Uses, Features, Pros, Cons, and More About Adjustable Beds

What is an Adjustable Bed?

An adjustable bed is a customizable bed frame that enables users to modify the position and angle of the mattress and base for personalized comfort. It typically consists of a motorized mechanism that can raise or lower various sections of the bed, such as the head, foot, or middle portion. This adjustability enables individuals to find their optimal sleeping or resting position, providing personalized support for different activities like reading, watching TV, or alleviating health conditions like snoring or back pain. Adjustable beds often come with remote controls for easy adjustments.

Adjustable Beds Uses

Adjustable beds have a variety of uses and benefits. They are commonly used for improving sleep quality and addressing sleep-related issues. By adjusting the bed’s position, individuals can find optimal angles to alleviate snoring, acid reflux, or sleep apnea symptoms. The ability to elevate the head or foot of the bed can also provide relief for people with back pain, arthritis, or circulation problems. Additionally, adjustable beds offer convenience and comfort for activities such as reading, working on a laptop, or watching TV in bed. They can also benefit individuals recovering from surgery or those with limited mobility, making it easier to get in and out of bed.

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Features of Adjustable Beds

Adjustable bases typically have upper and/or lower body adjustment, retaining mechanisms for mattress stability, and standard remotes. Advanced models offer additional features, presets, and a wider range of adjustment options.

• Upper and Lower Body Adjustment: Most adjustable beds can be raised at both the upper and lower body. Some rare models offer elevation only at the upper or lower body, while a few have a separate head-tilt option.
• Range of Motion: The range of motion for adjustable mattress bases varies by model. Typically, the upper body can be elevated up to 60 to 80 degrees, while the lower body can be elevated up to 30 to 40 degrees.
• Dual Adjustment: Adjustable beds in split sizes provide dual adjustment, allowing each person to program different settings. They are ideal if you and your partner have differing preferences, but they can be costly.
• Zero-Gravity Preset: The zero-gravity setting on adjustable beds elevates the legs higher than the head, creating a “weightless” sensation. This position is often comfortable for individuals with lower back pain and low blood pressure.
• Anti-Snoring Preset: The anti-snoring preset on adjustable beds raise the head slightly higher than the rest of the body, reducing snoring. Advanced models may have built-in sensors that automatically adjust the head position when snoring is detected.
• Smart Technology: Advanced adjustable beds with smart technology utilize sensors to track sleep data, including heart rate and breathing rate. Some may require downloading an app to access the collected information.
• Customizable Height: Certain adjustable beds have legs that can be raised or lowered to different profiles, which is beneficial for individuals with mobility challenges. The typical profile range for adjustable legs is 6 to 10 inches.
• Timed/Automatic Adjustment: The timed adjustment is a feature found in some higher-end adjustable beds, allowing users to program the bed to automatically change angles at specific times during the night. This feature is relatively uncommon.
• Memory Presets: Memory presets are a common feature in modern adjustable beds, allowing users to save and recall preferred positions with the press of a button. Most beds have one or two presets, while some offer five or more.
• Wall-Hugging: Adjustable beds with wall-hugging technology retract slightly as they elevate, ensuring easy access to the nightstand even in an inclined position. This feature is typically found in higher-end beds.
• Retention System: To prevent mattress sliding, adjustable bases utilize either a retainer bar at the foot of the bed or a micro-hook retention system. Some beds incorporate both the bar and the micro-hooks for added stability.
• Massage: An increasing number of adjustable bed manufacturers are incorporating massage functionality in their models. This feature provides a rippling sensation that can be experienced at the upper and/or lower body, with the number of massage modes and intensity levels varying between beds.
• Alarm: Certain adjustable beds feature a silent alarm function, where gentle ripples along the surface of the bed are used to wake you up without loud sounds. This provides a more peaceful awakening experience.
• Base Lighting: LED lighting underneath the bed is a standard feature in contemporary adjustable base models. It assists in preventing toe stubbing and enhances visibility under the bed.
• USB Ports: Modern adjustable bases often include USB ports. Usually, there are one or two ports on each side of the bed, enabling convenient device charging while you sleep.

What are Some Pros and Cons of Buying Adjustable Beds?

Adjustable beds provide benefits for various sleepers, but drawbacks should be considered before buying. 

Pros

• Adjustable beds offer a wide range of motion, allowing for various positions for both the upper and lower body.
• Couples can opt for split sizes in adjustable bed models to achieve individualized adjustments.
• Individuals with lower back pain often find relief with adjustable beds, particularly those with zero-gravity presets.
• Adjustable beds can be inclined at the head to reduce snoring and help with sleep apnea symptoms.
• Wireless remotes and USB ports are common features found in modern adjustable beds.

Cons

• Queen-size adjustable beds typically start at a minimum price of $1,000, which can be a substantial investment for many households.
• Innerspring mattresses, twin sizes, and excessively heavy models are generally not compatible with adjustable bases.
• Adjustable beds often have shorter expected lifespans, with electrical components commonly experiencing malfunctions or failure within a few years, despite extended warranty coverage for frames.
• Due to their weight, adjustable bases may not be suitable for certain living spaces.
• In many instances, self-assembly of the bed is required.

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Why You Should Consider an Adjustable Bed?

Numerous advantages that adjustable beds provide make them a viable option for many people. The following are some justifications for thinking about an adjustable bed:

• Improved Comfort: With adjustable beds, you may alter the position of your mattress and the way different body regions are supported. You can elevate your head, feet, or both to help with disorders including acid reflux, sleep apnea, and snoring that can cause discomfort. You can also choose a position that is more comfortable for reading, watching TV, or using your laptop.
• Pain Relief: Back pain, arthritis, and muscle aches are just a few of the many types of discomfort that adjustable beds can help with. Elevating your legs can assist in relieving tension in the lower back, and changing the position of your head and feet can more evenly distribute your body weight and ease pressure on pressure points.
• Improved Circulation: Elevating your legs with an adjustable bed can aid in blood circulation improvement, which is especially advantageous for people with circulatory problems, swelling, or edoema.
• Independence: People with restricted movement might benefit greatly from adjustable beds. They encourage a sense of independence by making it easier for people to get in and out of bed on their own.
• Customization: A lot of adjustable beds come with remote controls that make it simple to change the position of the bed. Some versions even allow you to save your preferred positions for later use in memory settings.
• Spouse Compatibility: An adjustable bed can be a terrific option if you share a bed with a spouse. Finding a balance that works for both sleepers is made simpler by the ability of each side of the bed to be changed individually to accommodate personal preferences.
• Long-Term Health: Make a proactive decision to maintain your long-term health by purchasing an adjustable bed. An adjustable bed may assist you in leading a healthier and more pleasant lifestyle as you age by encouraging greater sleep, lowering pain, and enhancing circulation.
• Versatility: You don’t necessarily need to replace your current mattress while using adjustable beds because they work with a variety of mattresses. When opposed to purchasing a totally new bed, this adaptability can save you money.

How to Choose an Adjustable Bed?

Choosing an adjustable bed involves researching options based on budget and size preferences. Comparing multiple models is recommended to find the best fit. If you prefer an angled position for your upper and/or lower body instead of lying flat, an adjustable bed base is ideal for you.

What to Consider When Buying an Adjustable Bed?

Important factors to consider when purchasing an adjustable bed.

• Price: Adjustable bed base prices range from $1,400 to over $5,000. Factors such as features, brand reputation, and the need for a new mattress can significantly affect the overall cost.
• Features: Commonly offered features in adjustable beds include head and foot adjustment, USB ports, preset positions, smart home compatibility, sleep coaching apps, multiple massage functions, and automatic adjustments. Consider your preferences before comparing models.
• Massage: Massage functionality in adjustable beds provides both comfort and medical benefits. It improves circulation and alleviates pain in sore or stiff areas, with varying styles and intensities among different models.
• Lighting: Under-bed LED lighting in adjustable beds provides convenience and safety, especially for those who move around or get in and out of bed in the dark. It helps illuminate the area, reducing the risk of falls and highlighting the bed perimeter.
• USB Ports: Adjustable beds with built-in USB ports provide a convenient power source for charging devices without the need to leave the bed. This eliminates cord clutter on the floor and frees up wall outlets for other use. 
• Preset Positions: Adjustable beds often have one-touch preset positions like anti-snore and zero gravity. Anti-snore elevates the head to relieve airway pressure, while zero gravity raises the head and legs for a weightless sensation. Customizable positions are also available.
• Mattress Compatibility: Before buying an adjustable bed, consider whether you’ll buy a new mattress or use your current one. New mattresses can be costly, and compatibility with the bed base should be checked. Foam or hybrid mattresses are usually compatible, while innerspring mattresses are not recommended.
• Weight Limit: The weight capacity of an adjustable base is determined by its mechanical parts. While a flat position can support the stated weight limit, raising or lowering the bed beyond that limit can cause malfunctions. Weight limits range from 400-1,000 pounds in reviewed models.

Note: In a split adjustable bed model, the weight limit applies to each side of the bed base. Each side operates independently with separate motors and components, so if the weight limit is 650 pounds, it applies to each side.

• Trial Period: A trial period refers to the window for deciding whether to keep or return the adjustable bed. Longer trial periods are useful if uncertain. Return costs, including disassembly and shipping, are usually the customer’s responsibility. Original shipping fees and additional services are typically non-refundable.
• Warranty: Warranty coverage for adjustable beds varies, ranging from no coverage to a lifetime warranty. It typically includes workmanship and materials for a specified period. Electrical components may or may not be covered, and improper use or damage may void the warranty. Consider labor and shipping costs in the warranty terms.
• Delivery and Assembly: When purchasing an adjustable bed, consider the delivery and assembly options. White glove delivery provides a convenient setup in your home, while standard curbside delivery requires self-assembly. White glove delivery may include old mattress removal for an additional fee.
• Sleeping Alone vs. with a Partner: When selecting an adjustable bed, consider your partner’s needs and preferences. Choose a split base for independent adjustment, prioritize a quiet motor for light sleepers, and opt for independent massage zones if you have different preferences.

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Best Adjustable Beds

Following are a few best recommended adjustable beds by experts:

i) Frame for Nectar Adjustable Bed: $749

Many of the features you seek in an adjustable bed are available with the Nectar Adjustable Base at a far lower cost than similar products. Without any issues, you may read in bed while sitting up or lying down and experience zero gravity.

ii) Queen Tempur-Ergo Power Base: $1,649

The Tempur-Ergo Power Base offers all the essentials you need in an adjustable bed along with tons of extra functions. Additionally, it has fancy USB connections for your phone and under-bed illumination so you won’t have to be concerned about slamming your finger into the frame when you get up for your midnight potty excursion.

iii) Saatva Ruleal Adjustable Bed Base: $1299

With merely a remote control, the fancy Saatva version enables you to easily increase the heat and legs for a weightless sensation. There are also various settings for laying down and watching TV. Additionally, it provides a variety of massage choices, such as foot, head, and full-body waves. No one has to stumble in the dark thanks to under-bed lights and an integrated remote lamp.

iv) FlexFit 3 Smart Adjustable Base and i8 360 Smart Bed: $3499

This adjustable base bed offers many head and foot settings so you may find the perfect comfort. It also comes with a fancy choice of Sleep Number mattress. Additionally, you may sync your phone and bed. This is the best one among all other adjustable beds.

Bottom Line

With various options available, an adjustable bed can provide enhanced comfort, pain relief, and better sleep. Consider your budget, desired features, and warranty/trial period for the perfect adjustable bed experience.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)