Adjustable Beds & Mattresses: Benefits, Uses & Choosing the Right One

What is an adjustable bed?

If you’ve ever propped yourself up in bed with a stack of pillows to get comfy - whether for reading, watching TV, or easing a sore back - then you already understand the idea behind an adjustable bed. The difference is, adjustable beds do it properly.

At the touch of a button, you can raise or lower different parts of an adjustable bed base to find a comfortable sleeping position that suits you best. Most let you adjust the head and foot end independently, which means better support, better comfort, and for many people, better sleep.

Adjustable beds have come a long way from their hospital roots. Today’s models are quiet, stylish, and packed with thoughtful features like massage settings, USB ports, under-bed lighting, and even memory positions.

Whether you're living with back pain, managing a condition like acid reflux or sleep apnoea, or simply want to make bedtime more relaxing, an adjustable bed could make a real difference. And with so many options now available - from entry-level frames to top-end tech - it’s easier than ever to find one that fits both your needs and your budget.

In this guide, we’ll explain who they’re for, how they help, and what to look for when choosing the right one.

Who are adjustable beds for?

Adjustable bed frames can support a wide range of needs - medical, practical and lifestyle. Here are some of the most common reasons people choose an adjustable bed:

Acid reflux and night-time heartburn

Raising the upper body slightly while you sleep can help prevent stomach acid from travelling back up the oesophagus - one of the main causes of acid reflux and heartburn.

Back pain and aching joints

If you wake up stiff or sore, especially in the lower back, an adjustable bed could help. Adjustable sleeping positions relieve pressure on the spine and joints, helping ease discomfort while you sleep.

Man with aching back

Snoring, sleep apnoea and breathing difficulties

Raising the head end of the bed can open up the airways and reduce snoring - especially useful if your partner’s a light sleeper! It can also support better breathing for those with conditions like asthma or obstructive sleep apnoea.

Mobility and independence

If getting in and out of bed is difficult, having a bed that adjusts at the touch of a button can make daily life far easier. Adjustable beds are a fantastic aid for independent living or for carers helping loved ones.

What are the benefits of adjustable beds?

Aside from specific health needs, adjustable beds offer a number of everyday perks: Here are some of the key benefits our customers tell us make the biggest difference:

Better sleep quality - An adjustable bed can fine-tune your position to relieve pressure points, improve circulation, and support natural spinal alignment. It’s especially helpful for side sleepers and those who toss and turn during the night.
Improved breathing - Raising the upper body slightly can make a difference for those who struggle with snoring, asthma or sleep apnoea. It helps keep the airways open and reduces the likelihood of interrupted sleep.
Less pain and stiffness - Whether it’s a bad back, sore hips or arthritic knees, adjustable positions can help manage chronic pain, reduce swelling, and make it easier to get comfortable.
Greater independence and comfort - For those who may find it difficult to get in and out of bed or sit up without assistance, being able to adjust the bed independently helps maintain dignity, control, and day-to-day comfort. It can make a big difference for carers, too.
Ideal for reading, TV and relaxing - Sometimes it’s just about comfort. Adjustable beds offer a more supportive and comfortable way to relax in bed, whether you're reading, watching TV, or having a cuppa, without piling up the pillows.

Woman asleep in bed

How to choose the right adjustable bed

Choosing an adjustable bed can feel like a big decision, especially with so many models and features on the market. But don’t worry. With a few key considerations in mind, it’s easy to narrow things down and find the right fit for your needs, your home, and your budget.

Mattress compatibility

Not all mattresses work with adjustable bases. Memory foam, latex, and hybrid mattresses are generally ideal because they’re flexible enough to bend with the base. If you’re unsure, we’re happy to advise on what will (and won’t) work well; we’ve put together a whole collection of mattresses that are suitable for adjustable beds.

Bed size

Adjustable beds come in standard UK sizes, from single to king — and even split options for couples who want individual control. Think about who will be using the bed and how much space you have to play with.

Features that matter

From simple remote controls to high-tech extras like massage functions, zero-gravity presets, under-bed lighting and USB ports - there’s something for every need and budget. Focus on the features that will genuinely improve your comfort, rather than bells and whistles you might never use.

Budget and quality

As with most things, you tend to get what you pay for. That said, there are great options at a range of price points. Look for a bed that offers solid build quality, a good warranty, and long-term support.

Delivery, set-up and support

Adjustable beds are heavy and complex, so make sure you’re clear on what’s included. At The Bed Specialist, we offer free delivery, expert installation and ongoing support to give you complete peace of mind.

Adjustable bed models to consider

The adjustable beds we're recommending here cater to various needs and budgets, but they're just a small sample of what's on offer:

Vispring Serenity - This premium option is one of the finest examples of a reliable, practical and comfortable adjustable bed available on the market and can be customised in a number of ways to satisfy your personal taste and comfort. Its smooth, 5-fold action frame is filled with responsive pocket springs for the ultimate support and comfort
Opera Coral Divan Base - This bed is a mid-range budget option, and a fantastic choice if you're looking for an outstanding adjustable bed that offers practical functions to help you sleep better as well as assisting you in many different ways.
Highgrove Upton - This bed is a great buy for smaller budgets if you're after a reliable, adjustable bed with supportive mattress and impressive features. The slatted motion base moves quietly with the assistance of a corded handset and is available in a wide range of beautiful colours.

Frequently Asked Questions

We’ve answered thousands of adjustable bed queries over the years, so here are a few of the most common ones. If you’re still unsure about anything, just get in touch - we’re always happy to help.

Q: Can I use my existing mattress with an adjustable bed?

A: Possibly, but it depends on the type. Foam, latex and hybrid mattresses tend to work well because they’re flexible enough to move with the base. High quality pocket-sprung mattresses, with individually wrapped springs and a more flexible core, can often work well. However, traditional open coil (or continuous coil) mattresses are usually too rigid and can cause discomfort or be damaged overtime with repeated bending.

If in doubt, check with the manufacturer or ask us for guidance.

Q: Are adjustable beds noisy?

A: Modern adjustable beds are much quieter than you might expect. Most motors hum gently, and the movement is smooth and controlled. In many cases, it’s no louder than an electric recliner chair.

Q: Do adjustable beds use more electricity?

A: They use very little power, and only when adjusting. Some models even come with a power-saving standby mode to reduce consumption further.

Q: Are adjustable beds good for side sleepers?

Absolutely. In fact, many side sleepers find that raising the knees slightly takes pressure off the hips and lower back, making it easier to get comfortable and stay asleep.

Q: Do they require special bedding?

You don't have to, but ideally, it's better to have sheets and mattress protectors that are specially designed for adjustable beds to allow for the extra movement. Adjustable beds are longer than standard beds, so a standard fitted sheet can pop off when the bed is set to a new position.

Customers often tell us it's difficult to find bedding for adjustable beds. If you're struggling with this, too, it's worth knowing that we stock sheets and mattress protectors designed by Opera for adjustable beds - please get in touch for details.

Q: How long do adjustable beds last?

With proper care, a quality adjustable bed should last many years.

Motor actions are the most common thing to either break or fail. Lower-powered units can fail quickly without the proper use and the correct combined weight of user and mattress, which most folks aren't told about at the point of purchase.

Lower-priced, low-budget motors in casement boxes can become brittle and crack open with undue pressure, which renders them useless.

If you're worried about maintenance costs and repairs, we offer a service plan from Opera that incudes upgraded warranties, free callout cover and home-visit engineer services.

Got more questions? Give us a ring, pop into the showroom, or drop us a message - we’re here to help you find your perfect fit.

What next?

If you’ve made it this far, chances are you’re seriously considering whether an adjustable bed could be right for you, and the answer might well be yes!

The Bed Specialist is just a phone call or showroom visit away. We’ve been helping people find their perfect sleep set-up for years - and we’re always happy to share what we’ve learned.

Speak to our expert advisors on 01935 423 596 or send the enquiry form below.

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