Choosing Your Adjustable Bed Mattress

Adjustable beds are just one of the many different options available to American consumers. In using the term "adjustable bed" we are referring to a metal framed bed with two points of articulation. It allows for changing the elevation of both the head and feet. Some folks choose an adjustable bed for medical reasons, while others simply because they sleep better with this type of arrangement. If you are considering purchasing an adjustable bed for yourself, you might find it beneficial to consider your mattress choice first.

Whether you plan to use your current mattress or replace it with a new one, having an adjustable bed will be of minimal benefit if your mattress is unable to work properly with it. What good would it do to invest the money in an adjustable bed only to find that you must use it in the flat position because your mattress does not fold and bend well? Not much, that's for sure. On the other hand, the right mattress choice along with your adjustable bed could revolutionize the way you sleep.

Foam Mattresses

Everyone has their own preferences about what type of mattress is most comfortable. But strictly from a mechanical standpoint, a foam mattress is generally the best choice for use with an adjustable bed. A foam mattress tends to fold much easier, hold up much better, and still retain its shape regardless of regular changes in elevation. That being said, you should still ask a salesperson about particular foam mattresses that might do better on adjustable beds than others.

If it's a choice between memory foam and latex foam, memory foam will probably give you the most flexibility. It is much more porous and viscous than latex and it also returns to its natural shape much more easily. However, it does tend to sleep a bit hotter. Of the two types of latex, synthetic and natural, natural latex will give you better durability and a more conforming shape.

Coil Spring Mattresses

Coil spring mattresses have been the standard in the United States for at least several generations. They are generally very affordable, durable, and can last 25 to 30 years. However, their design and construction make them the poorest choice for an adjustable bed - unless of course they are made specifically for that purpose. Even lying flat a coiled spring mattress produces pressure points which can cause all sorts of aches and pains. But when you throw articulation into the equation those pressure points can be magnified.

Also, because coil springs tend to be very inflexible these types of mattresses tend to be unforgiving along the fold lines. This could cause wear and tear that might eventually result in springs popping through the outside surface of the mattress.

There are some U.S. mattress manufacturers who do make coiled spring models specifically for adjustable beds. As long as you match the appropriate sized mattress with the bed frame you can avoid most of the issues typically seen when using a coil spring mattress with an adjustable bed frame.

Adjustable Air Mattresses

Believe it or not there are those who believe that since both adjustable air mattresses and adjustable bed frames have so many benefits, simply combining the two would make the perfect bed. Unfortunately it's not reality. While an adjustable air mattress is more often a better choice for adjustable beds than a coil spring mattress, they still aren't ideal unless they've been specifically designed for the task.

The problem with using the air mattress lies in the fact that the folding action of an adjustable bed will probably cause creases in the air chambers which could cause deflation or a bulging spot.

An adjustable air mattress also needs a firm foundation underneath in order to give the user maximum comfort. With some adjustable bed frames that's not a problem because they are built with a solid plate between the frame and the mattress. But other adjustable beds leave out the plate, thus failing to provide the support the air mattress needs.

Although it should be obvious, you should never even consider using a water bed mattress with an adjustable bed. A water bed mattress needs a very specific frame and foundation in order to prevent it from rupturing. Using a water bed mattress on the adjustable bed could result in small punctures or a total failure.