Murphy Bed vs Sleeper Sofa: Which is Better for Guest Rooms?

Trying to make the most of a small guest room? You’re not alone. One of the biggest decisions people face when furnishing tight spaces is the classic debate: Murphy bed vs sleeper sofa.

Both are space-saving champs—but which one’s right for you?

Let’s talk about the pros and cons of each, compare them for small rooms, and help you decide what’s best for your guest room space whether it’s its own room or a space-within-a-space like an office or den.

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What is a Murphy Bed & Sleeper Sofa, Anyway?

Murphy Bed: This type of bed folds down from the wall and is a classic solution for guest rooms (or adding a bed to another room when you don’t want a bed in there full-time.
Sleeper Sofa: A sleeper sofa, also known as a pull-out couch, is a multi-functional piece of furniture that serves as both seating and sleeping space. It doesn’t fold into the wall, but it can still save room by doubling as a couch and a bed.

Murphy Bed vs Sleeper Sofa: Pros and Cons

Let’s break down the Murphy bed vs sleeper sofa pros and cons to help you understand which one might work best for your home.

Murphy Bed Pros:

Comfort: Murphy beds tend to offer better comfort since they use a real mattress. This makes them ideal for longer stays or guests who need extra support.
Aesthetics: The sleek, hidden design of a Murphy bed gives your guest room a clean, modern look.
Space Efficiency: Murphy beds are the ultimate in space-saving furniture. When you fold them up into the wall, you gain back all the floor space.

Murphy Bed Cons:

Installation: One drawback of Murphy beds is that they usually require a bit of setup and/or construction. You’ll need to mount them to the wall, which can be a more involved process compared to the simplicity of setting up a sleeper sofa.
Price: Murphy beds can be pricier than sleeper sofas, especially if you go for a high-end model.

Sleeper Sofa Pros:

Dual Functionality: A sleeper sofa serves as both a couch and a bed, which can be a great option for rooms that are used for more than just sleeping.
Variety of Styles: Sleeper sofas come in a range of designs, from traditional to modern, so you can easily find one that fits your guest room’s décor.

Sleeper Sofa Cons:

Comfort: Most sleeper sofas use a thin mattress that’s not as comfortable as a regular bed, which may not be ideal for guests staying for extended periods. The mattress can also get lumpy since it spends most of its time folded up.
Durability: In terms of durability, Murphy beds usually last longer because they are designed for daily use, while sleeper sofas tend to wear out faster.

So What’s Better for a Guest Room: Murphy Bed or Sleeper Sofa?

Here’s a quick comparison:

Space Saving: If you need to maximize floor space, a Murphy bed is the best choice because it disappears into the wall, leaving room for other activities or furniture when you don’t need it.
Comfort: In our experience, Murphy beds are much more comfortable than sleeper sofas! If you want your guests to get a good night’s sleep, the Murphy bed is likely the better option.
Ease of Use: A sleeper sofa is easier to set up, making it ideal for rooms where guests might only stay for a night or two.

Murphy Bed Installation Tips for Guest Rooms

If you decide on a Murphy bed, there are a few other considerations since it’s more of a structural piece of furniture. The wall needs to be sturdy enough to support the weight of the bed and mattress (i.e. it needs to be anchored to studs). Many modern Murphy beds come with easy-to-follow instructions, but you may want to hire a professional if you’re unsure.

We built our own Murphy bed with this kit that comes with a full shop and cut list and all the hardware, and it made everything so easy.

Sleeper Sofa Considerations

Before purchasing, be sure to read sleeper sofa for guest room reviews. Many models offer different mattress options and designs, so finding the perfect fit for your space and comfort needs is crucial. Look for reviews on comfort, ease of use, and durability. Also, remember they’re really heavy which may be a consideration on where you put it!

Price Differences: Murphy Bed vs Sleeper Sofa

Finally, let’s talk about cost. Murphy bed and sleeper sofa price differences are significant. Murphy beds generally have a higher upfront cost, especially when you include installation. On the other hand, sleeper sofas tend to be more affordable and available in a range of price points but like any kind of furniture there’s a huge range of prices from higher end brands to Facebook Marketplace finds.

If budget is a concern, a sleeper sofa might be the more economical choice, though you may sacrifice comfort.

FAQ

Q: Which is more durable: Murphy bed or sleeper sofa?
A: Murphy beds tend to be more durable because they’re built for daily use. Sleeper sofas may wear out faster, especially if used frequently.

Q: Can a Murphy bed be installed without professional help?
A: Yes, most modern Murphy beds come with detailed instructions, but it’s important to ensure the wall can handle the weight. Professional installation is recommended for added safety and precision if you aren’t comfortable with basic DIY skills like finding studs and using a drill.

Q: Which is easier to set up, a Murphy bed or a sleeper sofa?
A: A sleeper sofa is easier to set up, requiring only a quick pull-out. Murphy beds take more time to install but are just as easy to use once in place.

Whether you prioritize space-saving, comfort, or versatility, you can create a welcoming guest room that fits your needs and your space with either aMurphy bed or a sleeper sofa.

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