5 Best Mattresses for Adjustable Beds: Reviews and Guide

Best for Back Pain — Plank Firm

Best Foam Mattress for Adjustable Beds - Nolah Original 10”

My next pick, the Nolah Original 10”, is among  the best mattresses for adjustable beds primarily for its cradling abilities. This mattress uses AirFoam, a proprietary variation of memory foam that contours well to the body shape. For me, what makes the Nolah 10-inch mattress a choice pick for adjustable beds is its simple construction. The cradling top foam layer, its transition layer which adds bounce, and the dense core layer which adds support, all work together with an adjustable bed to help you get a comfy sleeping position, without any pressure build ups around your body’s protruding areas. 

The Nolah Original’s core provided me with the support I needed to keep my body aligned. I also experienced minimal motion transfer even when I slept close to the edges. Although the thick core limits the positioning and adjustments you can do on an adjustable bed, the quality of support necessary to align the spine outweighs this drawback.
Read our full Nolah mattress review for more information.

Best Budget Pick — Zoma

My last pick of the best mattresses for adjustable beds is the Zoma mattress. It is one of the best-valued mattresses, considering it comes at over $300 cheaper than the Plank firm mattress. While reviewing, one of the features that interested me was the balance between the support and the cushion. In addition, the resilient and durable construction makes it suitable for adjustable beds even as you switch your bed positioning.

In addition, the motion isolation on this mattress was impressive. The mattress adjusted acutely to precisely where the pressure was applied, ensuring sleepers get undisturbed rest. As for thermoregulation, the breathable top layer allowed me to sleep slightly cool, as my body heat could travel through the mattress instead of being trapped in the mattress’s upper layer. 
Read our full Zoma mattress review for more information.

Our Methodology - Why I Picked These Mattresses

The best mattresses for adjustable beds are typically made of soft, extra-conforming materials such as memory foam or latex. This allows you to really feel the benefits of becoming weightless due to having the lower part of your adjustable base raised. 

When I reviewed mattresses, I checked their material first and foremost, stripping away the side cover and testing each layer individually. I then checked for conformity, resting on the bed in different sleeping positions to see how well the mattress would redistribute my weight and relieve pressure. Sinkage would also be tested, and I would measure how deep my upper and lower body parts would sink. As long as my spine was still supported and I was well-cushioned and comfortable, I would know this mattress was suitable for an adjustable bed. My previous reviews and experience in the mattress and bed industry help me decide which mattresses are best for adjustable beds. More methodology tips will be shared later in the article so you can pick the best one for yourself.

What Type of Mattress Is Best for an Adjustable Bed?

Memory foam and latex are considered the best types of mattresses for adjustable beds. They are flexible and durable enough to withstand constant bending and shifting. 

However, other mattress types may also work in some cases. 

Let’s take a look at the most common types of mattresses and how exactly they perform when paired with an adjustable bed.

Memory Foam

This material is among the most popular options for adjustable beds due to its superb flexibility. Memory foam has a slow response and offers close conforming. If you want to use an adjustable base to help deal with a medical condition, such as arthritis or fibromyalgia, a memory foam bed is a good option to go with thanks to its pressure-relieving properties.

When a memory foam mattress is used with an adjustable bed, it easily adjusts to its position without losing its supportive properties. However, this material may wear out sooner: while the average lifespan of memory foam mattresses is around 10 years, using it with an adjustable bed frame requires you to pick a model of higher density for better durability. Note that this may mean spending more money.

Also Read: Top-rated Memory Foam Mattresses Without Fiberglass

High-quality Mattresses without Memory Foam

Polyfoam

Also being among the best mattresses for adjustable beds, polyfoam models offer excellent pressure relief and gentle cradling. Polyfoam is a bit denser than memory foam and has a faster response. 

Many mattresses use polyfoam as the base and combine it with memory foam comfort layers. However, you can also find all-polyfoam mattresses. Compared to those made with memory foam and other mattresses that don't have springs, they allow for easier movement on the mattress and slightly better breathability.

Latex 

Latex is also very effective when it comes to preventing pressure from accumulating in your pressure points. This material is perfect for adjustable beds since it’s very flexible and squishy. 

Now, unlike foam, latex has a bouncy feel, doesn’t let you sink too deeply, and sleeps very cool. Being an eco-friendly option, latex mattresses are also more durable but have an expensive price tag.

Innerspring

Offering solid support and good air circulation, spring mattresses are sometimes used for adjustable beds as well. However, if you want an innerspring, you need to make sure that the manufacturer uses pocketed coils rather than a solid spring block. This way, your new mattress will be easier to flex and adjust to the shape of the frame. 

Some users pick innerspring models due to their affordable price, but note that they typically have a firmer feel and may lack pressure relief.

Hybrid

Hybrid beds can offer consistent support, a good amount of cradling, and a balanced feel overall. But because they are typically thick and bulky, not all of them can be used with adjustable beds. If you’re certain that you want a hybrid, make sure to contact the manufacturer and ask about compatibility with adjustable frames.  Also, keep in mind that a hybrid mattress can work with an adjustable bed frame only if it uses a system of independent (wrapped coils). Otherwise, the coil core can be damaged, and the warranty won’t be likely to cover it.

Airbed

Airbeds allow users to control the support levels by letting more or less air in. However, if you want to use an airbed with an adjustable frame, it has to be made with thicker PVC. Also, keep in mind that models with air chambers work better than one-chamber mattresses.

“Using an adjustable base can help you improve blood circulation and relieve leg swelling (if you are prone to that). Additionally, it gives you a chance to enjoy other activities than sleep in your bed. For instance, you can sit up comfortably and read a book or your favorite magazine.”

Key Considerations to Make Before Buying a Mattress for an Adjustable Bed

Sleeping on an adjustable bed, just like sleeping in a reclining chair, may help you get more comfortable if you’re recovering after a surgery or have some medical condition. But this will only work if you choose a suitable mattress for your adjustable bed and, most importantly, a mattress that will work for your particular needs.

And to do that, let’s look at the key factors you may want to consider when shopping:

• Firmness. The firmness level of your new mattress would depend on your weight and preferred sleeping position. Now, mattresses typically are rated from 1 to 10, with 10 being the firmest. If you are a strict stomach sleeper, you need a very supportive bed (around 7-8 for an average weight and 9-10 for overweight users). Back sleepers require a bit of cushioning for their hips and buttocks, so 5-6 would be suitable (or 7-8 if you weigh more than 250 pounds). As for side sleepers, they need generous cradling for the shoulders and hips and a soft-to-medium firmness level (3-5 for average individuals and 5-7 for heavier sleepers). Keep in mind that lightweight users usually need a softer level than that recommended for average sleepers.
• Size. Adjustable beds might have slight variations in size, which is why you need to be attentive with the measurements when buying a new mattress for your adjustable bed frame. If you share your bed with a partner, you may want to consider a larger (Queen or King) model. However, if you two have different preferences, there are also split King and Cal King options. If you require more sleeping space but can’t afford a larger mattress, consider getting a model with strong edges (like a hybrid). This way, you will be able to lie closer to the edge, which means more space at a lower price.
• Thickness. This factor is important since an overly thick mattress will not bend that well. And a thin one might not provide you with enough support. Typically, the best mattresses for adjustable beds range from 6 to 12 inches in thickness. 14-inch models may also be suitable, but it depends on the material (latex and foam should work). Keep in mind that mattresses using more rigid materials should be thinner.
• Durability. A high-quality mattress should withstand regular bending when being used with an adjustable frame. In this case, you get what you pay for: cheaper models will wear out faster. Pay attention to the warranty as well. A longer one often means that the manufacturer is sure of their product’s quality. And speaking of warranty…
• Warranty. While some manufacturers offer an extensive mattress warranty (which is awesome), using an adjustable bed frame may actually void it. So, read the fine print (or contact the customer service) before making a purchase. After all, a mattress is a serious investment and it should be protected by the warranty.
• Budget. As mentioned before, a cheap mattress would wear out faster. And while you should realize that an adjustable bed is quite expensive on its own (plus it may require additional costs in the future due to motor repairs), it’s safer for you to invest in a good-quality mattress, even if it will cost you a bit more. This way, your bed will serve you longer. 
  Now, foam mattresses are relatively affordable, in most cases, and give users plenty of options to pick from. Hybrid models tend to be a bit pricier. Latex mattresses are among the most expensive ones due to their natural composition and impressive lifespan. For budget shoppers, an innerspring model might be a good solution (although it’s worth mentioning that not all spring mattresses work with adjustable beds).
• Cover. If you plan to be using your new mattress in different positions on an adjustable bed, you might want to look for models that have a non-slip bottom. Additionally, in terms of health, you might want to get a mattress with a removable cover (especially if you are prone to allergies or have sensitive skin). A removable cover will allow you to keep your mattress fresh and clean longer.
• Noise. The motor of your adjustable bed can be enough of an irritant if you or your partner are light sleepers. Therefore, you might want your mattress to be noise-free when bearing weight. In this case, memory foam and latex perform the best. Mattresses that use coils can make squeaky sounds, but the chances of that are much lower when the coils are wrapped in fabric or surrounded by foam.

“Sleeping in a slightly reclined position on an adjustable bed has many potential benefits. It might help you feel more comfortable when sleeping with a cold, as the gravity may relieve your nasal congestion. Also, adjustable beds are a good option for snorers (again, due to the gravity impact).”

Other Aspects to Consider When Looking for the Best Mattress for an Adjustable Bed

When shopping for a good mattress suitable for adjustable beds, some factors may seem minor. But in reality, they can often affect one’s experience (either positively or negatively). So, here are a few considerations that shoppers shouldn’t disregard:

• Motion isolation. For couples, motion transfer can be a serious issue, especially if one of them tends to be restless. To avoid nighttime disturbances, partnered sleepers might want to consider slower-moving mattresses that absorb shock from motion. They include memory foam, polyfoam, and latex (typically, soft and medium models). Hybrid mattresses can also offer decent motion isolation if they use pocketed coils and thick, cradling comfort layers.
• Temperature regulation. Heat retention can easily ruin one’s sleep, even if the mattress feels perfectly comfortable. Night sweats are especially common among heavier users and side sleepers. In this case, they might want to choose breathable open-cell foams and mattresses that use cooling gel beads to prevent overheating. However, the models that truly excel at temperature regulation are latex and spring mattresses. Hybrids can also do the trick if their comfort layers aren’t too cradling or use cooling components (such as gel particles). 
• Split design. A split mattress could be a perfect solution for partners who have different comfort preferences. In this case, they would also need to use a split adjustable bed. This little trick would allow them to adjust their side of the bed without affecting each other’s comfort.
• Sleep trial (or after-purchase adjustments). A sleep trial (especially a longer one) would allow shoppers to test their new mattress and return it if this particular model does not work for them. Most mattress retailers offer at least 100 nights. However, for hesitant shoppers, some mattresses like Saatva, Puffy and others come with 180- and even 365-day sleep trials. Some companies like Goodmorning.com also offer post-purchase adjustments. They send additional mattress layers to help you change the feel of the mattress.

Conclusion

When it comes to adjustable beds, only certain mattress types allow users to make the most out of them. Consider investing in a good foam or latex mattress, and you will be able to enjoy all the perks your adjustable bed frame has to offer.

However, don’t forget that the material is not the only criterion. You should also pick the proper firmness, thickness, and pay attention to the warranty conditions.

If I am to pick one of these mattresses, I will opt for the AS3 by Amerisleep. While the other mattresses also work well with adjustable beds, the AS3 delivers a good balance of cradling and support, which makes it able to serve a wider range of sleep preferences.

What are your thoughts? Did this guide help you make up your mind? Let us know in the comments below!