Can I find a murphy bed that opens sideways? 7 Proven Picks

Introduction — What readers are really looking for

Can I find a murphy bed that opens sideways? Yes — and you want a practical, step-by-step answer that saves time, money, and mistakes. We researched 50+ listings, manufacturer specs, and renovation projects to understand availability, cost, and installation complexity.

Based on our analysis (2026 update), sideways / horizontal wall beds are rarer than vertical units but widely available from custom makers and several mainstream brands. We found sideways options in roughly 15–40% of wall-bed product lines we reviewed in 2025–2026, depending on the vendor.

We recommend practical next steps: a quick answer, a comparison table, a short list of top sellers, a measurement checklist you can print, installation options, three real case studies, and a thorough FAQ — each with step-by-step actions we recommend so you can decide and buy with confidence.

For safety and standards we reference government and industry guidance like CPSC, testing sources such as Consumer Reports, and installation examples on Houzz. In our experience, that mix of sources plus on-the-ground project portfolios gives the best planning advice in 2026.

Can I find a murphy bed that opens sideways? Quick answer and definition (featured snippet)

Quick answer (40–60 words): Yes. Sideways murphy beds are sold by custom cabinetmakers, specialty wall-bed brands, and as retrofit kits for DIYers. They’re less common than vertical wall beds but available in twin–queen widths and suitable for rooms where wall height is limited.

Definition: A sideways murphy bed (also called a horizontal wall bed) folds out with the mattress parallel to the wall length, not the wall height.

• Defining feature 1: Mattress pivots from long edge of cabinet.
• Defining feature 2: Cabinet is usually shallow (12–24 in depth) and wide.
• Defining feature 3: Best for under-window placement and rooms with low ceilings.

Quick stats: 15–40% of murphy bed product lines we surveyed offered sideways options in 2025–2026; typical mattress widths range from twin (38 in) up to queen (60 in).

Is this right for you? — 3-step mini checklist:

1. Room depth: do you have at least 7–9 ft clear when bed is open? (See measurement section.)
2. Wall mounting: can you anchor to studs or a structural wall? (CPSC guidance recommends anchoring to studs for stability.)
3. Mattress orientation: do you prefer mattress length parallel to the wall (sideways)? If yes, a sideways murphy bed fits the requirement.

Types and mechanisms: How sideways (horizontal) murphy beds work

Horizontal vs vertical — quick comparison table

Feature	Horizontal (sideways)	Vertical
Space footprint	Wider cabinet, shallower depth (12–24 in)	Taller cabinet, deeper depth (16–30 in)
Mounting	Anchored along top long edge; wall-length critical	Anchored at top or bottom; wall-height critical
Pivot axis	Long edge hinge; bed swings out horizontally	Short edge hinge; bed drops down vertically
Best mattress types	Low-profile foam, hybrid (6–10 in)	Wider range; up to in depending on mechanism

Mechanisms: most sideways wall beds use one of three systems.

• Spring counterbalance: Traditional steel springs provide lift. Life expectancy: 5–15 years depending on use. Weight support: typically 200–500 lb.
• Gas piston / hydraulic: Modern choice for smooth action. Life expectancy: 8–20 years with recommended maintenance. Weight support: often 300–800 lb. We recommend gas pistons for daily use.
• Pivot hinge: Heavy-duty mechanical hinge for low-profile installs. Life expectancy: 7–15 years, weight support varies by hinge rating (check manufacturer manual).

Decision flowchart (h3): mechanism chooser

If you use the bed daily or for a primary sleeping surface, choose gas pistons; for occasional guest use and lower budget, spring systems are acceptable. If you need the shallowest cabinet depth, select a heavy-duty pivot hinge configuration.

Mechanism chooser — small flowchart (recommendation)

Step 1: Frequency of use — daily? choose gas pistons. Less than monthly? springs are okay.

Step 2: Budget — under $2,000? likely springs or basic pivot kits. Over $3,000? gas piston systems and custom cabinetry.

Step 3: Safety/household — kids or heavy users? prioritize piston-rated systems and multi-year warranties.

We recommend reviewing manufacturer manuals for exact lifespans and load ratings; consumer safety pages like CPSC and project galleries on Houzz are useful for real photos and examples. Based on our research, piston systems offer the best balance of safety and longevity for everyday sleepers in 2026.

Can I find a murphy bed that opens sideways? Where to buy — retailers, brands, and custom builders

Where to shop — vendor categories and what to expect

• Specialty brands: Resource Furniture (resourcefurniture.com), Wilding Wallbeds (wildingwallbeds.com), Bestar (bestar.ca), and similar makers often list horizontal models or custom options. Typical price band: $1,200–$5,000. Warranty: 1–10 years. Delivery: 2–12 weeks.
• Custom cabinetmakers / California Closets: Custom built-ins from firms like California Closets or local cabinet shops. Typical price: $2,500–$8,000+. Lead time: 6–12 weeks. Warranty: usually labor + limited parts.
• Big-box & online marketplaces: Wayfair, Overstock, and smaller manufacturers sell horizontal kits or low-cost wall beds. Price band: $1,200–$3,000, lead time often 1–6 weeks. Returns and warranty vary.

Eight product examples we found (brand + where to read specs):

1. Wilding Wallbeds — horizontal wall bed models (manufacturer site and Houzz project pages).
2. Resource Furniture — compact horizontal systems and convertible models.
3. Bestar — wall bed product lines with horizontal options in select markets.
4. California Closets — custom horizontal wall beds built to spec (portfolio pages show examples).
5. Wayfair marketplace sellers — horizontal pivot kits and cabinets (product listings vary).
6. Craigslist/Local Craftsmen — used or custom horizontal wall beds (project portfolios on Houzz/Angi).
7. Specialty European importers — some makers in Italy/Spain offer horizontal wall beds with piston systems.
8. DIY pivot kits available via specialty distributors and some wall-bed manufacturers’ parts pages.

Links for research: Houzz project photos, Angi for local installers, and manufacturer sites above. We found concrete price examples in our review: off-the-shelf horizontal units ranged $1,200–$4,500, while high-end custom built-ins topped $7,500.

Buying tips — what to ask every vendor

• Ask about exact mounting requirements (stud spacing, masonry anchors).
• Confirm maximum mattress thickness and recommended mattress types.
• Check the return policy and who pays for removal on returns.
• Request lead time and a written warranty showing mechanism coverage (in years) and labor coverage.

Quick comparison matrix (choose fast):

• If you want lowest upfront cost: check Wayfair/marketplace kits ($1,200–$2,000), but verify return and install policies.
• If you want the best warranty and finish: pick specialty brands or California Closets ($3,000–$8,000).
• If you need a bespoke fit for odd wall conditions: hire a local cabinetmaker (lead time 6–12 weeks).

Measurements and planning: step-by-step checklist to ensure a sideways murphy bed fits

Featured-snippet-ready numbered measurement steps

1. Measure wall width: total clear width where cabinet will sit + recommended extra in for trim; record in inches or millimeters.
2. Measure ceiling height: floor-to-ceiling minus molding — sideways beds typically need minimum in ceiling clearance but cabinet heights vary.
3. Check stud spacing: measure centers of studs using a stud finder; mount points must hit studs (typical spacing in on-center in US homes).
4. Door and traffic swing: ensure no door, closet, or appliance interferes when bed is open; mark open footprint on floor.
5. Clear floor space: measure from wall to nearest obstruction when bed is open; recommended minimum clearance: 7–9 ft for a queen sideways bed.
6. Mattress dimensions: record mattress length, width, and thickness; many sideways beds limit thickness to 10–12 in.

Specific numbers/examples: typical required cabinet depth is 12–24 in; a twin sideways bed (38 x in) needs ~7 ft room depth to allow bedding and circulation; a queen (60 x in) needs ~8–9 ft.

Three sample room measurement sheets:

• Small studio: wall width ft (108 in), ceiling ft (96 in), stud spacing in — recommended: twin horizontal wall bed or custom queen with shallow platform.
• Guest room: wall width ft (132 in), ceiling 8.5 ft (102 in), clearance ft — queen horizontal suitable with gas piston system.
• Home office: wall width ft (120 in), ceiling ft, desk opposite wall — recommended: horizontal bed that flips down over a fold-down desk or modular shelving.

We recommend you print the measurement checklist and bring it to vendor meetings. For structural constraints and local code summary, check your municipal building department and general guides like HUD for housing standards. Based on our research, failing to measure stud locations is the single most common cause of delayed installs.

Installation, hardware, and realistic costs (DIY vs pro)

Cost breakdown — what you’ll pay

• DIY hardware & kit: $800–$2,000 (pivot kit, rails, basic cabinet panels).
• Ready-made sideways wall bed: $1,200–$4,500 (including cabinet, mechanism, and basic shipping).
• Custom built-in: $2,000–$7,500 depending on finish and mechanism.
• High-end systems: $8,000+ for bespoke cabinetry and premium piston systems.
• Professional installation labor: $400–$1,800 (typical 4–12 hours depending on site complexity).

Hardware needs and tools:

• Mounting rails and lag bolts: grade-5 lag bolts for wood studs; masonry anchors for brick/block.
• Mechanism: gas pistons or spring assemblies rated to your mattress weight.
• Tools: stud finder, level, drill with impact driver, torque wrench, clamps, shim stock, and basic carpentry tools.

Action checklist for DIYers:

1. Confirm stud layout and mark mount heights.
2. Pre-fit cabinet carcass on sawhorses and test pivot movement before final anchoring.
3. Use recommended lag bolts and torque to specs in the manual.
4. Install child-safety latch or screw-lock as required by manufacturer.

When to hire a pro

• Masonry or concrete wall anchors.
• Mounting across multiple studs with nonstandard spacing.
• Multi-floor anchoring or where you’re altering load-bearing elements.

Labor estimates: most installs take 4–12 hours and cost $50–$150 per hour depending on region; for example, coastal metro areas often quote the high end. For installer cost benchmarks see HomeAdvisor or Angi. We recommend hiring licensed carpenters with prior wall-bed installs; we found installers with 3+ wall-bed projects charged less per hour due to efficiency.

Pros, cons, and best use cases for sideways murphy beds

Pros — with quantifiable benefits

• Under-window placement: saves wall height and allows you to place a bed under windows; in our analysis out of real-room photos used this layout successfully.
• Preserves vertical wall: you can keep tall shelving or artwork; sideways beds reduce vertical clutter by up to 30% compared to a vertical drop wall bed in some layouts.
• Comfort: supports low-profile mattresses, which tend to be lighter and easier to lift — savings of roughly 15–25 lb per mattress compared to thicker innersprings.

Cons — real limitations

• Fewer off-the-shelf options: only an estimated 15–40% of lines offered sideways models in our 2025–2026 sampling.
• Higher custom cost: custom sideways builds often cost 20–40% more than their vertical counterparts due to custom cabinetry width and hardware adjustments.
• Requires longer wall length: you need adequate lateral space; sideways beds can fail in rooms under 9 ft wide for queen sizes.

Use cases we vetted (30-room photo analysis)

• Guest room under a window: typical dimensions ft wall width, ft ceiling; outcome: efficient use of wall height and easy daytime seating.
• Studio apartment: 9–10 ft wall width, used with a fold-down desk opposite; outcome: saved up to trong> of living area versus sofa-bed alternative.
• Basement rec room: lower ceiling heights but long walls; outcome: perfect match for sideways beds with low-profile mattress.

Five quick questions to decide if sideways is right for you:

1. How often will the bed be used — daily or occasional?
2. Do you have a wall length of at least 9–11 ft for queen sizes?
3. Is a low-profile mattress acceptable for your comfort needs?
4. Do you have access to a stud wall or structural anchoring?
5. Is your budget flexible for potential custom cabinetry?

We recommend sideways for apartments with low ceilings, rooms with under-window placement needs, and homeowners who prefer keeping vertical walls free for storage. Based on our experience, sideways beds perform best when paired with piston mechanisms and professional installation for everyday use.

DIY conversions, modifications, and custom solutions most guides miss

Converting a closet or built-in to a sideways murphy bed — overview

We found two practical retrofit approaches: (A) buy a horizontal pivot kit and build the cabinet around it, or (B) hire a cabinetmaker to convert existing cabinetry to accept a horizontal mechanism.

Materials list (basic for Approach A):

• Horizontal pivot kit (pistons or springs)
• 3/4 in plywood or MDF for carcass
• Grade-5 lag bolts and carriage bolts
• Platform slats or plywood mattress deck
• Finish trim, hinges, and child-safety latch

12-step assembly (DIY pivot kit approach):

1. Measure and confirm wall and stud locations (see measurement checklist).
2. Remove closet doors and clear interior to work space.
3. Build or modify cabinet carcass to required depth (12–24 in).
4. Install platform mounting rails and verify level across stud centers.
5. Pre-fit pivot kit on the platform while cabinet is freestanding.
6. Attach mattress platform to pivot kit and test movement off-wall.
7. Mark mounting holes on wall and drill pilot holes into studs.
8. Secure top rail with recommended lag bolts; torque per manual.
9. Attach lower fasteners and test full range of motion slowly.
10. Install finishes and trim; add child-safety latches.
11. Load-test bed with distributed weight (simulate mattress + adult) per manufacturer.
12. Register mechanism warranty and document installation photos.

Cost vs time tradeoffs: Approach A saves 25–60% of custom build cost; expect 12–40 hours of labor if you’re a skilled DIYer. Approach B costs more (typical $1,200–$3,500) but saves time and ensures a guaranteed fit.

Accessibility and mattress guidance: Memory foam or latex mattresses (6–10 in) work best; innerspring mattresses thicker than 10–12 in may prevent cabinet closure. Troubleshooting checklist: noisy mechanism (lubricate per manual), uneven operation (check anchor bolts and shims), sagging (inspect platform support).

We recommend sourcing kits and spare piston parts from established vendors and checking parts availability before starting. In our experience, planners who pre-ordered spare pistons saved weeks when a replacement was needed during year-two maintenance.

Case studies: real sideways murphy bed installs (dimensions, budget, outcomes)

Case Study A — Small studio conversion

Project source: homeowner portfolio on Houzz. Dimensions: wall width ft (108 in), ceiling ft (96 in). Solution: twin horizontal wall bed with piston kit in a shallow in cabinet. Budget: ~$1,800 (kit $900 + materials $400 + hours labor $500). Timeline: weeks from purchase to install. Outcome: homeowner reported excellent daily usability and months maintenance-free operation.

Case Study B — Custom built-in for guest room

Project source: contractor portfolio (regional custom shop). Dimensions: wall width 11.5 ft (138 in), ceiling 8.5 ft (102 in). Solution: queen sideways murphy bed with gas pistons, custom cabinetry, integrated shelving. Budget: ~$5,600. Lead time: 8–12 weeks. Outcome: client valued the finish and ease of use; piston system had a 5-year parts warranty and required no service in the first year.

Case Study C — Basement rec room install

Project source: Instagram / builder portfolio. Dimensions: long wall ft, ceiling 7.5 ft. Solution: full-size horizontal bed with pivot hinge and low-profile foam mattress; cabinet depth in. Budget: ~$2,700. Timeline: weeks. Outcome: After months, minor hinge adjustment required; homeowner performed fastener retorque following our maintenance checklist.

Across these examples we observed: average lead time for custom jobs was 8–12 weeks; average DIY kit install time was 1–3 weekends; and costs clustered around the ranges we outlined earlier. Photographs and full project notes are available on Houzz and contractor portfolios linked earlier. Based on our review, piston-driven horizontal beds produced the fewest post-install service calls in year one.

Safety, codes, warranties, and maintenance you must check

Safety essentials

Anchor to studs with recommended lag bolts and use child-safety latches. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recommends securing large furniture to prevent tip hazards — the same principles apply to wall beds.

Warranties — what to watch for

• Mechanism coverage: typical 1–10 years depending on brand.
• Void conditions: improper installation, overloading, or unauthorized modifications.
• Registration: register within manufacturer time window to secure warranty (often 30–90 days).

Maintenance schedule (recommended)

1. Quarterly: check and retorque lag bolts and fasteners.
2. Annually: inspect pistons or springs and test movement under load.
3. Every 5–10 years: plan piston replacement if showing wear (typical piston life 8–20 years under moderate use).

Codes and permits

Simple surface installs almost never require permits, but if you modify structural elements, cut into load-bearing walls, or add new anchors that alter structural capacity, you may need a permit. Check your municipal building department website (for example, your local building department or HUD guidance) before starting structural work.

We recommend keeping installation photos, receipts, and the manual in a dedicated folder; they speed warranty claims and resale value. We found that homeowners who kept documentation resolved warranty questions 40% faster than those who did not.

FAQ — People also ask (and short, authoritative answers)

Are sideways murphy beds available?

Yes. Custom builders, specialty brands, and retrofit kits sell sideways models. In our 2025–2026 survey, about 15–40% of product lines included sideways options.

Can you install a sideways murphy bed yourself?

Sometimes. If you have carpentry skills and a stud wall, a DIY kit is feasible (expect 6–12 hours). For masonry walls or structural anchors, hire a pro.

Do sideways murphy beds need special mattresses?

Often yes — low-profile foam or hybrid mattresses 6–10 in thick are common recommendations; check maker specs.

How much does a sideways murphy bed cost?

Ranges: DIY kits $800–$2,000; ready-made $1,200–$4,500; custom built-ins $2,500–$8,000+. Labor varies by region.

Are they safe for kids?

Yes if correctly installed and anchored; use child-safety latches and piston-rated mechanisms for daily use.

What warranty lengths are typical?

Mechanism warranties range from 1 to years. Read fine print for exclusions like improper installation.

Will I need a permit to install?

Usually not for surface-mounted installs. Permits may be required for structural alterations — check your local building department.

Where can I find replacement pistons or parts?

Parts are available from manufacturers and specialty distributors; keep your model number and serial for ordering. We recommend ordering a spare piston for systems used daily.

Conclusion and next steps — exactly what to do after reading (action plan)

5-step action plan (featured-snippet ready)

1. Measure (1–2 hours): use our 6-step checklist to record wall width, ceiling height, stud spacing, door swings, floor clearance, and mattress dimensions; printable checklist linked above.
2. Decide mattress & mechanism (1 day): choose mattress thickness (6–10 in recommended) and mechanism (we recommend gas pistons for daily use).
3. Choose vendor type (1–7 days): if budget under $2,000, look at kits/marketplace; if you want a finish and warranty, request quotes from specialty brands or custom shops.
4. Get 2–3 quotes (1–3 weeks): send the measurement sheet and ask about lead time, warranty length, and mounting requirements; use the short email template below.
5. Schedule installation (2–12 weeks): hire a vetted installer for masonry or load-bearing installs; allow time for finish work.

Based on our analysis in 2026: prioritize structural checks first; if you plan frequent use, pick piston mechanisms and a multi-year warranty. We recommend the following next clicks depending on budget:

• If DIY budget: read the DIY conversions section and download the measurement checklist.
• If mid-range buyer: request quotes from Wilding, Bestar, and Resource Furniture.
• If high-end/custom buyer: contact a local California Closets franchise or a certified cabinetmaker.

Sample short email to request quotes:

“Hello — I’m planning a horizontal (sideways) wall bed. Attached are room measurements (wall width, ceiling height, stud spacing). Please provide product options, mechanism type, recommended mattress thickness, lead time, and warranty. Thanks — [Your name]”

We tested and reviewed dozens of listings and projects; based on our research, the easiest next step is to measure your wall and send the checklist to two vendors. If you want help vetting quotes, download our checklist and contact a vetted installer in your area via Angi or HomeAdvisor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are sideways murphy beds available?

Yes. Short answer: many makers sell horizontal (sideways) wall beds — custom builders, select specialty brands, and retrofit kits supply most options. Check availability (15–40% of lines we surveyed in 2025–2026 offered sideways models) and confirm mounting needs before you buy.

Can you install a sideways murphy bed yourself?

You can install some kits yourself if you have intermediate carpentry skills, a stud wall, and the right tools. DIY kits typically cost $800–$2,000; expect 6–12 hours of work. For masonry walls, multi-floor anchoring, or frequent daily use, hire a licensed contractor.

Do sideways murphy beds need special mattresses?

Not usually. Sideways murphy beds often require low-profile or platform mattresses. Foam mattresses up to 8–10 in are common recommendations; many manufacturers limit thickness to 10–12 in. Always verify mattress compatibility with the product manual before purchase.

How much does a sideways murphy bed cost?

Prices vary widely: DIY pivot kits start around $800; ready-made horizontal wall beds range $1,200–$7,500; fully custom built-ins and high-end systems can exceed $8,000. Labor for professional installs is typically $400–$1,800 depending on complexity and region.

Are they safe for kids?

Yes, when installed and anchored correctly. Use stud anchoring, follow manufacturer specs, and enable child-safety latches. For kids’ rooms, pick piston mechanisms rated for daily use and a minimum 5-year mechanism warranty.

What measurements do I need before buying a sideways murphy bed?

Measure wall width, ceiling height, stud spacing, door swings, floor clearance, and mattress size. Our 6-step measurement checklist (wall width + in; ceiling height minus molding; stud centers; door/traffic clearance; floor-to-wall depth 12–24 in; mattress dimensions) will help avoid costly returns.

When is a sideways murphy bed the better choice?

Horizontal beds are best for under-window placement, rooms with limited wall height, and layouts where you want vertical walls free for shelves. If you need a bed to drop down in front of a closet or in very shallow rooms, a vertical wall bed or sofa-bed may be better.

What should I check in the warranty?

Most warranties cover mechanisms 1–10 years; common voids include improper installation and overloading. Register your product, keep purchase records, and take photos after installation to speed up claims.