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Credit: Sleep Foundation Test Lab

Getting an adjustable bed can dramatically change your sleep experience. An adjustable bed lets you elevate your upper or lower body, which can contribute to better comfort. It may also help with certain health issues, including snoring, limited mobility, and lower body swelling. 

If you want to try an adjustable bed, you’ll need both an adjustable base and a compatible mattress. Our guide includes several of the best mattresses for adjustable beds and covers key info to know before making a decision.

For more mattress options, our guide to the best mattresses of 2024 includes several models compatible with adjustable beds. Is pain relief a top priority? Visit our list of the best mattresses for back pain to learn more.

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Best Mattress for Adjustable Beds

The WinkBed

Our pick for the best overall mattress for adjustable beds is the WinkBed. A hybrid mattress offered in four firmness options, the WinkBed won over our testing team with its excellent all-around performance that strikes a compelling mix of cushioning, bounce, and stability.

See The Top Pick

In-Depth Reviews

  • Pros

    1. Adaptive foam layers cushion the body without excess sinkage

    2. Sturdy pocketed coils generate bounce and edge support

    3. Four firmness options accommodate different needs and preferences

  • Cons

    1. Not an ideal match for people who want deep contouring

    2. Some motion transfer may be noticeable on the firmer models

Mattress Type

Innerspring

Firmness Options

Medium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6), Firm (7), Firm (8)

Price Range

$1,149 – $2,049

Trial Period

120 nights (30 night requirement)

Customer Reviews

Randall D.

5/5

“After the 3rd day, I knew I made the right decision. This is my second WinkBed that I have purchased. The first one I put on the guest bed and every guest — and I have a lot of overnight guest — absolutely loved it, and some even went home and bought one.”

Micah T.

4/5

“Overall comfortable but too firm for us. We swapped for the softer WinkBed and are sleeping great now!”

Kimberly K.

3/5

“My back pain is gone, however we had to purchase an additional topper because the “luxury” wasn’t as soft as we’d hoped. It caused pain in my hips and shoulders due to being a side sleeper.”

The WinkBed is a versatile, high-performance mattress with many qualities that make it compatible with an adjustable bed. We found the Euro-top hybrid design both flexible and durable, and four firmness options ensure most people can find an option that feels comfortable for their body type and sleep position.

Three standard versions of the WinkBed are available. The Softer WinkBed – which rates as a 4 on our 10-point firmness scale, or medium soft – features a plush comfort layer of adaptive polyfoam that contours closely to the body. During our product tests, the Softer WinkBed earned excellent ratings from side and back sleepers under 130 pounds. The Luxury Firm WinkBed (6) is the most balanced option, with moderate conforming and strong overall support from its pocketed coil system. Anyone who weighs 130 to 230 pounds regardless of their sleep position should find this model satisfactory. Many of the back and stomach sleepers on our team preferred the Firmer WinkBed (7).

The fourth version is the WinkBed Plus, which is specifically designed for people who weigh more than 230 pounds. The Plus swaps out the adaptive polyfoam for a comfort layer of responsive latex, resulting in noticeable bounciness that allows you to move across the surface with ease. The latex is divided into seven firmness zones to create extra reinforcement around the midsection, so uncomfortable sinkage shouldn’t be an issue.

Overall, the WinkBed performed exceptionally well during our various product tests. Cooling was one area where the mattress excelled. Steady airflow through the coils, a comfort layer that retains very little heat, and a moisture-wicking Tencel cover all make the WinkBed a great choice for hot sleepers. Edge support was another strong performance area. The coils feel sturdier along the perimeter, resulting in strong pushback and minimal sinkage when you sit or lie down close to the edges of the mattress. This quality was especially noteworthy for the Firmer WinkBed and WinkBed Plus models.

The WinkBed is competitively priced, though the Plus is slightly more expensive than its standard counterparts, and shipping is free for all customers in the contiguous U.S. Each purchase comes with a 120-night sleep trial. If you aren’t satisfied with your original firmness selection, you may exchange the mattress for a model with a different feel at no extra cost. All owners receive a lifetime warranty, as well.

  • Pros

    1. Excellent contouring from the memory foam comfort layer

    2. All-foam construction isolates motion to minimize potential disruptions from a bed partner’s movements

    3. 365-night sleep trial

  • Cons

    1. Some sleepers over 230 pounds may find the mattress too soft

    2. Memory foam can retain heat during the night

Mattress Type

Foam

Firmness Options

Medium Firm (6)

Price Range

$359 – $1,098

Trial Period

365 nights

Customer Reviews

Andrea O.

5/5

“I have a history of waking throughout the night with low back pain, hip pain and/or arm numbness. This is not happening on the Nectar. At first laying on it, it feels like it will be too firm, but it softens where you need it and maintains great support.”

Cameron T.

5/5

“Was skeptical at first, but after 5 nights my body adjusted and I haven’t slept this good in years. Don’t wake up to the wife getting up in the middle of the night and we both sleep sound into a deep REM sleep and feel rejuvenated.”

Daniel W.

4/5

“This mattress is fantastic. My wife and I chose it so we would not bother the other person when we move in our sleep. In that regard, it’s great! However, it gets very hot throughout the night.”

If you’re in the market for an all-foam bed, the Nectar Mattress is a good place to start. This flagship mattress from Nectar has a medium firm (6) feel that should appeal to a wide swatch of sleepers. The price is also approachable compared to competing foam mattresses.

The top layer of the Nectar features 2 inches of gel-infused memory foam that provides strong contouring. Phase change material in this layer helps reduce some of the heat retention that foam is known for. Next is a transitional layer of polyfoam that moderately conforms to the body but also provides firmness to keep your body from sinking too deep. The support core is made of high-density polyfoam that stabilizes the entire mattress.

With its plush memory foam comfort layer, the Nectar provides excellent relief to areas on the body that may experience pressure buildup at night. Side sleepers put a lot of pressure on their hips and shoulders, so the bed is quite suitable for this sleep position. While some foam beds are too soft for back sleepers, the firmer feel of the Nectar makes it appropriate for many back sleepers — though those over 230 pounds may sink too much to receive sufficient back support.

Nectar includes a generous 365-day sleep trial with this bed, as well as a lifetime guarantee. The mattress comes with free shipping within the contiguous U.S.

  • Pros

    1. Hybrid design balances cushioning and support

    2. Top memory foam layer softens impact around pressure points

    3. Construction and firmness are a great match for side sleepers weighing between 130 and 230 pounds

  • Cons

    1. Couples may notice some motion transfer across the mattress surface

    2. May lack support for sleepers over 230 pounds

Mattress Type

Hybrid

Firmness Options

Medium Firm (6)

Price Range

$749 – $1,399

Trial Period

100 nights (30-night requirement)

Customer Reviews

Tori S.

5/5

“Easily the most comfortable bed I’ve slept on. Supportive, soft, and I’ve been sleeping better than ever. This mattress helped with my back pain and my husband’s shoulder pain.”

Roshan S.

5/5

“The medium firmness was perfect. The movement isolation was also great. It’s really comfortable to sleep on and has just enough give without making it hard to get out of bed.”

Shelly S.

5/5

“This mattress is so comfortable! And I don’t wake up feeling hot like I did with other mattresses…. Would highly recommend to anyone looking for a quality mattress at a reasonable price.”

The Helix Midnight is a hybrid mattress that carefully balances support and cushioning. This design has a lot to offer side sleepers, who typically benefit from beds that cradle pressure points while also offering support to the lower back.

The mattress begins with a comfort layer composed of memory foam, which cushions the body and relieves pressure buildup in areas like the shoulders and hips. Beneath is a layer of polyfoam, which still contours the body but has a firmer feel to prevent the body from sinking in too deep. The support core is made of pocketed coils, which give the bed a firm but responsive feel. The mattress is encased in a polyester cover.

With an overall medium firm (6) feel, the Helix Midnight is a great match for back and side sleepers who weigh up to 230 pounds. People who sleep in these positions will receive just the right amount of support and cushioning to keep their bodies in healthy alignment at night. Those who weigh above 230 pounds may sink too deep to receive the proper amount of support.

Helix beds come with 100-night sleep trials, and the Midnight includes a 10-year warranty. Shipping is free throughout the contiguous U.S.

  • Pros

    1. Strong edge support provides stability and more usable space for people who share a bed

    2. Foam layers cushion pressure points

    3. Design features promote cooling ventilation

  • Cons

    1. May feel too soft for stomach and back sleepers over 230 pounds

    2. Only offered in one firmness level

Mattress Type

Hybrid

Firmness Options

Medium Firm (6)

Price Range

$1,349 – $2,299

Trial Period

100 nights (30 night requirement)

Customer Reviews

William M.

5/5

“This mattress is firm, but not too firm and soft, but not too soft. It’s comfortable.”

Annali S.

4/5

“Very supportive and comfy bed. Takes some getting used to if you are a side sleeper and on the lighter side but ultimately more supportive and better for back pain than our last mattress. Great edge support.”

Elizabeth

4/5

“We were initially worried it would be too soft but that hasn’t been a problem. The issue seems to be that it gets really warm ensconced in there overnight, such that I am tossing off coverings in the wee hours.”

The Leesa Sapira Hybrid checks all of the important boxes if you’re shopping for a new mattress with your partner. Three foam layers make up the comfort system, absorbing movement during sleep position changes and minimizing the motion transfer that can disrupt sleep for couples. Solid edge support allows you and your partner to utilize the entire surface for sleep or sex, and a light bounce means you shouldn’t feel stuck when moving across the mattress.

Foam hybrids have a tendency to sleep hot, but our hands-on tests show that isn’t the case with the Sapira Hybrid. This is largely due to the topmost foam layer, which is cut with channels intended to promote air circulation. Plenty of airflow throughout the pocketed coil support core also helps the mattress maintain a comfortable interior temperature, and the breathable cover provides extra cooling.

The Sapira Hybrid was popular among most of our testing team. Side sleepers weighing at least 130 pounds and back and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds awarded the mattress its highest marks for comfort and support, but ratings were generally favorable across different body types and sleep positions. If you plan to use the Sapira Hybrid with an adjustable bed, please note split sizes are not available for this mattress.

The sticker price is on par with that of the average hybrid model, and Leesa offers free standard shipping to shoppers in all 50 states. Two pillows are included with each purchase at no extra cost. Your order comes with a sleep trial that runs for 100 nights. You may return the Sapira Hybrid during this time frame and receive a full refund. Alternatively, those who keep the mattress receive a 10-year manufacturer’s warranty.

  • Pros

    1. Choice of three firmness options

    2. Proprietary foams are engineered to relieve pressure without overheating

    3. Coils provide zoned support and added edge stability

  • Cons

    1. Returns incur a $99 mattress pickup fee

    2. 15-inch height requires a fitted sheet with deep pockets

Mattress Type

Hybrid

Firmness Options

Medium (5), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)

Price Range

$1,004 – $2,143

Trial Period

120 nights (30-night requirement)

Customer Reviews

Phyllis B.

5/5

“I don’t wake up with shoulder or neck pain like I did with my previous mattress (I am a side sleeper). I also don’t feel it when my husband gets in and out of bed. Recommend it!”

Christopher R.

5/5

“It is one of those Goldilocks situations where the bed is not too hard, not too soft, but just right. My wife prefers more support while I prefer more comfort, but the bed works well for the both of us.”

Joseph B.

5/5

“I very much love my new Nolah mattress. It is firm but not too firm. Just the way I like it. I especially like the firm edges.”

Hybrids generally excel at cooling thanks to their coil systems, which promote airflow better than the solid foam or latex layers found in other mattress types. The Nolah Evolution 15 takes temperature control a step further with two comfort layers made of proprietary foam designed to resist overheating. These layers are buffered with a gusset that releases heat to maintain a comfortable surface, and the breathable cover offers a consistently cool-to-the-touch feel.

The mattress is available in three firmness levels. The medium (5) feel provides the deepest contouring and cushioning, making these models best suited to side sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds and back sleepers under 130 pounds. The firm (8) option offers the most support and will likely be most comfortable for back and stomach sleepers who weigh at least 130 pounds. Lastly, the medium firm (6) feel is a balance of the other two and should be a good fit for anyone who wants both noticeable contouring and even support.

The Evolution 15’s support core consists of pocketed coils in a zoned configuration with thicker springs positioned beneath the sleeper’s midsection and along the perimeter. This layout creates extra reinforcement where most people carry a disproportionate amount of weight and reduces sinkage when you get in and out of bed.

Nolah ships the Evolution 15 for free throughout the contiguous U.S. You’ll receive a 120-night sleep trial with your order, though you can opt out of the trial to decrease the overall cost. The mattress is further backed by a lifetime warranty against structural defects. You can purchase additional coverage against stains and superficial damage.

  • Pros

    1. Materials infused with copper and phase change material are designed to regulate temperature

    2. Zoned coils enhance support around the midsection

    3. Available in three firmness levels to match the needs of different sleepers

  • Cons

    1. Softer models may lack support for people over 230 pounds

    2. Sleep trial requires trying the mattress for a minimum of 30 nights

Mattress Type

Hybrid

Firmness Options

Medium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6), Firm (7)

Price Range

$749 – $1,699

Trial Period

120 nights (30-night requirement)

Customer Reviews

Jill Z.

5/5

“This is our second Aurora Luxe. Bought one a year ago for the 5th Wheel. The latest one is for our winter home. Bought the medium and its great for the wife. I am some heavier and might like the firm better but the medium is a good compromise.”

Kris C.

4/5

“While not quite as cooling as we were hoping for, this mattress is so comfortable! It just seems to get better by the day.”

Luana P.

4/5

“I have a chronic pain syndrome so most beds aren’t comfortable for me, but the Aurora Luxe is more comfortable than most, and works well with my fibromyalgia condition.”

Many mattresses are advertised as suitable for hot sleepers, but the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe is the real deal. Our testing team was greatly impressed with the thermoregulating abilities of this mattress, which can be attributed to a slew of cooling and moisture-wicking components from top to bottom. Foam layers infused with copper, a coil system that promotes steady air circulation, and a heat-dissipating cover woven with phase change fibers all work together to maintain a comfortable temperature any night of the year — even during the dog days of summer.

You can choose from three firmness levels for your Aurora Luxe. The medium soft (4) design earned stellar ratings from side sleepers on our team weighing up to 230 pounds and back sleepers under 130 pounds. This model contours closely to cradle and alleviate sore spots along your spine. If you weigh more than 230 pounds, the firm (7) design should deliver adequate support. The medium firm (6) is a good compromise for those seeking a mattress that deeply cushions the body without sinking too much.

Three foam layers make up the comfort system. Each one is progressively denser from top to bottom, so you’ll notice some nice plushness when you get into bed and some pushback as you settle into the surface. The pocketed coils are divided into three zones with thicker, more robust springs located beneath your torso and hips. Extra reinforcement along the perimeter also minimizes sinkage when you get in and out of bed. For an additional fee, you can upgrade your mattress to include a fourth foam layer encased in cooling fabric. This is known as the “Cloud Pillow Top,” and can help the mattress sleep even cooler.

The Aurora Luxe is available in a dozen sizes, including a split California king if you and your partner share an adjustable bed in this size. Brooklyn Bedding offers free ground shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. Your sleep trial runs for 120 nights, and the mattress is further backed by a 10-year warranty if you decide to keep it after the return period expires.

  • Pros

    1. Flippable design with a different firmness level on each side

    2. Coils are reinforced along the perimeter to reduce sinkage

    3. Cover can be removed for easy cleaning

  • Cons

    1. Mattress weight can make it challenging to flip the mattress

    2. Neither side of the mattress will suit people who want a medium or medium firm feel

Mattress Type

Hybrid

Firmness Options

Reversible: Medium Soft (4), Firm (7)

Price Range

$1,299 – $1,899

Trial Period

120 nights

Customer Reviews

Lea D.

5/5

“Getting the hybrid that is flippable for 2 different options of support took the fear of ordering the wrong mattress online away. I actually slept well on both sides but eventually settled on the softer side.”

Meredith F.

5/5

“This mattress is heavy but has been great! I was having hip pain with our old mattress and this is gone now. I love how my partner can move and I can’t feel anything!”

Tim S.

5/5

“It has the perfect amount of support and great cushioning but not too soft. It doesn’t have that stuck in feeling of most cheaper foam mattresses, and the sides are very supportive as well. Super happy!”

In addition to being ideal for any standard-size adjustable bed, the reversible Layla Hybrid is a great option for hot sleepers. Both sides of the mattress feature memory foam comfort layers infused with copper gel, which is intended to dissipate heat from the surface and keep you cool. A coil layer that generates steady airflow and a breathable cover add to the temperature-friendly design. Our tests show minimal heat retention regardless of which side you choose.

One surface is medium firm (4) and cushioned with 2.5 inches of memory foam over 2 inches of transitional foam. The latter layer is zoned, so you can enjoy deep contouring without sinking too much beneath your midsection. The firm side includes the same components, but the layers are thinner to minimize padding and create a firm (7) feel. Thick pocketed coils rest in the middle and serve as a shared support core for both sides. A cover made of polyester, rayon, viscose, and Lycra spandex encases the mattress. The cover can be unzipped, removed, and machine washed.

During our tests, the softer side earned favorable ratings from side sleepers up to 230 pounds, and back and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds. These testers were able to lie comfortably and enjoy the foam’s cradling effect without feeling stuck. Our back sleepers of at least 130 pounds and stomach sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds preferred the firmer side for its extra pushback and sturdy overall feel.

In addition to excelling at temperature control, the Layla Hybrid performed well for motion isolation. This was especially true of the softer side, though both surfaces earned high marks. The firmer side fared better in categories like edge support and ease of movement. One thing to consider about the Layla Hybrid is its weight — at 104 pounds in a queen size, the mattress is somewhat hefty. Each side is equipped with thick carrying handles, but we don’t recommend lifting or moving the mattress without a partner.

The sticker price is on par with that of the average hybrid model and shipping is free for customers in the contiguous U.S. Your Layla Hybrid comes with a 120-night sleep trial, during which you may return the mattress for a full refund at any time. A 10-year warranty covers structural and material defects such as excessive sinkage. Please note the Layla Hybrid is not available in any split sizes.

  • Pros

    1. Hybrid construction balances support and pressure relief

    2. Specialty cooling features are designed to maintain a comfortable temperature

    3. Three firmness levels to choose from

  • Cons

    1. Edge support is less pronounced on the plush model

    2. Co-sleepers may feel some of their partner’s movements on the firmer models

Mattress Type

Hybrid

Firmness Options

Medium (5), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)

Price Range

$1,231 – $2,548

Trial Period

120 nights (30-night break-in period)

Customer Reviews

Walter F.

5/5

“I weigh 220 lbs, my wife weighs 130 lbs… we both love the mattress. The hybrid gives me the support I need, while it also gives my wife the comfort she needs. It’s the best parts of a coil mattress and a memory foam mattress.”

Keith B.

4/5

“I sleep with my wife and bad edge support is a non-starter for her. On the Bear Elite Hybrid she sleeps right near the edge with no issues. Edge support is very good.”

Sheila H.

5/5

“I think for the money, the Bear Elite Hybrid felt higher-quality compared to other online mattresses, regardless of price. This is built and feels more like a quality traditional mattress compared to many others.”

Couples who share an adjustable bed and disagree about the ideal firmness level can benefit from a mattress with dual firmness. Take the Bear Elite Hybrid, which is available in three firmness levels ranging from medium to firm. If you and your partner opt for the split king, both of you can choose a firmness level for your respective side of the bed. The mattress is also available in standard sizes if you share the same firmness preferences.

The Elite Hybrid offers other benefits for couples, as well. A memory foam comfort layer over transitional polyfoam helps ensure decent motion isolation, so movement-related sleep disruptions shouldn’t be an issue. Reinforced perimeter coils also reduce sinkage and allow you to use the entire mattress surface for sleep or sex. Thermoregulation is another major strength. The cover is composed of Celliant-blend fabric engineered to dissipate heat on contact, cooling gel is infused in the top foam layer for added breathability, and the coils promote steady airflow to maintain a comfortable internal temperature.

Our team personally tested all three of the Elite Hybrid’s firmness options. For our side and back sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds, the medium (5) and medium firm (6) designs both provided a comfortable balance of cushioning and support. The transitional layer is divided into five firmness zones, resulting in extra pushback for the midsection and gentle cradling elsewhere, so we didn’t notice any of the uncomfortable sinkage that can occur with softer foam hybrids. If you’re looking for maximum support, the firm (8) model should meet your needs. This design earned its most favorable ratings from testers weighing more than 230 pounds.

If you and your partner choose a dual-firmness Elite Hybrid for your split king adjustable bed, reach out to Bear’s customer support team. The mattress is competitively priced in all sizes, and your order includes two pillows at no extra cost. Ground shipping is also free of charge for customers in the contiguous U.S. The mattress comes with a 120-night sleep trial. You’ll receive a lifetime warranty if you decide to keep the Elite Hybrid after the trial ends, and you can purchase additional protection for stains and other types of physical damage.

  • Pros

    1. Precise firmness adjustments at the push of a button

    2. Premium latex and gel-infused memory foam comfort layers aid in superb temperature control

    3. Free in-home setup in the contiguous U.S.

  • Cons

    1. Returns are assessed a $99 return shipping fee

    2. Elevated price-point may exceed some shoppers’ budgets

Mattress Type

Airbed

Firmness Options

Soft (3), Medium Soft (4), Medium (5), Medium Firm (6), Firm (7) Firm (8)

Price Range

$2,595 – $4,995

Trial Period

365 Nights ($99 Return Fee)

Customer Reviews

Linda B.

5/5

“Purchased the queen split Solaire in October and it’s been an awesome experience. My husband needs to sleep upright due to acid reflux. I don’t need to be up that high, but enjoy being able to sit up in the morning and have my coffee, and the massage is just an extra bonus.”

Richard W.

3/5

“Purchased the Solaire thinking the adjustable air support would help with my lumbar pain. It has helped but I am still searching for that perfect setting. ”

Sincha

4/5

“I bought the split king for adjustable base. I wanted to love it, but it was too soft for me even though I inflated it all the way to 50.”

The Saatva Solaire builds on the classic airbed design with luxury comfort layers and a wide range of firmness options. You can adjust the feel of this mattress to 50 different levels ranging from soft (3) to firm (8), so virtually anyone should be able to find a comfortable setting regardless of their body type, sleep position, or firmness preferences. A wireless remote is included with your purchase.

The Solaire’s first comfort layer consists of responsive Talalay latex, and this is followed by a secondary comfort layer of gel-infused memory foam. These materials create a comfortable balance of body-contouring and support regardless of which firmness level you select. The support core contains one or two air chambers of vulcanized rubber, depending on the mattress size. Models with two chambers offer individual firmness adjustments on each side of the bed, making them well-suited to couples with differing preferences.

In addition to the standard Solaire, customers can choose an “Upper-Flex” model that is split at the head of the bed. This allows sleepers on both sides to independently elevate or lower their side of the bed when using an adjustable base.

While the Solaire has a pretty steep sticker price – which is typical for airbeds of this quality – Saatva sweetens the deal for customers by offering free White Glove delivery anywhere in the contiguous U.S. This service includes in-home assembly, a full tutorial on how to operate the remote and change settings, and removal of your old mattress. You’ll also receive a 365-night sleep trial with your purchase and a lifetime warranty.

  • Pros

    1. Latex and coils relieve pressure while maintaining bounce and stability

    2. Dependable edge support and temperature regulation

    3. Sustainably sourced mattress components

  • Cons

    1. Bouncy materials can transfer motion across the mattress surface

    2. Not a good match for sleepers who want deep contouring

Mattress Type

Latex Hybrid

Firmness Options

Medium Firm (6)

Price Range

$1,099 – $1,799

Trial Period

100 nights (30-night requirement)

Customer Reviews

Tate O.

4/5

“Was a little firm feeling for me at first but I’ve gotten used to it. For me it’s worth it for an environmentally friendly option.”

Ricardo G.

4/5

“It did take 2 to 3 weeks to break in and get used to but after that it’s been smooth sailing.”

Pamela F.

5/5

“I have suffered with back pain for two years, we were using a memory foam mattress. I now have no back pain. This mattress far surpassed our expectations

If you wake up feeling stiff or sore due to pressure points along the spine, there’s a good chance your mattress doesn’t provide enough support. The best mattresses for pressure relief should not only cradle your body, but also maintain an even surface to prevent you from sinking excessively. Those who have found other beds too soft should consider the Birch Mattress, a latex hybrid with a medium firm (6) feel and sturdy, coil-based support system. Latex is naturally responsive, so the mattress has a very bouncy surface, but the thick comfort layer also cushions the body to reduce pressure in sensitive areas like the shoulders and hips.

Temperature control is another strong point of the Birch Mattress. The cover is composed of breathable cotton, while a layer of moisture-wicking wool helps to keep the surface cool. The latex is ventilated to circulate air throughout the mattress. Airflow is also steady through the coils, resulting in a mattress that excels at cooling from top to bottom. The coils are reinforced along the perimeter to reduce sinkage when people sleep near the edges or get on and off the mattress.

Our testing found the Birch Mattress offers the most comfortable sleep experience for side sleepers who weigh at least 130 pounds, and back and stomach sleepers who weigh up to 230 pounds. The mattress should also appeal to shoppers who prefer to buy and use eco-friendly products. Both the cotton cover and wool layers have received organic certifications, and the rubber trees used to produce the latex are sustainably grown and harvested.

Price-points for this mattress are on par with those of the average hybrid, but Birch sweetens the deal with free shipping to all 50 states. Each order comes with a 100-night sleep trial, and those who choose to keep the mattress also receive a 25-year warranty.

Who Should (and Should Not) Sleep on an Adjustable Bed?

An adjustable bed frame has hinges and motors that allow you to raise or lower the head of the bed, the foot of the bed, or both. Setting up an adjustable bed requires having an adjustable frame and a compatible mattress that won’t be damaged when the mattress bends. 

Having an adjustable bed gives you more options for finding a comfortable position, including when watching TV or reading in bed. It can also make it easier to sit up and get out of bed, which can be especially beneficial for older adults and people with limited mobility.

When lying on your back, raising the head of the bed can help keep your airway open, which may cut down on snoring and breathing interruptions from positional obstructive sleep apnea. Elevating your upper body may also reduce acid reflux

Keeping the legs above the heart can decrease swelling. You may benefit from an adjustable bed if you have varicose veins or other conditions that involve swelling of your feet or legs. Elevating your legs before bed can help circulate built-up fluid, which can lower the chances of having to wake up multiple times at night to urinate. 

Although adjustable beds suit many sleepers, they tend to be expensive and may not be an option for people on a tight budget. If you’re a stomach sleeper, you may find that an adjustable bed isn’t compatible with your comfort preferences.

ProsCons
  • Often makes it more comfortable to read or watch TV in bed
  • Elevating the head of the bed may help back sleepers minimize snoring and acid reflux
  • Adjusting the bed position may help with fluid retention and related health issues
  • May not add comfort for stomach sleepers
  • Can put additional strain on the interior components of a mattress
  • Generally more expensive than a traditional bed frame or platform bed

What to Consider in a Mattress for Adjustable Beds

When deciding which mattress to choose for an adjustable bed, consider the factors that are most likely to impact its performance and your satisfaction. 

Support

Support refers to how well a mattress contributes to healthy spinal alignment. For most sleepers, this means that a mattress provides enough cushioning to relieve pressure around high-impact zones of the body. At the same time, a mattress should not have too much give, which can cause the spine to bend out of alignment. 

Mattress Type

Mattresses are categorized by their internal components, and certain types are better suited to adjustable bed frames. 

  • Foam: These mattresses have multiple layers with different kinds of foam. They typically work well with adjustable bases because of foam’s ability to compress when the base bends. 
  • Hybrid: Hybrid mattresses generally have a support core of individually wrapped metal coils with comfort layers of one or more other materials. Many hybrids are compatible with adjustable frames, but some models have springs that cannot bend without being damaged. 
  • Latex: These mattresses are known for their bounce, durability, and moderate contouring. Because of latex’s ability to spring back after being compressed, most latex mattresses are compatible with adjustable beds. 
  • Innerspring: Innerspring mattresses are made with interconnected metal coils and only a thin layer of material above them. They are generally less conducive to adjustable frames because of the potential stress that can be placed on the coils.
  • Airbeds: An airbed uses inflatable air chambers in its support core, with comfort layers such as foam or latex. Certain airbeds can work on an adjustable frame, but other models could be damaged when the frame bends. 

For any specific mattress, we recommend confirming that it can be safely used with an adjustable base. It’s also advisable to check whether using an adjustable bed frame will impact the mattress warranty. 

What Is a Split Bed?

A split bed is designed so that each side of the mattress can be independently adjusted. A split adjustable bed appeals most to couples who have distinct preferences. For example, a split bed can accommodate one bed partner who likes having their head or legs elevated and another who wants the bed flat. 

The most common split bed size is a split king, but some brands offer split queen adjustable beds.

Firmness Level

The ideal mattress firmness is subjective, since some people simply like a harder or softer mattress. That said, firmness can affect support, and the best firmness level is influenced by body weight and sleeping position.

Side sleepers and people under 130 pounds usually get better results from softer mattresses, while people who weigh over 230 pounds or those who sleep on their back or stomach generally do better with a firmer model.

Size and Weight

For an adjustable bed to work properly, your mattress has to be the right size for your frame. You also want to check the weight capacity of your adjustable base to ensure that it can accommodate the combined weight of the mattress and anyone sleeping on the bed. Exceeding the weight limit could prevent proper functioning or cause damage to the frame or its motors. 

Noise

In most cases, noise from an adjustable bed only occurs when the motors are raising or lowering a part of the bed. However, low-quality mattresses may add to this noise as a result of creaky coils or crinkling foam. If you want to minimize potential sleep disruptions, look for a well-constructed mattress with components that are less likely to be noisy.

Sleep Trial and Warranty

A sleep trial gives you an extended period to try a mattress on your adjustable base. During the sleep trial, you can return the mattress for a refund if you aren’t happy with its firmness or performance. Most online mattresses have a sleep trial of at least 90 nights. 

A warranty can also protect your purchase in the rare case that the mattress you receive is defective. We suggest reading the fine print and double-checking that you won’t void the warranty by using the mattress with an adjustable frame.

Dive Deeper – In-Depth Mattress Guides

Besides this general guide to mattresses for adjustable beds, our testing team has also hand-picked the best adjustable beds for seniors. If you’d like more mattress options to pair with an adjustable base, check out some of our specific guides below.

Data-Driven Results You Can Trust

Our testing team and methodology are the foundations of our data-driven recommendations for the best-performing sleep products. Drawing on their deep experience in the industry, our testing team personally researched and evaluated dozens of mattresses for their compatibility and performance on an adjustable frame. 

During the evaluation process, we had sleepers with an array of comfort preferences, body weights, and sleeping positions test the mattresses. Including many types of sleepers allows us to get a broader view of how a mattress performs and who it will work best for.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does an adjustable bed work?

An adjustable bed uses hinges and motors to allow you to raise and lower one or more parts of your bed. Many adjustable bed frames allow you to elevate both the head and the foot of the bed using a handheld remote or a smartphone app.

Can you use any mattress on an adjustable base?

Not all mattresses can be used on an adjustable base. You have to find a mattress that is compatible, which may require checking with the mattress manufacturer.

A mattress may be incompatible with an adjustable base if its internal components can become damaged when bent at certain angles. The size or weight of a mattress can also make it incompatible with an adjustable base.

Who is an adjustable bed best for?

Adjustable beds are best for sleepers who want to elevate their upper or lower body while in bed. Whether it’s to watch TV, read, or just make it easier to sit up or get out of bed, an adjustable bed can be a significant help.

Being able to keep parts of the body elevated may help people with certain health issues, such as: 

– Limited mobility
– Snoring
– Acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
– Foot and leg swelling
– Varicose veins
– Frequent nighttime urination

How much does a mattress for an adjustable bed cost?

A quality mattress for an adjustable base often costs between $1,000 and $1,500, although there are certainly options that fall well above or below this range. In some cases, savings can be found by purchasing a bundle that includes both the adjustable base and a compatible mattress.

Who should sleep on a split adjustable bed?

A split adjustable bed lets you raise or lower each side of the bed independently, making it a great fit for people who share a bed with someone who has different needs or comfort preferences.

Still have questions?

Our product experts have extensive experience testing just about every sleep product on the market.

Send an email to [email protected] with your questions and we’ll help you find exactly what you’re looking for.

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