Murphy beds are the best space-saving solutions for small homes and apartments. They can convert a room into any purpose in just seconds. You can get a bedroom or a home office whenever you want it.
However, your Murphy bed can have different issues as time goes by. It can be a problem with the Murphy bed mechanism, the mattress, or the bed frame itself. Understanding these problems and their common solutions can keep your bed functioning for a long time.
Here’s how you can troubleshoot each Murphy bed problem.
Difficulty in Opening or Closing the Murphy Bed
It’s frustrating when your bed is hard to open or close. Misalignment or mechanical problems can cause this.
Ensure the bed’s longevity by:
- Checking the Mechanism: Inspect the bed to ensure the lifting mechanism functions well. Tighten and reconnect any loose or disconnected parts.
- Lubricating Moving Parts: Apply lube to the bed’s pivot points and hinges to reduce friction and make handling easier.
- Aligning the Bed: Misalignment causes resistance when you open or close the bed. Adjust the mounting brackets and make sure they align with the wall brackets.
Squeaking or Noisy Operation
Squeaky noises when operating the bed are pretty bothersome, but they indicate that your bed has problems. Ensure smooth operation by tightening loose screws and bolts and lubricating all the moving parts to minimize the noise.
Bed Not in Upright Position
Wall beds that don’t stay upright may be prone to falling and sagging. Some Murphy beds have mechanisms like spring tension, so try checking and replacing this part. When adjusting the bed’s mechanisms, follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Bed Frame Issues
Warping and cracking can make most Murphy beds unstable. Inspect the bed frame for visible damage and repair or replace any affected parts. For minor repairs, reinforce the frame using additional brackets.
Misaligned or Jammed Mechanism
This problem hinders the bed’s functioning. Make sure the bed is properly aligned with the mounting hardware within the wall space. Check for obstructions or debris that block the mechanism. Remove foreign objects and check if the bed functions properly.
Mattress Issues
It’s not just your bed that can have problems. Your mattress can sag and become improperly fitted, making sleep uncomfortable.
Here are some solutions for this issue:
- Check Mattress Size: Choose a mattress that fits with the Murphy bed. A mattress that’s too thick or too thin can affect the bed’s operation.
- Replace or Rotate the Mattress: If the sagging has affected the quality of the mattress, consider replacing it with a new one. Rotating an uneven mattress every few months can help distribute wear and tear evenly.
- Use a Mattress Protector: This protects the mattress and maintains its size and shape while reducing wear.
- Let It Expand: If the mattress is compressed, allow it to expand and get its shape back before using it. Depending on the material, this may take hours or days.
- Use Non-Slip Pads: Put mattress grippers on the bed frame to keep the mattress from moving and misaligning.
- Use a Mattress Topper: For added comfort and support, choose a topper that matches the mattress type, such as memory foam or gel-infused toppers.
Wall Mounting Issues
Murphy beds are designed for floor and wall attachments. However, issues like loose brackets and insufficient support can threaten the bed’s stability.
Check the wall-mounted brackets and hardware to see if they’re attached to the wall. Replace worn-out parts of the bed or tighten loose bolts if there are any. Reinforce the wall anchors with additional anchors and attach them to wall studs to provide enough support for the bed.
Difficulty in Locking the Bed in Place
Murphy beds should lock upright securely. If they don’t, it’s a safety concern that needs to be addressed. Check the locking mechanism for any misalignment and obstructions that may prevent the lock from working well.
Cosmetic Issues
Your new Murphy bed may look flashy the first few months or years after you buy it. However, scratches and dents can affect the bed’s appearance as it wears over time.
Use touch-up paint or wood filler to restore the bed’s appearance. Clean the mattress regularly to keep it dust-free and prevent dirt buildup that could make it look ugly.
Seek professional assistance if your bed has many scratches and dents. With their furniture kit and skills, they can help you bring back the bed to its original look and former glory.
Parting Thoughts
Modern Murphy beds are worthy additions to your living space. When folded up, they save space and give you valuable floor space to do whatever you want. Addressing the issues your bed could accumulate over time can help you maintain its functionality. Regular inspection, maintenance, and swift attention extend the life of your beloved bed and keep it in top condition.
Buy your Murphy beds from a reputable seller to get the most value out of your money. Murphy bed prices differ from each other, depending on the model. Choose a bed with an uncomplicated installation process and top-grade finishing to make your investment worth every cent.