Murphy beds are a great way to maximize the flow and function of any room, including a simple guest room. But with so many options on the market, it can be tricky to determine the right model for your home. At this point in your research, you're probably wondering what the difference is between traditional Murphy beds and traditional wall beds.
It's a great question because, while the terms are often used interchangeably, the truth is there is a subtle difference. A traditional Murphy bed is wall- or floor-mounted and uses elaborate springs and metal frames to raise and lower the mattress. On the other hand, a traditional wall bed also uses a spring mechanism and includes cabinets on either side of the bed, so it appears as a regular wall when in the upright position.
You might also be wondering what the differences are between a traditional Murphy bed and a modern Lori Murphy Bed. It turns out there are quite a few.
Key Takeaways:
-
The YouLift Bed from Lori Beds has a simple, manual-lifting design for easier operation.
-
You can easily assemble and install a YouLift without using too many tools.
-
The YouLift Bed’s wood make and modern look can put itself at ease with different interior styles.
A beautiful room by day, a cozy bedroom by night. Make your space work harder with Lori Beds
AT A GLANCE
1. Simple lifting hardware
2. Easy to install
3. Budget-friendly
4. Quality
5. Lori Beds are customizable
Final Thoughts
1. Simple lifting hardware
The most significant difference is in the design. Unlike the traditional Murphy bed, the YouLift Bed has no mechanical aids for lifting and lowering the platform.
Why?
Unlike beds that rely on metal spring mechanisms or pistons, the YouLift Bed is designed with simplicity and strength in mind. It can be easily raised and lowered by hand using the combined effort of you and your lifting partner—no complex hardware needed, plus you save on costs!
It is a clever yet simple system. The bed helps you maximize space when you fold it against the wall in an upright position.
2. Easy to install
You don't need to be a contractor or even a home improvement guru to install the YouLift Bed successfully. Without the complicated spring mechanism, it's actually quite easy to install, thanks to the simple step-by-step plans provided by the company.
Installing the bed could take less than two hours with a partner—that's less time than it takes to clean out and reorganize most closets!
(Learn more about the assembly process for YouLift Bed here.)
3. Budget-friendly
Lori Murphy Bed creators discovered that removing the metal springs and steel frame simplifies the design and saves money. With the YouLift Bed, you can easily lift and lower it manually, so cost savings are passed on to the customer.
(Learn more about what makes Lori Beds such a significant investment here)
4. Quality
The YouLift Bed isn't flimsy furniture! This product's Queen wall bed variation is wide enough for a spare bedroom in a studio apartment.
All the bed’s wood components are crafted from high-durability textured woodgrain, High Pressure Laminate (HPL), so you can be confident in their quality and durability.
Another major difference between Murphy bed types is sizing. See how Lori Beds compare in our Murphy Bed Size Guide.
5. YouLift Beds are customizable
One of the greatest advantages of choosing a YouLift Bed, especially for those with an eye for design, is the ability to customize its look.
The company has pre-finished YouLift Beds that tie into any color scheme in beautifully finished real wood. Plus, no matter if you're in a 550-square-foot condo or a sprawling mansion, you don't have to worry about fit. The company offers vertical and horizontal orientations that can fit in any space. For example, the vertical beds accommodate more traditional sleeping arrangements, while the horizontal beds are best suited for rooms with less square footage and lower ceilings - customers with basements or 2nd floor ceilings - we see you!
(Don't miss these design tips for making any room feel more spacious!)
Final Thoughts
It can be challenging to choose between a traditional Murphy bed and a YouLift Bed. Your choice boils down to your space, needs, and style preferences. The YouLift Bed has a unique design and simple installation process, making it easy to fold the bed up and down. It also comes in vertical and horizontal models with sturdy bed frames and beautiful finishes that blend with your home’s aesthetics.
Explore our website for more information if you want to learn more about the finest Murphy beds and how to save space with Murphy bed furniture. Purchase the YouLift Bed today and enjoy a lifetime warranty and free shipping!
Did you learn a lot about Lori Beds in this post? Here are three more to read next:
This post was first published in 2020, but it was updated in 2025 just for you.
8 comments
Sheryl
Do you have a chest bed?
Do you have a chest bed?
Lois Forman
Can you buy this in a store or is it strictly online? How do I get more info?
Can you buy this in a store or is it strictly online? How do I get more info?
Hyginus Fernandes
When will the walnut options be available?
When will the walnut options be available?
Gloria Tehuia
Do u sale vertical Lori beds in NZ
Do u sale vertical Lori beds in NZ
Liz
Do you sell Lori beds in Canada and if so where are the locations?
Do you sell Lori beds in Canada and if so where are the locations?
D Herford
Do you have a supplier in the u k?
Do you have a supplier in the u k?
Pete Primo
Interested in the Lori bed send information to e mail address.
Interested in the Lori bed send information to e mail address.
Patricia Mourey
Have you considered a horizontal optio, one that could fit under window (short but long) commonly found in ranch rooms.
Have you considered a horizontal optio, one that could fit under window (short but long) commonly found in ranch rooms.