An adjustable bed is a frame that can adjustthe position of your mattress. This type of bed is becoming more popular due to its health and sleep benefits. Still, it is also more expensive than a regular bed. So, how do you know if an adjustable bed is an ideal option for you?
The right way to decide is by thinking about your overall sleep quality. If you don’t feel like your bed provides the right comfort for you, you should consider an adjustable bed. You can also benefit from an adjustable bed if you have sleep apnea or constant back pain.
In today’s guide, we’ll take a closer look at the advantages and disadvantages of adjustable beds. We’ll tell you all you need to know about these devices and whether or not their benefits are worth their price tags.
Table of Contents
Advantages of Adjustable Beds
Disadvantages of Adjustable Beds
Things to Consider When Deciding if an Adjustable Bed Is Right for You
Are Adjustable Beds Worth It? (An Overall Summary)
Conclusion
Advantages of Adjustable Beds
Adjustable beds are so popular because they provide a wide range of benefits for your overall sleep quality. Some models can also reach the zero-gravity position, which provides the most health benefits.
They Can Reduce Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorderthat affects approximately3-7% of men and 2-5% of women in the US. This disorder affects the person’s ability to breathe while sleeping, so they stop breathing on and off during the night. It is considered one of the most severe and dangerous sleeping disorders.
Adjustable beds help people with this condition by opening uptheir nasal passages and throats. That way, they’ll be able to breathe better during the night, reducing the symptoms of sleep apnea in the process.
Note:You should go to a physician if you think you may have this disorder. Replacing your bed will only reduce its severity, but it is not a cure.
Adjustable Beds Relieve Back and Neck Pain
Adjustable beds can relieve pain because they reduce the stress on the spine and neck. Experts calculate that around 80% of Americans suffer from back and neck pain. While some of these people have had injuries or accidents, most simply have bad posture.
Consider an adjustable bed if you have back and neck painproduced by bad posture. The mechanism of this bed allows it to switch between different positions, helping you find one that alleviates your pain.
The beds also provide better support for your back, meaning there’s less stress applied to your spine and neck.
They Increase Overall Comfort
People buy adjustable beds because they create a more comfortable sleeping environment than regular beds. If you combine your adjustable frame with a high-quality mattress, you’ll be improving your sleep quality. Add breathable sheets and premium pillows to it, and you might get the best possible sleeping experience.
Just raising your legs or head slightly can help you feel rested in the morning. That’s not counting all the potential extras an adjustable bed can offer, like a warming mechanism and an in-built massager.
These Beds Can Help You if You Have Insomnia
Another excellent benefit of these beds is their effect on the quality of your sleep if you have insomnia. A better night’s sleep means it will be easier for you to rest, reducing the mental anguish that insomnia produces.
An adjustable bed will give you the correct setup for good sleep by decreasing pain and improving your breathing. However, it is not a long-term solution, and you should also consult a physician to treat your insomnia.
They Can Bring Back a Sense of Independence
Adjustable beds and hospital beds share some characteristics, even if they have different purposes and advantages. However, these two devices can help seniors and people with reduced mobility recover a sense of independence.
They can place the bed in a raised position to help them get in or out without the need for someone else’s help. This slight change in their lives can improve their self-esteem and overall quality of life.
Disadvantages of Adjustable Beds
Adjustable beds provide many benefits, but they also come with unique disadvantages you need to consider before buying one.
They Have Limited Mattress Compatibility
After buying your new adjustable bed, a problem you’ll find instantly is mattress compatibility. You can use any mattress with an adjustable bed, but not all mattresses will allow the bed to switch positions.
Because there’s no reason to buy one of these beds if you don’t use them for their intended purposes, you’ll need to get the proper mattress. For instance, mattresses with innerspring coils are too rigid and won’t allow the mechanism to switch positions.
Here are the mattresses you should consider:
- Latex mattresses
- Memory foam mattresses
- Non-innerspring mattresses
They Are More Expensive
The main disadvantage of adjustable beds is their price. A good-quality model can cost up to three times what a standard King bed would cost. Furthermore, that price only considers the bed frame, not the new mattress.
An adjustable bed is an excellent way to get a better night’s sleep, but don’t worry if it doesn’t fit your budget. There are other ways to get better sleep quality without getting in debt.
For instance, you can get a memory foam mattress, high-quality pillows, and comfortable sheet sets.
Quality Models Are Difficult to Find
Another drawback of these beds is the challenging process of finding high-quality models that meet all your needs. The most basic adjustable beds can only raise the lower and upper parts of the bed when necessary.
If you want the zero-gravity positioning, in-built massager, and smart interface, you’ll need to look for reliable manufacturers and be prepared to pay more.
The Bed Needs More Space
Because you’ll need to switch positions constantly, your bed will require more space than a regular model. That is unless you get a wall-hugger adjustable bed, which is an even more expensive option.
Space is an important aspect you need to consider before buying one of these beds. So, if you have a small room, you might consider focusing on getting a better mattress and pillows for your bed instead.
Adjustable Beds Need Maintenance
All adjustable beds have complex internal mechanisms that allow you to switch between positions when needed. That’s the reason these beds require professional maintenance to keep them functional for longer. If you don’t take care of the adjustable frame, it will not last long, and you’ll need to replace it eventually.
Things to Consider When Deciding if an Adjustable Bed Is Right for You
Here are a few questions you might like to ask yourself before purchasing an adjustable bed.
Do You Sleep Okay in a Regular Bed?
You need to ask yourself whether you have a good night’s sleep in your current bed. If the answer is yes, there’s no need to replace it with a more expensive model unless you want to do it.
However, if the answer is no, replacing your bed with an adjustable one can be the right choice to make.
Here are some reasons why you should consider replacing your bed:
- Back and neck pain: Because of their benefits, adjustable beds can help you ease back and neck pain. The different positions will soothe the stress over your spine and neck, which will also help you sleep better.
- Sleep Apnea: The position of some adjustable beds will open up your airways, allowing oxygen into your body. They are a good way to reduce the severity of sleep apnea, but you need to understand that it is not a long-term solution.
- Snoring: Raising the upper part of your bed while sleeping on your back can do wonders for your snoring problems.
- Blood pressure: Relieving stress on your spine and muscles will also affect your body. It will allow blood to travel without obstruction, helping you reduce blood pressure and other cardiovascular problems.
If you suffer from one or more of these problems, you should consider getting an adjustable bed.
How Much Can You Spend On an Adjustable Bed?
The other aspect to consider before buying a new adjustable bed is whether or not you can fit it into your budget. These beds are costly compared to regular models. Even the twin and full options are more expensive than a standard bed.
So, you might like to think about whether to invest in one of these devices. Consider also the expense of getting a proper mattress and performing maintenance once a year. If you have no problem even with those extra costs, you can start looking for your new adjustable bed.
Does The Bed Include a Warranty and a Return Policy?
The return policy of the adjustable bed is the final aspect you need to consider before deciding whether to buy or not. You already know that these beds are more expensive, but they are also more delicate. They can malfunction or stop working altogether.
That’s why you should only consider getting one if it has a good warranty and return policy. If the bed malfunctions or stops working altogether, you can often contact the company for a free replacement or free servicing.
Are Adjustable Beds Worth It? (An Overall Summary)
Adjustable beds can improve your sleep quality. They have many benefits for your overall health that regular beds cannot offer. However, these frames are costly and need proper care to last for years.
If you have the money to buy one and perform the proper maintenance, go for it and start enjoying your new bed. However, if the bed does not fit your budget or you don’t have the necessary space, you should consider other solutions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, an adjustable bed is a good investment if a regular model doesn’t help you get a good quality sleep. These beds will provide many benefits for your overall health, like relieving back pain and improving blood flow. However, they are also more expensive and require more care.
Consider the different aspects of getting an adjustable bed before deciding whether or not to buy one. Think about the price, the space, and the technical aspects. Once you’ve done that, you’ll be able to make a more informed decision.
Sources:
Using an Adjustable Bed for Back Pain
Do adjustable beds help with back pain?
Sleep apnea - Symptoms and Causes - Mayo Clinic
The anti-snoring bed - a pilot study
Effects of sleep posture on upper airway stability in patients with obstructive sleep apnea
Related articles...
How Much Does an Adjustable Bed Weigh? Dimensions + How to Move an Adjustable Bed Base
Classic Brands Adjustable Beds Overview (Read This Before Buying)
What Is a Split King Adjustable Bed? Read This Before Buying
Lucid Adjustable Beds Overview (Read This Before Buying)
FAQs
Are Adjustable Beds Worth It? Advantages and Disadvantages of Adjustable Beds -? ›
For side sleepers, alterable beds can also put extra pressure on the hips and shoulders, which can cause pain. Adjustable beds are the best for back sleepers because they can provide support for the lower back. If you are a stomach sleeper or a side sleeper, it is best to stick with a traditional bed.
What are the cons of adjustable beds? ›- Adjustable beds are expensive… ...
- There are always higher maintenance costs. ...
- They can be loud. ...
- They are incredibly heavy. ...
- They have a unique size, which means they require unique sheets. ...
- They provide difficulty in movement. ...
- Adjustable beds can be difficult to clean.
Frequently Asked Questions About Doctor Recommended Beds
The medical community agrees that a well-made adjustable bed frame can improve a sleeper's health and well-being, thus making ergonomic beds some of the best beds for health.
There are very few downsides to an adjustable bed. They are great for reading or watching TV in bed. Back sleepers, snorers, and acid reflux sufferers can elevate their head position for more comfort. Older people and people with injuries have an easier time getting in and out of an adjustable bed.
What is the life expectancy of an adjustable bed? ›A high-quality mattress should last at least 7-10 years on an adjustable bed, if not more. Although these mattresses generally have shorter lifespans than non-adjustable ones, they can last for a decade, or longer, when well maintained and rotated regularly.
Who should not use an adjustable bed? ›Adjustable beds are not ideal for stomach sleepers or side sleepers because they can put extra pressure on the stomach, which can cause GERD or acid reflux. For side sleepers, alterable beds can also put extra pressure on the hips and shoulders, which can cause pain.
Do chiropractors recommend adjustable beds? ›The end result is that finding the right level of firmness is essential for those seeking a better night's sleep due to back pain. Chiropractors typically recommend adjustable beds or hybrid mattresses with layers of foam and latex, so you can customize your desired level of firmness and support.
Can you sleep on your side with an adjustable bed? ›With an adjustable bed, you can sleep on your side and your spine will still be in a neutral/relaxed position. Especially when combined with a comfortable mattress.
Are adjustable beds good or bad for you? ›With complete customization right at your fingertips, an adjustable bed can help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. It'll help you relax, and it can also help with a variety of health issues. From helping to reduce snoring and acid reflux to relieving back pain, it's amazing what an adjustable base can do.
What type of bed is best with an adjustable base? ›The four types most commonly paired with adjustable beds are memory foam, latex foam, hybrid, and airbeds. Memory foam, latex, and hybrid mattresses are usually the best choice to use with an adjustable bed.
Do you have to flip a mattress on an adjustable bed? ›
Mattresses on adjustable bases should definitely be rotated on a consistent schedule as they experience more movement than mattresses on flat foundations. Preventing mattress breakdown is paramount for adjustable base users.
Why is my adjustable bed uncomfortable? ›An adjustable bed causing back pain occurs when the bed movement is not in sync with natural body movement. Cheap adjustables can exacerbate lower back pain because they merely adjust the height of your upper body and lower body.
Do you need a headboard with an adjustable bed? ›Yes, you can use an adjustable bed frame without a headboard. However, using a headboard with a frame may be more comfortable. Additionally, a headboard can help to stabilize the frame and prevent it from moving around.
Is adjustable bed good for seniors? ›Adjustable Beds for Seniors. Adjustable beds can provide comfort, improve sleep quality and reduce aches and pains as you age. They work by elevating the head and feet, taking pressure off air passages, nerves, joints and muscles.
Does Medicare pay for adjustable beds? ›Yes! Original Medicare does offer coverage for adjustable beds as part of a beneficiary's Part B benefits. Part B offers coverage on durable medical equipment (DME), which includes adjustable beds. Medicare will pay for 80% of the cost of an adjustable bed after you have met your Part B deductible.
Are adjustable beds good for your heart? ›The best way to eliminate pressure is by setting up an adjustable bed. The traditional mattress does not provide proper pressure and hence increases the work of the heart while sleeping. When you are slightly inclined from your flat position you breathe better as the windpipe is open.
Does an adjustable base damage a mattress? ›Do adjustable beds ruin mattresses? Using an adjustable bed will generally not ruin your mattress. As long as you choose a mattress type that works with an adjustable bed (ie. latex, some memory foam, and some pocket coil mattresses), you will be just fine!
What is the healthiest way to sleep on a adjustable bed? ›Sleeping with the lower legs raised will take pressure off the lower spine and hips or the soft contour position of your adjustable bed can relieve joint compression.
Can I sleep on my side in zero gravity? ›Zero gravity allows your spine to stay in alignment even when you are sleeping on your side. An adjustable base can also help alleviate stress on your shoulders that you may experience from sleeping on your side on a traditional mattress.
Is an adjustable worth it? ›Better circulation.
One of the biggest advantages that adjustable beds offer is improved blood circulation. Since you can adjust the bed according to your specific needs, you'll be able to enjoy a sleeping position that makes it easier for your heart to pump blood to the parts of your body that need it the most.
What position is best for adjustable bed for lower back? ›
The best adjustable bed sleeping position if you suffer from back pain is sleeping on your back with your knees and hips slightly raised. This allows your spine, muscle and joints to rest in a neutral position.
Is an adjustable bed tax deductible? ›Yes, if the bed helps alleviate a medical condition, you can deduct it as Medical expenses.
Is it better to sleep with your head or feet elevated? ›Pros. Raising the head during sleep prevents collapse of the airway, and this may diminish the risk of snoring and the problems associated with sleep apnea. If positioned properly, it may also be possible to relieve pain.
Is it better to sleep on the left or right side of bed? ›Whether you should sleep on your right or left side depends on which health issues you face. The left side may provide more benefits, particularly for those who are pregnant, or experience gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). People with these conditions might want to take special care to sleep on their left side.
Can you sit upright on adjustable bed? ›Lifestyle benefits. Aside from making getting in and out of bed far simpler for those who may struggle with these movements, adjustable beds give you the ability to sit comfortably in an upright position without stacking up pillows – perfect for bookworms or watching a film in bed.
Why do hospitals use adjustable beds? ›However, hospital beds have adjustable bases that let the overall height rise and lower. This height adjustment function also helps to decrease the pressure on the backs of caregivers or loved ones who have to lift the user.
Are adjustable beds good for side or stomach sleepers? ›Adjustable beds work great for side and back sleepers. Side sleepers suffering from back or hip pain, sleep apnea, or acid reflux issues can get better rest with an adjustable bed. Side sleepers should opt for elevated head and leg positions to keep their spine alignment intact.
Can I use my headboard and footboard with an adjustable bed? ›- If you have a regular headboard, footboard, and rails, with just the slats going across it, absolutely. The answer is yes, and most of the time an adjustable base can fit inside the bed frame on its own legs. Simply remove the slats inside of your bed frame and put the adjustable base inside.
Do adjustable beds require special sheets? ›Do you need special sheets for adjustable beds? You need sheets with some special features to keep them on the mattress as it moves with the adjustable base. Fitted sheets with extra deep pockets, oversized flat sheets clipped with sheet straps, or suspenders underneath the mattress secure your sheets to the bed.
Why are some beds not compatible with adjustable beds? ›Really the only type of mattress you shouldn't put on an adjustable base is an innerspring bed or box spring. Innerspring mattresses are not flexible or heavy enough to take the shape of the adjusted bed. This means they may “float” over the adjustable base rather than conforming to it.
How does the mattress stay on an adjustable bed? ›
To keep your mattress in place, add a non-slip material under it or even rug tape. Something as simple as a few strips of this non-slip material or Gorilla Grip drawer liner should get the job done.
How do you maintain an adjustable bed? ›The basics of keeping the bed in good shape are to clean it regularly. Clean the bed frame, and check for broken or cracks. Clean the mattress, and change it if it deteriorates in terms of quality. Use a clean pillow, and wash pillow covers frequently.
Do adjustable beds need to be plugged in? ›To get an adjustable bed working, it needs an electric power source. They can either be plugged into the wall socket or, in some cases, adjustable beds come with rechargeable batteries.
Should you use a pillow on an adjustable bed? ›Do you need to use a pillow with adjustable beds? Many people ask in the store if they need a pillow with an adjustable bed and the answer is no and at the same time yes. It all depends on you, and your unique requirements.
Do adjustable beds need legs? ›Many adjustable base beds can be used with standard bed frames, assuming the slats or support rails can be removed. Additionally, they can be attached with brackets to most headboards and footboards. If you have a platform bed, the adjustable bed's legs must be taken off so it can sit directly on the platform.
Can a regular headboard fit an adjustable bed? ›The good news is, most headboards will work with an adjustable base. You can either attach your headboard to your adjustable base, or keep it separate. For the former, you'll just need to purchase headboard brackets.
What is a floating headboard? ›A floating headboard, also known as a hanger headboard, is a headboard that is mounted on the wall at the head of your mattress instead of being attached to your bed frame. They add no stability to the bed itself, but create a beautiful accent with little to no hassle.
What is the best bed height for an elderly person? ›Ideal Bed Height for Elderly People
But a rough ballpark figure for safe bed height is between 18” to 23”; approximately the same height as a chair.
Consider the size of the bed
Some seniors are fine with purchasing a twin bed but many prefer double beds since they offer more room both horizontally and vertically.
Medicare Part B covers much of the cost of medically necessary mattresses and beds. If a doctor and Medicare decide that it is medically necessary for you to have a specific mattress or bed, they will consider it durable medical equipment (DME).
Can you get a prescription for an adjustable bed? ›
Adjustable beds are a type of durable medical equipment that can be prescribed by a doctor for home use.
Can any mattress be used on adjustable beds? ›You can't use just any mattress on an adjustable bed because not every mattress type is compatible. But if you have one that is compatible, it's possible to use your existing mattress with an adjustable bed base. Generally, non-innerspring mattresses are compatible with adjustable beds.
What is the difference between a hospital bed and an adjustable bed? ›The main difference between a hospital bed and an adjustable bed is that a hospital bed is designed for people who need temporary or permanent medical care, whereas an adjustable bed is designed for comfort and convenience.
Are adjustable beds bad for side sleepers? ›An adjustable bed is great for side sleepers because it can elevate your upper body into a more comfortable and relaxed position where your knees are relaxed and that there is less pressure on your shoulders, hips, and neck.
Why is my adjustable bed so uncomfortable? ›An adjustable bed causing back pain occurs when the bed movement is not in sync with natural body movement. Cheap adjustables can exacerbate lower back pain because they merely adjust the height of your upper body and lower body.
Does an adjustable bed mess up a mattress? ›No, if you use a compatible mattress, the adjustable base shouldn't ruin it. However, an adjustable base could shorten the lifespan of a mattress that's not compatible with it — like a traditional innerspring.
Is it good for your back to sleep on an adjustable bed? ›The right bed can make your back feel much better
Many beds can actually worsen back problems by placing excessive strain on vulnerable areas. Adjustable orthopaedic beds, on the other hand, are some of the best beds for back pain, and can help alleviate a variety of medical conditions.
Yes! adjustable beds are covered under Medicare part B, but there are restrictions. First, you will need to check with your provider, as well as the Durable Medical Equipment (DME) supplier, to ensure they are Medicare Providers and accept assignment.
Is it OK to sleep on your side in zero gravity position? ›Side-Sleeping on a zero-gravity bed
Zero gravity allows your spine to stay in alignment even when you are sleeping on your side. An adjustable base can also help alleviate stress on your shoulders that you may experience from sleeping on your side on a traditional mattress.
It often takes several nights or even a week to get used to a new sleeping surface. Trying it for a few minutes in the store does not always provide an accurate feel for how comfortable the bed is for sleeping through the night. Frames can vary in weight from 150 to 700 pounds, without the mattress.
What type of mattress is best for an adjustable bed? ›
Memory foam, latex, and hybrid mattresses are usually the best choice to use with an adjustable bed. They are flexible enough to match the curves of the base, and if you pick a company that uses high-quality foam and materials, it will maintain its support and durability.