how to choose an adjustable bed

How to Choose an Adjustable Bed: A Comprehensive Buying Guide

Ian Mutuli
Updated on
Ian Mutuli

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
Get Smarter On Architecture and Design

Get the 3-minute weekly newsletter keeping 5K+ designers in the loop.

Enter your Email to Sign up

Side-bar-footer-forum

Adjustable beds are slowly but surely becoming more popular due to the myriad of benefits they offer in achieving a great night's sleep. However, with the multitude of options available in today's market, it can be challenging to sift through all the choices to find the perfect adjustable bed. This article is designed to serve as a guide to help you make an informed decision based on your individual needs when picking out an adjustable bed.

Understanding Adjustable Beds

adjustable bed frame

Adjustable beds are a kind of bed that enables user to change the position of bed's head or foot. These beds have gained a popularity in the current times mainly because of their numerous health advantages and also due to the possibilities that one has in terms of customization.

Adjustable beds bring a great deal of value to the sleep experience.  They often have desirable features such as adjustable sleep position and massage.

Types of Adjustable Beds

There are different varieties of adjustable beds in the market.

1. Manual adjustable beds: They can be altered by a hand crank or remote control. They normally cost less than any other adjustable bed available in the market.

2. Electric adjustable beds: They are controlled by electric motors and a remote control. They may be more expensive than manual beds, but they offer more comfort and other customization opportunities.

3. Split adjustable beds: Such beds come with Independently adjustable side, therefore, they are the most suitable for couples with different sleeping preferences.

Key Features to Consider when Choosing an Adjustable Bed

1. Size

Adjustable beds come in various sizes, thus it's important to choose one that fits your specific needs. Here is how to get the right size when you want to buy an adjustable bed

a) Consider the capacity of the bedroom

When furnishing the bedroom, there are several items to include and a limited amount of space for them.  Outside of a bed, many people use the bedroom for clothing storage.  Sometimes this is done using a chest of drawers, a dresser-mirror combination or an armoire.  This is why the size of the bed is so important when setting up the bedroom space.  The biggest bed may not leave adequate room for other items, making the room feel too small.  A smaller bed may not be suitable for the number and size of those who will sleep in it.

Now, there are many bed sizes to choose from and even more things to consider when making your selection.  How many people will share the bed and how much space each will need in the bed are just the first two.  Another thing to think about is the size of the bedroom and the other large items that will be included in the room.  Then, comes something that many people tend to overlook…how the bed will fit through the doorway.

b) Consider the Dimensions and Weight 

Some bed sizes are able to be moved quite easily, as they are smaller and more lightweight.  These include adjustable beds in the Twin, Twin XL and Full sizes.  The most common size of doorway is around 30 inches wide, though some vary between 24 and 36 inches.  Doorway height is pretty standard at 80 inches.  So, for these smaller size adjustable beds, the widest being 54 inches, turning the bed on its side allows for rather seamless entry.

To accommodate more people or larger people, or those who like the extra room, a larger bed size may be preferred.  Queen, King and California King sizes are some of the more common large bed sizes.  The King is 76” wide and 80” long which can be more of a tight fit through the doorway.  What is even more challenging is fitting this and other larger sizes through narrow or winding hallways.  For this reason, one may consider a Split King Adjustable Bed.  This size bed provides the same sleep surface as a traditional King but comes as two pieces, both 38” wide and 80” long.  Being split in two allows you to move half of the bed at a time.

c) Extra Features

In addition to being lighter and easier to move, split adjustable beds may offer additional functionality as well.  For example, some can be set up for use so that each side of the bed can be operated separately.  Not every model comes in split sizes, but where this is an option it is something to consider.

The right size adjustable bed will meet your needs and fit in your space comfortably.  For some, what size is best may be impacted by factors such as the size of the bedroom and the size of the areas leading to the bedroom.  Be sure to think outside of the box when it comes to choosing a size, as there are more and more options available.  By doing so, you can ensure that you will enjoy all the benefits of your new adjustable bed in a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere.

2. Mattress type

adjustable bed

Some adjustable beds require a specific type of mattress, so it's important to choose a mattress that is compatible with your bed. Latex, hybrid and memory foam mattresses are usually the best to use with adjustable beds. These mattresses are flexible enough to match the curves of the adjustable bed base. And if you choose a company that uses high-quality foam and materials, the mattress will maintain its support and durability. 

3. Health Considerations

The main reason why people buy adjustable beds is for health problems relief. As a consequence, you should consider your health issues and their implications when choosing an adjustable bed.

  • Back pain: The adjustable bed can help in terms of diminishing the pain by lifting the head and feet allowing the lower back to relax off the pressure. 
  • Sleep apnea: An adjustable bed may mitigate the symptoms of sleep apnea by elevating the head to create narrower air passages where breathing is easier. 
  • Acid reflux: Sleeping in an adjustable bed can relieve acid reflux symptoms by raising the head which prevents the back flow of the stomach acid into the esophagus.

4. Personal Comfort Preferences

Besides tackling health issues, it is critical to take one's personal preferences on comfort while considering the best adjustable bed.

  • Mattress type: Adjustable bed generally is able to be use with most kind of mattress but you have to make sure that the mattress you choose is supportive and flexible.
  • Firmness level: The adjustable beds give you the scope of changing the firmness level, therefore, you need to buy a mattress that can be set to your desired level of firmness.
  • Size: The adjustable beds are available in different sizes and therefore it is essential to pick the one that suits your needs and the space of your room.

5. Brand Reputation

Brand reputation is one of the most important factors. Instead of just going to any brand, choose the one that has an excellent history of delivering perfect and robust adjustable bed. Some well-known brands representing the sector of the adjustable beds are the Leggett & Platt, Reverie, and Sleep Number to name a few.

6. Price vs.Quality

Besides, the price against the quality or performance of the adjustable bed is also an aspect to ponder on. It is understandable that going for the cheapest option seems more attractive, however a lower price may mean a lower quality of materials used and constructions. Also, a high price does not always guarantee the better quality type of product or service. It is considered wise to research the prices and features to get the best quality, considering the affordability at the same time.

7. Customer Reviews 

Customer's reviews are a perfect way to know the pros and cons of different brands and their respective models. Search for reviews from clients who have lately had the convertible bed scheduled ahead of time as they can open you up to what the bed could be like in the long run. Focus on frequent comments and problems illustrated in the responses and also positive feedbacks associated with the ease of use and comfort.

Consequently, an exercise worth your time is comparing different brands and models so as to get one that is most suited for your needs and is pocket friendly. Think of things that shape a brand like value for money, trustworthiness and customers satisfaction to help you take a good purchasing decision.

8. Warranty and Return Policies 

While buying adjustable bed, it’s worth taking into account warranty and the return policies. See the bed that comes with a warranty of at least 10 years. This will guarantee you are on the safe side when any issue occurs whether poor quality of the product or device failure.

An additional aspect worth mentioning is the return policy. Seek out an adjustable bed that is backed up with a generous warranty, e.g. a 30 day trial period. This will make it possible for you to test the same bed for yourself and send it back in the case where it does not work for you.

Ian Mutuli

About the author

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
Related Articles

30 Black and White Bedrooms with a Splash of Color

Black and white color schemes have always been synonymous with elegance, sophistication, and timeless style. Combining them with a carefully ...

Best Blinds for Bedroom for Undistracted and Restful Nap

Using blinds is a good way of adding convenience and comfort to any room. In this century, they are among ...

Best Bedroom Furniture Ideas: Designer Ideas That You Should Try

Whether or not you sleep a lot, having a relaxing bedroom you can settle in at the end of each ...