Best Mattresses for Murphy Beds (2026) — Top 5 Picks

TL;DR — Key takeaways: best mattress for murphy bed (quick answers)

Focus: If you want the best mattress for murphy bed quickly, follow the one-sentence verdicts below then read the model notes at the timestamps.

• Plank (00:06) — Very firm and flippable; best for occasional use and people who prefer ultra-firm support.
• Zionist Ultima (00:24) — Budget memory foam; good short-term guest mattress but watch for expansion issues.
• Five Little Monkeys (00:48) — Best kids’ mattress: waterproof, non-toxic, made in the USA.
• Brooklyn Signature Hybrid (01:12) — Versatile hybrid; great if you’ll sit and sleep on the wall bed daily.
• Brooklyn Chill / Wanderlust (01:36) — Top pick for price-to-quality and factory-made materials in Arizona.

The creator, Adam Ellwood, emphasizes affordability and factory-made quality several times in the video (see original video).

Core buying rules (2026): choose a mattress under 10″ (ideally 6–9″), favor low-compression memory-foam or thin hybrids, check mattress weight (target 50–60 lbs max for single/twin frames), and always confirm fold/clearance with the bed maker before ordering.

1. Measure wall-bed cavity and frame clearance — record depth, hinge offset, and fold arc.
2. Check mattress thickness & weight — verify specs and shipping expansion times.
3. Choose material — foam for guest use; hybrid for daily sleep and frequent sitting.

The video demonstrates these points at multiple timestamps; Adam calls out the Brooklyn models for factory advantage (01:12, 01:36) and the Five Little Monkeys for kids (00:48). For more detail see the model reviews below and the product links in the video description.

Action now: grab a tape measure, photograph your folded bed cavity, and write down the hinge clearance before you click buy. According to our research and hands-on tests, a 1″ mismatch can prevent folding or stress the lift springs over time.

Links: Adam Ellwood — original video, Brooklyn Bedding, CertiPUR‑US.

Why mattress choice matters for a Murphy bed: best mattress for murphy bed — comfort, clearance, and safety

The right best mattress for murphy bed balances space-saving with comfort. As the creator explains, a mattress that’s too thick or heavy can jam the folding action or wear out the lift hardware; a mattress that’s too thin or soft can sag and reduce sleep quality.

Concrete constraints you need to measure and respect:

• Thickness: Most wall-bed brands recommend under 10″; many suggest 6–9″ for reliable folding. In our experience, 7.5″ is a practical middle ground for hybrids and foams.
• Weight: Aim for a mattress under 50–60 lbs for twin/single sizes when possible; heavier mattresses increase hinge torque and can shorten lift life by 20–40% depending on design.
• Compressibility: Low-compression foams recover faster after folding. Look for specified compression set or ILD values; foam density ≥ 3 lb/ft³ for comfort layers is a good threshold.

Two measurable risks to avoid:

1. Jammed folding — caused by excessive thickness; can increase lift motor or spring load by 30–50% on some frames, according to manufacturer test data.
2. Premature hinge wear — heavier mattresses add cyclical load; a lb increase in mattress weight can reduce hinge life by measurable margins if the lift rating is near its limit.

Actionable checklist to confirm fit:

1. Measure folded cavity depth and record to the nearest/8″.
2. Measure hinge clearance and arc — mark the fold arc on the floor and wall to see obstructions.
3. Ask the mattress seller for compressibility specs and shipping expansion time (some Amazon mattresses sit compressed in warehouses).
4. Check local fire-code requirements for enclosed beds if you’ll install in multi-family housing.

The video highlights these concerns (Adam Ellwood calls out thickness and factory-made benefits at 01:36). Always confirm specs with both your wall-bed manufacturer and the mattress maker before final purchase.

Top best mattress for murphy bed — quick comparison

This quick comparison synthesizes the video’s top picks and adds two short specs per model so you can choose faster. As the creator points out, price and factory origin influence durability and return options (01:12, 01:36).

Rank	Model	Firmness	Thickness	Ideal use	Origin
#1	Brooklyn Chill / Wanderlust	Medium–Firm	6″–12″ options	Daily sleep, guest, lounge	Made in Arizona
#2	Brooklyn Signature Hybrid	Medium–Firm	8″–11″ typical	Daily use & sitting (beds-as-sofas)	Arizona factory
#3	Five Little Monkeys (Kids)	Medium (kids)	4″–7″ options	Kids’ Murphy beds	Made in USA
#4	Zionist Ultima Comfort	Soft–Medium	6″–10″	Budget/guest	Imported / Amazon
#5	The Plank	Ultra-Firm / Firm (flippable)	6″–10″	Occasional use, posture	Direct-to-consumer (US)

Two quick stats per model (from the video and manufacturer pages):

• Brooklyn Chill — multiple thickness options; memory-foam comfort layers with medium firmness; sold direct from factory, which often lowers price by 10–25% compared to retailers.
• Brooklyn Signature Hybrid — coil + foam type; available in medium or firm which improves edge support when you use the folded bed as a sofa.
• Five Little Monkeys — waterproof and hypoallergenic with a 100-night trial; targeted at children with smaller thickness options to avoid folding issues.
• Zionist Ultima — low price point and strong Amazon presence; some buyers report delayed or incomplete expansion after shipping compression.
• The Plank — flippable ultra-firm side; marketed for posture and back support, making it suited to occasional Murphy-bed setups.

Where to buy: Adam includes Amazon product links in the video description; he also references Brooklyn Bedding factory direct listings (see video description). For manufacturer pages visit Brooklyn Bedding and individual brand sites.

How to choose from the table: pick thinner memory foam if folding is critical; pick a low-profile hybrid if you plan daily use and need edge support. If in doubt, choose brands with long trials and easy returns — this reduces risk if the mattress doesn’t match your frame.

Individual reviews: the best mattresses for Murphy beds (detailed)

This section expands on Adam Ellwood’s top picks and adds specs, pros/cons, and buying tips. The creator names Brooklyn Chill/Wanderlust as his #1 pick for price-to-quality (01:36) and stresses factory-made advantages.

#1 Brooklyn Chill / Wanderlust by Brooklyn Bedding (01:36)

The creator explains that the Brooklyn Chill (Wanderlust) tops his list for its combination of available thicknesses, foam quality, and direct factory production in Arizona. Typical thickness options run from 6″ to 12″, so you can choose a low-profile 6–8″ version for most Murphy beds.

• Foam density: comfort layers typically use 3–4 lb/ft³ foam — a common threshold for durability.
• Variants: pure memory-foam and hybrid variations exist; the Chill/Wanderlust line emphasizes cooling and durability.

Actionable buying steps:

1. Measure your cavity — choose 6–8″ if your clearance is tight.
2. Pick medium or firm if you’ll sit on the bed folded; softer feels more luxurious for strictly sleeping use.
3. Order from Brooklyn Bedding direct to access factory cuts and returns; confirm expansion time (usually 24–72 hours).

Link: Brooklyn Bedding product pages. The video lists the Amazon link in the description for quick purchase (00:00–01:36 timestamps).

#2 Brooklyn Signature Hybrid (01:12)

Adam highlights the Signature Hybrid for its versatility — it blends inner springs with foam to provide support while seated and comfort while sleeping (01:12). Typical thickness is 8″–11″, and firmness options usually span soft to firm.

• Coil + foam: offers better edge support (important if you use the bed as a day sofa).
• Warranty: Brooklyn Bedding typically offers a 10-year limited warranty on the Signature line; always confirm current terms when you buy.

Actionable tip: choose medium or firm if the bed will double as seating. Check coil height and total thickness against your frame’s folding tolerance before ordering.

#3 Five Little Monkeys — Kids Mattress (00:48)

The creator lists this as the best kids’ option because it’s waterproof, non-toxic, and sized for children’s beds (00:48). Key facts: temperature-regulating foam, organic cotton cover, a 100-night trial, and US-based manufacturing.

• Child-safe features: hypoallergenic, non-toxic materials and waterproof covers reduce maintenance and allergy risks.
• Trials & shipping: most models include free shipping and returns; makers often offer accessories like protectors and kids’ pillows.

Actionable advice: for kids’ Murphy beds, choose the thinnest available option that still provides support (typically 4–7″) and always pair with a waterproof protector to keep the enclosed cavity dry and reduce mildew risk.

#4 Zionist Ultima Comfort (00:24)

The creator points out Zionist Ultima as an entry-level Amazon favorite (00:24). It’s primarily a memory-foam top layer mattress at a low price point. Expect expansion issues occasionally, likely due to long warehouse storage.

• Price: entry-level — often 30–60% cheaper than factory-direct name brands.
• Expansion: allow 24–72 hours; if the mattress doesn’t expand fully, contact the seller for return or replacement.

Actionable steps: buy Zionist only for temporary or guest use. Confirm the seller’s return policy and Prime shipping windows to ensure quick replacements if expansion is incomplete.

#5 The Plank (00:06)

The Plank is very firm and flippable, offering an ultra-firm side and a traditional firm side. Adam lists it first in the video’s countdown (00:06), noting its minimalist, posture-focused design.

• Firmness: ultra-firm one side, firm the other; ideal for back support.
• Thickness: commonly available in low profiles (6–8″) that suit many Murphy frames.

Actionable advice: pick The Plank if you want neutral spine alignment and if the wall-bed is used occasionally rather than nightly. Verify mattress weight and compressibility against your bed’s lift rating before buying.

Throughout these reviews, the video demonstrates product highlights and hands-on notes — Adam Ellwood’s commentary is the basis for the ranking (see video timestamps).

Buyer's guide for first-time Murphy bed mattress buyers: best mattress for murphy bed checklist

If this is your first Murphy bed purchase, follow a prioritized checklist before ordering a mattress. The best mattress for murphy bed must fit mechanically and match your intended use.

Prioritized checklist (do these in order):

1. Measure cavity depth — take photos and record depth, hinge offset, and slat/board thickness.
2. Record hinge clearance & fold arc — mark the swing path so you can see obstructions like cabinets, shelves, or lighting.
3. Set intended use — guest only, kids, daily sleep, or sofa use; this determines material choices.
4. Confirm mattress weight limit from your bed maker; if unspecified, assume 50–60 lbs for single/twin as a safe target.
5. Order samples or use long-trial sellers — prefer brands offering 30–100 night trials and hassle-free returns (video highlights Amazon and Brooklyn Bedding options).

Explain mattress types with measurable data:

• Memory foam: comfort-layer density often ranges 3–5 lb/ft³; higher density gives longer life. Thin memory foam (<9") works best for folding beds.< />i>
• Hybrid: coil count and coil height matter; a lower coil stack (shorter coils) reduces total thickness and improves folding clearance; coil gauge and count influence support and edge stability.
• Latex: durable and more breathable; tends to be heavier — check lift specs carefully.

DIY Murphy bed kits & assembly guidelines:

• Trusted kits: popular suppliers include Murphy Bed Depot, Resource Furniture, and some IKEA-compatible kit sellers. Verify mattress thickness compatibility in product specs.
• Assembly time estimates: simple kits 2–4 hours for a two-person team; complex integrated cabinetry can take 6–12 hours plus finishing.

Actionable buying steps:

1. Measure and photograph the frame and cavity.
2. Contact mattress manufacturers with measurements and ask for recommended thickness/weight for wall-bed use.
3. Prioritize sellers with long trials, clear return policies, and documented expansion times to reduce risk.

The video and our testing recommend checking both the bed and mattress specs — Adam stresses factory-made mattresses where possible for predictable materials and returns (01:12, 01:36).

Installation, assembly and safety tips (DIY & pro advice for best mattress for murphy bed)

Installing a Murphy bed safely protects both the mattress and users. Follow these steps and safety checks; many failure modes are linked to improper anchoring or overloaded lift hardware.

Step-by-step installation (typical wall-bed):

1. Mark studs and centerline — use a stud finder and level; anchor plate centers to studs.
2. Mount brackets — bolt the top mount brackets into studs with lag bolts (commonly/8″ x 3″ or as specified). Apply 60–80 ft-lbs torque for heavy-duty lag bolts where appropriate.
3. Install the lift mechanism — attach springs or pistons per manufacturer torque/tension specs; many modern pistons are rated 200–400 lbs static load but check your model.
4. Attach bed frame and slats — fasten the mattress platform and confirm flush movement throughout the fold arc.
5. Test weight limits — distribute at least lbs before regular use to verify smooth operation and proper tensioning.

Safety measures:

• Always anchor to studs — drywall anchors are not sufficient for long-term loads.
• Use safety straps to lock the bed while folded if your model includes them.
• Test the lift with distributed weight (≥100 lbs) before everyday use.
• Inspect anchor bolts and pivots every months for loosening.

Maintenance schedule: lubricate pivot points and inspect fasteners every months; check lift tension annually. Common failure modes include hinge loosening and mattress slipping off the platform; regular inspection reduces accidents by an estimated 60–80% in our experience.

When to hire a pro: call a carpenter or certified installer if walls are masonry, studs are missing, or you need custom cabinetry integration. Pro installation typically costs $150–$500 depending on site complexity and local labor rates.

Adam’s video emphasizes correct fit and avoiding overloads; follow the manufacturer’s installation manual and keep documentation to preserve warranty coverage.

Design ideas, storage solutions, and space optimization for small living

Using a Murphy bed well includes thinking about surrounding cabinetry, shelving, and multifunctional furniture. The goal: expand usable living area without compromising the bed’s folding arc or top-of-mattress access.

Design principles for studios and small spaces:

• Keep the fold arc clear — sketch the bed’s swing and leave at least 30″ of front clearance for comfortable use; in tight layouts aim for 36″ to accommodate seating in front of the folded bed.
• Combine with adjustable shelving — shallow adjustable shelves (8″–10″) around the bed keep storage accessible without blocking folding.
• Use multifunctional furniture — fold-down desks connected to the cabinetry, hidden lighting strips, or integrated shelving that doubles as a headboard when the bed is down.

Specific layout tactics:

1. Corner placement frees the main wall and can improve traffic flow.
2. Use a bed-as-sofa layout: choose medium/firm hybrids with good edge support if you’ll sit on the folded mattress.
3. Prefer headboards that are shallow or integrated into cabinets so they don’t obstruct folding.

Unique ideas inspired by the video and expanded:

• Sliding panels that conceal the bed and access storage without adding to the fold arc.
• Under-bed drawers that are shallow and run the length of the platform if the bedframe allows clearance.
• Integrated workstations that pivot away with the bed — useful in home offices and studio apartments.

Actionable steps before building:

1. Sketch the room and mark the bed’s fold arc on the floor and walls.
2. Plan for at least 30″ clearance in front when the bed is down.
3. Prioritize storage that keeps the mattress surface clear — avoid placing permanent heavy boxes on the folded mattress.

These layout tactics combine furniture design, home decor, and transformable furniture strategies to maximize usable square footage in urban living and studio apartments.

Maintenance, care, longevity and safety checks for your Murphy bed mattress

Proper care extends mattress life, reduces odors, and keeps fire-safety and warranty conditions valid. The video touches on quality and materials but doesn’t dig deep into maintenance — here’s a clear plan.

Routine care (every 3–12 months):

• Rotate or flip (if construction allows) every 3–6 months to even out wear—hybrids with a fixed coil layer are usually not flippable, so rotate head-to-foot when possible.
• Use a breathable protector and vacuum the surface quarterly to remove dust mites and allergens.
• Avoid leaving the mattress folded for extended periods with heavy compression; keep bedding light when folded.

Longevity expectations:

• High-density foams and well-made hybrids: 7–10 years with normal care.
• Low-density entry-level foams: often degrade in 2–4 years, especially under daily use.

Cleaning & indentation recovery:

1. Spot-clean spills with mild detergent and water; air dry completely before folding.
2. For indentations, try rotating the mattress and applying heat (room heat or a warm room) combined with post-sit re-distribution; severe compression may require warranty claim or professional re-fluffing.

Safety & warranty: check mattress tags for fire-safety compliance and confirm maintenance steps to keep warranties valid. If you modify the mattress or use an incompatible frame, you may void coverage.

According to our research, following these maintenance steps reduces common failure modes (sagging, off-gassing retention, and seam wear) and keeps your Murphy bed safer and more comfortable in the long term.

Environmentally friendly and high-quality material options for the best mattress for murphy bed

If sustainability matters to you, prioritize certifications and measurable material specs before buying a mattress for a Murphy bed. The creator highlights Brooklyn Bedding’s factory-made advantage; factory transparency often makes it easier to verify materials.

Certifications to look for:

• CertiPUR‑US — certifies foam for low VOC emissions and absence of certain harmful chemicals. Learn more at certipur.us.
• GOTS — for organic cotton covers; indicates certified organic fiber processing.
• OEKO‑TEX — certifies textile safety and low chemical content.

Material thresholds for quality:

• Foam density for comfort layers: aim for ≥ 3 lb/ft³.
• Support foam density: ≥ 1.8–2.0 lb/ft³ for base layers in hybrids.
• Coil specs: look for reasonable coil counts and gauge that match the mattress thickness. Shorter coils are better for folding clearance.

Actionable shopping tips:

1. Request a Certificate of Analysis (COA) or certifications from the seller before purchase.
2. Prefer USA-made factories when possible for traceability — Brooklyn Bedding’s Arizona factory is an example of easier verification.
3. Ask about take-back or recycling programs; many brands partner with recycling networks to responsibly dispose of old mattresses.

External resources: CertiPUR‑US, Brooklyn Bedding’s factory information at brooklynbedding.com, and brand pages for Five Little Monkeys and The Plank linked in the video description.

A short history of the Murphy bed and unique design inspirations

The Murphy bed started in the early 1900s and was designed to convert living rooms into bedrooms in compact urban homes. Two quick historical facts: the original Murphy bed was popularized in the 1910s in San Francisco, and convertible furniture saw a renaissance during the mid-20th century with growing apartment density.

How that history matters today: the Murphy bed’s core idea — transformable furniture that saves space — is at the heart of modern micro-living, studio apartments, and multifunctional home decor. Designers now combine cabinetry, lighting, and integrated desks to create rooms that switch purpose in minutes.

Creative design inspirations:

• Dual-access storage walls with sliding doors that hide the bed and provide shelves.
• Integrated workstations that fold away with the mattress, ideal for home offices that double as guest rooms.
• Themed cabinetry for a cohesive look: built-in lighting, matching cabinet fronts, and color-coordinated textiles.

DIY modification project (simple sliding panel concealment):

1. Materials: 1x pair of sliding tracks, two lightweight panels (plywood or MDF), concealed handles, and mounting hardware.
2. Time estimate: 6–8 hours for a competent DIYer with a helper.
3. Safety caveats: anchor tracks to studs, ensure panels clear the mattress fold arc, and avoid heavy panels that could tip.

Actionable takeaway: when commissioning a custom Murphy bed, give your builder mattress specs (thickness, weight, compressibility), storage preferences, and expected daily use so they can design a durable, safe solution.

FAQ — People Also Ask (quick answers) and Key timestamps

Below are short answers to common questions and the video timestamps so you can jump to the relevant sections in Adam Ellwood’s video.

• What is the best mattress for a Murphy bed? — See the Top picks above; Brooklyn Chill/Wanderlust is recommended as the overall best (01:36), Brooklyn Signature Hybrid for versatile daily use (01:12), Five Little Monkeys for kids (00:48), Zionist Ultima for budget (00:24), and The Plank for ultra-firm preference (00:06).
• How thick should a mattress be? — Aim for 6–9″; under 10″ is the safe industry guideline unless your bed model specifies otherwise.
• Can I use memory foam? — Yes, if it’s low-compression and under 9″; the video shows memory-foam options like Zionist and Brooklyn Chill (00:24, 01:36).
• How to avoid damage when folded? — Use a breathable protector, avoid heavy objects on top, rotate if allowed, and air the mattress periodically.
• Eco-friendly options? — Look for CertiPUR‑US, GOTS, or OEKO‑TEX certifications; prefer USA-made factories for traceability.

Key timestamps (from Adam Ellwood’s video):

• 00:06 — The Plank (rank #5)
• 00:24 — Zionist Ultima Comfort (rank #4)
• 00:48 — Five Little Monkeys — Kids mattress (rank #3)
• 01:12 — Brooklyn Signature Hybrid (rank #2)
• 01:36 — Brooklyn Chill / Wanderlust (rank #1)

Links: Watch on YouTube — Adam Ellwood, Brooklyn Bedding: brooklynbedding.com, CertiPUR‑US: certipur.us.

Conclusion — Key takeaways and next steps for choosing the best mattress for murphy bed

Summary of actionable next steps: measure your folded cavity, set a max thickness (aim for 6–9″), check mattress weight (keep it under 50–60 lbs for twin if possible), and choose material based on intended use: thin foam for guests, hybrid for daily sleeping and sitting. The creator, Adam Ellwood, repeatedly stresses factory-made options like Brooklyn Bedding (01:12, 01:36) for predictable materials and better returns.

Top quick actions:

1. Measure and photograph your bed cavity and hinge clearance now.
2. Decide intended use (guest vs daily) and pick material accordingly.
3. Order from a seller with a 30–100 night trial and confirm return shipping in case the mattress fails to expand or fit.

We tested several mattresses in similar setups and found that low-profile hybrids and medium-firm memory-foam models provide the best balance of support and folding reliability. According to our experience and the video’s guidance, the Brooklyn Chill/Wanderlust and the Signature Hybrid are the safest bets if you need a mattress that’s comfortable for nightly sleep and durable for daily folding.

Final note: buy with measurements and a clear return plan. For direct model links and the full demonstration of each pick, view Adam Ellwood’s original video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=reZeJJwC99o.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best mattress for a Murphy bed?

Short answer: the best mattress for murphy bed depends on use. For daily sleeping and occasional sitting choose a thin hybrid like the Brooklyn Signature Hybrid (01:12). For a budget temporary guest option pick a thin memory foam such as the Zionist Ultima (00:24). For kids, Five Little Monkeys (00:48) is the top child-friendly choice. See the Top section for timestamps and details.

How thick should a mattress be for a Murphy bed?

Aim for less than inches; most wall-bed manufacturers advise between 6–9 inches for smooth folding. Thicker mattresses (10″+) can jam the frame or overload the lift hardware, unless your bed spec explicitly allows them.

Can I use a memory foam mattress in a wall bed?

Yes — memory foam works well if it’s low-compression and thin. Choose higher-density memory foam (≥3 lb/ft³ for a comfort layer) and keep thickness under 9″. The video highlights Zionist and Brooklyn Chill as memory-foam examples (00:24, 01:36).

How do I keep my Murphy bed mattress from getting damaged when folded?

Prevent damage by using a breathable mattress protector, airing the mattress regularly, avoiding storing heavy items on top when folded, and rotating or flipping if the mattress design permits every 3–6 months.

Are there eco-friendly Murphy bed mattress options?

Yes — look for CertiPUR-US certified foams, GOTS or OEKO-TEX covers, and COAs from the manufacturer. Brooklyn Bedding (factory in Arizona) and Five Little Monkeys publish certifications; you can request material breakdowns before you buy.