The process of selecting a murphy bed frame can be time consuming, due to all of the different options, though there are a few main items that may help you come to a decision. One primary factor is often price, and the total cost of these frames can depend on construction materials, mounting options, and other factors. If budget is a big concern, or you enjoy do-it-yourself projects, you might want to consider selecting a murphy bed frame that was not painted or finished at the factory. It is also a good idea to consider your available space, since murphy bed frames are available in both vertical and horizontal orientations. Most murphy beds are vertically oriented, but a horizontal frame may be a good choice if you have low ceilings or very limited floor space.
There are a few different types of murphy beds, so you need to settle on one category before you begin looking for a frame. The original murphy beds were designed to be slid into closets, though some can be installed directly into walls, and others are designed to look like free standing cabinets. If you have a small room that needs a bed, and that room has an unused closet, then you should consider finding a murphy bed frame that will slide into that space. That can maximize the available floor space when the bed is folded up. For bigger rooms, and instances where you would still like to use any available closet space, a wall-mounted frame may be a better choice.
After you have chosen a type of frame, you might want to consider your budget. Construction materials are one of the primary factors that can influence the price of a murphy bed frame. The most expensive material is solid wood, though some types of wood are less expensive than others. It is typically a good idea to look for a frame that has solid wood structural components, since that that type of construction will typically last the longest. You may be able to save money by looking for a frame that uses particle board for the exterior components though, and particle board will tend to hold its shape better over time as well.
Another important consideration, when looking for the best murphy bed frame, is your available space. These frames are available in all different sizes, so you might want to look for one that will fit in your available space without dominating it. You may also want to consider obtaining a horizontally oriented frame if you have low ceilings, shelves, or certain room dimensions that would make this shape more advantageous. Horizontal frames are similar to traditional murphy beds, but have been rotated 90 degrees, so they require more horizontal wall space. They do not project as far out into a room when folded down though, so they are a good choice if your room is not wide enough to handle a vertically oriented frame.