Pros and cons of adjustable beds

Adjustable beds offer several potential benefits depending on your needs and health conditions. The three main benefits are:

1. Support for chronic pain management
2. Improved circulation
3. May contribute to better sleep quality

1. Support for chronic pain management

Adjustable beds help you recline in various positions and angles based on your needs. This can help ease chronic pains related to arthritis, sciatica, and various other issues. Being able to elevate the legs or upper body can also help reduce pressure on joints and muscles, which may improve comfort and support better mobility upon waking.

2. Improved circulation

Lifting either your upper back or lower body improves circulation and can assist with recovery from mobility issues. For example, if you suffer from oedema in your legs, you could benefit from an adjustable bed. Position the bed so your lower half is above heart level during the night to alleviate some stress.

3. May contribute to better sleep quality

Sleep is the body's chance to recharge, and the more comfortable you can make yourself, the better-quality sleep you'll get. Adjustable beds help you find a comfortable sleeping position, enabling you to fall asleep faster, remain asleep longer and hopefully wake up refreshed.

Things to consider when buying an adjustable bed

While adjustable beds offer various potential benefits, they may not be the right fit for everyone. Here are some things to consider:

1. Heavier and less mobile
2. Mattress compatibility
3. Potential for noise

1. Heavier and less mobile

Constructed with built-in motors and metal frameworks, adjustable beds tend to be bulkier and heavier than standard frames. This can make them more difficult to move or reposition if needed.

2. Mattress compatibility

Not all mattresses work well with adjustable bases. To work effectively, adjustable beds need a mattress that can flex with the moving base. We'll cover which types are best later in this guide. 

3. Potential for noise

Adjustable beds are made with motors that raise or lower parts of the frame. While many models work relatively quietly, some noise during adjustments is possible and could be disruptive to light sleepers or their partners.

Medical conditions helped by adjustable beds

If you have a medical condition, adjustable beds can be used on the recommendation of your doctor or physiotherapist. Below are just some of the most common conditions that can be eased by using an adjustable bed.

• Mobility issues

Adjustable beds can be lowered or raised if you struggle to get in and out of bed.

• Back problems

Select a comfortable sleeping position to help ease any back pain you may have.

• Post-surgery recovery

Promotes healthy circulation and improves comfort if you are bed-bound.

• Injuries

Rather than using pillows or cushions to raise injured body parts, adjustable beds allow different injuries to be elevated to help reduce swelling.

• Snoring

Sleeping in a more upright position reduces the chances of airways being blocked, helping to reduce snoring.

• Digestion

If you suffer from digestion issues, an adjustable bed allows you to sleep in a raised positio,n which can help your body to process food more effectively. It can help with issues such as hiatus hernia, gastric reflux and heartburn.

• Circulation

Sleeping with your legs raised can aid circulation at night, which is especially useful if you spend a lot of the day on your feet.

• Swelling

Elevating your feet at night can reduce swelling.

How adjustable beds can enhance everyday comfort

The benefits of adjustable beds aren't limited to those with health concerns. People looking for a customisable sleep experience can adjust their bed to meet their needs in a variety of ways:

• Reading or watching TV

An adjustable bed can provide a supportive, elevated position for reading or watching TV, offering greater comfort than sitting upright or propping yourself up with pillows in a regular bed.

• Different sleep positions for couples

If you or your partner prefer different sleeping positions, adjustable beds have remote controls so you can adjust your own side of the bed.

• Work life

Those who spend most of the working day standing can suffer from swollen feet. Having a bed that elevates your feet at night will reduce swelling and may help prevent the chance of developing conditions such as varicose veins.

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Types of adjustable beds

There are two main types of adjustable beds available: Lifestyle and Profiling. Below, we explain the difference between the two and what they offer.

• Lifestyle adjustable beds are less customisable than profiling adjustable beds.
• Profiling beds are better suited to those with more specific support needs and medical conditions.

What bases are available for adjustable beds?

Adjustable beds come with a variety of base types to suit different needs. One option is an adjustable bed on legs. Legs raise the bed so that a hoist can be fitted underneath, something that can be particularly helpful for individuals with limited mobility.

What do adjustable beds look like?

For years, people have been put off by adjustable beds due to their size and clinical appearance. Today, however, modern design improvements mean that adjustable beds are slimline and available in a range of different design options.

Many models feature smart and minimalist finishes in materials like leather, wood or fabric, offering a balance between function and form. Colour schemes can be chosen to complement existing bedroom décor, and integrated headboards help adjustable beds blend more naturally into the sleep environment.

Do adjustable beds come with headboards?

Yes, most adjustable beds are sold with a headboard that matches the divan base. With latches on the back of the adjustable base, headboards can be attached or removed with ease.

If you want a larger bed, you can put two adjustable small singles together to make a king size, or two adjustable single beds to make a superking. For two single adjustable beds pushed together, there are latches for bigger headboards to slot in place at the back of both units.

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What else should I know about adjustable beds?

There are some other important things to know about adjustable beds, such as weight limits. Plus, there are some misconceptions about how noisy they are. Read on to find out more essential details you may need to consider.

Is there a weight limit for adjustable beds?

An adjustable bed mechanism may not perform to its full potential if it is under added pressure. This is why adjustable beds come with weight guidelines. All of our single adjustable beds have an 18 stone (115kg) weight limit.

Adjustable bed specialists can provide extra reinforcement for bed frames and heavy-duty motors for those who don't fall within this weight limit. Different manufacturers have varied guidelines, so be sure to check before purchasing.

Are adjustable beds loud?

Adjustable beds are generally quiet during use. While you may hear a low humming or gentle whirring sound when raising or lowering the different sections of the bed, modern motors are designed to operate smoothly and with minimal noise. Once in position, the bed remains silent.

How much do adjustable beds cost?

Thanks to the customisable sleep experience they offer, adjustable beds are more expensive than traditional beds. However, the price you will pay will depend on a number of factors, including:

• The size of the bed

King and superking beds will be more expensive than a single adjustable bed, for example.

• The type of adjustable bed

Lifestyle adjustable beds are usually cheaper than profiling adjustable beds, as their functionality is more limited.

• The model you choose

Premium models will cost more than basic adjustable beds.

Generally, adjustable beds can range in cost from several hundred to over a thousand pounds. Mattresses designed specifically for adjustable bases can also vary widely in cost.

Do adjustable beds work for side sleepers?

Yes, an adjustable bed is suitable for side and back sleepers. We wouldn’t advise choosing an adjustable bed if you are a front sleeper, as you need a flat surface to sleep on. 

If you are a side sleeper and want to use an adjustable bed, we recommend having both your head and feet slightly raised.

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What is the best mattress for an adjustable bed?

Mattresses for adjustable beds need to be flexible enough to move with the bed’s changing positions without being damaged or becoming uncomfortable. This doesn’t necessarily mean you need a mattress especially designed for adjustable beds. But it does mean that rigid or overly firm models, such as some traditional spring mattresses, may not bend appropriately and can place strain on both the mattress and the bed's mechanism. This could lead to reduced comfort or premature wear.

The best type of mattress for an adjustable bed is one which can bend easily, is a perfect fit with the frame, and doesn't 'ruck up' when the mechanics are in operation. Generally, foam and latex mattresses are better suited due to their ability to flex without losing support. These materials adapt more easily to different angles and tend to return to shape after movement. Ideally, your mattress should also include handles for easy moving and cleaning when required.

If you're transitioning to an adjustable bed, you may need to replace your existing mattress if it isn’t compatible with the bed's movement.

How much do adjustable mattresses cost?

Adjustable mattresses have become more accessible in recent years. Entry-level models for a single adjustable bed typically start from around £300 to £400, depending on the materials used and the level of support provided.

How big should an adjustable mattress be?

We advise that your mattress is 200cm (6'6") long. This is so that it fits flush within the adjustable bed frame and is secured in place when you change the position of your bed. Adjustable mattresses are built to these exact dimensions. However, if you are looking to purchase a standard mattress, then please keep these guidelines in mind.

It is also important that your mattress is the right depth to ensure your adjustable bed works to its optimal performance. Mattresses should be less than 10 inches (25cm) thick to work effectively on an adjustable bed. A mattress deeper than this will struggle to adapt to the movements of an adjustable bed, creating a poor sleeping position and an uncomfortable night's sleep.

What adjustable bed mattresses are available?

When buying a mattress for your adjustable bed, it's important to know what will and won't work. Nearly all mattress types work on adjustable beds, but there are some exceptions.

This is a list of mattress types generally suitable for adjustable beds:

• Memory foam
• Latex
• Reflex foam
• Gel Foam
• Pocket sprung

Not all mattresses will work on an adjustable bed, as standard mattresses can't adjust to the movements of the bed. Using a mattress that isn't suitable for an adjustable bed is likely to:

• Damage your mattress
• Damage the adjustable bed
• Create more aches and pains while you sleep

Although some standard mattresses can be used in conjunction with an adjustable bed, we highly recommend those specifically made for adjustable beds. This is because they are designed with regular bed movement in mind.

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What to expect when buying an adjustable bed

When purchasing an adjustable bed, it’s helpful to consider what support services a retailer may offer to enhance your experience, such as:

• Installation of your adjustable bed in the room of your choice
• A demonstration on how to use your adjustable bed
• Answers to any questions you may have
• An instruction manual for ongoing support

Like with every other bed, it is generally recommended that you change your bed and mattress every seven years to ensure comfort and hygiene. Adjustable beds typically come with a guarantee. Common terms include:

• 7-year guarantee for the frame
• 2-year guarantee for motor or electrical components

These points can help you make a more informed decision when comparing different adjustable bed options.

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Are adjustable beds eligible for VAT relief?

If you are registered disabled, you could be eligible for VAT relief on our adjustable beds. Qualifying for this includes meeting certain criteria and filling out a declaration form.

Follow this link to find out more about how you can make a claim.

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If you’re looking for a bed that supports your health and lifestyle, an adjustable bed may be worth exploring. Easy to operate and set sleeping positions that suit your needs, it could be a practical addition to your bedroom.