Best Murphy Bed Mattress of 2023: Reviews and Buyer’s Guide

Murphy beds are a great way to save space. When not in use, they can be folded upright against the wall, which is why they are also called wall beds. They are commonly used in small spaces, such as small guest rooms, studio apartments, or mobile homes.

Since the Murphy Beds rests in a vertical position against the wall, there’s not much room for a thick mattress or a foundation.  The best Murphy bed mattress not only should be comfortable and supportive, but it should also be the right thickness. Plus, it needs a firm base to compensate for the support normally provided by a foundation or box spring.

In this article, we review the best Murphy bed mattresses and discuss what you should know before one. All our recommendations are made with CertiPUR-US® certified foams, so they are free of toxic chemicals such as formaldehyde, PBDEs, phthalates, and are low in volatile organic compounds (VOC) emissions.

Our Top Mattress Recommendation

View on AmerisleepRead AS3 customer reviews

AS3 Highlights

• 100-night sleep trial
• 20-Year Warranty
• Designed to reduce pain points
• Heat reducing mattress cover
• Comes in King, Queen, Twin, Full, and Splits

Our Runner-Up

View on ZomaRead Zoma customer reviews

Zoma Highlights

• 100-night sleep trial
• 10-Year Warranty
• Designed for faster recovery
• Triangulex™ technology promotes healthy posture
• Comes in King, Queen, Twin, Full, and Splits

Best Murphy Bed Mattresses

We recommend the Amerisleep AS3 because it’s an eco-friendly mattress balancing plushness with firmness for a good night’s sleep. It also possesses a versatile, balanced feel that suits most sleep styles, perfect if you want a bed that can keep just about any guest comfy.

The Amerisleep AS3 includes a risk-free 100-night sleep trial and 20-year warranty covering sags greater than an inch. This mattress is made in the United States and it’s available in all standard sizes, including the twin, full, and queen sizes commonly used in Murphy beds.

How Lying Down Feels

The Amerisleep AS3 memory foam mattress is generally described as having a balanced feel. Many users report feeling well-supported and comfortable while sleeping on this mattress.  According to several reviews, the memory foam molds to the body and gives off a “hug-like” feeling without sinking under the body the way some other memory foam mattresses can.

Inside the Mattress

This medium mattress includes a soft, breathable fabric cover to wick away moisture, keeping you cool. It contains 3 inches of Bio-Pur®, 2 inches of Affinity with HIVE®, and 7 inches of sturdy Bio-Core® foam.

The Bio-Pur® material in the top comfort layer contains plant-based oils, so it’s cooler than traditional memory foam. Traditional memory foam is made with 100 percent petroleum-based products, making them prone to trapping heat. The inclusion of plant oils in Bio-Pur® means off-gassing is minimal in the AS3. This eco-friendly foam conforms to your body, relieving pressure points and reducing joint pains.

The next layer is 2 inches of Affinity with HIVE® ( Harnessing Intelligent Ventilation & Energy) technology for promoting back support. This layer contains hundreds of hexagon-shaped cutouts, customizing comfort to your head, shoulders, back, hips, and feet.

The back, head, and feet region need firmer support, while shoulders and hips need more cushioning. Hexagons placed close together leave no room for expansion when compressed, offering firm support. The firm support beneath your back prevents mattress sinkage, maintaining your spine’s neutral alignment.

Hexagons are spaced farther apart to offer soft conforming support beneath your shoulders and hips.

The base layer is 7 inches of supportive Bio-Core® foam, reinforcing the top layers, and promoting mattress durability. It lends firmness to this medium-feel bed, suitable for back and stomach sleepers. This thick base layer also compensates for the support normally provided by a traditional foundation, which can’t be used with a Murphy bed.

The Zoma Mattress helps you sleep cool while being slim enough to fit between the wall and the Murphy bed. This gel memory foam bed with a medium feel appeals to a vast variety of sleepers, including side, back, and combination sleepers.

How Lying Down Feels

The Zoma Mattress has a “hug-like” feel, with the memory foam layer contouring to the body and relieving pressure points. This feature is particularly helpful for those who suffer from joint pain or back pain, as the mattress is able to provide support where it is needed most.

Inside the Mattress

The bed’s polyester knit cover wicks away sweat, enhancing the cooling effect of the gel in the comfort layer. This makes the Zoma Mattress an excellent option for sleepers who run hot.

This 12-inch mattress contains 2 inches of gel memory foam with Triangulex™ technology, 2 inches of Reactiv™, and 8 inches of Support+. The Triangulex™ technology comprises hundreds of triangular-shaped cutouts forming a 3-zone support system. It offers targeted support to your back, shoulders, and hips, cushioning pressure points, and preventing pain.

The next layer is Reactiv™, a responsive foam adding bounce to your bed. It prevents your body from sinking into the mattress.

Beneath this transition layer is Support+, a sturdy base layer reducing the chances of mattress sag. These mattresses are manufactured in the USA and shipped free. The Zoma Mattress also includes a risk-free 100-night sleep trial and a 10-year warranty.

The Vaya Mattress is a good option for shoppers on a budget because it’s a high-quality, all-foam mattress at an affordable price. Vaya’s mattresses are made in the United States and they reach your doorstep within 5 to 10 business days of placing the order.

Vaya offers a risk-free 100-night sleep trial and a 10-year warranty. The warranty covers full repair or replacement in case of structural defects and workmanship.

How Lying Down Feels

What most shoppers immediately notice is the Vaya Mattress’s soft and responsive top layer, with the base layer quick to offer support. Several reviews also mention how well the Vaya mattress isolates motion, making it a fantastic choice for couples. Its breathable foam design also dissipates heat quickly, allowing them to sleep coolly.

Inside the Mattress

This 12-inch mattress has a polyester blend cover, improving airflow for a cool sleeping surface. It contains 3 inches of breathable and contouring Vaya Comfort Foam, supported by 9 inches of high-density Vaya Base Foam.

The Vaya Comfort Foam is a latex-like material that conforms to your body but does not trap heat like traditional memory foam. It has a bouncy feel, so it’s easy to switch sleep positions on this medium mattress.

The thick base layer is made with high-density foam. It provides the required support to the top comfort layer, preventing mattress sinkage and sag.

SEE ALSO: Best Budget Mattresses

The Nolah Original 10 mattress is the brand’s flagship memory foam mattress. Their product lineup has expanded to hybrids with extra features, the Orginal’s cooling features and responsive cushion ensure the classic 10-inch mattress still manages to help you drift off at night.

Like all other Nolah mattresses, their original mattress comes with a lifetime warranty and a 120-night sleep trial period. You can remove this sleep trial at checkout for an additional discount, perfect for budget shoppers.

How Lying Down Feels

The Nolah Original mattress is often described by shoppers as having a soft, yet supportive feel. It’s known to provide a comfortable sleeping experience, with many customers noting that it relieves pressure points and reduces motion transfer. Some customers also describe the Nolah Original as having a “cloud-like” feel, making it ideal for those who prefer a plush sleeping surface.

Inside the Mattress

The cooling cover of the Nolah Original mattress is breathable, environmentally friendly TENCEL fabric. Air will circulate freely throughout your entire sleeping area thanks to the combination of this cover and the similarly permeable AirFoam™  layer. Compared to a typical memory foam mattress, this results in a significantly cooler mattress.

Then, there is a layer of high-resilience transition foam underneath.  This transition foam aids in supplying the mattress’s buoyancy and support without compromising its contouring ability or pressure relief.

High-density base foam completes the mattress at the bottom. To guarantee that cool air circulates throughout the entire mattress, this foundational foam is particularly porous. The upper layers also gain a great deal of support and durability from it.

SEE ALSO: Best Cooling Memory Foam Mattress for Hot Sleepers

The Saatva Loom and Leaf mattress is a luxury memory foam mattress that is designed to provide exceptional comfort and support. Its construction includes multiple layers of high-quality materials that work together to create a supportive and comfortable sleeping surface.

Plus, Saatva includes not only free delivery but in-home setup with every mattress. No need to worry about wrangling the mattress out of box and setting it up in a Murphy Bed cabinet by yourself.

How Lying Down Feels

One of the most common comments about the Loom and Leaf mattress is that it feels luxurious and high-quality. Despite its official levels of “relaxed firm” and “firm,” owners frequently describe the mattress as being conforming and comfortable, with a high level of softness and cushioning. They feel well-supported throughout the night, with the mattress contouring to their body and relieving pressure points.

Inside the Mattress

The cover of the Loom and Leaf mattress is made of a soft, organic cotton fabric that is quilted with a layer of foam for added cushioning, along with natural thistle. This thistle established the Saatva mattress as a fiberglass-free model. The cover is also treated with a natural antimicrobial solution to prevent the growth of bacteria and keep the mattress clean and fresh.

The main comfort of the mattress is made of high-quality memory foam that contours to your body and provides pressure relief. There are three such layers: two gel-infused memory foam layers on top that helps to keep you cool, one that’s a proper full layer and one that’s described as a “lumbar crown.” Then, a standard memory foam layer beneath these provides additional support.

Beneath these top layers is a transition layer of convoluted foam that helps to increase airflow and improve temperature regulation.

One of the standout features of the Loom and Leaf mattress is its support system, a core made of high-density foam. This support system provides excellent back support, helping to align your spine and prevent pain and discomfort. It also provides a stable foundation and prevents sagging.

The 10-inch Bear Mattress has a medium-firm feel. It’s soft enough to cushion your pressure points while providing sufficient back support.

Bear mattresses are manufactured in the US and include a lifetime limited warranty. If it does not suit your sleep needs, the mattress can be returned within 120 days of delivery. However, the manufacturers want you to try it for at least 30 nights before you decide whether it’s suitable for you or not.

Inside the Mattress

This mattress sports an FDA-determined Celliant® technology, woven into its cover. This technology converts your body heat into infrared energy to promote restful sleep, with the infrared energy penetrating your body to boost local bloodflow.

Beneath the cover is a cooling gel memory foam comfort layer that conforms to your body while dispersing excess heat. Next, a responsive transition layer known as Bear Dynamic foam keeps you from “sinking” into the mattress.

At the base is a high-density foam layer, preventing mattress sinkage beneath your back and keeping your spine neutral. Spinal alignment is crucial to avoid back, neck, and other chronic pain.

The Brooklyn Bedding Dreamfoam Essential comes in a wide range of mattress thicknesses, from thick, plush options to thin ones that are only a few inches thick. If you have a slim Murphy bed cabinet, the Dreamfoam Essential can be the perfect complement.

How Lying Down Feels

How the Brooklyn Bedding Dreamfoam Essential feels depends on its chosen thickness, with a thicker option offer a softer feel. For adult sleepers seeking a Murphy bed mattress, we suggest the 10-inch mattress with a medium-firm feel or a 12-inch mattress with a medium feel.

Inside the Mattress

How the Dreamfoam Essential is constructed depends on your chosen mattress height, with thicker options offering more material:

• The 6-inch mattress has 2 inches of gel swirl memory foam on top of a 4-inch base foam.
• Similarly, the 8-inch option has 2 inches of gel swirl memory foam on top of a 6-inch dense base foam.
• The 10-inch mattress has 2.5 inches of gel swirl memory foam supported by 7.5 inches of support foam.
• The 12-inch model is the first to introduce a transition layer. Its construction is similar to the 10-inch model, with 2.5 inches of gel swirl memory foam on top of 2 inches of VariFlex transition foam layer and 7.5 inches of support foam.
• The 14-inch mattress has the thickest comfort layer. This option has 3 inches of gel swirl memory foam on top of 3 inches of VariFlex transition foam layer and 8 inches of support foam.

The original Layla Memory Foam Mattress was designed with the goal of providing a comfortable and supportive sleeping experience. One of its standout features is its dual-sided nature, with one side being a firm feel and the other side being soft. In other words, you can choose the firmness level that works best for you.

How Lying Down Feels

The original Layla mattress offers two feels, gentle plushness or unyielding firmness. This allows it to uniquely suit a wide range of sleepers in a way that not even a versatile medium mattress can. If you’re someone who likes to explore their options or wants to keep an adjustable mattress on hand for guests, the Layla is a solid choice.

Inside the Mattress

The core of the mattress is a base layer of high-density support foam, which provides a sturdy foundation for the layers above. On top of this layer on either side is a layer of copper-infused memory foam, which helps to regulate temperature and provides pressure relief. The copper also has antimicrobial properties, which helps to keep the mattress clean and fresh.

On the firm side of the mattress, there is only a thin layer of copper-infused memory foam to provide even more stability and prevent sagging. On the soft side, there is a layer of convoluted foam, which helps to increase airflow and provide additional cushioning.

The cover of the Layla Memory Foam Mattress is made of a soft, breathable fabric that is infused with ThermoGEL® Technology, which helps to regulate temperature and keep you cool throughout the night.

Factors to Consider When Buying a Murphy Bed Mattress

Ideally, the best mattress for a Murphy bed should not be thicker than 12 inches so it can comfortably fit in the limited space between the bed frame and the wall. Once you find a bed with the right dimensions, consider mattress type, firmness level, and warranty. Finally, read some mattress reviews from past buyers who maybe had the same questions and concerns as you.

Mattress Dimensions

Since Murphy beds are used as space savers, they are usually available as twin, full, and queen sizes. Larger Murphy bed frames, such as king and Cal king, are rare. As a reminder:

• A twin size bed measures 38 inches by 75 inches
• A full size bed measures 54 inches by 75 inches
• A queen size bed measures 60 inches by 80 inches

A twin bed is a popular choice for children’s bedrooms, while a full may be used in children’s or guest rooms. A queen size bed is an excellent option for guest rooms or small master bedrooms.

Make sure, no matter the size and whether you’re buying for yourself or a mattress for a guest room, that your mattress is no thicker than 12 inches. This leaves enough room for your blankets and comforters to remain on your Murphy bed frame even when it’s closed and resting against the wall.

Of course, adults using a Murphy bed will still likely want a comfortable mattress, particularly if they intend on using it night after night and not just for the occasional visitor. So they don’t want a too-thin mattress, either, as these can feel unsupportive and are quick to lose any cushion.

When it comes to the best mattress thickness, we always recommend beds that are no thinner than 10 inches for enduring comfort and support.

SEE ALSO: Murphy Bed Sizes and Dimensions Guide

Types of Mattresses for Murphy Beds

While there are many types of mattresses, not all of them can be set up inside a Murphy Bed and deliver long-lasting comfort and support. Some are better suited for being stored upright all day or even for weeks and months at a time than others.

Memory Foam Mattresses

Memory foam and gel foam mattresses are best suited for Murphy beds because the texture of foam reduces the chances of mattress slumping. Slumping occurs because the mattress remains in an upright position, causing the materials inside to slide towards the floor due to gravity. This leads to a hollow bump on the top part, making the mattress unsupportive beneath your head and neck region.

The dense foam of a memory foam mattress resists gravity well, retaining its shape for long periods of time. Memory foam mattresses can be placed directly on the Murphy bed platform.

Latex Mattresses

Latex mattresses should not stand on end for long periods of time, so they are not suitable for Murphy beds. Since latex foam is heavier than memory foam, latex mattresses may be more prone to slumping.

The density of a latex foam may also be too great for some Murphy beds to support, which can create not only unwanted wear and tear on the frame but safety concerns for sleepers.  Plus, if you’re looking to find an affordable mattress, a latex bed is rarely the easy answer. Their durability means long-lasting value, but their high-production costs mean they have significantly steep price tags.

Innerspring Mattresses

Innerspring mattresses are affordable and lightweight, which can make them tempting if you want a quick and easy mattress. Coils and natural fibers such as cotton and wool forming the comfort layers in innerspring beds are more prone to slumping than foam. To avoid this problem, it’s better to buy a foam mattress for your Murphy bed.

Also, most traditional innerspring mattresses need a box spring. Box springs absorb the bounce of the innerspring coils and offer support for the mattress. Since there is no space for box springs with a Murphy bed, it’s best to avoid innerspring mattresses.

Hybrid Mattresses

Hybrid mattresses combine the benefits of both foam and innerspring mattresses. They typically have a layer of foam on top for comfort and pressure relief, while also featuring coils or springs underneath for support and breathability.

However, hybrid mattresses may not be suitable for Murphy beds because they tend to be thicker and heavier than traditional foam or spring mattresses. This can make them difficult to fold and store properly, which can damage the mattress and affect its longevity.

Additionally, the weight of a hybrid mattress may put additional stress on the mechanisms of a Murphy bed frame, causing it to wear out faster. As a result, it is generally recommended to use thinner and lighter mattresses with Murphy beds.

Firmness Level

Medium-firm, medium, or firm mattresses are compatible with Murphy beds because they balance cushion and support. Compared to soft mattresses, these beds have thinner comfort layers supported by strong base layers.

This means they are stable enough to use without a foundation, and they are thin enough to fold into the wall. Soft mattresses with thick comfort layers may not feel supportive without a foundation or box spring. This can be bad news for side sleepers, who require the softest mattresses of all sleeping positions.

Warranty and Sleep Trial

Warranties can be complicated when it comes to mattresses for Murphy beds. A mattress is designed to rest horizontally, but Murphy beds are stored vertically against the wall for most of the day. This can damage certain mattresses, so before buying, check the terms and conditions of the mattress warranty.

Some manufacturers may void a mattress warranty if the bed remains in an upright position for long. Ask the salesmen or customer service representatives whether the mattress can be used with a Murphy bed.

Sleep trials allow you to try a mattress at home for a certain number of days. If the mattress does not suit your sleep needs, it can be returned for a full refund within the sleep trial period. Most companies offer 90 to 100-night sleep trials. We recommend buying a mattress with a sleep trial so you are not stuck with the wrong choice for your Murphy bed.

Mattress Reviews

Compare the online reviews of your favorite mattresses to get an idea about their comfort level. If you are deciding between two online mattresses with similar features, read reviews by verified customers. Their experience may help you choose the best bed for your needs. These reviews also prove the authenticity of the claims made by mattress manufacturers.

Caring For Your Murphy Bed Mattress

If you don’t use the wall bed frequently, keeping it instead tucked away in a spare room for guests, make sure you pull it open once a week to allow some time for decompression. This maintains the quality and durability of the mattress.

Prolonged compression inside a Murphy bed cabinet may break down the foam, causing damage. No one wants to open up a Murphy bed and find unexpected impressions and sagging, after all.

Plus, letting the mattress air out for a few hours a week can help you keep the mattress fresh-smelling and, if you live in a damp climate, can ensure a mold-resistant mattress won’t develop any fungal surprise.

You may even wish to sprinkle baking soda over the mattress surface, vacuuming the baking soda up after a few hours before putting away your Murphy bed mattress. This is a simple way to freshen up and clean a mattress regularly.

See more on how to properly store a mattress long-term to maintain its pristine condition.

Alternatives to Murphy Bed Mattresses

When it comes to finding the best Murphy bed mattresses, it’s important to consider alternatives as well. While most Murphy beds can be a great way to save space, they aren’t always the best option for everyone. Here are a few alternatives to consider if you want a multipurpose mattress for guests or a way to save on bed space in a small living area.

Bunk Bed Mattresses

Bunk beds are a great option for those who need to save space in a shared bedroom or for accommodating guests. They consist of two or more beds stacked on top of each other, with a ladder for access to the upper beds.

Bunk bed frames can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, metal, or a combination of both. Bunk beds can be a good option for families with children or for those who frequently host overnight guests. However, bunk bed mattresses must be neither too heavy nor too tall to comfortably fit within the frame. Older individuals can also find it tricky to move out of the top bunk.

SEE ALSO: Bunk Bed Sizes and Dimensions

Trundle Bed Mattresses

Trundle beds are frames that feature a pull-out bed stored underneath a main bed. They can be a good option for children’s rooms if you want to let a kid have a friend sleepover regularly, or they could be used in a guest room.

Sofa Bed Mattresses

Sofa beds are a multipurpose option, intended for use as both a seating area and a bed. They are typically designed with a fold-out mattress that is stored inside the sofa frame when not in use. Sofa beds are a great choice for smaller living spaces or those who need to accommodate guests in a living room or another common area.

However, because their design relies on thin mattresses that can be easily compacted within a sofa, these beds are not the most comfortable option.

Daybed Mattresses

Daybeds are similar to sofa beds in that they serve a dual purpose as both a seating area and a bed. Mattresses in a daybed can be used as a comfortable place to lounge during the day, then sleepers can stretch out on the surface and use it as a bed at night.

Daybeds can be a stylish and space-saving option for smaller bedrooms or for those who need a multi-functional piece of furniture. However, the best mattress for a daybed can depend on whether you intend to use it mainly as a couch or whether you plan to use it as a sleeping space nightly.

SEE ALSO: Daybed Mattress vs. Twin Mattress: What’s the Difference?

Folding Mattresses

Folding mattresses are a portable and space-saving option that can be used for sleeping on the floor or on a platform bed. They are typically made from foam or other lightweight materials and can be easily stored when not in use. Folding mattresses are perfect for camping trips, overnight guests, or for use in a small apartment.

The drawback to folding mattresses is how thin they typically are, hampering their durability. They often aren’t the most comfortable long-term sleep solution, either.

Futon Mattresses

Similar to folding mattresses are futon mattresses. Not to be confused with sofa beds that are called futons, a traditional futon is a thin bed with padding that’s spread out on the floor. If the appeal of a Murphy bed is saving space during the day, a futon mattress can fill a similar niche.

Futon mattresses are also one of the more affordable options, with many such mattresses costing under $500. However, while they suit a healthy young adult who’s not starting out with much, many people with pain conditions or older individuals who would struggle to rise from the floor may need to consider other options.

SEE ALSO: Futon Mattress Sizes and Dimensions

Air Mattresses

Air mattresses are another portable option that can be great for guests or for camping trips. They come in a variety of sizes and can be easily inflated and deflated for storage. They are also more upscale options that are designed for everyday use, offering a range of features and a durable design with multiple air bladders.

However, air mattresses do have their drawbacks, particularly cheaper models. One notable issue is how challenging it can be to find and patch a hole in an air mattress.

FAQs

Can Murphy beds damage mattresses?

Murphy beds can strain some mattresses because they rest upright for the most part of the day, but usually this doesn’t cause permanent damage. Most memory foam and gel memory foam mattresses can bear this strain. However, soft beds may sag faster with Murphy beds due to the absence of a foundation.

Do you need a special mattress for a Murphy bed?

No, regular mattresses used with any other bed frames, such as mattresses for platform beds, can work. However, the mattress should not be thicker than 12 inches. Since the mattress rests vertically between the wall and the Murphy bed (when not in use), there’s no space for a thick mattress or a foundation.

We also recommend a firm, medium-firm, or medium mattress so it feels comfortable as well as supportive, even without a foundation.

Why is it called a “Murphy” bed?

This bed is named after William L. Murphy, whose pivot and counterbalance designs for this type of bed were patented around 1900. Murphy Beds are also referred to as wall beds, pull-down beds, or fold-down beds.

Can a Murphy bed be used every day?

Yes, a Murphy bed can be used every day. The mechanism to lift it up and down may wear out after 5 to 7 years, with or without regular use. In such cases, call the installers of your Murphy bed to check if parts can be repaired or replaced.

What kind of mattress is best for a Murphy bed?

Memory foam or gel memory foam mattresses are best for Murphy beds. They are not as prone to slumping as innerspring, latex, or hybrid beds. Slumping is caused by the materials sliding towards the bottom part when the bed rests vertically. This makes the mattress unsupportive beneath your head and neck.

Conclusion

A Murphy bed is the best option when you want to save floor space in your room. It folds up into the wall, converting your bedroom into a study or office space during the day. However, choosing the right mattress for your Murphy bed may be challenging if you don’t know the parameters to consider when buying.

Your Murphy bed mattress should feel comfortable even without a box spring or foundation. It should also be slim enough to fit into the space between the wall and the Murphy bed. After you find the best mattress for your Murphy bed, you’ll be well on your way to a good night’s rest.