Murphy beds are a fantastic space-saving solution for small apartments or multi-functional rooms. However, there might come a time when you need to disassemble your Murphy bed because you’re moving out. One of the most important skills is to learn how to disassemble the Murphy bed for easy transit.
Disassembling and transporting a Murphy bed can seem daunting, but with the right tools and guidance, it’s a manageable task. In this guide, we offer step-by-step instructions on how to disassemble and transport Murphy beds during such an occasion, outlining the necessary tools and best practices for a smooth process.
Before we dive in, click here to discover space-saving furniture that transforms your home.
How to Disassemble a Murphy Bed: Step-by-Step Guide
Disassembling a Murphy bed requires careful steps to ensure all parts are kept intact and no damage is done to the bed or your home.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:
Tools and Preparation
Before you begin, gather the following tools:
- Flat-head screwdrivers: These will be used to remove various screws that hold different components of the Murphy bed together. Having different sizes of flat-head screwdrivers will ensure you have the right tool for each screw encountered.
- Wrench set: Depending on your specific Murphy bed model, you might need wrenches of various sizes to loosen nuts and bolts that secure the bed frame or pistons.
- Allen keys (also known as hex keys): Some Murphy beds utilize Allen screws for specific connections. Having a set of Allen keys in various sizes ensures you can tackle these fasteners effectively.
- Hammer: While not always necessary, a hammer might be helpful for gently loosening tight connections or removing stubborn nails (if present).
- Cordless drill (if available): A cordless drill can significantly speed up the disassembly process, especially if numerous screws need to be removed. However, a manual screwdriver can suffice if a drill isn’t readily available.
- Furniture pads or blankets for protection: As you disassemble the Murphy bed, various components will need to be placed down. Furniture pads or thick blankets will help cushion these parts and prevent scratches or dents on your flooring.
Steps for Disassembly
- Clear the Area: Before you begin disassembly, ensure you have ample space to work around the Murphy bed. This means removing any furniture or clutter that might obstruct your movement or create a risk of bumping into things during disassembly.
- Remove the Mattress: The first step is to remove the mattress from the Murphy bed frame. This not only makes the bed lighter for disassembly but also protects the mattress from potential damage during the process. Carefully lift the mattress and place it on a flat surface in a different room, ideally on a box spring or a clean, protected area on the floor.
- Detach the Murphy Bed From the Wall: Typically, Murphy beds are anchored to the wall using screws, bolts, or heavy-duty brackets. Locate the wall attachment points – they’re usually found on the back of the cabinet frame or on the bed frame itself. Using the appropriate tools from your preparation stage, carefully remove the fasteners that secure the Murphy bed to the wall.
Documenting Your Process
Disassembling a Murphy bed can involve numerous parts and hardware. Here are some essential steps to ensure a smooth and frustration-free reassembly process:
- Keep track of all hardware and components: Keep all the screws, nuts, bolts, brackets, and other hardware pieces organized. A simple method is to use small containers or Ziploc bags labeled according to the step where they were removed. This will save you a significant amount of time and frustration during reassembly when you need to identify the correct hardware for each connection.
- Take pictures or videos of each step for reassembly reference: Visual aids are incredibly helpful when reassembling furniture. Take clear pictures or short videos throughout the disassembly process, capturing how different components are connected and the order in which they are removed. These visuals will act as a valuable guide when it’s time to put everything back together.
- Label all parts and screws for easy identification: In addition to keeping hardware organized, labeling individual parts can be incredibly beneficial. Use masking tape and a marker to write clear labels on larger components like shelves or cabinet doors. You can also label individual screws or groups of screws based on the step where they were removed. This will make reassembly much more efficient and prevent confusion about where each piece belongs.
Handling and Storage of Disassembled Parts
Once you’ve successfully disassembled your Murphy bed, proper handling and storage of the parts are essential to prevent damage or loss during the move. Here are some best practices to ensure everything arrives at your new place safe and sound:
Proper Handling
Be mindful when moving disassembled parts. Larger components like the bed frame or cabinet sections can be heavy and awkward.
If possible, enlist a helper to lift and transport these pieces to avoid straining yourself or accidentally dropping them.
Use furniture sliders or dollies for heavy components to make them easier to maneuver and prevent scratches on your floors.
Best Practices for Storage
Here are some points to note about storage:
- Wooden components: Wrap all wooden parts like the cabinet frame, shelves, or headboards in moving blankets or furniture pads. This will cushion them during transport and prevent scratches, dents, or dings.
- Hardware: Don’t underestimate the importance of keeping track of all the screws, nuts, and bolts. As we have said, you can use small, resealable bags or containers to store these pieces. Make sure that you clearly label each container according to the disassembly step where the hardware was removed.
- Safe Storage Location: Once everything is disassembled and packed, choose a dry, safe location to store the parts until your move. The best option is a climate-controlled space to avoid moisture damage or warping of wooden components. Avoid storing parts in areas with extreme temperatures or fluctuating humidity levels.
Transport and Reassembly Tips
The journey isn’t over after disassembly! Here are some helpful tips to ensure a smooth transport and successful reassembly of your Murphy bed.
Transport Tips
- Vehicle Selection: A large truck or van might be necessary depending on the bed’s size. If you’re unsure, err on the side of caution and choose a larger vehicle to avoid having to make multiple trips.
- Loading and Securing: Carefully load the disassembled parts into your vehicle. Distribute the weight evenly to prevent any one area from being overloaded. Utilize straps, bungee cords, or tie-down ropes to securely fasten all the components in place to prevent them from shifting or getting damaged during transport.
Reassembly Tips
- Visual Aids: Remember those pictures and videos you took during disassembly? Now’s the time to put them to good use! Refer to these visuals as you reassemble the Murphy bed.
- Manufacturer’s Instructions: While the disassembly process might have been unique to your specific situation, reassembly typically follows the original installation instructions in reverse order. Consult your Murphy bed’s user manual or manufacturer’s website for detailed assembly instructions.
- Patience and Teamwork: Reassembling a Murphy bed can be a complex task, especially for larger or more intricate models. Be patient with the process and don’t hesitate to enlist the help of a friend or family member for some of the heavier lifting or trickier connections. Having an extra pair of hands can make the process much smoother and less stressful.
Wrapping Up
We all agree that disassembling and transporting a Murphy bed may seem like a challenge, but with careful planning and these step-by-step instructions, you can ensure a smooth and successful move.
The key is to remain organized, patient, and use the right tools.
Source: Explore
