Benefits of Using an Adjustable Bed

Sleep is a vital part of our health and well-being, but many struggle to get enough, sometimes as a result of their sleeping position. Unlike a traditional flat bed, the adjustable bed is an innovative bedroom furniture that allows sleepers a range of positions for personalized comfort. Adjustment beds serve to provide both health and lifestyle benefits, which we’ll explore and decide whether it makes sense in your bedroom.

Understanding Adjustable Beds

Adjustable beds, adjustable bed base, or also known as ergonomic beds, are no longer exclusive to hospitals. They have become a popular choice in homes, offering multiple benefits for sleep health and convenience. Adjustable beds allow sleepers to adjust the incline and recline of their bed, effectively providing customization for the position of your body with the touch of a button. Some models come with additional features like massage functions or programmable positions. This flexibility gives you the chance to improve both comfort and sleep quality by choosing positions that relieve discomfort and allow better posture.

Key Health Advantages of Adjustable Beds

Adjustable beds offer a myriad of health benefits, like the alleviation of various physical ailments and improvements to overall sleep quality. The health benefits of adjustable beds include:

• Alleviation of back pain and improved posture
• Enhanced circulation and reduced swelling
• Easing of breathing and reduction of sleep apnea symptoms, including chronic snoring
• Digestive benefits and relief from acid reflux

Back Pain, GERD, and Snoring: Can Adjustable Beds Help?

If you're suffering from chronic back pain, adjustable beds can be life-changing. By raising the head or legs, you can reduce spinal pressure and sleep in a position that promotes comfort and relief. It’s particularly helpful for individuals with GERD (Gastroesophageal reflux disease), as elevating the upper body can reduce acid reflux, leading to a better night's sleep. For those with breathing difficulties or sleep apnea, elevating the head also helps to open airways, reducing the chances of interrupted sleep.

Do Adjustable Beds Help with Snoring?

For partners sharing a bed with snorers, an adjustable bed may be a worthwhile investment to help with reducing snoring. By elevating the head while sleeping, it open the airways and reduces throat vibrations that often cause snoring. The slight incline also improves airflow, easing breathing and minimizes risk of obstructions, which leads to better sleep quality and a quieter, more restful night for both snorer and their partner.

Do Adjustable Beds Help with Sleep Quality?

According to one study, using an adjustable bed significantly improves sleep quality and duration. Participants who used an adjustable bed base experienced more time in bed, increased total sleep time, improved REM sleep, and fewer awakenings throughout the night. Additionally, participants reported better comfort and sleep satisfaction, noting improvements in falling asleep quicker and staying asleep longer. The results potentially point to adjustable beds being a solution for enhancing both objective sleep measures and personal sleep experiences.

Are Adjustable Beds Good for Side Sleepers?

Side sleepers can also benefit from adjustable beds, particularly if they experience hip or shoulder discomfort. Adjusting the bed to elevate the legs slightly can relieve pressure on the hips and maintain proper spinal alignment. Side sleepers should still continue to use a body pillow, particularly to elevate and create support between their legs. The ability to customize the bed’s position can greatly improve comfort for those who prefer side sleeping.

Lifestyle and Convenience Benefits

Beyond the health benefits, adjustable beds also offer lifestyle perks. If you enjoy reading, watching TV, or working from bed, the ability to adjust your position can make these activities more comfortable. Despite its convenience, Rest sleep expert, Dr. Roban warns against screen use or non-sleep related activities in bed, as associations of wakeful behaviors may cause difficulties falling asleep. Whether you’re sitting up or reclining, adjustable beds can provide a versatile space for relaxation.

Customized Comfort for King-Size and Split Beds

Many adjustable beds are available in king-size options, and some even come as split king models where each side of the bed can be adjusted independently. This feature is particularly helpful for couples with different sleep needs, allowing each person to adjust their side to their own comfort level.

Adjustable Bed Questions & Answers

Mattress Compatibility & Thickness

Do I need a special mattress for an adjustable bed? Which mattresses are suitable for adjustable beds?

Yes, you’ll need a mattress that can flex with the adjustable bed’s positions. Memory foam, latex, and hybrid mattresses are great options as they are flexible enough to work with the frame and can contour to the bed’s movements.

Can you use any mattress with an adjustable bed base / bed frame?

Not all mattresses are compatible with adjustable beds. Mattresses like traditional innerspring models might not offer the needed flexibility. Check with the manufacturer to ensure compatibility.

How thick should a mattress be for an adjustable bed? Is a 14-inch mattress too thick for an adjustable bed?

Ideally, a mattress for an adjustable bed should be between 10 and 12 inches thick. Thicker models, like 14-inch mattresses, may not be flexible enough for optimal performance and become less responsive to the bed's adjustments. A thinner mattress is typically more effective for adjustability.

Sheets for Adjustable Beds

What sheets stay on an adjustable bed?

Deep-pocket fitted sheets, such as the Evercool®+ Cooling Fitted Sheets are designed to wrap around adjustable beds with its ultra-wide, grippy elastic band. These Rest sheets stay on even as the bed moves between positions without wrinkling and can further enhance your sleep environment with its cooling effect.

What sheets do you use on a split king adjustable bed?

Split king adjustable beds require separate fitted sheets for each mattress. For the top sheet, you can use either separate blankets or one large king-size duvet.

Bed Size & Options

Do two Twin XL mattresses equal a king?

Yes, two Twin XL mattresses together equal the size of a standard king mattress. This setup is ideal for split king adjustable beds where each side can be adjusted independently.

Are there adjustable options available for king-size beds?

Yes, many brands offer adjustable king-size beds, and some even offer split king options, allowing couples to adjust each side separately.

Can a king-size bed frame be used for a California king?

No, a king-size frame is not compatible with a California king mattress because the dimensions differ. A California king is longer but narrower than a standard king.

Can you put a queen-size mattress on a full-size frame?

No, a queen mattress is larger than a full-size frame and would not fit properly.

Can a full-size mattress fit on a queen-size bed frame?

No, a full-size mattress is smaller than a queen-size frame and would leave gaps around the edges, making it unstable and uncomfortable.

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