Integrating a Murphy bed into your living space is a smart solution for maximizing square footage, but the setup often presents a unique challenge: where to store the accompanying pillow. Without a dedicated plan, the pillow can become an eyesore, taking up valuable floor space or cluttering nearby surfaces, which undermines the room's clean, functional aesthetic.
The Art of Vertical Storage
Utilizing vertical space is the most efficient strategy for Murphy bed pillow storage. This approach keeps the floor clear, maintains the room's sense of openness, and ensures the pillow is ready for use the moment the bed is deployed. The key is to find a location that is both accessible and out of the way when the bed is folded upright.
Installing a Wall-Mounted Shelving Unit
A sturdy floating shelf or a small, shallow cabinet mounted on the wall adjacent to the Murphy bed is an ideal solution. This location keeps the pillow easily accessible for making the bed or storing it, while it remains completely out of the living area's sight when the bed is in its sleeping position. Choosing a shelf that matches your existing decor ensures the storage feels like a deliberate design element rather than a compromise.
Utilizing the Space Behind the Folded Bed
For rooms where wall space is at a premium, the area behind the folded Murphy bed itself offers significant potential. By installing a low-profile, shallow shelf or cabinet system on the back of the bed unit, you create a dedicated, hidden compartment specifically for the pillow and perhaps a folded throw blanket. This method transforms an awkward dead zone into a highly functional storage niche, keeping the entire room consistently tidy.
Complementary Storage Solutions
Beyond direct wall storage, several other options can be seamlessly integrated into your room's layout to accommodate the pillow without sacrificing style or space.
Incorporating a Storage Ottoman or Bench
Placing a storage ottoman or bench at the foot of the Murphy bed serves a dual purpose. When the bed is upright, the ottoman acts as a bedside table or extra seating, and its hollow interior provides ample space for the pillow. This piece of furniture effectively combines seating, surface area, and hidden storage into a single, cohesive item, optimizing every inch of the room.
Deploying a Sliding Under-Bed Drawer
If the Murphy bed is installed at a height that leaves clearance beneath it, a shallow, rolling storage drawer can be a brilliant addition. This drawer can be used specifically for the pillow, taking advantage of otherwise unused space. The rolling mechanism ensures the pillow is always within easy reach, sliding out smoothly whether the bed is being made or the pillow is being retrieved for use elsewhere.
| Storage Solution | Best For | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Wall-Mounted Shelf | Small to medium rooms | Highly accessible and visible organization |
| Space Behind Folded Bed | Maximizing awkward spaces | Conceals storage completely when bed is up |
| Storage Ottoman | Multi-functionality and style | Combines seating, surface, and hidden storage |
| Under-Bed Drawer | Taller bed frames with clearance | Utilizes dead space efficiently |
Maintaining Accessibility and Style
Regardless of the storage method you choose, prioritizing ease of access is crucial. The pillow should be simple to remove for bedtime and equally simple to stow away after hosting guests. A storage solution that requires awkward maneuvering or excessive effort will likely lead to clutter, defeating the purpose of the Murphy bed's space-saving design. Selecting a pillow in a neutral color or a case that complements your room's palette ensures the storage integration feels cohesive and intentional.
