Adjustable Beds: Pros, Cons and Are They Worth it?

‍When it comes to selecting a bed frame, the options can be overwhelming. One type that has gained significant attention in recent years is the adjustable bed frame. It's a popular choice for those seeking improved comfort and better sleep quality. 

These beds have revolutionized the way we sleep, promising a level of comfort and versatility unlike any other. But are they worth the hype, and more importantly, the investment?

In this guide we will explore adjustable beds, including their advantages and disadvantages. We will also answer the important question: Are adjustable bases worth it? After reading this article, you'll know if adjustable beds are right for you and who should avoid using them.

1. What is An Adjustable Bed?

First things first, let's understand what an adjustable bed is. It is a unique type of bed frame that allows the user to alter its position based on their specific needs. With the help of a remote control, the bed frame can be moved to various positions, enhancing comfort and support. Once popular in hospitals and nursing homes, they are now common in homes, providing benefits for all sleepers.

Adjustable beds have proven to be a versatile sleeping solution and a great investment. They provide a comfortable position and improve poor posture for reading or watching TV and relief for back pain. Nonetheless, choosing a high-quality mechanical bed base from a reliable supplier is essential to ensure long-lasting comfort.

2. Advantages of Adjustable Beds

Adjustable beds can change the angle of the head and foot, giving sleepers different positions to choose from. Finding a comfortable position can help relax and fall asleep. Let's explore some key advantages of adjustable beds.

2.1 Massage Features

Beyond mere adjustability, many adjustable bed frames come with advanced features like massage options. These features can significantly enhance the sleeping experience, promoting better sleep and relaxation. A massage before bed can help soothe tense muscles, improve circulation, ease stress, and create a conducive sleep environment.

Imagine a relaxing massage in bed that helps your muscles, blood flow, and stress levels, while you are comfy in bed. Sounds like a dream, doesn't it? For many people, this feature alone is a game-changer, making an adjustable bed a worthy investment.

2.2 Improved Blood Circulation

One of the primary benefits of adjustable beds is their potential to improve blood circulation. Traditional beds often restrict your body to a single position for several hours, which can lead to poor circulation. However, an adjustable bed allows you to change positions throughout the night, promoting even blood flow throughout your body. This proves particularly beneficial for those with circulation issues, providing a more comfortable sleep experience. 

Adjustable beds can help improve blood circulation and reduce pain and swelling in the legs and feet. This is achieved by allowing you to change positions during the night.

2.3 Relief from Acid Reflux & Snoring

Adjustable bases can also provide relief from conditions like Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) and acid reflux. By raising the head of the bed, gravity can prevent stomach acids from rising into the throat, thereby reducing heartburn, and indigestion. This higher position can also reduce snoring, benefiting both the snorer and the person who has to deal with it.

2.4 Reduces Back & Neck Pain

Another notable advantage of adjustable beds is their potential to reduce back and neck pain. By allowing you to adjust the position of your spine, head, and neck, these beds can provide significant relief for people suffering from these common discomforts. This tailored support can help alleviate discomfort and contribute to a better night's sleep.

2.5 Relief for Arthritis

Adjustable beds can also potentially alleviate symptoms associated with arthritis. The ability to adjust the position of your joints can make a significant difference in comfort and pain relief.

2.6 Assistance with Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a medical condition characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep. This can lead to various health problems, including fatigue, irritability, and even increased risk of heart disease. Adjustable beds help you sleep in a way that clears your airway, easing sleep apnea symptoms.

3. Potential Disadvantages of Adjustable Beds

Despite their many health benefits, they might not be the best choice for everyone. It's essential to consider the potential downsides before you make a purchase. Here are some potential cons of adjustable beds to consider:

3.1 Not Ideal for Stomach Sleepers and Side Sleepers

Sleeping on the side or fetal position is the most common, but are adjustable beds good for side sleepers or stomach sleepers? One limitation is that they are primarily beneficial for back sleepers, potentially causing discomfort for those who sleep on their side or stomach.

The adjustable positions can put extra pressure on the stomach or hips and shoulders, leading to discomfort or pain. This does not mean that side sleepers should not consider buying one. As long as the spine is kept in a neutral position, side sleepers can enjoy this bed style as well.

Keeping this in mind, these beds can still be used as normal beds when it is time to sleep. Simply reset to the flat position and you are ready to sleep like on a normal bed frame. They are also a great option for those who like to wind down before sleeping and read a book, watch Netflix, or even scroll through social media. Sitting in bed, reclining, with your feet up, watching a movie, beats any theatre experience no matter how you sleep!

3.2 Incompatibility with a Box Spring

Adjustable beds are also not compatible with a box spring, a factor that could be a deal-breaker for some. The reason for this is that a box spring is designed to support a mattress in a fixed position, while an adjustable bed can be moved to various positions. Therefore, using a mattress without a box spring or proper support may void the warranty. It is important to ask your mattress expert whether or not a particular mattress is compatible with an adjustable base.

3.3 Higher Price Point

Adjustable beds are typically more expensive than other types of beds due to their superior range of motion, health benefits, and the use of higher-quality materials. While these features justify the higher price point, it may not be the best choice for those on a tight budget.

3.4 Significant Weight

Adjustable bed frames are not only expensive but also significantly heavy. Their design, which allows for various positions, requires a sturdy frame that can handle the moving parts and the weight of the user. While this makes the bed more comfortable and durable, it also makes it less mobile and harder to move or reposition.

3.5 Difficulty in Set-Up

Finally, adjustable beds can be quite complex and might be challenging to set up for some people. In contrast, other bed frames are much lighter and easier to assemble and store when not in use.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy an Adjustable Bed?

Whether or not to invest in an adjustable bed depends on your individual needs and preferences. Here's a quick summary:

Consider an adjustable bed if:

• You want to turn your bed into a gadget with features like android/ios app control massage, vibrate, lights, and even speakers
• You like reading books, scrolling through your phone, or watching tv in bed
• You want more control over your comfort
• You suffer from joint and muscle pain
• You want to improve your blood circulation
• You want relief from acid reflux
• You want to reduce snoring
• You want to alleviate arthritis symptoms
• You need help with sleep apnea

You might want to skip an adjustable bed if:

• You're a side or stomach sleeper
• You want to use a box spring
• You're on a tight budget
• You don't want to deal with a heavy bed frame
• You're not comfortable with a potentially difficult bed frame setup
• You don’t have the budget

We hope this guide has provided you with a comprehensive understanding of the advantages and disadvantages of adjustable beds. As always, your individual needs and preferences should guide your decision.

It is also a good idea to try them before you buy then. Most high end retailers like Mattressville have adjustable bases on display in their showroom so you can stop in and try them out. Happy bed hunting!

FAQ

Q: Do Doctors Recommend Adjustable Beds?

A: The answer to this question varies from doctor to doctor. Some might recommend adjustable bed frames for patients experiencing pain or discomfort in certain positions, such as those with back pain or arthritis. However, it ultimately depends on you, the patient, and your specific needs.

Q: Are Adjustable Beds Worth It?

A: The value of an adjustable bed base is subjective. For some people, the ability to customize their sleep position and potentially find relief from medical conditions makes the investment worthwhile. However, it's crucial to do your research and choose a model that suits your needs and budget. People on Reddit are saying it is worth it.

Q: Can an Adjustable Bed Cause Back Pain?

A: Are adjustable beds bad for your back? Contrary to causing back pain, an adjustable bed may alleviate the symptoms of existing back pain. By allowing the user to customize their sleep position, pressure on the spine and joints can be reduced, potentially leading to less back pain.

Q: Is Sleeping on an Adjustable Bed Healthy?

A: The impact of an adjustable bed on health can vary from person to person. Some believe that adjustable beds support the back and neck, while others argue they can cause muscle strain and joint pain. It's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before investing in an adjustable for health reasons.

Q: Are Adjustable Beds Only For The Elderly or People With Disabilities?

A: No, in fact adjustable beds are becoming popular with everyone. More people are choosing them because of their features and functions. Many people think adjustable beds are only for the elderly because of their resemblance and roots tied to medical beds. The 90s commercials promoting these beds for the elderly didn't help either.

Q: Are Adjustable Beds the Same as Hospital Beds?

A: Medical beds are specifically designed for patient needs and a regular adjustable bed is not a replacement for a medical bed. Medical beds are also known as homecare beds, healthcare beds, patient beds, hospital beds, nursing beds etc. 

These beds often have additional features ie. side rails to help transfer patients in and out of the bed.  Anyone with serious medical conditions should talk to their doctor before purchasing one of these.  

Q: Will it Disturb My Partner?

A: Since these bases move the entire mattress, they will affect anyone on the bed. This is especially true for queen or double sizes. One solution is to use 2 twin XL adjustable bases and 2 twin XL mattresses placed next to each other.

Q: Are Adjustable Beds Loud?

A: Adjustable beds are powered by motors so while operating they will make noise. This does not mean that owning one of these beds will result in 24/7 noise. They are silent while not in operation.   

Q: Which Mattress Can I use?

A: Typically a medium firm mattress, usually memory foam or hybrid, is a safe bet. Not all mattresses are compatible with adjustable bases. Please consult with a mattress expert as choosing the wrong mattress can void its warranty or cause damages to the mattress.