the bolts and screws to loosen with repeated movement. Inspect the fasteners and tighten all loose components every few months. Check the wall studs, mounting hardware, and bed frame to keep the bed stable and secure.

Check the Mattress

Make sure the mattress you buy for your Murphy bed with desk fits well. If it’s too thick, the bed won’t fully close, and if it’s too thin, it won’t provide the proper support.

Check if your mattress is sagging, lumping, or wearing out. Replace it if there are signs of wear and tear.

Clean the Desk and Frame

Regular cleaning maintains the desk bed’s good appearance and superb functionality. Use a damp cloth to wipe the desk’s surface, bed frame, and surrounding wall space.

Are Murphy Beds Dangerous?

The biggest answer to this common question is no, as long as you properly install and use the bed correctly. To keep yourself safe when using it, let a professional install your Murphy bed with desk.

Parting Thoughts

A Murphy bed with desk maximizes valuable space in any room. However, you need to install and maintain the bed properly to enjoy it for a long time. Following these best practices will make you enjoy the benefits of a bed and a desk in one furniture piece.