Compare Adjustable Beds and Mattresses

Before we start to compare adjustable beds, let’s first define what an adjustable bed really is. It is also important to talk about what an adjustable bed is not. There is some confusion in the marketplace over the term adjustable bed. Similar to a patient hospital bed, a true adjustable bed combines a flexible mattress and a mechanically operated base. A control pad is connected to two or more electric motors in the base that can precisely raise and lower the head and foot of the bed.

Confusion seems to arise when people use the terms adjustable bed and an air adjustable mattress interchangeably. An air adjustable mattress still operates like a traditional flatbed. Manufacturers of adjustable mattresses make many of the same claims that are attributed to adjustable beds. Now it is true that air adjustable mattresses may help to relief the symptoms of certain medical conditions. However, when compared to the therapeutic benefits that can be achieved with an adjustable bed, an air adjustable mattress may fall a little short of the mark.

An adjustable mattress differs significantly from an adjustable bed. An adjustable mattress allows the user to change the air pressure inside an air bladder, thereby changing the firmness of the mattress. In theory, an adjustable mattress is said to eliminate so-called pressure points. In reality, the typical adjustable mattress is made up of one or more air chambers inside a foam frame and covered in mattress ticking. Simply being able to adjust the firmness of a mattress does not an adjustable bed make.

A true adjustable bed offers the user a multidimensional way to position the body and optimize the bed for maximum comfort. Consumers have a choice when it comes to the type of mattress to use on an adjustable bed. A quality latex foam mattress offers maximum flexibility and when combined with visco elastic memory foam it can create a very comfortable sleep experience.

There are hybrid mattresses that are made for use on an adjustable base. A hybrid mattress is constructed using an innerspring core that is hinged in such a way that moves with the base. The innerspring is covered with layers of latex foam often of different densities and covered with fabric. Innerspring mattresses made for use with an adjustable bed are made without the edge wire, allowing the mattress to properly articulate.

A word should be said about self adjusting capability that has been applied to mattresses. Self adjusting air mattresses are a much more sophisticated than their air adjustable cousins. A standard air adjustable mattress uses electrically powered air pumps that fill the air bladder to a fixed pressure. A self adjusting mattress is most often found in medical settings and relies on a combination of gravity and ambient air pressure to control the feel of the mattress. Using a specialized air valve system based on Boyles Law the valve system responds to the weight of the patient by allowing air to be expelled from the mattress.

Like many types of adjustable beds, SAT mattresses are said to be recognized as durable medical equipment.

The price of a mechanically operated adjustable bed is comparable to the cost of a traditional flat bed or an air adjustable mattress. Adjustable beds can be purchased with a variety of options that can enhance your sleeping experience.