Introduction: Reclaiming Your Space with Bestar
In the quest for maximizing living space, Murphy beds stand out as a time-tested, ingenious solution. They transform home offices, spare rooms, or even living areas into multifunctional spaces at a moment's notice. Among the leading names in this category is Bestar, a Canadian furniture company known for producing stylish and accessible wall beds. With an average customer rating hovering between 3.8 and 3.9 out of 5 stars, Bestar Murphy beds promise a blend of modern aesthetics, functionality, and value. But do they deliver? This comprehensive review dives into real user feedback and product data to give you a clear, unbiased look at what to expect.
Product Overview: What Bestar Offers
Bestar offers several collections, most notably the Pur, Versatile, and Cielo series. These models are typically vertical wall beds designed to integrate seamlessly into a room's decor, appearing as a sleek cabinet or shelving unit when closed. They are engineered to accommodate standard full or queen-size mattresses, generally up to 12 inches in thickness and weighing between 60 to 90 pounds. A key feature across their lineup is the dual-piston mechanism, designed to make folding and unfolding the bed smooth and effortless. Many collections also offer modular flexibility, with options to add matching storage cabinets, shelving units, sofas, or even integrated LED lighting.
Pros and Cons at a Glance
Based on aggregated reviews from dozens of homeowners and renters, a clear picture of Bestar's strengths and weaknesses emerges.
| Aspect | Pros (What Users Love) | Cons (Common Complaints) |
|---|---|---|
| Build Quality & Durability | Sturdy construction with a 1,000 lb weight capacity; flexible slats improve airflow; holds up well over years of use. | Reports of gaps in molding; trim can detach; occasional damage during shipping; may not close perfectly with thin mattresses. |
| Comfort & Functionality | Comfortable for both daily and guest use; smooth piston mechanism is easy to operate; excellent space-saver that looks like furniture. | Slats may be too flexible for those preferring firm support; some feel "closed in" at the head; requires removing pillows before folding. |
| Assembly & Installation | Can be a DIY project for a handy person; adds significant functional value to a small room. | Very time-consuming (4-8 hours); instructions can be unclear or have missing steps; parts may be missing; professional installation is often recommended. |
| Value & Aesthetics | Considered good value for the price; offers a clean, modern aesthetic; customizable with add-on units. | Contemporary style may not suit traditional decor; higher-end customized configurations can become pricey. |
| Customer Service | Can be responsive and quick with sending replacement parts. | Frustrating automated phone systems; reports of significant delays in resolving issues with damaged items or returns. |
In-Depth Analysis
Build Quality & Durability
Once assembled, the consensus is that Bestar Murphy beds are impressively sturdy. With a weight capacity of up to 1,000 pounds (including the mattress), they provide a secure and stable sleeping platform. Users report that the beds feel solid, with one long-term owner noting their unit has held up perfectly for over four years of regular use. The flexible slatted base is another plus, offering good mattress ventilation and responsive support. However, quality control during manufacturing and shipping can be inconsistent. Some customers report receiving pieces with minor cosmetic damage, such as detached trim or small gaps in the molding, which can detract from the otherwise polished look.
Comfort & Functionality
As a functional, space-saving solution, Bestar beds earn high marks. Owners praise them as an “amazing space-saving solution,” effectively transforming a room's purpose. The dual-piston system is consistently highlighted as a major benefit, making the bed light and easy to maneuver up and down. For sleeping comfort, most find it suitable for both guests and daily use, with one user noting it “slept great—even for large people.” The main drawbacks are minor but notable: pillows must be removed before closing the unit, and some users find the head of the bed feels slightly enclosed by the cabinet structure.
Assembly & Installation
This is, by far, the most polarizing aspect of owning a Bestar Murphy bed. The assembly process is notoriously challenging and time-consuming, with most users reporting it takes between 4 to 8 hours with two people. While a handy individual can tackle the project, many reviews cite unclear instructions, mislabeled parts, or missing screws as major sources of frustration. One user bluntly described the instructions as "lacking." For this reason, many experienced owners strongly recommend budgeting for professional installation to avoid the headache. The unit must be securely anchored to wall studs, so verifying your wall construction is a critical prerequisite.
Value & Aesthetics
For its price point, Bestar offers strong value. It provides the functionality of a Murphy bed with a clean, contemporary aesthetic that rivals more expensive custom solutions. The ability to add matching storage units allows for a built-in, cohesive look that adds significant appeal and value to a home. The modern design, however, may not blend with all decor styles, particularly those that are more traditional. While base models are affordable, adding multiple side units or premium features can quickly increase the overall cost.
Customer Service
Experiences with Bestar's customer service[^1] are mixed. On the positive side, when a part is missing or damaged, some customers report that the company was responsive and shipped replacements quickly. On the other hand, navigating the support system can be a challenge. Several users have expressed frustration with automated phone trees[^2] and long wait times. Resolving more complex issues, such as a majorly damaged shipment, has led some to describe the process as a "nightmare with customer service."
Recommendations & Final Buying Advice
A Bestar Murphy bed is an excellent choice for budget-conscious homeowners and designers who want a stylish, functional space-saving solution and are prepared for the assembly challenge. It delivers on its promise of transforming a room without the high cost of custom cabinetry.
- For the DIYer: If you are patient, organized, and experienced with flat-pack furniture, you can save money by assembling it yourself. Lay out all parts, read the instructions fully before starting, and have a second person to help. Essential tools include a stud finder, drill, level, and a socket set.
- For Everyone Else: Seriously consider hiring a professional installer. The extra cost (typically a few hundred dollars) can save you a full day of labor and ensure the unit is assembled correctly and safely.
- Before You Buy: Measure your space carefully. You will need a minimum ceiling height of 86 to 90 inches for most vertical queen models. Ensure your chosen mattress fits the thickness (under 12 inches) and weight (60-90 lbs) requirements for the piston system to work correctly.
Ultimately, if you can get past the hurdle of installation, the Bestar Murphy bed stands as a durable, attractive, and high-value addition to any home where space is at a premium.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How difficult is it to assemble a Bestar Murphy bed?
Assembly is considered the biggest challenge. It is very time-consuming, typically taking 4-8 hours with two people. Many reviews mention unclear instructions and recommend hiring a professional installer to save time and frustration.
2. Can I install a Bestar Murphy bed by myself?
It is possible if you are handy, patient, and have the right tools, but it is not recommended as a solo project. The components are heavy, and the process is complex. Having a second person is strongly advised.
3. What kind of mattress should I use with a Bestar Murphy bed?
You should use a standard full or queen mattress that is no more than 12 inches thick and weighs between 60 and 90 pounds. Using a mattress outside these specifications can cause the piston-lift mechanism to function improperly.
4. How much ceiling height is required for installation?
Most Bestar vertical Murphy beds require a minimum ceiling height of 86 to 90 inches. Always measure your room's height before purchasing to ensure a proper fit.
5. Are Bestar beds durable and sturdy?
Yes, once assembled correctly, users report that the beds are very sturdy and durable, with a total weight capacity of up to 1,000 pounds (including the mattress). Many have used them for years without issue.
6. Is the bed easy to open and close?
Absolutely. A key feature praised by users is the dual-piston mechanism, which makes lifting and lowering the bed smooth and nearly effortless.
7. What is the overall customer rating for Bestar Murphy beds?
On average, Bestar Murphy beds receive a rating of 3.8 to 3.9 out of 5 stars. They are praised for their value and functionality but are marked down for the difficult assembly process.
8. What are the most common complaints?
The most frequent complaints are the difficult and lengthy assembly, unclear instructions, occasional cosmetic damage during shipping, and inconsistent customer service experiences.
9. Are these beds comfortable enough for everyday use?
Yes, many owners use their Bestar bed as their primary sleeping solution and find it comfortable for daily use. The flexible slatted base provides good support and ventilation.
10. Do I have to anchor the bed to the wall?
Yes, anchoring the bed cabinet securely to wall studs is a mandatory and critical safety step. This ensures the unit is stable and will not tip over during operation.
Relate
[^1]: Exploring best practices can help businesses enhance their customer service, ensuring better experiences for clients →
[^2]: Understanding the effects of automated phone trees can guide companies in optimizing their support systems for better customer experiences →