How To Make Murphy Bed Floor Clearance Higher

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Post on Feb 10, 2025

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How To Make Murphy Bed Floor Clearance Higher

Want more floor space under your Murphy bed? A higher clearance can dramatically improve the functionality and usability of your Murphy bed. This guide will walk you through various methods to achieve a greater clearance, from simple adjustments to more involved modifications.

Understanding Murphy Bed Clearance Issues

Before diving into solutions, let's understand why insufficient floor clearance is a problem. Low clearance limits your storage options under the bed. You might struggle to store larger items, cleaning becomes more difficult, and the overall aesthetic can suffer. The ideal clearance depends on your needs, but anything less than 12 inches is generally considered insufficient for most applications.

Methods to Increase Murphy Bed Floor Clearance

Several approaches can boost your Murphy bed's floor clearance, each with varying levels of difficulty and cost.

1. Adjust Existing Hardware

Check your hinges and brackets: Many Murphy bed models allow for some adjustment in the hinge and bracket placement. Carefully consult your Murphy bed's instruction manual to see if minor adjustments are possible. This is the easiest and cheapest method, but the potential increase in clearance is often limited.

Replace hardware: If adjustments are insufficient, consider replacing your existing hardware with longer hinges or brackets. This requires careful measurement and sourcing compatible replacement parts. Ensure you purchase hardware designed for the weight of your Murphy bed to avoid compromising safety.

2. Modify the Bed Frame

This approach involves more significant modifications and requires some carpentry skills.

Adding spacers: One option is to add wooden spacers between the bed frame and the wall-mounted mechanism. This effectively raises the entire bed, increasing floor clearance. However, accurate measurements are crucial to avoid impacting the bed's functionality or stability. Consider using sturdy hardwood for the spacers.

Cutting and re-attaching: For more substantial gains in clearance, you might need to carefully cut and re-attach sections of the bed frame. This is a more advanced modification requiring precision and woodworking expertise. Ensure you maintain the structural integrity of the bed frame.

3. Build a Custom Platform

This is the most involved but potentially most rewarding method.

Design and construction: Building a custom platform requires planning and construction skills. This allows for complete control over the height and design. You'll need to create a sturdy platform that fits seamlessly with your Murphy bed's mechanism. This could involve using plywood, lumber, or other suitable materials.

Integration with the existing mechanism: Ensure that the custom platform integrates correctly with the existing Murphy bed hardware. This requires careful consideration of the bed's movement and stability.

Choosing the Right Method

The best method for increasing your Murphy bed's floor clearance depends on several factors:

• Your skill level: Simple adjustments are ideal for beginners, while frame modifications and custom platforms require more experience.
• Your budget: Adjustments are the cheapest, while custom platforms can be more expensive.
• The desired increase in clearance: Minor adjustments might suffice for small increases, while more significant increases necessitate more involved modifications.

Safety First!

Remember that modifying your Murphy bed involves working with heavy objects and potentially sharp tools. Always prioritize safety. If you lack confidence in your carpentry skills, consider consulting a professional carpenter or furniture repair specialist. Improper modifications can compromise the bed's stability and create safety hazards.

Maximizing Space with Clever Storage Solutions

Even with increased floor clearance, maximizing storage space under your Murphy bed requires planning. Consider using:

• Shallow storage bins: Optimize vertical space with stackable bins.
• Rolling storage carts: Easily access items stored under the bed.
• Vacuum-sealed bags: Save space and protect items from dust.

By following these guidelines and choosing the appropriate method, you can significantly improve your Murphy bed’s floor clearance, creating a more functional and enjoyable space. Remember to always prioritize safety and consider your skill level before undertaking any modifications.