Hosting friends and relatives overnight can be exciting until one has to figure out the sleeping arrangement. If the home does not have an extra room, one’s guests might have to crash on a lumpy couch or an inflatable bed, neither of which are comfortable. The ideal solution to this problem is to invest in a foldable bed.

Key things affecting foldable bed prices
The price range for a foldable bed can vary widely. While the basic models start at around $50, the top-end models may cost $8,000 or more depending on the material, type of manufacturing, and other factors.

1. Production scale
The cost of foldable beds can vary depending on whether they are mass-produced or manufactured on a smaller scale. The mass-produced ones will likely be priced lower than those made on a smaller scale. Generally, products here are manufactured in bulk using a few machines instead of a large workforce, which reduces costs and speeds up production. But that does not mean beds produced on a large scale are low-quality. Many reputable brands that mass produce foldable or bending beds are cautious about their manufacturing process and pay attention to detail, ensuring a durable product.

2. Material used
Wood is the primary material used to make foldable beds. But there are different types of wood, so the kind used in the construction can severely impact the cost of the bed. Some foldable beds available for a significantly lower price in 2024 may be made out of engineered wood or particle board, which have a low durability and shorter lifespan than high-quality wood. While such beds may cost less upfront, they may need frequent repairs and part replacements in the long run. That’s why one should consider the type of wood used in the bed.

Foldable beds made from hardwood or solid wood are generally better than other options. These beds may cost a lot initially but do not require frequent repairs and part replacements. The only recurring cost one might have to incur is for polishing the wood to keep the bed looking new. Foldable beds made from such high-quality materials can hold more load, are sturdy, and last much longer than particle board foldable beds.

Alternatively, one can consider metal foldable beds instead of a wooden bed. These can be stowed away in the store room until needed.

3. Design mechanism
The bed’s design and its mechanism for folding and unfolding can also impact the overall cost. Murphy beds, which can be folded up and stored vertically against a wall, are much more expensive than regular rollaway beds that can be used as a couch in the daytime. Similarly, foldable beds with a hydraulic piston are more expensive than non-hydraulic ones. That said, hydraulic pistons provide better ease of use. They are especially beneficial for those who find it difficult to pull up a bed.

4. Installation
Foldable beds that need professional assistance to be installed can be on the more expensive end of the price spectrum. While DIY installation may still be possible, any mistake can damage the bed, leading to unnecessary expenses for repairs or replacements. Wrongly installed foldable beds can also run into problems like getting stuck while folding or unfolding. Similarly, improper installation could mean inadequate back support for the one using the bed.

5. Size of the bed
Folding beds are available in several standard sizes: single, twin, full, queen, and king-sized. The size one selects can affect the price, so it’s important to assess one’s needs and choose wisely. One must also understand how much the bed’s size will reduce after folding because skipping this step can lead to storage space constraints.

6. Mattress cost
Many believe they can save money by buying a foldable bed frame and mattress separately. But that doesn’t always work out. In fact, in most cases, buying the frame and the mattress separately can be more expensive. This approach is advisable only when one does not like the quality of the standard mattress that comes with the bed frame or wants a customizable mattress. If the bed is not going to be regularly used, investing in the frame and a mattress compatible with it might be the right way to go. Buying the most comfortable and compatible mattress should be a priority only if one plans to use the bed regularly and does not mind the high foldable bed prices.  If one decides to buy a mattress separately, one must consider its support, comfort, after-sales service, durability, and warranty. 

7. Brand
The brand or manufacturer’s reputation can also affect the price. The more popular the brand, the higher their beds’ prices will be. Some popular brands that make comfortable and sturdy foldable beds and mattresses include Milliard, Lucid, Mjkone, Brookside, Grandin Road, and Airweave.

Benefits of foldable beds
There are several benefits associated with foldable beds.

• Foldable beds, like Murphy or rollaway beds, are a space saver. One can easily put them aside when not in need and ensure they do not get in the way.
• Bending or foldable beds are comparatively more comfortable than inflatable mattresses.
• Foldable beds can even be used as lounge chairs or couches when needed.