Adjustable beds are popular for their ability to customize your sleeping positions, providing extra comfort. If you are in the market for an adjustable bed, you’ll want to narrow down all of the different choices and features that will keep you comfy at bedtime. However, with so many options to choose from, it can be a bit difficult to pick a bed that meets all your sleep needs.

In this next article, we’ll teach you how to shop for an adjustable bed. We will also break down the most popular features of adjustable bases and the health benefits they provide.

Research Adjustable Bed Features

Before you purchase your new adjustable bed frame, you’ll want to familiarize yourself with the features they may include. Standard adjustable beds come with a remote to customize your sleeping position. Some of the more luxurious adjustable frames may come with Bluetooth compatibility, lighting, and even massage functions.

Below, we outline some of the core features of adjustable beds. We’ll also explain how these additional items may be helpful for your sleep.

Wall Hugger

The wall-hugging feature is designed to keep you in the same place as you raise and lower the mattress. For instance, if you want to bring the head of your bed forward to sit up in bed, the entire base of the bed will move back toward the wall. Performing this action on a standard adjustable bed usually leaves a space between your base and the wall.

However, beds with wall-hugging technology move the entirety of the base towards your wall. This function keeps the head of your bed close to your nightstand, so you can comfortably reach for the items on it without struggling.

Remote Control

Adjustable beds come with remotes so you can control the angle of your bed. Wireless remotes are considered to be an upgrade to adjustable beds with wired controls. With a wireless remote, you won’t have to worry about cords getting tangled into your bedding or tripping over them late at night.

On the other hand, wired control has some advantages as well. They do not come with batteries and are attached to your bed, so they’ll never get lost.

Battery Backup

During a power outage, adjustable bases without the proper safety features will stay locked in position. Backup batteries allow your bed to return to a flat position when your electricity goes out. Beds with this feature are an excellent option for people who have difficulty getting in and out of bed. Also, they may be helpful in the event of an emergency.

Massage Capabilities

Massage functions are one of the most common features of adjustable bases. Many sleepers find that vibration helps alleviate lower back pain, keeping them relaxed before and during sleep.

Sometimes this function doubles as an alarm clock in many luxury beds. You can easily use the remote or cell phone app associated with your base to set your wake-up time. Then when it’s time for you to begin your day, this feature will gently massage you awake.

Brackets

If you want to attach bedroom furniture to your frame, like a headboard, you may want to look for brackets on your adjustable bed. Some adjustable beds exclude brackets from their designs, so you may have to purchase a separate bracket kit to secure your items.

Programmable Memory Positions

Some adjustable beds have preset adjustments like the zero-gravity position, which virtually eliminates pressure points, prevents swelling, and resembles the feeling of weightlessness.

However, most sleepers like to customize their sleeping position to what feels the most comfortable to them. On both wired remote and wireless remotes, you may have the option to save your personalized sleeping position. Then, you’ll be able to automatically adjust your bed with just the click of a button.

Anti-Snore Functions

Beds with snore features allow couples to hit a “snore” button when their partner is snoring. Hitting this button causes their partner’s side to raise slightly to reduce snoring. For some couples, snoring can make it extremely difficult to fall asleep at night for both individuals. So, this function may allow you and your partner to get more restorative rest.

Consider Your Mattress Size and Type

One of the most important factors you need to consider before you buy an adjustable base is your mattress type. If you are planning to use an old innerspring mattress with an adjustable bed base, this may not be the best option. These mattresses are not flexible, so when you reposition your bed, the coils may break and ruin the mattress.

Usually, latex and memory foam mattresses are better suited for adjustable frames. The material of these mattresses can conform to the base and the sleeper without any loss of support. Some hybrid mattresses may also work well with adjustable bases because they are built on a hinge system and fold better than older innerspring beds.

Also, take into consideration the size of your mattress. Most brands only offer adjustable bed bases in four sizes: twin XL, full, queen, and king and split king. So, you’ll want to make sure your bed is compatible with your base. Before you make your purchase look at product descriptions to make sure an adjustable bed frame will accommodate your mattress.

Look at Your Warranty Agreement & Return Policy

Understanding your warranty coverage is essential since some manufacturers may exclude components in the prorated agreements like electronics. It’s important to note that most adjustable beds are final sale items. However, some manufacturers may offer sleep trials. This will give you a chance to try it out for a while and decide if you’d like to keep it.

Additionally, returns can be complicated with adjustable beds due to their size and shipping costs. So it’s best to read your return policy thoroughly and ask questions if you are unsure about your agreement.

Read Consumer Reviews

Looking at customer reviews will give you a better perspective on what to expect when you receive your item. It also may prevent you from making costly mistakes.

When you are reading reviews, try to find ones that verify the reviewer as a customer since they are the most reputable. It’s best to avoid testimonials because they are usually hand-picked by retailers and may not represent most experiences.

Why Should You Buy an Adjustable Bed Base?

Most sleepers look to buy adjustable beds to help them with sleeping interruptions like frequent wake-ups from joint pain or muscle aches. Adjustable beds work by allowing you to slightly elevate your legs during sleep and lift the head to a more comfortable angle. This sleep posture reduces pressure on joints and improves circulation. Adjustable beds allow you to maintain a healthy sleep position and relieve symptoms of insomnia, acid reflux, heartburn, muscle inflammation, and restless leg syndrome.

Individuals who struggle with snoring due to allergies, sinus problems, or obstructive sleep apnea may find some relief by sleeping in a raised position. Keeping your upper body elevated reduces the chance of your throat muscle relaxing and blocking airflow without putting any strain on your neck. Snorers and asthma sufferers may find some relief at bedtime as elevation helps sleepers take more relaxed breaths while they’re sleeping.

FAQS

Do I need a special mattress for an adjustable bed base?

There are many types of mattresses for an adjustable bed. Generally, memory foam, latex foam, and hybrid mattresses are the most compatible with adjustable bases. Older innerspring mattresses should not be used with adjustable bases. Innerspring mattresses are not as flexible, and the coils can become damaged as you reposition your bed.

Are adjustable beds expensive?

The downside of purchasing adjustable beds is they have expensive price points. Some models may come at a more affordable price, but most adjustable beds cost anywhere between $1,000 and $4,500. Adjustable beds usually come with electronic features like built-in massagers and reading lights and contribute to a price increase.

Can side sleepers use adjustable beds?

More often than not, back sleepers are pictured sleeping on an adjustable bed, and there is a common misconception that they are not suitable for side sleepers. Adjustable beds are great for side sleepers because they can elevate your upper body into a more comfortable and relaxed position where your knees are relaxed. Sleeping in this position lessens the amount of pressure on your shoulders, hips, and neck and reduces joint pain.

Are adjustable beds good for seniors?

Adjustable beds are usually a popular choice for seniors because they help ease joint pain. As we get older, the spinal discs become thinner due to loss of fluid, causing the vertebrae to lose cushioning.

For this reason, older individuals need to avoid putting a large amount of pressure on their joints. Sleeping on an adjustable bed for seniors in an elevated position can help alleviate this pain by taking the extra pressure off your spine.

Do adjustable beds stop snoring?

Some people choose to invest in adjustable beds to minimize snoring. Sleeping with your upper body elevated reduces the chance of your throat muscle relaxing and obstructing airflow. This can be helpful for snorers because it allows you to take deeper and more relaxed breaths and may stop your snoring. If you don’t have an adjustable bed, you can achieve a similar head elevation with a wedge pillow.

Conclusion

Adjustable beds come with a lot of features, so finding the best fit for you may seem difficult. One way to narrow down your options is by looking at consumer reviews. Reading reviews is a great way to learn about customer experiences and can save you from spending money on a faulty product.

You’ll also want to make sure you understand the conditions of your warranty and manufacturer’s return policy. This way, if you are unsatisfied with your purchase, you can return or exchange your items.