Murphy Bed with Wardrobe: Storage That Works

What a Murphy bed with wardrobe is

A Murphy bed with a wardrobe is a wall bed or cabinet bed that includes built-in storage such as shelves, drawers, or a closet rod. The bed folds up into a cabinet, and the surrounding structure offers space for clothes, linens, or decor. This design turns one piece of furniture into a bedroom and a closet in one. For more on shelving options, see this article on Murphy beds with shelving.

Cabinet beds, also called Murphy chests, are freestanding units that do not need to be mounted to the wall or floor. Wilding Wallbeds notes that their cabinet beds are freestanding, making them easy to reposition and practical for rentals or multipurpose rooms. The cabinet stays functional while the bed is open, so items like a TV or decor can remain in place. Drawers are a common addition, as covered in this guide to Murphy beds with drawers.

• Shelves for books, decor, or folded items
• Drawers for linens, pillows, or clothing
• A wardrobe section with a rod for hanging clothes
• A desk or flip-top surface for work or hobbies

Cabinet beds versus wall beds for storage

Cabinet beds are a popular choice when you need storage and a bed in one footprint. They fold into a compact cabinet that can include drawers and shelves. Wall beds, by contrast, are mounted to the wall and often have a bed box that folds up, with storage added through side cabinets or headboards. The difference between these types is explained in cabinet bed vs wall bed.

Wilding Wallbeds offers both types. Their Studio Series wall beds can be customized with storage headboards, slide-out trays, shelves, and wardrobes. Their cabinet beds, like the Clover and Daisy, include a rolling drawer and USB/power ports. The choice depends on whether you prefer a freestanding piece or a built-in look. For a deeper comparison of mounting, see wall-mounted vs freestanding Murphy beds.

• Cabinet beds: freestanding, often with drawers and shelves, no wall mounting required
• Wall beds: mounted to the wall, storage can be added as side cabinets or headboards
• Desk beds: combine a bed with a work surface, sometimes with storage drawers

Storage features to look for

When comparing Murphy beds with storage, check what the listing states about the built-ins. Common features include drawers, shelves, a wardrobe rod, or a desk. Wilding Wallbeds lists specific storage options for each cabinet bed model, such as a rolling drawer, stationary top, or flip-top surface. Bookcase-style beds are another way to combine storage; see Murphy beds with bookcases.

Some cabinet beds have a top that can hold a TV or decor, as Wilding Wallbeds describes. Others include a built-in desk, like the Olympia Desk Bed, which has a rolling drawer and USB/power. Think about what you need to store: clothes, linens, books, or work supplies.

• Drawers for linens or clothing
• Shelves for books or decor
• A wardrobe rod for hanging clothes
• A desk or flip-top surface for work
• USB ports and power outlets for devices

Sizes and dimensions to consider

Murphy beds with storage come in twin, full, queen, and sometimes king sizes. Wilding Wallbeds offers cabinet beds in queen size with a 6-inch tri-fold mattress included. The closed cabinet depth varies by model; Wilding Wallbeds states most of their cabinet beds are 24 to 27 inches deep when closed.

Before buying, measure the room where the bed will go. Consider the closed cabinet depth and the open footprint when the bed is down. The article on measuring a room for a Murphy bed offers general steps for planning.

• Check the closed cabinet depth to ensure it fits your wall space
• Measure the open footprint for when the bed is down
• Consider the mattress size and whether it is included

Freestanding versus mounted storage beds

Cabinet beds are freestanding, meaning they do not need to be attached to the wall or floor. Wilding Wallbeds highlights this as a benefit for rentals or rooms where you may move the furniture. Wall beds, on the other hand, are mounted and may offer a more built-in appearance. The trade-offs are detailed in wall-mounted vs freestanding Murphy beds.

If you are renting or want flexibility, a freestanding cabinet bed is a practical choice. If you prefer a permanent installation, a wall bed with side cabinets or a headboard might suit you better.

Mattress and bedding considerations

Cabinet beds often include a tri-fold mattress designed to fold inside the cabinet. Wilding Wallbeds includes a 6-inch tri-fold mattress with their cabinet beds. These mattresses are made to stand on-end without slumping, as Wilding Wallbeds describes on their mattress page. The right thickness is important; see Murphy bed mattress thickness.

When choosing a Murphy bed with storage, check whether the mattress is included or sold separately. Also consider the mattress thickness, as it affects the closed cabinet depth and the bed's comfort.

Installation and setup

Freestanding cabinet beds are generally easier to set up than wall beds because they do not require mounting. Wilding Wallbeds notes that their cabinet beds do not need to be mounted to the wall or floor. However, always follow the maker's instructions for assembly and use. General installation guidance is available in Murphy bed installation and maintenance.

For wall beds with storage, installation is more involved and may require professional help. Check the listing for assembly details and whether tools are included.

What to pick for your situation

Questions

Do Murphy beds with wardrobes require wall mounting?

Cabinet beds are freestanding and do not need to be mounted to the wall or floor, as Wilding Wallbeds states. Wall beds, however, are mounted and may offer a more built-in look.

What storage features are common on Murphy beds?

Common features include drawers, shelves, a wardrobe rod, a desk, or a flip-top surface. Some models also include USB ports and power outlets.

Are mattresses included with cabinet beds?

Many cabinet beds include a tri-fold mattress, such as Wilding Wallbeds' 6-inch tri-fold. Check the listing to confirm whether the mattress is included or sold separately.

How deep is a Murphy bed cabinet with storage?

Wilding Wallbeds states most of their cabinet beds are 24 to 27 inches deep when closed. The exact depth varies by model, so check the listing's dimensions.

Can I leave items on top of a Murphy bed cabinet?

Yes, many cabinet beds have a top that can hold a TV, lamp, books, or decor, as Wilding Wallbeds describes. The cabinet remains functional while the bed is open.