What is an adjustable bed?#
An adjustable bed has a motorised frame that allows the head section, foot section or both to be raised and lowered independently via remote control. The mattress bends with the frame — so you need a compatible flexible mattress rather than a rigid pocket-sprung model.
Who benefits most#
- Acid reflux and GERD: Raising the head section 15–20 cm uses gravity to reduce nocturnal reflux — one of the best-evidenced uses for adjustable beds.
- Snoring: Head elevation reduces airway collapse. Not a substitute for treating sleep apnoea medically, but effective for positional snoring.
- Leg swelling: Elevating the foot section helps drain fluid pooling in the legs — useful for varicose veins and poor circulation.
- Lower back pain: The "zero gravity" position (head and knees slightly elevated) reduces lumbar spine pressure for some back pain sufferers.
- Limited mobility: Raising the head section makes getting in and out of bed significantly easier for those with limited mobility or recovering from surgery.
What to look for#
Motor quality: Look for motors rated to at least 130 kg per side and a quiet-operation specification. Cheap motors can fail within 3–5 years.
Mattress compatibility: You need a flexible mattress — foam, latex or a specific flexible hybrid. Traditional rigid pocket-sprung mattresses cannot profile. Always confirm compatibility before ordering.
Warranty: Motor and frame warranties of 5 years minimum are standard on quality adjustable beds. Shorter warranties indicate lower-quality components.
Key UK brands#
Adjustamatic, Silentnight Adjustable and Opera (available at John Lewis) are among the most widely available UK adjustable bed brands. Prices start around £800–£1,000 for a single base and increase for double or split-king configurations.