Reviews | What's the Best Adjustable Bed? Complete Buying Guide

best adjustable bed for the money. Adjustable bed reviews. Best split king adjustable bed frame. — Find the perfect position with the touch of a button. (**Buy from Amazon**)

What’s the Best Adjustable Bed for you? It doesn’t matter what your friends find comfortable or your partner, when it comes to beds, only you can decide what works best for you. In this comprehensive buying guide we review a wide range of excellent adjustable beds that we think you’ll love, but we also discuss a wide range of factors that you need to consider before making your final buying decision.

Our aim is to help you choose the best adjustable bed for your needs, budget and health requirement.

Table of Contents...

1 INTRO | Best Adjustable Beds
2 Reviews | Best Adjustable Bed
3 LUCID L300

INTRO | Best Adjustable Beds

What are adjustable beds?

On average, humans sleep for 8 hours a day. That is 1/3^rd of our day dedicated to an activity, which upon first glance is rather unproductive. Or is it? Sleep is a key component of our body’s biological cycle, and it affects our activities during the rest of the day. A good night’s sleep will guarantee that you wake up feeling rejuvenated and refreshed, with plenty of energy to spend on things such as work, sports, traveling, etc. On the other hand, if you wake up feeling sore and cramped it will result in a loss of efficiency across all daily activities. Your reaction times will be higher, you will struggle while making decisions, and your productivity at the workplace will take a hit.

During sleep our body repairs itself and our brain processes the memories and experiences we had during the day, deciding which ones to store for long term usage. Microscopic tears in muscles and ligaments are fixed during sleep, and growth hormones are released. Sleep even affects our appetite, since two hormones “ghrelin” and “leptin” are released when we are resting at night. Improper sleep schedules or insufficient sleep can mess with the release of these hormones, causing you to feel hungrier than usual. You will be attracted to high calorie foods after you wake up, and that can result in weight gain over time, or even mild pre-diabetic symptoms.

One of the interesting things about sleep that most people don’t know about is the “quality”. By quality, we mean how much time you actually sleep every night rather than the time you spend laying down on your bed. Are you tossing and turning during your sleep? Do you often find yourself awake in the middle of the night, with a sore ache in your back? Does your partner disturb you with their incessant snoring? All these factors need to be taken into consideration before you understand how much time you truly sleep each day. According to most health organizations and sleep specialists, an adult between the age group of 18 to 64 years should spend 7 to 9 hours per day on sleep.

Sleep Recommendations :

Older adults (65+): 7–8 hours
Adults (18–64 years): 7–9 hours
Teenagers (14–17 years): 8–10 hours
School children (6–13 years): 9–11 hours
Preschoolers (3–5 years): 10–13 hours
Toddlers (1–2 years): 11–14 hours
Infants (4–11 months): 12–15 hours
Newborns (0–3 months): 14–17 hours

By now you must be asking, “What does all of this have to do with adjustable beds?” Nice question, because adjustable beds don’t magically warp time so that you sleep longer. But what they can do is make the quality of your sleep significantly better. Let’s assume you go to sleep at 11pm and wake up at 7am. On paper, that is a good 8 hours of sleep which is perfectly fine for a healthy adult. However, if you were to film a night’s sleep of yourself using a conventional bed, you would discover some pretty interesting things.

For example, you are probably tossing and turning for an hour, waking up in the middle of the night to adjust your sleeping position, etc. So you lose a couple hours because a conventional bed simply cannot adjust to your body contours, thanks to its fixed shape. With an adjustable bed however, you can choose the optimal position for your sleeping style. Are you a side sleeper? In that case, you will find an adjustable bed several times more comfortable than a normal one because the base of the bed can adjust to better fit the curves and outline of your body when you are laying on the side.

In an adjustable bed, the upper and lower sections can be raised or lowered depending on your personal preferences. On some models, you can even change the elevation of the base respective to the floor. There are adjustable bed bases with split sides which can move independently of each other, so you can raise your partners head to stop them from snoring. With an adjustable bed, you can sit upright like you would in a chair. This allows you to work on your laptop without having to stack up a bunch of pillows behind your back, as you would in a standard bed.

Do you like to play games on your Xbox or PlayStation while relaxing on the bed? Well, adjustable beds are the perfect choice for you since they come with preset positions that provide optimal support to your back and neck while you are busy gaming. And since all persons have different body shapes and sizes, the premium models allow you to create and save your favorite positions for various activities such as sleeping, reading, watching TV, etc.

Want to learn more about the science of sleep, read this excellent National Geographic article : While We Sleep, Our Mind Goes on an Amazing Journey

Reviews | Best Adjustable Bed

NOTE : Images are coming soon. We’re working on them. Thanks for your patience.

LUCID L300

Sizes: Twin XL / Queen / King / Split King. Best adjustable bed for the money.

Features:

First-ever folding hinge makes shipping more affordable; easy assembly takes less than 5 minutes from box to bed; no expert assembly needed
Independent head incline: 0 – 60 degrees, foot incline 0 – 45 degrees; dual USB charging stations on both sides of bed base
Wireless remote with flashlight, batteries included; programmable memory option for your favorite position
2 Twin XL bases make a King; upholstered frame in Charcoal Gray adds stylish look; 10-year warranty
750-pound weight capacity; Premium motor is extremely reliable, quiet, and responsive; Twin XL measures 37.5 x 79.5 x 15 inches
Comes in various sizes and mattresses. See listing for exact configurations.

Overview

You have been reading about the benefits of using an adjustable bed, but their high cost dissuades you from actually purchasing one. Worry not, the LUCID L300 is designed just for customers like you. It provides a whole lot of features in a rather affordable package and is extremely easy to unpack and assemble. Available in two sizes- Twin XL and Queen, the LUCID L300 is a perfect midrange adjustable bed base that is built to withstand loads up to 750 pounds (including the mattress). Its steel underbody provides extreme levels of rigidity to the base, and heavy duty DC motors ensure that you are able to use this bed all day (and night), without overloading the system.

best adjustable bed base. — Motor is whisper-quiet. 10 year warranty. (**Buy from Amazon**)

You can join two twin XL beds to create what we call a “split king” setup. This has almost the same dimensions as a king size bed, and will accept either one king size mattress or two twin XL mattresses. Note that each twin XL L300 measures exactly 37.5” x 79.5”. The base itself is coated with a layer of high quality polyester, which feels supple yet durable. Next time you hit your shin on one of these, it won’t hurt as much. If you already own a king size bed frame and headboard, make sure that the space within the frame is exactly 75” x 79.5 so that two twin XL L300 adjustable bases can slide in without any trouble.

If you go with a king size mattress on a twin XL bed setup, you will notice that when you are sitting on one side, the other side of the mattress tends to lift up. If you are the only one using the bed, try sitting in the middle to ensure even depression across the mattress. Or if you wish to make independent adjustments for either side of the twin king setup, you can purchase two twin XL mattresses, one for each adjustable base. The Queen size L300 measures 59.5” x 79.5”, and costs nearly 200 dollars more compared to the twin XL version.

The L300 connects to a wall outlet with the help of an adapter that converts the 120V AC current from mains into 9V DC for the linear actuator motors. One really cool feature that we found on the L300 is its ability to work on backup battery power. If you take a look at the side of the power adapter, you will notice an opening for 9-volt batteries. This feature comes in handy when there is a power outage, or if the cord connecting the adapter to the wall outlet gets damaged. And when you look at the underbody around the head area of the adjustable base, you will notice two USB ports on either side of the bed. Which means you can charge up to 4 mobile devices with one L300 bed. Or 8 mobile devices, when you pair two twin XL L300 beds together.

Next, we have the wireless remote. Yes, this highly affordable adjustable bed comes with a wireless remote and two AA batteries. Even better, the remote has backlit buttons and a tiny flashlight on the back that helps you navigate through the room in the middle of the night when you try to get out of your bed. The controls are really simple- you have a total of 7 buttons on the remote. One for raising the head, another for lowering the head. Similarly, you have a button for raising the feet and another button for lowering the feet. It is important to note that this adjustable bed does not come with any preset positions from the factory, so you are free to choose the perfect setting for yourself.

Once you find a setting that feels the most comfortable, hold down the button labeled “M”. This will invoke the memory function of the bed, and “save” this exact setting for future use. Next time you want to instantly access your favorite position, just press the memory button once and the bed will shift into your desired position. Lifting the head from flat to maximum angle (60°) takes nearly 17 seconds, and the same goes for the legs. Lowering either side will take approximately 15 seconds, and the transition feels really smooth and gradual. You won’t get jittering or bumpiness while lifting the head or feet. And since this bed uses heavy duty motors, the speed at which it raises and lowers is not affected by load. Even when there are two fully grown adults resting on the bed, it will take the same amount of time to lift or lower itself.

If you want to control both twin XL beds in your split king setup with just one remote, you can pair both of them together. To do that, hold down the two buttons for raising the head and feet simultaneously, then press a blue button on the control box underneath the bed till you hear exactly two beeps. Now two beds are perfectly synced and you can control both of them as a single unit with just one remote. It is recommended that you use a mattress between 6 and 12 inches of thickness with the L300 beds. There is a 10-year warranty on the L300, so you don’t have to worry about something breaking down over time (not that it will, since the whole thing is welded and bolted together with steel tubing).

Classic Brands | Adjustable Comfort

Sizes: Twin XL / Full / Queen / King / Split King. Best adjustable bed frame with Massage, a Wireless Remote, Three Leg Heights and so much more.

Features :

Wireless Remote
2 USB charging ports for your smart phone or tablet
Head and Foot Massage
Zero gravity position
TV/Reading position
Head and foot elevations
Adjustable legs: 4-inches, 6.5-inches, or 10.5-inches
Mattress bar to prevent mattress from sliding
Supports a maximum weight of 1000 lbs. of evenly distributed weight
Adjustable bed base has 6 legs-Exceeds industry standard of 4
Quick and easy assembly

Benefits :

Platform design but will fit easily into most traditional bed frames
Reduces back pain
Enhances blood pressure
Helps with sleep apnea, heartburn, acid reflux or GERD
Many lifestyle benefits

Sizes :

Twin X-Long : 80″L x 39″W x 15″H
Full : 75″L x 54″W x 15″H
Queen : 79.5″L x 59.5″W x 15″H
King : 79.5″L x 75.5″W x 15″H

Overview

Upon first glance, the Classic Brands adjustable bed looks very similar to the LUCID L300 that we just reviewed. Both have black/ grey dual tone polyester upholstery on a steel frame, and are equipped with standard features such as wireless remote controls and built-in USB charging ports. But wait a second… what’s this? The Classic Brands Adjustable Comfort bed costs less than the LUCID L300? AND it comes with a massage function? Hold on, it also seems to have a sleep timer, and an anti-snore system. Wait, how did they manage to cram all these extra features while maintaining a lower price than the LUCID L300? And why should one even consider the L300 when something like this exists?

Nice question- the L300 is heavily outmatched by the Classic Brands Adjustable Comfort bed when it comes to features. This adjustable base has a massager, sleep timer, anti-snore, and supports up to 1000 pounds of load (33% more load capacity compared to the L300). And while both the L300 and the Adjustable Comfort bed have USB ports, the Classic Brands implementation of these ports is much more convenient to use since they are located on the side of the bed base. The L300 has USB ports that are located on the underbody, making them slightly harder to reach if you are lying on the bed. However, the L300 has 4 ports, 2 on each side, whereas the Adjustable Comfort bed has only 2 ports per bed.

We noticed that even though the Classic Brands bed is more feature-rich, it is harder to assemble and getting used to all the controls will take some time. Not only is this bed heavier because of the extra massage motors, but you have to do the wiring yourself when it arrives. You also have to install the motors into the frame, connect the cables from the motors to the speed controller, and use an Allen wrench to fasten both middle legs to the frame of the adjustable base. Not tough for someone who carefully follows the manual, but nonetheless installation and setup is more complicated when you compared it to the L300 bed.

Additionally, the L300 was capable of running on 9V battery power, and even had a little space in the power adapter where you could insert 9V batteries for backup. This bed has none of that, so you will be in trouble if there is a power cut and the bed is stuck in its upright position. The remote control on the Adjustable Comfort bed has a whole lot of buttons to control stuff like massage, sleep timer, Zero-G mode, etc. which can be incredibly confusing for senior citizens. And there is no flashlight at the back of the remote, so good luck venturing out of your adjustable bed at night without the night lights turned on.

Talking of nighttime, you will have trouble using the remote in low light conditions because the buttons aren’t backlit. But hey, there’s an LCD screen on the remote which shows you information like head and foot elevation as well as massager intensity (you can select from 3 different speeds for the massager).

There are individual massage motors for the head and foot, both of which can work in synchronization or independently of each other. The anti-snore function allows your partner to raise the head tilt on your side of the bed by a couple inches so that he or she can sleep without being subjugated to your obnoxious snoring sounds in the middle of the night. If you wish to slip into the most comfortable position, just press the Zero-G button and it will raise the feet and head simultaneously, forming an S-shaped curve that lets your body sink in while relieving pressure from the joints and back.

If you are not satisfied with the factory preset Zero-G position, you can create your own custom zero gravity setting and save it to the memory for quick access later. There is a sleep timer which allows you to turn off the massager after a specified time period and take the bed into its flat setting for when you fall asleep. Final thoughts on the Classic Brands Adjustable Comfort bed- it is more feature-packed when compared to the LUCID L300, but the frame doesn’t feel as rigid and well built. Installation and setup is more complicated, and elderly people will have a hard time using the remote. Even you will find it hard to use the remote during night, since it isn’t backlit. This bed is available in the following sizes- twin XL, Full, Queen, and King. Pair two twin XL beds together for a split king setup.

Leggett & Platt: Prodigy 2.0 + Mattress by Nature’s Sleep

Best adjustable bed if you want a high quality product with all the bells and whistles. This has it all.

Features:

4”-Profile Base with Wallhugger Technology – Keeps your nightstand within reach.
Pillow, Head, and Foot Articulation – Full-range adjustment provides ultimate comfort.
Capacitive-Touch Remote with Safety Lock Feature – This technologically advanced remote responds with perfect precision and includes a safety lock feature for peace of mind.
App Download for Apple and Android devices – Advanced features like a sleep timer and gentle-wake alarm are included through the free app.
Full-Body Dual Massage with Wave – Rejuvenate after a long day with a relaxing head-to-toe massage that soothes your cares away.
Multiple Custom Programmable Positions – Store 2 of your favorite positions on the remote and 4 through the app for immediate personalized comfort.
Flat Button – Easily return the base to flat with the touch of a button, or program with press-and-hold for safety.
Snore Button – Quickly elevate the head of the base 7° to open up airways.
Under-Bed Light – Under-bed lighting provides both ambience and functionality.
Adjustable Legs – Heavy-duty 2½”-diameter legs easily adjust from 6” to 10” for a perfect fit.
Power-Down – In the event power is lost, a battery backup returns the base to flat.
MicroHook – Our exclusive mattress retention system eliminates the need for a mattress retainer bar – providing a sleeker, more modern look.
Sync Cable – Included with split sizes, the sync cable allows bases to raise and lower simultaneously

✓ View or download the BROCHURE for the Leggett & Platt Prodigy 2.0 bed.

Overview

This is the most expensive adjustable base on our list, and is the best of them all. For less than 3 grand, there is no other adjustable bed base on the market that even comes close in terms of features and convenience. For instance, the Prodigy 2.0 is equipped with wall hugging technology and pillow tilt, these two features by themselves are an indication that this is a premium adjustable bed. It even includes a capacitive touch-based remote control which looks really sleek and has a whole bunch of functions on it that you will rarely use, since this bed supports phone control through your iPhone, iPad, or Android device. Through the smartphone app you get access to a lot more functions than the remote, which makes the super well-designed touch based wireless remote unnecessary since you almost always have your phone by your side when in bed.

Wall hugging will slide the base backwards as you tilt the head upwards, ensuring that your position relative to the rest of the stuff around you doesn’t change. This lets you reach your bedside furniture much more easily. Pillow tilting provides an added layer of support for the upper back, especially your neck and head. With regular adjustable beds, you often find yourself tilting your head forwards ever so slightly when you are watching TV or using a laptop on the bed. This happens even in the fully upright position with the head section tilted 60° forward, because there just isn’t enough support for anything above your shoulders. By adding a third motor and an extra segment for the pillow, the Prodigy 2.0 guarantees maximum comfort when you are playing games on your console or watching movies on Netflix.

It comes with a massager built into the base, which creates a gentle wave pattern traversing across the body from your toe to your head. The underside of this bed is equipped with LED lighting, and there are four USB ports on either the side of the bed (8 total!), positioned in a manner such that they can be accessed very easily (take notes LUCID). Maximum load rating is 850 pound, including the mattress which is supposed to be between 10 and 14” thick. Leg height can be adjusted between 13.5” and 17.5”. You can sync your bed to the phone with Bluetooth, and the furniture grade upholstery will mesh right in with any existing bed frames that you might have. The Prodigy 2.0 is available in the following sizes- twin XL, Full, Queen, King, and split King.

Leggett & Platt Raven Adjustable Bed Base

Size: Queen

SIZES : Twin, / Twin XL / Full / Full XL / Queen / Split Queen / and Split California King

Features :

This high-performance base easily lifts up to 850 lbs. total maximum weight, including the mattress.
Find your way in the dark with a convenient flashlight on the remote control.
One-Touch Flat Button : Easily return the bed to a flat position with the touch of a button.
1″-Profile Foundation Style Base
The low-profile design easily fits inside the frame of your bed.
Head and Foot Articulation or Simultaneous Movement : Effortlessly raise the head, foot, or both simultaneously to find your perfect relaxation position.
Back-Lit Wireless Remote : The technologically advanced wireless remote allows you to effortlessly raise the head and foot with the touch of a button.
Flashlight : Find your way in the dark with a convenient flashlight on the remote control.
MicroHook retention system eliminates the need for a mattress retainer bar at the foot of your bed – providing a sleeker, more modern look. MicroHook may not be compatible with all mattresses or bed accessories, such as dust ruffles.
Sync Cable
Included with split sizes, the sync cable raises and lowers both bases simultaneously for a king mattress Stand-Up. One remote controls two bases.

✓ View or download the BROCHURE for the Leggett & Platt Raven bed.

Overview

While Leggett & Platt make premium adjustable bases such as the Prodigy, not all of us working class citizens can afford to spend that kind of money on a bed. Which is why, they also offer a budget model called the “Raven”. With the Raven you get exactly what is promised, nothing more and nothing less. There are no fancy features such as massaging, Bluetooth, or pillow tilt on this model. It isn’t a wall hugger either, so you will have to stretch back or lower the head section whenever you want to reach your nightstand. It doesn’t even have a memory function that lets you customize and save your preferred comfort position for quick access in the future.

But when you are getting a fully functional Queen-size steel frame adjustable bed with 850 lbs. load capacity under a thousand bucks, there isn’t much to complain about. The remote is extremely simplistic and has backlit buttons (thank you Leggett & Platt), along with a flashlight for all those times you need to visit the toilet in the middle of the night. The leg height cannot be adjusted. Thankfully this an easy bed to assemble. Just flip it over so that the mattress side is facing the floor, screw in the 4 legs, attach the motors to the control unit, and you are ready to start using your brand new adjustable bed.

The micro hook retention system is not compatible with all mattresses, and you will need the retainer bar if you are using dust ruffles on the base or if your mattress is encased in a PVC protective coating. Pairing two twin XL beds to create a split kind setup is very easy- all you have to do is run a synchronizer cable (provided in the package) between the control boxes of each bed, and now you can use a single remote to control both beds at the same time.

iDealBed 4i | Custom Adjustable Bed Base

Wireless, Massage, Dual USB Charge, Nightlight, Zero-Gravity, Anti-Snore, Memory Pre-Sets,
Sizes: Twin XL / Full / Queen / Split-Queen / King / California / California Split King / Split King

NOTE : The iDealBed 5i is now available, which offers an exceptional array of features, like : 3D wave technology for a better massage with ten intensity levels, full body and four wave modes, Infinite positions for head and foot, including presets for zero gravity, anti-snore and flat.

Features:

A fully featured 18-button, back-lit remote to customize settings to your preferences
Full articulation which allows the head to be adjusted up to 70° and the foot up to 42°, giving you the ability to adjust to virtually any position or angle
Ultra-quiet power lift motors with a heavy lift capacity of up to 750 lbs. (per unit) by Leggett & Platt
Full body massage with 3 intensity levels, 4 modes including wave, pulse and constant with a 10 to 30-minute timer
Under-bed night light
Remote flashlight
3 pre-set position buttons including Zero Gravity, Anti-Snore and Flat
2 programmable memory positions which allow you to create a custom pre-set for your favorite positions
3-in-1 Height leg design to adjust the leg height from 4”, 7” to 11” total
Reliable 10-year manufacturer warranty provided through Leggett & Platt
Full Featured Ergonomic Wireless Back-Lit Remote with 18 Buttons, 3 Pre-set positions and 2 Programmable Position Memory Buttons
Ultra-Quiet Leggett & Platt Power Motors with 850 Lbs Capacity Per Unit, Zero Clearance Design made to fit inside Existing Bed Frame
Full body massage with 3 intensity levels, 4 modes including wave, pulse and constant with a 10 to 30-minute timer option

Overview

Once again, not the most advanced or luxurious adjustable bed base on the market. But many people don’t know this- iDealBed base frames and motors are actually manufactured by Leggett & Platt right here in USA, who are the same guys that make the Prodigy 2.0 and Raven. If you aren’t familiar with the adjustable bed industry, the name Leggett & Platt symbolizes quality, comfort, and reliability. These guys are like the Lexus or Cadillac of the bed industry. You are getting their products and designs under a different brand name, for a much cheaper price than you would normally pay. The 4i is basically a Raven frame and motor setup with added functions such as massage and sleep timer.

Unlike most other adjustable beds, the head section can be tilted up to 70°, which puts you in a fully upright state and provides maximum support for your upper back whenever you are using a laptop on the bed. The full-body massager has three different intensity levels, and even comes with a timer that shuts down the massage after a certain period of time when you fall asleep (can be adjusted between 10 to 30 minutes).

There are three preset positions — Zero gravity, Anti-Snore, and Flat. You can program and save up to 2 memory positions, which is 1 more than the LUCID L300 and Classic Brands Adjustable Comfort bed. The bed height respective to the floor can be adjusted, by shifting the legs between 3 different positions- 4”, 7”, or 11”. The wireless remote control is backlit and features a tiny flashlight. When the mains supply goes down, you don’t have to worry because the bed is equipped with backup battery pack that brings it down in the event of a power outage. It is available in a wide variety of sizes and configurations- Twin XL, Full, Queen, Split Queen, King, Split King, California King, and Split California King.

Classic Brands Adjustable Comfort Posture+

Adjustable Bed Base. Sizes: Twin XL / Full / Queen

Features:

Flat, zero-gravity, lounge, TV/PC, programmable positions with wireless remote
3-speed vibration massagers for both head and feet and two USB ports to plug in your smart devices
Adjustable mattress friendly, ideal for use with foam, latex and air mattresses
Innovative whisper-quiet mechanism allows you to relax and save space simultaneously
Three leg height options; 3-inches, 6-inches, or combined together for 9-inches
Easy assembly, ships directly to your door

Benefits:

Platform design but will fit easily into most traditional bed frames
Reduces back pain
Enhances blood pressure
Helps with sleep apnea, heartburn, acid reflux or GERD
Many lifestyle benefits

Overview

Basically an Adjustable Comfort bed base, but with wall hugging technology and plushier foam cushioning on the foundation. It costs slightly more than the Adjustable Comfort base, and gives you the ability to reach your bedside table without having to step out of the bed when the head section is raised up. With wall hugging technology, the base of the bed slides back towards the wall to compensate for the distance that is created between the wall and your body whenever you raise the head section. Just like the Adjustable Comfort model, this one comes with a 3-stage massaging system that has separate motors on the head and foot zones that can be controlled independently.

VIDEO | Learn more about this Classic Brands adjustable bed

Unlike the base model, the Posture+ version has a matte black powder coated steel frame that is very durable and resistant to wear over time. It feels more stable and less noisy thanks to the heavy duty frame which is equipped with more support structures compared to the cheaper Adjustable Comfort bed base. There are 4 preset positions that can be accessed with the wireless remote- flat, lounge, TV/ PC, and zero gravity. If you wish to create and save your own custom position, you can do so with the memory function. It also features a sleep timer that turns off the massager and reclines you into a flat sleeping position after a set period of time (10 to 30 minutes).

Leg height can be adjusted between 3, 6, and 9 inches by joining and removing leg pieces. Join the 3” and 6” leg sections to create a 9” leg. Not the easiest way to change height, since you will have to take off the mattress and flip the bed on the floor every time you wish to change the height. We really wish they added backlit buttons and a flashlight to the remote control, which would make this bed a perfect package. It is available in twin-XL, full, and queen size.

Learn more about Classic Brand beds.

Should you buy and adjustable bed?

Even though they started out as nursing aids in the hospital for elderly patients and people recovering from surgery, manufacturers soon realized that the benefits of an adjustable bed extend far beyond medical usage. Modern adjustable beds aren’t targeted at just senior citizens and people suffering from orthopedic disorders, but are designed to be a lifestyle product for people of all ages. When you make the switch from a standard bed to an adjustable model, the difference is massive. Not just in the way you sleep, but also how you work and relax.

Do you like to enjoy movies on that big LCD TV in your bedroom? Well, then an adjustable bed is perfect for you since it puts you in a reclined position where all the pressure is taken away from your back and your legs are raised up so you feel lighter and more comfortable. For those who occasionally feel the urge for a nighttime snack, your adjustable bed will ensure that you are well relaxed while enjoying your food.

Adjustable beds are also a brilliant choice for people who work from home, you can comfortably recline in your bed while your laptop is being charged through the 120V outlet located right on the adjustable bed! Modern adjustable beds come with all sorts of amenities, transforming them into super-comfy work platforms for tech aficionados and professionals. Bluetooth, Apple iPad/ iPhone support, USB ports, docking stations for your phone and tablet, power outlets for your laptop, and even integrated gooseneck lights that you can use while working in low-light conditions. How many of these features are you going to find on a standard bed? Some high-end models even come with powerful audio systems built into the headboard.

Do you suffer from chronic back pain or have acid reflux? While you maybe tired of taking pills and ointments to get rid of these ailments, a simple change to the way you sleep can go a long way in making you feel better. A standard bed cannot adjust to the curves and contours of your body which means that certain sections of your body will be under higher stress compared to the others. This will cause issues with blood circulation and can cramp your muscles causing all sorts of aches and numbness in certain parts of your body. With an adjustable bed, you can raise or lower sections of the base to make the bed fit around you, instead of trying to shove yourself into it, like you would do in a flat bed. Some premium models even include built-in massage functions to loosen up and relax your muscles.

Someone who sleep on their side tends to be much more uncomfortable while using standard beds, since side sleeping puts a lot of pressure on your edges and messes with blood circulation if you use a flat base. Which is why, we highly recommend adjustable beds for side sleepers so that you don’t wake up in the middle of the night and find that your arm is asleep while the rest of the body is awake. And then you have people who start the night on their back, but in the morning you will find them lying on the bed as if they are doing the ancient Egyptian walk. Your body tosses and turns itself during the night because certain areas get cramped and lose blood flow.

This is easily solved by putting the sleeping body into a position of minimal pressure which is almost like floating in the air. This is called the “zero-gravity” position and is a common feature on almost every adjustable bed. Basically, you sleep in a reclined state with your legs raised above the heart level to ease up blood circulation in the body. Most importantly, this position shifts all the weight away from your back and is a big deal for people suffering from back pain. There are several other health benefits to using an adjustable bed, which shall be discussed in a forthcoming section.

How Does an adjustable bed work?

Whenever we use the term “adjustable bed” in this article, we are referring to electrically driven models only. There are older and much more rudimentary designs out there which you may still find in some hospitals, these use a hand-driven crank to raise or lower certain sections of the bed. But since they are outdated and not very convenient to use, we shall only discuss and review electronically powered beds in this article.

Now, you’re probably somewhat interested in purchasing an adjustable bed after reading about all the health benefits they offer. And, as we discussed previously, the benefits of owning one aren’t limited to health alone, these beds are comparable to modern electronic home appliances and gadgets in terms of the convenience that they offer. They mold around your body, come with all sorts of extra features built into the frame, and change the way you work, play, and relax. How does an adjustable bed do all of that?

Well, let’s start by taking a look at the conventional bed base. Also referred to as the “foundation” of a bed, its base is the stiff structure or platform upon which you place your mattress. It provides structural rigidity underneath the soft and flexible layer of mattresses + bed-sheets. Traditional bed frames are made from a combination of metal and wood, with either a rectangular box foundation or 4 support columns/ legs holding up a flat plane of wood.

Some bed frames are what we call the “box-spring” design, these consist of a rigid wooden frame with heavy duty steel springs packed into the middle. Either way, it doesn’t matter which type of flat bed base you use because they are all… flat. A single plane of wood or an array of steel springs resembling a planar surface means that you can only move your body so much before you start to feel cramped or uncomfortable. Your body isn’t shaped like a box, it doesn’t have flat surfaces. The spine has an S-curve, which doesn’t get supported properly by a traditional bed frame. The legs are not designed to be in their fully extended position all the time, since it restricts blood flow. You might have heard of people in the military being told to stand in a manner that ensures their knees aren’t touching. This is the same reason you have the tendency to curl up in a fetal position while sleeping.

Enter the adjustable bed. To some people it is one of greatest innovations of the modern world, right up there with sliced bread. Instead of using a single rectangular plane of wood as the platform for your mattress, the adjustable bed breaks it down lengthwise into segments. Similar to the body structure of a millipede or earthworm. By doing so, the alignment of each segment can be adjusted individually. This allows you to create a support structure that is more in line with the natural curvature of your body when you rest on the bed.

The more segments you have, the more adjustments you can make. The more adjustments you can make, the higher your comfort levels. Not to mention, an adjustable bed with higher levels of flexibility gives you more options. You can use it like a recliner, a couch for watching movies, a chair, etc. The most basic adjustable beds come with 3 positions- head up, feet up, and zero gravity (also known as the contour position). In the head-up state, the upper section of the bed frame is raised up to a 60° angle so that your back and shoulders are well supported. It is almost like sitting in a recliner. This is ideal for watching movies or working on your laptop.

In the feet up position, the lower section of the bed base lifts up your legs so that they are above the rest of the body. This position is perfect for relaxing after a long day of work, and improves circulation for people with aching feet or swollen legs. Most importantly, the leg up position makes sure that your leg is never fully extended. Your lower and upper legs are angled against each other, and that is because all adjustable beds have at least 3 segments. The lower section of the base consists of two parts which lift up to form a pyramid like shape, so that you are lying in a fetal position. Except this time you are on your back, instead of the sides. Your legs aren’t fully extended, and almost feel weightless.

Next, is the zero-gravity position which transforms the curvature of the adjustable base into an S-shape, and conforms to the natural contour of your spine and lower body. It is called the zero-gravity position because in this position you feel the most relaxed while sleeping on your back. It is almost as if all the weight of your body has vanished. But in reality, it is just being distributed evenly across the whole surface of your body. If it was a conventional bed, most of the pressure would be on your hips and lower back.

In order to raise and lower individual segments of the adjustable base, we use linear actuators. The linear actuator in an adjustable bed is designed to transform the rotational motion of an electric motor into a linear motion (forward/ reverse). In forward, the panels of the base rise up. When the motor is in reverse, the panel lowers itself. There are separate actuators for each segment of the adjustable base, to ensure that one moves independently of the other. These actuators consist of 3 main parts – a motor (usually a 12V DC motor), a lead screw or ball screw mechanism, and a speed controller.

The motor is fed from the outlet in your wall, and there is a power supply unit inside the base which converts the 120V AC power from the mains supply into DC current, and then steps down the voltage to the required amount. This motor is connected to a gearing mechanism which drives a lead screw or ball screw within a hollow shaft. The shaft has threads on the inside which fit onto the screw. Then there is a protective casing on the top to prevent the shaft from spinning along with the screw. When the screw rotates, it can either extend or retract the shaft. This shaft is then connected to a pivoting arm which drives the bed panels up or down.

There are internal switches inside the protective casing which cut off power to the motor as soon as the shaft reaches its topmost or bottom-most position. This is to prevent the motor from overexerting itself, and it also saves energy. How far the shaft can extend from its baseline position is called the “stroke” of the linear actuator. There are 2 different load ratings on every linear actuator – dynamic load rating and static load rating. Dynamic is the amount of thrust that it can apply while the shaft is in motion, i.e. while the motor is receiving power. Static load rating is the amount of weight that the actuator can support when the shaft is locked into position with the motor turned off. An adjustable bed contains several actuators, and to freely control each one we need a controller circuit.

The controller allows us to modulate the magnitude and frequency of power going into each motor, which makes them spin slower or faster. Basic adjustable beds don’t allow you to control the speed at which the panels are raised or lowered, instead they come with fixed positions from the factory that you can select on the remote. More high-end beds will give you complete control over the actuation mechanism, so you can lower or raise the sections in tiny steps until you get a perfect match for your body. Premium adjustable beds even have memory chips built into the controller so that you can save your favorite positions and select them with the touch of one button the next time you use your bed.

The best and largest adjustable beds come with dual adjustment. What it means is you can adjust each side of the bed independently. This allows you and your sleeping partner to get the ideal sleeping position without inconveniencing each other. Dual adjustable beds are like two single-adjustable beds joined together at the side. Or, you can think of them as one large adjustable bed platform with panels that are not only sectioned along width, but also along their height.

Of course, the dual adjustable beds will cost more compared to a single adjustable bed. This is because they are more complex in design and require more actuators, panels, and control circuitry when compared to a standard model. If you go even one step further than that, you end up with dual adjustable beds that have built-in massagers and heaters. These are the absolute elite models, for people who want (and can afford) the best sleep experience possible.

Adjustable Bed vs Regular Bed (Pros & Cons)

We have already talked about the many advantages of owning an adjustable, but for the sake of comparison we shall gloss over the important ones a second time. Adjustable bed bases are designed to fit around their user, unlike conventional beds which force you to adapt because they are not flexible. Adjustable bases give you the freedom of choice that a conventional base cannot, you can use an adjustable bed as a recliner while watching movies in your bedroom, or you can switch the top section into an upright position to provide lumbar support while you are browsing the internet on your laptop.

Many premium models come with built-in massagers and heaters, further adding to the convenience and versatility of your adjustable bed. Adjustable beds offer various health benefits by improving fluid circulation and relieving stress from vital pressure points on your body. People suffering from sleep apnea often find themselves feeling suffocated and suddenly wake up in the middle of a night gasping for air. With an adjustable bed, you can adjust the way your neck rests so that air passage in your throat isn’t interrupted while sleeping.

Suffering from acid reflux? You can raise the upper section of the adjustable bed so that your head is elevated a couple inches above the torso, and you will get some relief for the night. Raising the head also helps prevent snoring, which is something your sleep partner will greatly appreciate. And while we are talking about health benefits, let’s not forget the fact that adjustable beds are a boon for people suffering from chronic back pain. You can lie flat on your back with your feet raised in the air, this creates a negative pressure on the back and relaxes the spinal column. Perfect for people recovering from back surgery, or anyone troubled with back aches.

Do you have neck pain? Simply set the adjustable bed to provide maximum support for your neck and shoulders. Want to enjoy a good night’s sleep without tossing and turning around? Try the zero-gravity position which makes you feel as if you are floating in the air, since no specific portion of your body is under more stress than the other. All your pressure points are relaxed and there is less pressure on your heart. Finally, we get to the extreme luxury features found on the most expensive adjustable beds.

Features such as built-in massagers and audio systems, along with heating to give you the sensation of being in a spa resort. For all the tech geeks and home workers out there, adjustable beds provide you with power outlets and USB ports that you can use to charge your laptop or phone while relaxing on the bed. Many adjustable beds even include lights which come in handy when you are reading a book on your bed. These lights also help you get out of the bed in the middle of the night without fumbling around and waking up your partner. As you can see, adjustable beds aren’t just for the elderly or diseased. Instead, they are a means of enhancing your lifestyle. Adjustable beds are all about convenience and comfort, not to mention unmatched luxury.

However, everything has its advantages and disadvantages. When comparing an adjustable bed to a regular bed, some of these pros and cons are really obvious due to the complex nature of an adjustable bed. It has a bunch of moving parts, electric motors, control circuits, etc. which means that the chances of having a mechanical failure is much higher compared to a standard bed which has no moving parts other than maybe drawers. Adjustable beds are also more expensive compared to standard beds, which can also be attributed to their mechanical complexity and use of electronic actuators.

While a standard bed doesn’t require any tuning, you may have to fiddle with your adjustable bed for the first week or two, in order to find out the settings that suit you the best. On a traditional bed, you take it as it is – lie down and sleep. There is nothing you can do about it. With an adjustable bed, you have options on how you want to sleep, and every person has unique preferences based on their body shape and size. Manufacturers can’t have everything perfectly setup from the factory for each individual.

Another disadvantage of using an adjustable bed is the weight. This is not a big deal if you have the delivery service take it into your bedroom and install everything for you. But if you select curbside delivery to save some money, you will quickly realize that it is a lot harder than installing a conventional bed frame. Finally, adjustable beds aren’t compatible with every single mattress out there. Especially box spring mattresses, or even certain stiff memory foam ones. Most adjustable beds don’t come with the mattress included within the package, usually when you purchase an adjustable bed you are only getting the base/ frame. Once you do that, you will have to purchase a mattress that is compatible with adjustable bases. The most common choices are memory foam, natural latex, or air mattresses.

If you are confused on which mattress to buy for your adjustable bed, don’t worry- we have you covered. There is a detailed section on selecting the best mattress for your adjustable base. Despite these disadvantages, adjustable bed sales have been increasing steadily for the last decade. The reason is simple- there are far more advantages to owning an adjustable bed than there are problems. Many of the people who haven’t had nice experiences with one are mostly customers who didn’t do their research before purchasing an adjustable bed, and ended up with a poorly manufactured model. You don’t have to spend a fortune to get a quality adjustable bed base, you just need to do your research.

Health benefits of using an adjustable bed

While we glossed over some of the most popular health benefits of using an adjustable bed in previous sections, here we are going to go into more detail. Knowing which health conditions an adjustable bed can alleviate will go a long way in helping you decide whether you should purchase one. The therapeutic benefits of adjustable beds have been verified through tests conducted by several independent research groups, as well as surveys among customers who own an adjustable bed. How do adjustable beds provide relief from chronic pains and joint related problems? Mainly due to the fact that sleeping in adjustable beds improves fluid circulation in the body, and relieves pressure from various joints and muscles. Here are some of the conditions that an adjustable bed can help you with-

Back Pain

By elevating the upper section of an adjustable bed, pressure is relieved from the lower section of the spinal column and prevents constant back aches or chronic back pain symptoms. Back patients undergoing post surgery recovery have reported that an adjustable bed feels much more comfortable compared to a standard bed when it comes to supporting the back.

By raising the lower section of the bed, you can levitate your legs with the knees bent so that excess compression doesn’t happen in the spine. While sleeping, you can switch the bed into an S-shaped surface which naturally adheres to the contours of your body and greatly improves sleep quality and relieves pressure from your back, neck, and shoulders. By removing compression from the lower section of your spine, you are easing pressure on the sciatic nerve which can help with conditions such as sciatica.

Acid Reflux and Heartburn

Ever had a burning sensation in your upper torso, right at the bottom of your throat and near the heart? This is caused by acidic fluids from the stomach traveling up into the esophagus, and damaging the delicate lining on your food pipe. And adjustable bed is perfect for dealing with this issue, since you can elevate the head such that the food pipe is at an angle against the stomach, preventing acidic fluids from flowing up like they normally would if you were using a flat bed. While sleeping, keep your head anywhere between 4 to 6 inches above stomach level to avoid heartburn symptoms.

Edema

There are all kinds of fluids flowing around in your body, essential to make sure that all organs function properly. However in some cases, these fluids may accumulate in certain parts of the body and cause swelling. This condition is called edema, and there are various types of edema. For example, pulmonary edema, in which fluid accumulates inside your lungs and makes it harder for you to breathe. Swelling of legs and joints may also be caused due to edema, and the best way to prevent fluid from accumulating in a specific region is by ensuring proper circulation. Which is where the adjustable bed comes in – it can alleviate swelling in the legs by raising them above the rest of the body and bending the knees to remove pressure and improve circulation.

This is especially useful for workers who stay on their foot for a majority of the day, lying on a flat bed will cause fluids to pool up in restricted areas and worsen the swelling in your leg. With an adjustable bed you can inhibit fluid retention and simultaneously lower the amount of load on your heart since it doesn’t have to pump as hard with the legs in a raised position.

Asthma and Sleep Apnea

People suffering from respiratory tract disorders or conditions such as apnea need to sleep in a manner that ensures clear passage of air through the throat. When you are asleep, your neck muscles collapse onto the throat, obstructing passage of air through the wind pipe. This is one of the main reasons behind snoring, loose tissue flapping around in a constricted windpipe. By lifting the head and slanting it slightly forward, you remove any obstruction in the windpipe and simultaneously provide increased support for the relaxing neck muscles as well as upper spine. The improved passage of air will aid people suffering from breathing problems.

Insomnia

Most cases of insomnia are caused due to people not being able to relax properly in their beds, constantly tossing and turning to find the most comfortable position. You can’t sleep well at night, you wake up in the day and suffer from daytime drowsiness. If you don’t want to be caught dozing off at work, do yourself a favor and get and adjustable bed. You will find yourself slipping into deep slumber as you slide into the perfect position for your body. The bed adjusts around you, so you don’t have to try and fit into it. Improved blood circulation and superior support for your spinal column means you get to sleep faster, and wake up feeling rejuvenated.

Arthritis

An adjustable bed won’t cure your joint problems, but it will help minimize the symptoms both as you sleep, and after you wake up. It also helps prevent the pain from getting worse over time by taking away excess compression from the joints in your upper and lower body. The inclined sleeping position will relieve load from your spine, and the raised legs will prevent opposing joints from rubbing into each other. Besides, you are less likely to twist and turn in an adjustable bed so your joints are going to feel much better after you wake up.

Indigestion and Weight Gain

It is recommended that you don’t eat right before going to sleep, for various reasons. Mainly because the food will not get digested properly if your stomach is in a horizontal position. Now, an adjustable bed does help with that problem. When you are sleeping in an inclined position, food will get digested more efficiently and you will feel better in the morning. Improper digestion has been linked to weight gain, so if you are one of those people who can’t resist a midnight snack right before going to bed, you might want to invest in an adjustable bed. The body releases two hormones – ghrelin and leptin while you sleep. These hormones are also known as the “hunger hormones” and regulate the food intake of your body.

Ghrelin increases your appetite, and is released to signal hunger. Leptin is the appetite suppressor and indicates a full stomach. If you don’t get a good nights sleep, the levels of these two hormones in your blood will get wonky, and you might up undereating or overeating. Either way, you will end up on the wrong side of the line that ensures a healthy physique. An adjustable bed will ensure that you sleep without any disturbances, and your body is perfectly relaxed which ensures that the hunger hormones are always in perfect sync with the amount of food that you consume, so you won’t feel the need to eat calorie-intensive foods right after you wake up.

Headaches and Neck Problems

Ordinary adjustable beds come with an upper section that can be raised or lowered to provide different levels of support for your back. However, the really good ones include a feature called “pillow tilting” which is designed to provide extra support for your head and neck. Beds with pillow tilting have an extra segment on top of the upper section which adjusts the angle of your head and neck independently of the back. This additional support for your neck and head will help alleviate all sorts of cramps and sprains in the neck/ upper shoulder area.

Adjustable Bed Features to Consider…

Wall hugging

Tilts the upper section of the adjustable base while simultaneously sliding it backwards, so that the distance between the bed and the wall does not increase. This allows you to reach your nightstand much more easily and improves the overall aesthetics of the bed.

Programmable positions

Basic models come with preset positions from the factory that you cannot adjust according to your body shape and personal preferences. While these basic designs are much more comfortable than normal beds, they are not as convenient as a premium adjustable bed which allows you to adjust the elevation and angle of each section individually. You can create new positions and save them to the memory of the bed, then select your customized positions with the press of one button. It is just like creating macros on a gaming keyboard.

Pillow tilting

Again, a feature found only on midrange to high-end models. It adds an extra section on top of the existing upper adjustable base, which provides an added layer of customization and support for specific parts of your upper body such as the head and neck. Highly recommended feature for people suffering from neck pain or headaches.

Silent motor

One of the most important things in any electronically adjustable bed. If the motor squeaks and whirs as you adjust the bed, it becomes very inconvenient for you as well as the person sleeping next to you. Really hard to relax with a noisy electric motor underneath the bed.

Wireless / wired remote control

Wired remote controls are tethered to the bed and require no batteries. It is very hard to lose a wired remote, but there is the added inconvenience of reaching to the side of the bed or the nightstand in order to access your remote. With a wireless remote you can make all the adjustments that you need before you lie down on the bed, from a greater distance. You can also tuck it underneath the pillow, and don’t have to worry about kids tripping over the remote wire. However, it requires battery changes and can get lost if you aren’t careful with where you place it. Wired remotes may also interfere with other wireless devices, or delicate electronic devices within the body such as a pacemaker or hearing aid.

Built-in massager

Adjustable beds with this feature generally cost upwards of 3000 dollars, and the quality of the massaging system will increase along with the price of the bed. In its most basic form, the massager uses vibration from specialized motors to create a wave-life effect over the bed surface that relaxes your muscles and eases up the pressure points, simulating a light massage. Great feature for relaxing after a long day of work, or even a morning workout session.

Heating

This feature is only found on premium models, and is very useful for people living in colder climates or even during the winter season. It greatly increases comfort levels and is more economical than using the HVAC to heat up your room.

Bluetooth speakers

Usually found in high-end adjustable beds that come with their own custom headboard prepackaged from the factory. Really cool feature to have if you want to enjoy some soothing music while being massaged by the built-in massager on your premium adjustable bed. Or if you are having a hard time getting to sleep, you can play some sleep-inducing tunes on them.

USB ports

Something you will find on several modern adjustable beds, perfect for people who like to use their phones or tablets while relaxing on the bed. A great way to ensure that you don’t wake up in the morning and find your phone sitting at 10% charge.

Power outlets

A convenience feature for home-based freelance workers, and just about anyone who wants to browse the internet or do office work while reclining in their adjustable bed. You simply plug in your laptop and get to work.

Built-in lighting

Very useful feature for people who like to read books before they go to sleep, really helps with reading in low-light situations. It can also act as a substitute for night lights, since you can get out of the bed and access the door without fumbling around for the light switch on the wall.

Compatibility with your existing bed frame and headboard

If you already own a conventional bed frame and want to supplement it with an adjustable base, make sure that both the frame and headboard are both compatible with whatever adjustable base you wish to purchase.

Sleep timer

You are reading a book or watching TV in the upright position, and after a certain period of time the bed will automatically recline itself into sleeping mode. You can select the time it takes for the bed to realize that you want to sleep, and can even choose which position you prefer the bed to go into when it is sleeping time.

Vibration alarm

A great way to wake yourself up in the morning without damaging your own ears and annoying everyone in the nearby rooms. Vibration alarms are almost completely silent, and use the massager motor to gently vibrate your feet and head, letting you know that it is time to wake up. As with an alarm clock, you can set the time at which you want to be woken.

Dual adjustment

Lets you join two twin-XL adjustable beds from the same manufacturer and transform it into one split king size bed. You can either control the left and right sides independently of each other, or you can synchronize both beds so that they behave as one. Some dual adjustable beds can also be purchased as one single unit, with split bases that have their own actuators. Dual adjustable systems come with two remotes- one for you, and one for your partner.

Adjustable height

Lets you raise or lower the entire bed relative to the floor. A great way to ensure that you don’t harm yourself in case you fall out of the bed, and a convenience for the elderly who have trouble getting out of bed.

What type of mattress do you need?

One of the questions frequently asked by people looking to purchasing an adjustable bed is- can I use a traditional mattress with this bed? The answer to that is both YES and NO. When you purchase an adjustable bed base, you usually don’t get a mattress bundled alongside it. And this gives you the option to select a mattress that suits your needs perfectly, rather than the manufacturer providing a mattress which may not be the best choice for your body.

If you are replacing your conventional bed with an adjustable model, you already have a mattress ready to use with the new bed. But will it work on the new foundation? Or do you have to purchase a specially designed mattress that is compatible with an adjustable base? You see, adjustable beds don’t require a completely new redesign of the mattress. They can work with several conventional mattresses, even the good old inner spring mattresses that your grandad and grandma used when they were teens. But, the mattress needs to be flexible and capable of maintaining its structural integrity under compression at various angles. And while inner spring mattresses can be designed for compatibility with modern adjustable bases, they don’t tend to last as long as memory foam or latex mattresses. Most importantly, if you take a mattress that isn’t certified to be adjustable base compatible and use it on an adjustable bed, you will void the warranty.

In theory, you could take any mattress and plop it onto the adjustable base as long as the size matches that of the base. It will provide you with a surface to sleep on, but there is no way to guarantee that it will behave as intended unless the mattress is explicitly designed for usage on an adjustable base. All adjustable bed mattresses can be used on flat beds, but not all flat bed mattresses can be used with adjustable beds. Adjustable bed mattresses tend to be much more flexible, thicker, and softer compared to mattresses used on flat beds.

An adjustable base will lift and tilt the top, middle, and bottom sections of the mattress in various angles between 40 to 70 degrees. This is done to ensure that the mattress curves along the natural contour of your body, and provides a snug fit no matter what position you use for sleeping. However, all of this bending puts great stress on each individual cell of the mattress. Some parts are stretched, while the others are compressed. Unlike the mattress on a flat bed, an adjustable bed mattress has to deal with both vertical as well as lateral forces of compression. And despite all this bending, an adjustable bed mattress must maintain its structural integrity and comfort level over a long period. It should not sag or lose thickness over time, nor should the material become any harder or softer than it originally was at the beginning.

Adjustable bed mattresses come in various designs, the most popular of which are the following three- inner spring, memory foam, and latex. Inner spring mattresses are generally the cheapest and lightest of the bunch. Their structure consists of a rectangular frame made from high density foam, inside this rectangular frame you will find an array of steel coil springs tied together with secondary coils. Then, there is a layer of foam, resin, and other synthetic materials on the top which acts as a protective layer to keep it all together.

Inner spring mattresses have the widest variation when it comes to quality, and can range from extremely cheap to insanely expensive. The best inner spring mattresses are considered to be some of the most comfortable mattresses on the market, and will cost you a fortune. However, the design behind the inner spring mattresses doesn’t cope well with constant bending forces that are applied in an adjustable bed. The inner spring mattress used on a conventional bed cannot be used on adjustable bases unless it is extra flexible and low-medium hardness.

Inner spring mattresses have a life expectancy of 7 to 10 years, and that is a generous estimate without taking into consideration the type of adjustable base you are using. The poly foam layer will also lose up to 35% of its initial height over a period of 10 years. Adjustable bases with only 3 segments don’t put as much stress on the mattress as an adjustable base with 5 or 6 segments. Body impressions are more likely to be seen on an inner spring mattress, because the closed poly cell foam in these mattresses consist of little air bubbles that burst over time and cause the surface foam layer to sag. When this poly foam layer ages, it disintegrates into dust particles which can cause allergies. Besides, inner spring mattresses are much more likely to be infected by dust mites.

Memory foam is the most popular type of mattress on sale today. It consists of one or more layers of viscoelastic polyurethane-based foam layers, surrounding a high-density foam core. Memory foam responds to two things- pressure and temperature. The warmer it gets, the softer it becomes. The response time also decreases, and the foam depresses more gradually. In cold conditions, the memory foam will become harder and take longer to conform to your body shape. Memory foam mattresses rely on the heat produced by your body to mold around you, creating a perfect fit for every individual, irrespective of their size and body type.

One of the main reasons memory foam mattresses are widely used in adjustable beds is their flexibility. A memory foam mattress will not apply more or less pressure in any specific part of your body, making it one of the most comfortable mattress designs available on the market today. You don’t have to turn it periodically and body impressions are rarely seen. Modern memory foam mattresses are treated chemically with anti-bacterial and anti-fungal processes, and some of the best ones come with protective layers on top which prevent dust mites from thriving on the surface.

One of the main issues people had with older memory foam mattresses was their heat retention. Older memory foam mattresses would capture heat and retain it within themselves, causing users to wake up in the middle of the night drenched in sweat. Memory foam isn’t a very breathable material either, which makes it a tough choice in hot and humid parts of the country.

However, modern memory foam designs incorporate cooling gel and breathable mesh like layers into the mattress which greatly aids with keeping the mattress cool at all times while still retaining the flexible characteristic of memory foam. Unlike inner spring mattresses, memory foam models can remain in unnatural shapes for far longer periods of time without losing structural integrity. Their cellular structure is designed to be put under both lateral as well as vertical pressure, so you don’t have to worry about the mattress losing its shape when it gets bent or folded.

Finally, you have the latex mattresses. These are also called “solid-core latex” mattresses, and the reason for that is the relatively rigid block of latex in the middle of the mattress that is designed to provide structural support to the softer layers on the outside. These can be made from natural latex found in rubber trees, or synthetic latex. Some hybrid designs use a combination of both to get the desired flexibility and comfort characteristics, while also maintaining a reasonable price.

Natural latex mattresses manufactured with the Talalay process are the most expensive and comfortable of the lot. Latex mattresses manufactured with the Dunlop process are cheaper, but also tend to be harder. Some mattresses use Dunlop latex for the core, and Talalay foam for the exterior of the mattress. Talalay foam is more bouncy, while Dunlop tends to be springy. Dunlop is also denser and heavier compared to Talalay latex foam. Talalay tends to breathe better, so if you are sleeping hot you might want to consider a Talalay latex mattress since it will stay cooler.

Dunlop latex mattresses on the other hand are capable of taking more abuse and bouncing back into position faster once they have been depressed. If there are a bunch of kids jumping around on your bed, you will want a Dunlop latex mattress. Latex mattresses feel more “buoyant” compared to memory foam, which makes them easier to get out of when you wake up in the morning.

There are “air mattresses” available on the market for usage in both conventional as well as adjustable beds, but we found that the ones with fewer air pockets aren’t flexible enough to be used in an adjustable bed. When we say “air mattress”, we are not referring to the inflatable ones that you use in camps or as temporary setups for visiting guests in your home. We are talking about mattresses with interspaced air pockets installed underneath the foam layer to provide extra flexibility and comfort. Some air mattresses let you adjust the air pressure, making the mattress feel softer or harder depending on your preference. We don’t recommend air mattresses for adjustable beds, because the bending of the mattress can impede airflow through the air pockets, resulting in a loss of rigidity across the structure of the mattress. Air mattresses with single air pockets are simply not flexible enough to be used on an adjustable base, and the ones with multiple air pockets are not as reliable or durable when compared to memory foam and latex options.