What is an adjustable bed?

The quality of sleep directly affects daily well-being, and an increasing number of Finns are looking for ways to improve their nighttime sleep. An adjustable bed is one of the most concrete solutions: it has long been a fixture in hotels and healthcare, but is now finding its way into ordinary homes. In this article, we answer all the key questions about adjustable beds.

What is an adjustable bed and how does it differ from a regular bed?

An adjustable bed is an electrically operated, adjustable bed where the frame moves with the help of a motor, allowing the angle of the sleeping surface to be changed separately at the head and feet. A regular bed is fixed and flat, while an adjustable bed adapts to the user's needs in various positions. An electric bed is also known as an adjustable bed or an articulation bed.

The most important difference from a regular bed is its mobility. In a traditional bed, the mattress rests on a fixed base, and its angle cannot be changed without extra pillows or other aids. In an adjustable bed, the frame is usually divided into two or three movable parts, which are controlled by a remote control or even a smartphone app. This makes fine-tuning the sleeping position easy and effortless.

How does an adjustable bed work and what positions can it achieve?

An adjustable bed works with electric motors that move different parts of the bed frame up and down. The user controls the movement with a remote control, allowing the angle of the head or foot area to be infinitely adjusted. In most models, both parts move independently of each other.

Typical positions that an adjustable bed can achieve include:

  • Flat position, i.e., the traditional supine sleeping position
  • Zero gravity position, where both the head and feet are slightly elevated above the heart level
  • Reading position, where the head area is elevated for reading a book or watching television
  • Foot-elevating position, which improves circulation and reduces swelling
  • Snoring-reducing position, where a slight elevation of the head area reduces snoring

Many adjustable beds also feature a massage function, memory settings for favorite positions, and USB charging points. In the best models, a double bed can be divided into two halves, allowing each sleeper to adjust their side completely independently without disturbing the other.

Who is an adjustable bed suitable for and when should you get one?

An adjustable bed is particularly suitable for individuals with back problems, joint pain, circulatory issues, or breathing difficulties at night. It is also an excellent choice for older people who may find getting out of bed challenging, and for pregnant women who need support for their sleeping position.

An adjustable bed should be acquired when a regular bed no longer provides sufficient comfort or when there are recurring sleep-related problems. An adjustable bed is also a great choice for anyone who spends a lot of time in bed reading, watching television, or working on a laptop. Thus, it is not merely a medical aid, but a genuine enhancer of daily comfort.

At Sisustus1, we have noticed that interest in hotel-level sleeping solutions is constantly growing. Hotels have long utilized adjustable beds to improve guests' sleeping comfort, and now the same high-quality experience can be brought home.

What should you consider when choosing an adjustable bed?

When choosing an adjustable bed, the most important factors to consider are the quality and quietness of the motors, the bed's weight capacity, mattress compatibility, and the ease of use of the control system. Additionally, attention should be paid to the warranty and maintenance services, as an adjustable bed is a long-term investment.

Mattress selection is particularly important, as not all mattresses are suitable for an adjustable bed. An adjustable bed requires a flexible mattress that bends with the frame without being damaged. Foam, latex, or pocket sprung mattresses designed specifically for adjustable bases are usually the most suitable.

Other practical considerations to ponder before making a purchase decision:

  • Is it a single or double bed, and are separate motors needed for each side?
  • Does the bed's appearance and size fit the bedroom decor?
  • Is the remote control wired or wireless, and is app-based control available?
  • What is the noise level of the motor, especially if one person is a light sleeper?
  • How easy is the bed to assemble and disassemble if needed?

A high-quality adjustable bed is an investment that pays for itself in better sleep and daily well-being. When the bed is combined with high-quality hotel-grade textiles, such as a well-chosen pillow and duvet, the sleeping experience reaches a whole new level.

Plan the power connection and controller position

Check the chosen adjustable bed's installation instructions for power and positioning requirements. Mark the socket and controller storage position on your room plan. During setup, ask for a demonstration of how to return the bed to its normal position.

Explore our bed options in person

Visit our Helsinki showroom to explore almost our entire product range. See showroom details and arrange your visit. Contact us using our form for help finding options that suit your needs.

Beds and upholstered headboards at the Sisustus1 showroom in Helsinki.