If you think the adjustable bed is only reserved for hospital wards, then think again. More and more people need all the help they can get to get a good night’s sleep. And let’s face it, we spend about one-third of our lives in bed, so it makes sense to make the most of that piece of furniture.
The Dutch and the Scandinavian countries have discovered the pleasures of sleeping on an alterable surface. In the Netherlands, the proportion of households with such a bed is a whopping 70 percent. There’s something to think about because we all know that these Europeans rank way up there when it comes to health and wellness.
Stop fluffing about with the pillows to find the optimum position. With a perfect adjustable bed, you will be able to set the ideal setting so that you can catch the perfect night’s rest.
In the process, you might even say goodbye to snoring. That will put a smile on your partner’s face.
If these first words got you thinking, you might be wondering what the top bedframe brands are. This article aims to shed some light on that. Furthermore, you will want to know more about the benefits, the types of mattresses that work best, how they can help you and disabled people and the technical aspects in general.
Automatic Bed Frame (Buying Guide)
The human body is supple and relaxes better when it is in a comfortable position. If you sleep better on your back, you are definitely on the safe side with an adjustable bed. Under the right conditions, everyone can improve their sleep quality.
But it is important to be aware of all of the information before making a purchasing decision. We aim to tell you all there is to know so that you can avoid the most obvious pitfalls and buy a product that suits your needs for the right price.
What is an Adjustable Bed?
Being able to elevate certain elements of the bed helps the blood circulation in the legs is improved, and the sacrum is relieved. In this way, tensions in the back are reduced.
The mere fact that you lie on a large area ensures that there are fewer pressure points on the body. Usually, top-quality adjustable beds provide the sacrum with comfortable support so that the shoulders go up.
By being able to lift both the head and foot end, one achieves a high level of comfort and has the opportunity to find the optimal sleeping position.
Do you sleep on the side, on the stomach or the back – or do you take different positions during the night?
These are all questions that the right bed can answer.
Our body reacts to pressure and constantly tries to find the best possible position. Squeezed nerves change the situation so that with every deep movement sleep is broken off.
It ensures that the chest is a little higher, allowing for easier breathing. Even snoring can be reduced. If you spend a lot of time in bed due to illness, this feature is especially important. Relieving the hip muscles makes for comfortable support.
It allows the use of the bedroom for more than just sleep. If you have trouble relaxing, an adjustable bed can be a great place to watch TV, work or socialize.
Sizes
They come in various sizes:
- Single size
- Two single mattresses on separate surfaces that work individually but fasten together to form a double if required.
- ‘Dual’ beds are a double-bed surface with two distinct appliances, allowing for each side to operate independently.
- Double beds – double size with a single operating mechanism.
Also available in the following sizes:
- Single size – 3ft x 6.3ft
- Small double size – 4ft x 6.3ft
- Queen size – 6ft x 6.3ft
- King size – 5ft x 6.6ft
- Super king size – 6ft x 6.6ft
When sleeping alone, a bed with a single mechanism is the best choice – depending how much space you want, go for a single or double size that moves as one.
Dual beds are best if you sleep with your partner, or two joinable surfaces connecting to form a double with autonomous controls. This way, each person can choose his or her sleeping position. It’s the most recommended option if you do not want to disturb your partner at night when you move the bed.
Accessories
As with most things nowadays, there are quite a few extras you can get to make your bedtime and sleeping experience the best there is.
- Fixed reading lamps that attach to the headrest. It’s perfect if you like reading a book before sleeping. Also, the targeted light will not disturb your partner.
- If not already included like with the Leggett & Platt models, this light located under the bed is activated by a motion sensor and is ideal as a safety precaution when moving about in the night.
- For the epicureans and bon-vivants among you make sure to get a massage system for an added sense of wellness.
- If you are less agile and have trouble walking, a movable handrail that attaches to the frame will aid you in getting to your feet from a reclining position.
- Or if you are the practical type, pick out the perfect matching ottoman and place it at the end of the bed to store things.
Weight Capacity
It is best to purchase your changeable frame based on your size and weight. Also, you must consider whether you are sleeping alone or if you have a partner with whom you share your bed.
A small tip before we look at the weight range: If you and your significant other are on the upper end of the weight spectrum, think about getting a 100-watt electric motor for better performance.
As a general rule of thumb, lower-end surfaces do not have the same support as the qualitatively better products. The spectrum ranges from 350 to 450 lbs. At the lower end to 700 lbs. At the higher end.
Warranties and Return Policies
It is essential to be aware of the fact that we are dealing with an item that has movable electronic parts – like a car if you will. The return policy and warranties will differentiate depending on the supplier.
It is imperative that you ask the salesperson before committing yourself to a purchase because unlike a mattress that can invariably be popped back in the post and replaced, you are dependent on the company for a repair.
What to look out for:
You definitely need a few years of full protection. In other words, the manufacturer should be committed to repairing a damaged bed without charge in the first year (this is the period when most of the problems crop up). After that, you should look out for a warranty that covers repairs for a few years. Unfortunately, in most cases, this will not include labor costs.
Another option is the pro-rated warranty that covers parts and also the labor. The level and scope of this coverage decrease as the product ages.
Be sure to ask about the return policy. In some cases, they can be quite rigid. In short, it can be said that the supplier does not want your bed back because it is costly to transport – double check and be happy.
Pros of Using Reclining Bed
It is a huge relief when you can put your legs up after a hard, stressful day. An electric slatted frame is ideal for this purpose, and you can also lift the foot area. For the foot area, the joint is approximately at the height of the knees.
Raising The Head & Feet
For a better night’s sleep raising the legs, a few inches above the heart can make all of the difference. With your legs in an elevated position, the blood can escape the veins in your legs during the night and course through the entire body.
If you haven’t tried it, give it a whirl – it feels incredible and also, the risk of inflammation drops substantially. Comfort and feeling are two great benefits but have you thought about the way you look. For ladies, it’s a great trick to make your legs appear even more youthful than they already are.
Combine this with slightly raising the level of your head so you can improve oxygen levels reaching the brain. Also, the heart is less stressed because you are positioned in a more upright way. Like with the legs, Sleeping with your head raised reduces puffiness around the eyes. And when you next have the flu, do it to minimize mucus build in the sinuses.
Small tip: combine this method with the zero gravity hack for even more health benefits.
Zero Gravity
Ever wanted to be an astronaut in the comfort of your own home? With most adjustable beds you can attain a sleeping position in which you almost feel as if you are floating on air. If fine-tuned correctly, most of the pressure is taken away from the usual points on the back in contrast to lying on a conventional sleeping surface.
How does it work?
The movable mattress raises the feet to the same level as your heart. This is the same posture astronauts adopt during takeoff and landing. It creates a sense of weightlessness, consequently taking the pressure off the back and spine. Additionally, sleeping like this ensures a better night’s sleep.
The benefits of this position are both on a medicinal and lifestyle plane. For one, it can help fight back pain and reduce swelling in the legs. Secondly, lying in an elevated position will lower or maybe even stop your snoring.
Adjustable Positions
You can set the frame at the push of a button with the help of electric motors to any desired lying position. It’s usually possible to regulate the head and foot area separately without any effort. Also, it is especially convenient that you can change the settings while you are in bed.
When you alter the sleeping surface incorrectly, you will, fortunately, notice this immediately. All you have to do is realign the framework until the perfect lying position is achieved. This benefit significantly increases sleeping comfort and the ease of use.
There are multiple positions at your disposal. We suggest you try out a few and decide which one suits you best.
Cons of A Remote Control Frame
Where there is light, there is also invariably a shadow. Although the adjustable bedframe has many advantages, there are a few things that might not appeal to you. In this next section, we will take a more in-depth look at the two of the most touted cons.
Price
Investing in a mattress, a bed frame, sheets and good pillows are already pricey, but the remote control frame adds significant extra cost to your investment. Although we have already looked at the Adjustable Motion Essential III from Serta (the budget option), shelling out something to the tune of close 1,000 Dollars is no small matter.
Yes, comfort and luxury always come at a price. You can already imagine yourself lying on your bed enjoying a massage, relieving all of the tension in your back. Your partner is happy because all she has to do is press a button and your snoring dies down in a few moments because of the anti-snore feature on your adjustable bed. It’s bliss through and through.
However, having all of these perks all depends on the model and correspondingly the price. And once you have decided which option to go for, you still need a mattress (we will look into the best sleeping surfaces for adjustable beds later) and a bed frame. We suggest you shop around for the top deals. Sometimes, retailers offer combo deals, which can considerably lower the price.
Mechanics
You wouldn’t be moving around without the mechanics that make it happen. The traditional bed is already heavy but try one of these, and you will know the true concept of heavy. Due to all the nuts and bolts, it takes a man such as Hercules to lift the product up when it arrives.
However, having said that, the assembly is relatively straightforward. During our market research, we uncovered that very few customers have trouble building up their new adjustable beds because they are for the most part delivered in a completed state.
It is important to note that when there are electronics involved problems do tend to crop up. Usually, the major ones occur within the first year. When you are with the salesperson make sure to ask about the warranty and return policy. There’s nothing worse than having your big-ticket item in your bedroom stand idly in a misshaped position.
Which brings us to another point. Make sure to have an emergency reset mode so that the mattress can realign even when there is a technical difficulty. You don’t want to spend days sleeping on the sofa until the repairman comes round.
Automatic Bed Frame (Guide)
Perfect Alignment
Are you someone who tosses and turns during the night and never finds the right sleeping position? The chances are that your mattress is at fault are very high. Sure, a new mattress is a good place to start, but the adjustable frame is another option you should consider putting on the table.
For starters, you would be able to arrange the sleeping surface in such a way that you are supported in all of the places that matter to you. We are unique. Every person has his or her quirks and foibles, and that does not stop in the bedroom.
If you sleep on the side, you will be able to align the mattress in such a way that you are supported in all of the right places. We already mentioned the zero gravity option in this article, which is great for back sleepers. And we had a look at the benefits of the head and feet raised position. All of them are very good; it all depends on which one you prefer. All in all, having an ideal adjustable bed frame will aid you in attaining the perfect alignment.
Correct Weight Distribution
In concert with perfect alignment comes the correct distribution of weight so that your spine is not strained during the night. This is the second most important thing after the sleeping position. By adjusting the elevation of the mattress in different parts, you can find the optimal position and thus reduce or avoid pains and wake up feeling refreshed in the morning.
The mission is to reduce pressure, and we are all different. You may have a curvaceous figure with uneven weight distribution that needs the perfect alignment of the sleeping surface to catch those ZZZ’s. Or you may be of the slimmer and more angular type.
In this case, less mattress shaping is required. No matter who you are, an adjustable bed will help you find those contours on your body and shape accordingly.
More Comfortable
With the perfect alignment and weight distribution in place, you will automatically feel far more comfortable. The spine is not strained, blood circulation in the legs is optimal, and you feel as if you are floating in zero gravity because there is absolutely no drag.
It will take a lot of experimenting, but in time, you will find what’s right for you. Also, with just the touch of a button, you can shift your position so that your upper body is slightly elevated for reading or watching TV. And when you do slowly drift off, all you have to do is press a button, and the bed will glide into sleeping mode, providing you with the best night’s sleep.
You will wake up feeling relaxed and refreshed due to the increased level of comfort. And if you did wake up in the night, you will hardly remember because the ambient lighting under the bed will have saved your toes from a serious stubbing. And get a load of this. Instead of the harsh trill of an alarm, you can wake up to a subtle massage in the mornings that you pre-programmed the night before.
Better Relaxation
And the massage is not only to wake-up. Some beds have more than ten intensity settings, allowing for the ideal treatment just for you. Your partner can join you for a couple’s massage on his or her side. Depending on the model, you can have alternate massage experiences because of the individual electric motors and separate surfaces.
We all need good health to be relaxed. The adjustable bed frame aids in that quest. It is not for no reason that hospitals have them for their patients. Relieving pressure to the lower back can reduce insomnia. You can also improve circulation, digestion and more by just sleeping in the right pose.
Not feeling the pull of gravity on your frame is another plus. By lifting the legs slightly above the heart, you can replicate an astronaut’s position during takeoff – no more needs to be said on this one if you paid attention to the section covering the zero gravity position.
Type of Mattresses That Work Best
You are not done yet. The type of mattress you use is also essential to create the ideal sleeping experience. Also, your choice also has an impact on the mattress itself. It all depends on what type of person you are. And let’s now see why.
Memory Foam
Typically, memory foam is the ideal companion for your movable frame. We say this for some reasons. Firstly, when you change the position of the bed, you can leave it like that with out damaging your sleeping surface; this is because as the name suggests, the memory foam version does not have springs and coils that can get damaged because of prolonged re-alignment.
Also, they are better suited for the massage option many adjustable beds have, and they are very adaptable to the contours of your body shape. However, some people might find that they sag too much in certain places. And additionally, due to the material, body heat gets stored, making it too hot for some. If you are allergic to certain natural fibers, you might want to consider memory foam as it is hypoallergenic and has a long lifespan.
It is a personal choice. Some of you might swear by them, and others might prefer the traditional sleeping surface.
Spring
This is the type of mattress your parents slept on. They are constructed with coiled springs and padded tops. Depending on the firmness, it might not be the best choice for your adjustable bed. However, many manufacturers make them, especially for this purpose. It is best to inquire when deciding to make a purchase.
If you always remember to return the position of the bed to the original flat state and have chosen the right model, then you can consider this option. The spring comes in various forms. You can choose from soft, medium to hard, making them suitable for every sleeping position.
You can spend a lot of money and very little on a spring. It all depends on the brand, material, and thickness. But remember that their lifespan could be shortened because of all the moving about. As we already stated, memory foam lasts longer.
Air-mattresses
The air-mattress is generally filled with many air pockets. You can adjust the firmness by simply adding and reducing air pressure. However, only certain types are suitable for a movable bed.
If you insist on this option, you must know that single chamber air-mattresses are far too rigid. On the other hand, multiple chambers are better. However, sometimes the airflow can be impeded because of the altered shape when adjusted and moved.
When you are surfing online or in a mattress store, remember that durability, flexibility, support, and thickness are the key criteria you should be considering.
Top 5 Adjustable Beds Reviewed
The following are the top five brands we discovered during our market research. You will learn all you need to know about the technical specifications and get our rating regarding usability and comfort.
Leggett & Platt Prodigy 2.0 – Perfect Durability
Features:
- Changeable legs for optimal height
- Newest generation capacitive touch remote.
- Unique MicroHook mattress retention
- Both sides have full-body massage capabilities
- The anti-snore control
Our Ratings: 9.8/10
These guys know what they are doing. They have been in the business for about 125 years. This bed frame comes with all sorts of extras. In short, it’s an all-in-one solution.
After having tested this product, it is safe to say that overall it delivers all that is promised in terms of appearance, efficiency and the movement of the changeable frame. However, it is an expensive indulgence, but you will love how it flawlessly hugs the wall.
Unfortunately, the remote does not come with a rechargeable base – conventional 3 AAA batteries are needed. It’s not a major issue but something we picked up on. Another thing is that the touchscreen on the remote control is very sensitive and all over the place.
It’s all good unless you drop it and have to pick it up in the night – you may find yourself moving your partner around, waking them up.
On that note, the app is rather a disappointment – many of the reviews on ITunes point this out. And this is a shame because most of the massage features are only accessible via the app. When we asked, the company told us that they are in the process of improving it.
Reverie 7S Adjustable Bed – Great Option
Features:
- A large selection of different massage
- Remote control for optimal controlling of all of the features
- Cotton surface and is adjustable to almost any angle
Our Ratings: 9.5/10
This option is ideal because it conforms to the shape of your body, allowing for an optimal sleeping position throughout the night. Also, it is a sturdy product that lasts for ages.
One of the things we noticed first is that this flexible surface suits most types of mattresses on the market. It is a very flexible choice as it snugly fits into almost all bedframes as well.
Although it may not be as optically appealing as a touch screen remote control with its conventional buttons, it is straightforward to use and has all of the options at your disposal. It does not matter really because you can use the app instead. It is simple to use and works like a dream.
This company is so sure of themselves that they offer a 25-year warranty. And it is an affordable option in an otherwise expensive segement.
Leggett & Platt S-Cape 2.0 – Ideal For Couples
Features:
- Excellent wall-hugger engineering
- Easy to use backlit remote control with safety-lock features
- The anti-snore control
- Massage for all the body with the wave effect
Our Ratings: 9.3/10
This queen-sized version is from the same manufacturer as the first option.
On that note, the app is rather a disappointment – many of the reviews on iTunes point this out. And this is a shame because most of the massage features are only accessible via the app.
This adaptable base alternative is very easy to assemble. However, before you think about saving on the installation team setting it up for you, we want to tell you that it is cumbersome. At the minimum, two people are needed. But the moment you have it in your bedroom, it will be up and running in no time.
The same as before, the company needs to do some work on the app to improve the overall experience.
Just as when we ordered and tested Leggett & Platt Prodigy 2.0, the customer service was forthcoming and helpful. Overall, the Leggett & Platt S-Cape 2.0 is a cozy and very comfortable option for couples.
Adjustable Motion Essential III (Serta) – Budget Friendly
Features:
- It comes with a remote for optimal control.
- Specially engineered super quiet motors
- One-touch zero gravity button
- Flat with just a button
Our Ratings: 9.2/10
We chose to look at the Serta model because of the good things we heard about it and also we wanted to have a budget-friendly option on the table.
As the title of this review suggests, the Adjustable Motion Essential III by Serta is a great value alternative if you want to enjoy the benefits of an adjustable surface at a reasonable price in comparison to the competition.
When it is delivered, it arrives in two boxes. Know that they are heavy, so maybe a dolly might help for the stairs. However, once you have it where you need it, the assembly is fast and easy.
Remember to have batteries at hand, and you will be all set to go in this well-built bed bought at an affordable price.
Ease Adjustable Base by Sealy – Easy to Use
Features:
- Especially designed to match and work along with the mattress.
- One touch flat button.
- Virtually unlimited ergonomic positions.
- Wireless remote control to manage all the options.
Our Ratings: 9/10
If you are looking for a quick response and all of the options, the Ease Adjustable base by Sealy might be the one for you.
The Ease Adjustable Base by Sealy is delivered fully assembled except for the legs – it’s heavy. It takes two people to transport.
Unfortunately, this model does not come with adjustable legs. For some, this is of no consequence, but if your bed frame is low or you tend to be on the shorter side, it could be a problem.
Another thing is that the remote and the control of the base are very basic. There is no favorite position setting and no app. Furthermore, if you are looking for a massage in bed, you will be disappointed.
FAQ
Can Electric Bed Help Disabled People?
The modern, multi-functional electric bed offers comfort and is modern in design. Also, they are great for couples if they do not want to sleep in separate rooms – single mattresses allow for both parties to adjust their preferred sleeping position individually. The following bullets show the advantages for you and disabled people.
- The height of the lying surface can be adjusted so that exiting and entering is made easier.
- The head and foot areas are adjustable for better circulation. Also, if there is a caregiver, he or she can easily move the person.
- It is comfortable for sitting for eating and reading because of the adjustment of the backrest
- They look chicer, more modern and attractive than a regular hospital bed but have the benefits of a comfortable, multifunctional nursing bed.
- In same cases, a lifting frame must be added.
Can a Motion Bed Stop Snoring?
Snoring can be unhealthy for one person and highly irritating for someone sharing the bed. A motion bed is the best option to combat it. Being able to adjust the sleeping surface allows for the optimal sleeping position.
Elevation of the head clears the air passage as opposed to sleeping flat on your back, which is the primary cause of snoring. Another plus of the motion bed is that you can distribute your body weight throughout the sleeping surface. Also, an altered surface will keep you in a comfortable place, combatting rolling around.
Can Remote Control Mattresses Stop Back Pain Problem?
If you suffer from backaches, a remote control mattress is a way to go. By aligning your sleeping surface into the right position, you can reduce pressure on the problem zones. Also, it improves circulation to the legs, and through even body weight distribution no individual part of your physique does most of the heavy lifting work.
Also, in some cases, the massage feature can help alleviate aches. If you do have problems, this is an ideal option for people who suffer from back pain. As we already mentioned in this article, the Dutch swear by them and not all of them have back problems.
Should Seniors or Elderly Consider a Reclining Bed?
If it is in the budget, the answer is a definite yes. Reclining beds do not have to look like something out of the hospital. Nowadays, they are stylish so that your elderly family member won’t even notice the difference optically. It’s important for self-esteem.
Being able to move everything about makes reading, eating, exiting and entering the bed a lot easier and more enjoyable. The optimal sleeping position can be achieved, reducing the risk of back problems. As we age, circulation becomes very important. By elevating the legs and head, you can accomplish this.
Our Final Thoughts
We hope that you now have a better idea of the flexible bed. As you now know, there are many different options out there. Hopefully, you feel well-equipped, thanks to our highest quality product analysis, to make a purchase should you be in the market for a new bed.
Research is everything! Also, make sure to choose a well-thought-of brand. There is no better place to invest than in yourself. By making sure you are comfortable and well-supported, you can reduce long-term health problems when you are older.
See the adjustable bed as a sort of future-proof alternative, and you will have fun on the way while you are using it.