Electric adjustable beds have previously been considered to be just for hospitals and clinics; this is no longer the case. Adjustable beds have seen a surge in popularity over the past few years, with many manufacturers offering them as well as traditional beds. Ordinary traditional beds are still available, but when you have an adjustable bed that offers so much more why wouldn’t you invest?
What is an Adjustable Bed?
This is probably quite obvious, but a standard modern adjustable bed is a bed which is made up of three-part adjustable bases that can be independently lowered and raised at will. This bed design as originally developed in the early 20th century and used predominantly in healthcare institutes due to its ability to enhance the oxygen and blood flow of patients whilst they were recovering from ailments or surgeries.
By the middle of the 20th century, bed manufacturers caught onto the idea that the same level of comfort and convenience could be extended to healthy consumers living in their homes. This is how present day adjustable beds came into being – with some luxurious models geared towards a diverse range of consumer segments.
What are the Benefits of Getting an Adjustable Bed?
- Health Benefits
Since this was the reason for their creation, the health benefits and practicalities should be discussed first. Lying on a traditional bed, especially for extended periods of time can lead to a plethora of issues – including swelling on your legs and feet, back pain or soreness, pressure ulcers and sluggish healing.
This is due to your circulation and respiration become less than ideal if you’re lying flat on your back; and adjustable bed allows you to modify your oxygen intake and blood flow by raising its segments so that you’re not lying parallel to the floor. This changes the way gravity acts upon your body, and by extension the way that various parts of your body are supported, and how oxygen-rich blood is supplied to your vital organs.
- Comfort and Convenience Benefits
The simple act of getting out of bed to grab a quick snack or to watch your favourite TV show downstairs can seem like a bit of a chore sometimes – with an adjustable bed you can do all this from the comfort of your bedroom as you can adjust the positions of its platforms to make you sit upright, lean slightly and so on.
Higher end models may even come with massage options – relaxing stiff muscles and improving blood flow; and this is without the pricey spa treatment price tag.
Some adjustable beds are available as split variants; where one half of the bed can be operated separately from the other. This gives couples the freedom to customise their sleeping experiences without having to compromise or argue with a partner.
Should I Get an Adjustable Bed?
There are a few important considerations to make before buying an adjustable bed.
- Does your budget allow it?
If you suffer from a legitimate health concern like chronic back pain or an injury which requires you to stay in bed for extended periods of time, an adjustable bed will be an invaluable investment.
Getting an adjustable bed purely for luxury is a discretionary matter, and relies on affordability.
- Is your mattress compatible with it?
It is important to note that regular innerspring mattresses will not be compatible with an adjustable bed unless the manufacturer has expressly stated so. Attempting to use such a mattress will only serve to damage the mattress or prevent the bed from working properly.
Adjustable bed manufacturers and retailers will have a selection of adjustable bed mattresses that are compatible with most models of bed – but it is always best to do research.
- Is it compatible with your existing furniture?
Certain types of adjustable beds might not be compatible with your pre-existing headboard and bedframe, or simply the general furniture layout of the room. Be certain to check the dimensions of the bed you intend on purchasing, also check the operating mechanism to make any furniture adjustments or alterations.
