How to Fold Bed in Cabinet: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

Space-saving solutions have become increasingly popular as living spaces become smaller and more efficient. One such solution gaining attention is the fold-away bed tucked inside a cabinet, providing a comfortable and functional sleeping arrangement without compromising on valuable floor space.

These cleverly designed beds, often referred to as cabinet beds or Murphy beds, allow homeowners to transform a room into a comfortable sleeping area within seconds. The bed folds neatly into a stylish cabinet, making it an unobtrusive addition to any room, be it a living room, office, or spare bedroom.

The process of creating a fold-away bed inside a cabinet can be a rewarding DIY project for skilled individuals. Using the right materials and hardware, you can build a customized, high-quality fold-away bed that serves as an attractive and space-saving addition to your home.

Understanding the Bed-in-Cabinet Concept

The bed-in-cabinet concept involves a bed that can easily be folded and stored within a cabinet, providing an efficient space-saving solution for small interior spaces or multi-purpose rooms. This innovative design allows homeowners to effectively utilize their limited space and maintain a clutter-free environment.

Types of Folding Beds

Several types of folding beds are available, each offering unique features and benefits, including:

• Murphy beds - Also known as wall beds, these beds attach to the wall and fold up against it when not in use. Known for their versatility, murphy beds can be found in various sizes and styles. Lori Beds offers a comparison between Murphy beds and cabinet beds.
• Cabinet beds - These beds fold up into a cabinet and feature front doors that close for inconspicuous storage. A great example of a cabinet bed is the Bi-Fold Bed mentioned on Columber.
• Rollaway beds - Designed with folding metal frames and caster wheels, these portable beds can be rolled and stored in a closet or under another bed when not in use.
• Futons - These versatile pieces of furniture can function as both a sofa and a bed, with a folding frame that allows the mattress to fold or flatten as needed.

Advantages of a Bed in a Cabinet

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Having a bed in a cabinet offers several advantages ideal for small spaces and multi-functional rooms:

• Space-saving - Known to maximize space in a room, these beds fold up neatly and compactly when not in use, freeing up essential floor space for other purposes.
• Multi-functionality - Great for guest rooms or home offices, these beds can easily be concealed within a cabinet and serve as a three-in-one room solution. The Brain and the Brawn shares a great example of a queen Murphy bed cabinet.
• Style and customization - Available in various sizes and styles, cabinet beds can easily match existing décor and cater to specific preferences, ensuring a cohesive interior design.
• Easy to use - Featuring simple folding mechanisms, cabinet beds can be set up and stored away with minimal effort, making them a popular choice for those seeking an uncomplicated solution.
• Comfort - Despite their compact nature, folding beds (including Murphy and cabinet beds) often provide a comfortable sleeping experience for guests, ensuring their satisfaction.

Overall, the bed-in-cabinet concept is an ingenious solution for small spaces, offering a compact, versatile and stylish piece of furniture that serves multiple purposes.

Preparation and Tools

Before building a fold-away bed into a cabinet, gathering the necessary tools and following safety precautions is essential. This section will cover the required tools and safety measures you need to consider.

Required Tools

Having these tools on hand will help you efficiently build and install your fold-away bed into a cabinet.

Safety Precautions

While building a bed-in-cabinet, it's important to follow safety guidelines to ensure a smooth process and avoid injury. Consider these precautions:

• Wear safety goggles and gloves when working with power tools.
• Keep your working area clean and clutter-free to prevent accidents.
• Ensure proper ventilation to avoid inhaling dust during sawing or sanding.
• Unplug power tools when not in use, and keep cords out of the way to prevent tripping.
• Secure the plywood or MDF boards with clamps while cutting, to avoid movement and maintain control.
• Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for power tool usage and maintenance.
• Enlist the help of a partner if needed, for lifting or maneuvering heavy objects.

By following these safety measures and preparing ahead with the appropriate tools, you'll have a successful and efficient project experience when building your fold-away bed into a cabinet.

Folding and Securing the Bed

In this section, we will discuss the process of folding and securing the bed into the cabinet effectively and safely.

Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to fold your bed into a cabinet:

1. Remove all bedding, pillows, and any additional items from the bed to avoid entangling or damaging when folding.
2. Make sure the cabinet door is completely open, allowing enough space for the bed to fold.
3. Approach the bed from the center, grasp the bed frame or provided handles, and gently lift upwards. The hydraulic gas springs should assist in raising the bed effortlessly.
4. Continue lifting until the bed is fully folded and aligned with the cabinet frame.
5. Ensure the bed is seated correctly in the cabinet and double-check for any obstructions or misalignments.

Locking Mechanisms

Securing the bed in the cabinet is crucial to prevent accidents and ensure the stability of the bed when not in use. Consider the following locking mechanisms:

• Manual Locks: Simple locks that can be engaged and disengaged by hand. These may include latch or hook-based systems.
• Automatic Locks: Locks that engage automatically when the bed is fully folded, ensuring it remains securely in place. To disengage these locks, you may need to follow specific steps or push a release button.

Regardless of the type of locking mechanism, it is essential to ensure that the bed is properly secured in the cabinet before walking away. This will prevent any potential hazards and maintain the longevity of your folding bed and cabinet system.

Maintaining the Folded Bed

In order to ensure the longevity and proper functioning of your folding bed in a cabinet, it's important to take care of it with regular maintenance. This section will cover the essential steps to keep your bed in top shape.

Regular Inspection

Periodically inspecting your folding bed is crucial to identify any potential issues early on. Here are some key aspects to look out for:

• Examine the bed frame and cabinet for signs of wear, damage, or loose parts
• Inspect the folding mechanism for smooth operation and any signs of rust or corrosion
• Check the mattress for any sagging, lumps, or stains. You may need to turn it occasionally to prolong its lifespan
• Review any bolts or screws securing the bed frame and cabinet to ensure they're tightened

Cleaning and Care

Keeping your folding bed clean is not only essential for hygiene but also helps preserve its life. Follow these cleaning tips to maintain your bed:

• Regularly dust and vacuum the cabinet and bed frame to remove dust, dirt, and allergens
• Spot clean any stains on the mattress as soon as possible, following the manufacturer's guidelines
• Deodorize the mattress if necessary, especially if it picks up unpleasant odors
• Clean the folding mechanism using a damp cloth with mild soap and water, and dry thoroughly afterward to avoid rusting

By following these maintenance tips and conducting regular inspections, your folding bed in a cabinet will remain comfortable, functional, and ready for use. Remember to consult the manufacturer's instructions for any specific care or maintenance requirements tailored to your particular bed model.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

There might be times when folding your bed into the cabinet isn't as smooth as you'd like. To tackle common problems effectively, we've divided them into two sub-sections: Alignment Problems and Hardware Issues.

Alignment Problems

When folding the bed, you might encounter alignment problems that need to be addressed. These can be quite common and are usually caused by a simple misalignment while folding. Keep the following suggestions in mind:

• Ensure the bed is fully extended before folding it back.
• Check that the bed's frame is aligned correctly with the cabinet tracks.
• Make sure to fold the mattress evenly, without any twists or bends.

These simple adjustments should help you address most alignment issues effortlessly.

Hardware Issues

Although less frequent, hardware issues can also affect the folding process. Here are some common ones and how to handle them:

1. Loose or broken fasteners: Inspect the fastening mechanism between your bed and cabinet for looseness or damage. Tightening or replacing fasteners can quickly fix this problem. If you're not sure how to do it, consider watching this Wall Bed King Troubleshooting Video.
2. Spring or piston malfunction: Springs or pistons are essential for the smooth operation of a fold-out bed. If they are not functioning correctly, you might need to replace them. Always consult your bed's manufacturer or a professional if you're unsure.
3. Worn or damaged tracks: Check the tracks inside the cabinet for signs of wear or damage. Make sure they are clean, and nothing obstructs them. To fix any damage, you might need to contact a professional or obtain replacement parts from the manufacturer.

Remember, it's always advisable to follow the bed's manufacturer guidelines and consult with professionals whenever necessary to address hardware issues.