how to make a hideaway bed

Mastering the DIY Hideaway Bed: Step-by-Step Guide

By Olivia BrownFebruary 7, 2026

Transforming a small space into a cozy bedroom and functional living area during the day is a dream come true for many homeowners. A hideaway bed, also known as a Murphy bed, is the perfect solution to achieve this. It's a bed that folds up into the wall or a cabinet, freeing up space for other activities. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to make a hideaway bed, complete with step-by-step instructions and essential tips.

Before you start, ensure you have the right tools and materials. You'll need a circular saw, drill, screwdriver, measuring tape, level, and safety gear like goggles and gloves. Materials include plywood, 2x4 lumber, hinges, screws, and hardware for the bed mechanism.

Designing Your Hideaway Bed

Start by deciding where you want your hideaway bed to be. Measure the space carefully to ensure the bed will fit when it's folded up. Consider the height of the bed and the ceiling to ensure there's enough clearance.

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Next, decide on the design. You can choose a simple cabinet-style bed that folds up into a cabinet, or a more complex wall-mounted bed that folds down from the wall. You can also customize the bed's size to fit your needs.

Planning the Bed Mechanism

The bed mechanism is the heart of your hideaway bed. It's what allows the bed to fold up and down smoothly. You can buy a pre-made mechanism or make your own. If you're making your own, you'll need to design it to support the weight of the mattress and the person using the bed.

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One popular DIY mechanism involves using piano hinges and gas springs. The piano hinges allow the bed to fold up and down, while the gas springs provide the force needed to lift the bed.

Building the Bed Frame

Once you have your mechanism planned, it's time to build the bed frame. Start by cutting your plywood and 2x4 lumber to size. The plywood will be the face of the bed, while the 2x4s will be the support structure.

Assemble the frame using screws. Make sure it's square and level as you go. Attach the bed mechanism to the frame, following the manufacturer's instructions if you're using a pre-made mechanism.

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Installing the Hideaway Bed

Before you install the bed, make sure the wall or cabinet where it will be mounted is strong enough to support the weight. You may need to reinforce it with additional support.

If you're mounting the bed to the wall, use heavy-duty hinges and ensure they're level. If you're mounting it to a cabinet, make sure the cabinet is strong enough to support the weight of the bed and the person using it.

Attaching the Bed to the Wall or Cabinet

Attach the bed to the wall or cabinet using the hinges. Make sure it's level and that the mechanism works smoothly. Test the bed by folding it up and down a few times to ensure everything is working properly.

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Once the bed is attached, you can add any finishing touches like trim or paint. If you're mounting the bed to a cabinet, you can add doors to hide the bed when it's folded up.

With your hideaway bed installed, you now have a functional living space that transforms into a cozy bedroom at night. Enjoy your new space and the flexibility it provides!