Murphy beds, also known as fold-down or wall beds, offer a space-saving solution that integrates into any room. This serves the dual purpose of a comfortable bed by night and freeing up valuable space by day.
But when choosing a Murphy bed, safety should be a top priority. After all, these space-saving beds are designed to fold up into a wall or cabinet. This can pose potential risks if the bed is not equipped with the right safety features.
So, what exactly should you look for in a Murphy bed to ensure your safety and that of your loved ones?
In this guide, you’ll discover the:
- Safety features to look for in pull-down beds
- Tips to install Murphy beds properly
- Reasons to choose beds from reputable manufacturers like Lori Beds
Index
Quality of Materials
Sturdy Frame Construction
Proper Installation and Mounting
Built-in Safety Features
Safety Testing and Certification
User Education and Guidelines
What Makes The Lori Bed Unique
Final Thoughts
Quality of Materials
Are Murphy beds safe?
When selecting a Murphy bed, the quality of materials used in its construction is important to consider. On the other hand, a defective Murphy bed can be a mishap for you and your loved ones.
Here’s a breakdown of the materials:
Solid Wood and Furniture-Grade Plywood
Known for their robustness, these materials contribute to the durability and safety of folding beds. They can be made from different types of wood, such as oak, maple, cherry, pine, etc.
Solid wood and furniture-grade plywood are less likely to break, warp, or crack over time compared to other materials. Also, wooden Murphy beds can be painted or stained to match your room decor.
Metals
The inclusion of high-quality metals in the frame and mechanism adds to the bed’s overall strength and reliability. Metal Murphy beds are usually made from steel or aluminum.
Modern space-saving beds have special hinges and hydraulics made from durable metals. These ensure a slow, safe descent from the wall to enhance the bed’s safety features.
Particle Board or MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard)
These are engineered woods that are often used in cheaper models of Murphy beds.
While they may be less expensive, they are not as durable as solid wood or metal. Particle boards can deteriorate if exposed to moisture, so they are not ideal for areas with high humidity.
Sturdy Frame Construction
The frame construction ensures the bed remains securely in place, whether in use or stored away.
Key components to consider include:
- Hydraulic Lift Mechanisms: These advanced systems prevent the bed frame from falling from its upright position.
- Safety Locks. Integral to the design, safety locks secure the bed in an upright position when not in use. This effectively prevents unintended movement.
- Heavy-Duty Hinges. Essential for the longevity and reliability of the bed, heavy-duty hinges support the folding mechanism. This ensures the bed can be opened and closed smoothly without risking detachment from the wall.
Proper Installation and Mounting
The installation and mounting are critical for the smooth operation of Murphy Beds. Take note that an improperly installed Murphy bed can cause an accident.
Here are the essential steps and considerations for a secure setup:
Pre-Installation Preparation
Measure the dimensions of the floor and wall space, considering the fully extended length of the bed when open. Ensure there is sufficient clearance space around the wall bed for easy operation and to prevent obstructions.
Installation Process
Begin by reading the entire instruction manual and watching any provided installation videos. Use the right tools:
- Tape measure
- Hand ratchet
- Sockets
- Stud finder
- Wrenches
- Pencil
- Philips tip
- Drill bit
- Electric or battery-operated drill
- Ladder
Secure the bed cabinet to the wall using three L brackets to ensure they are anchored into wall studs. Ensure all provided screws are used for attaching the frame and stiffeners, using all three bolts for the front panel.
Moreover, assemble and attach the crown, side panels, headboard, and back stiffener with the provided wood screws and pre-drilled holes. Install the mechanism with the specified bolts and washers to ensure the bed frame is centered.
Post-Installation Checks
Ensure the Murphy bed is securely attached to the wall. You don't want any surprises in the middle of the night, right? Give it a gentle shake and make sure it doesn't budge. If it feels wobbly, you might need to tighten the screws or consult a professional for help.
Next, let's test the folding mechanism. Gently lift and lower the bed a few times to make sure it smoothly transitions from its upright position to being fully extended. Listen for any strange sounds or resistance. If anything seems off, it's better to address it now than to wait until it becomes a bigger issue down the line.
Now that we've checked the functionality, let's focus on the aesthetic side of things. Take a close look at the surrounding wall and floor to ensure there are no damages or scratches caused during installation. If you spot any imperfections, touch them up with some paint or discuss possible solutions with your installer.
For those unsure about the installation process and afraid of a Murphy bed mishap, professional installation by experts is recommended. This ensures stability, safety, and peace of mind to prevent any potential damage.
Built-in Safety Features
An unstable or hard to open Murphy bed can cause damage to you or, worse, cause an accident. That’s why choosing the best bed is important.
Key safety features to look for include:
Safety Locks and Locking Mechanisms
Safety locks prevent the Murphy bed from falling over when in the upright position. This would secure it firmly against the wall and minimize the risk of accidents.
Additionally, optional locks or automatic locking mechanisms provide extra security. This is especially good in homes with children or pets to prevent unintended opening or closing of the bed.
Pinch Point Awareness and Prevention
Be mindful of pinch points around the hinges, the frame, and the legs to avoid trapping fingers, hands, or toes during the operation.
Furthermore, modern Hidden bed designs incorporate safety features to minimize pinch points. This includes hydraulic supports that keep the top of the cabinet open while pulling out the bottom drawer.
Heavy-Duty Components and Child Safety
Heavy-duty hinges and hydraulic piston systems ensure the bed operates smoothly and securely. This is to prevent it from falling too quickly or unexpectedly.
Supervising children and pets around the Murphy bed, especially when lowered and folded, is crucial to prevent accidents.
These built-in safety features, when combined with proper installation and regular maintenance, contribute to the overall safety of cabinet beds.
Safety Testing and Certification
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) provide guidelines and standards. It’s to ensure these wall-mounted beds meet safety requirements:
- ISO 10131 Standard for Hideaway beds. It outlines safety requirements and acceptance criteria for Murphy beds.
- CPSC Standards. The ASTM F2085-19 standard sets specific safety requirements and limits for Murphy beds. Products must undergo testing by a CPSC-accepted, third-party laboratory for compliance.
- Innovations in safety. Companies like Lori Beds have introduced additional safety features to enhance safety and security.
These standards keep your Murphy bed safe, including space-saving and convertible beds, and meet rigorous safety criteria.
User Education and Guidelines
Educating users on the proper operation and maintenance of Murphy beds is important for ensuring their safety.
Below are key guidelines that users should follow:
- Familiarize yourself with the bed’s opening and closing procedures before use to prevent mishandling.
- Always engage the safety latch to secure the bed in its upright position when not in use.
- Be vigilant of pinch points to avoid injuries; keep children and pets clear of the bed during operation.
- Do not exceed the bed’s recommended weight capacity to avoid straining the mechanism.
- Use a high-quality mattress that is compatible with the bed’s dimensions and weight limits.
- Avoid using the bed for activities it’s not designed for, such as climbing or jumping.
- Conduct inspections for signs of wear or damage and ensure the bed is correctly anchored to the wall.
- Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance guidelines and address any issues by contacting a professional.
- Clean linens and mattresses regularly to maintain freshness.
What Makes The Lori Bed Unique
Choosing The Lori Bed for your space-saving needs brings benefits. Here’s why The Lori Bed stands out:
- Design and Versatility:
- The Lori Bed seamlessly integrates into any decor style, from modern to traditional.
- Its minimalist design not only complements various spaces like guest rooms but also includes functional features.
- Eco-Friendly and Customer-Centric:
- For every Lori Bed purchased, ten trees are planted, emphasizing the brand’s commitment to sustainability.
- The brand is lauded for its excellent customer service, further backed by a 60-day money-back guarantee.
- Reputation and Reliability:
- The Lori Bed’s reputation for quality and reliability is solidified, making it a preferred choice among consumers.
- The company offers free and fast shipping on all US orders.
Incorporating The Lori Bed, whether it’s a twin or queen bed, into your home not only optimizes space but also aligns with eco-friendly practices. We also guarantee satisfaction through excellent customer service and product reliability.
Final Thoughts
Are Murphy beds safe? Can a Murphy bed kill you in an accident?
When choosing a Murphy bed, safety should be a top consideration. Look for beds that have safety features. Proper maintenance and care are also important for ongoing safety.
If you’re looking for Murphy wall beds with safety features, consider The Lori Bed. With proper use, this innovative piece of space-saving furniture is not only safe but also highly functional.
With the Lori Bed, you get more time with the people you love and more out of the place you call home. Prioritize safety and make your Murphy bed a safe and reliable choice for your home.
