Do You Need a Special Mattress for an Adjustable Bed?: A Quick Guide

Posted by Andrea Reyes on
Dec 22, 2022

Do You Need a Special Mattress for an Adjustable Bed?

Adjustable beds are only getting more popular as time goes on. And that’s because they boast a myriad of benefits that provide you with a much better sleeping experience than a traditional bed can. You might have heard through the grapevine that you need a special type of mattress to get the most out of your adjustable bed. Could that be true or can any mattress work on an adjustable base? That’s what we’ll address in this article. Let’s get right into it!

What is an Adjustable Bed Base?

An adjustable bed base is a structure that enables you to alter the position of your bed in some way. Some adjustable bases are split down the middle for two sleepers to change their settings individually, and others are for single sleepers. Depending on the configuration, users may be able to lift the head of the bed to watch TV, raise the bottom portion of the bed to elevate their legs, etc. These bases are able to move freely because they have multiple hinges that move independently.

Can Any Mattress Work on an Adjustable Bed?

With that out of the way, here’s the answer to the question, “can any mattress work on an adjustable bed?” The answer is “No.” Not every mattress will be able to move to the extent that an adjustable bed base can without becoming damaged. If you don’t use the right mattress, you could experience many problems, the worst of which are mattress damage and diminished sleep quality.

By no means should you use a traditional spring mattress with an adjustable base. Traditional wire springs threaded together on a matrix lose their ability to bounce back over time, and if they’re used on an adjustable bed, they’ll wear out quicker. The point at which the bed bends will suffer the most wear and tear. What you’ll notice with your spring mattress after using it with an adjustable bed is that it will have permanent indentations, which can lead to a less-than-comfortable sleeping experience. So, we encourage you not to use a traditional spring mattress with your adjustable base.

Types of Mattresses to Use for Adjustable Beds

You know what type of mattress not to use for your adjustable bed. Now, you’re probably wondering what type of mattress you should use for your adjustable bed. Well, you have a couple of options. We’ll tell you about them below.

Memory Foam Mattresses

Most people have heard of memory foam mattresses because they’re among the most popular mattresses on the market right now. These mattresses are made of plastic (also called polyurethane) that’s been processed to take on a softer texture. Through its initial processing, it also gains the ability to hold the shape of an object when weight is applied to it and for a while after.

Memory foam mattresses work for adjustable beds because of their ability to bounce back after long periods. They also don’t have any springs. So you won’t have to worry about premature wear.

Types of Memory Foam Mattresses

In case you didn’t know, there are several types of memory foam mattresses, and each has its own benefits and characteristics. In this section, we’ll tell you about all of the memory foam mattress types you’ll come across.

Regular Memory Foam

Regular memory foam (also called traditional memory foam) is the most basic type of memory foam. It is soft and conforming when weight is applied. When you lie down on it, you’ll feel like you’re sinking into comfort. And when you get up from the mattress, it will slowly go back to its normal shape. The only downside to traditional memory foam is that it can sleep hot. This is a major con for those who tend to sweat at night or prefer cool mattresses.

Open Cell Memory Foam

Open-cell memory foam mattresses are similar to traditional memory foam mattresses in that they are both made of polyurethane foam. But the main difference between open cell and traditional memory foam lies in the mattress’s construction. Open-cell memory foam features openings that allow for enhanced airflow and cooler sleep for you. Those who sleep on open-cell memory foam mattresses report cooler, more comfortable nights.

Gel Memory Foam

Gel memory foam is different from both of the above memory foam types. It is made of foam that’s infused with cooling gel beads. These beads make the foam cool to the touch, reducing the amount of heat that’s retained in the mattress. As you might expect, that means cooler rest.

Latex Mattresses

Latex mattresses also pair well with adjustable bases, as they are super flexible and retain their shape after being folded. Latex mattresses are made of latex, of course. And latex is derived from rubber.

The best thing about latex is that it doesn’t overheat. It’s also delightfully soft and comfortable, though it doesn’t conform to the body as well as memory foam. It also helps to relieve pressure points for less pain at night and over time.

Latex mattresses are also much more durable than most mattress types, so they tend to be more expensive.

Certain Spring Mattresses

We mentioned earlier that traditional spring mattresses don’t work well with adjustable beds. And that’s true. But there’s a special type of spring mattress that can be bent out of shape without losing its shape or becoming damaged - one with pocket springs. Pocket spring mattresses have springs that are individually wrapped rather than tethered to each other using wires. These individual springs allow the bed considerable flexibility.

Just know that memory foam and latex mattresses are better suited to adjustable bases than pocket spring mattresses. But if you go with either of the three mattresses in this section, you’ll have made a good decision.

Should You Get a Bed with an Adjustable Base?

Are you on the fence as to whether you should get a bed with an adjustable base? Soon, you’ll know why many people are making the switch to these beds. Let’s get into some of the main benefits of adjustable bases.

The ability to use the bed the way you want to. Split adjustable bed bases allow partners to adjust their half of the bed independently of the other. This means that if one partner wants to sit up and watch TV, they can raise the head of their bed without disturbing their bedmate.
Adjustable beds improve your posture. Do you sit slumped over without trying to or prop up pillows to try to correct your posture? With an adjustable bed, you’ll be able to adjust the upper portion of the bed in such a way that it’ll be easier for you to maintain proper posture. The result is improved back and neck pain and the prevention of new back and neck issues.
Adjustable bed bases help to alleviate sleep apnea and acid reflux. Sleep apnea can be improved by adjusting the height of the head of your bed. Adjustable beds allow you to do that for nightly relief. In addition, acid reflux symptoms are often worsened by lying down flat. With an adjustable bed, you’ll be able to raise your upper body up to reduce those symptoms. These are not the only medical issues that can be improved by using an adjustable bed.

Get a Quality Mattress for Your Adjustable Bed

You now know the types of mattresses that work for adjustable bases. But it’s important to know that not all mattresses are created equal. We encourage you to take the time to do considerable research before choosing one, as a good mattress is a sizeable investment.

If you want to pair a memory foam mattress with your adjustable bed base, consider one of the following mattresses for the best sleep you’ve ever had:

Any of the above memory foam mattresses will give you the pressure point relief, conforming comfort, and coolness you need for restful sleep. They’re manufactured by a leader in the mattress industry and come with substantial warranties, making them virtually risk-free. Regardless of the mattress you choose, we hope that you found all the information you needed to get the most out of your adjustable bed base.