Recently, the popularity of both memory foam mattresses and adjustable beds has soared. The two technologies have been around for a while, and more and more, people are combining them to provide the ultimate sleep experience. Each provides distinct advantages to sleepers and once they come together then those advantages are multiplied. Here, we will outline tips for choosing a memory foam mattress for an adjustable bed as well as sizes and specifications.
Combining a Memory Foam Mattress and an Adjustable Bed
Because memory foam is inherently flexible and durable, it offers the perfect complement to electric adjustable beds. However in order to make this ideal combination of memory foam and adjustable beds really work for you, you have to take a couple of things into consideration.
Mattress Considerations
Density. First, you have to consider the density of the memory foam. If the quality of the foam is compromised by a low density (under 4.0 lbs) then it may show wear sooner than expected. You want to be sure that the foam density falls within the 4.0-5.3lb range so that the cells maintain their shape and integrity throughout the adjustments.
Thickness. The profile of the mattress will also play a role in how well this combination works. A memory foam mattress over 10” may make it more difficult for the adjustable bed to properly function. Beds over 10″ will still work, though you may have a somewhat reduced range of motion. An 8″ profile would work fine for back sleepers and lighter individuals, whereas side sleepers and larger individuals will appreciate the extra support in 10-12″ mattresses. You want to find a happy medium between thickness and function or else you may not get the true potential of the adjustable bed and memory foam mattress combo.
One example of an optimal entry-level combination is the Silver Bed Package from Amerisleep.com which includes an 8″ thick memory foam mattress with 4.5lb density foam, starting at $1399.
Typical Mattress Sizes for Adjustable Beds
Adjustable beds come in a wide range of sizes, and some may be difficult to find mattresses for. However, memory foam mattresses are often available in these sizes or can be customized. The sizes range from twin to cal king, and most manufacturers also have long sizes for twin and full that offer 80″ length. You will want to make sure that the size of the base and mattress you are considering match, and ensure your room has sufficient space.
Twin and full are relatively small set-ups that sleep only a single person and take up a relatively small amount of space. The XL sizes offer more length, ideal for taller people. Smaller sizes save money and are often perfect for a person who sleeps alone or has limited floor space.
However, for those who have a partner or simply desire a larger space, the queen or king adjustable bed sizes offer a better option. Queen adjustable beds can be found in one-piece or split sizes, though king-size adjustable bases nearly always come in split models where two halves operate independently. Split bases usually can be made to operate together making the use of one king-size mattress possible as opposed to two twin XLs.
Why Use an Adjustable Bed with a Memory Foam Mattress?
While many people like memory foam mattresses and many people like adjustable beds, some people may wonder why it is such a good idea to combine. The truth is that each offers additional comfort and support that makes it so people can relax and sleep better. Why wouldn’t you want to have the advantages of both? Consider the benefits of the memory foam—it contours to your body to reduce pressure points, it has a solid reputation of being durable and long-lasting, not to mention reviews indicate that it decreases back pain. Then, think about the benefits of the adjustable bed—it allows a person to customize their sleep experience and alleviate pain and pressure. Together, these two products create the best sleep experience for nearly everyone, whether you are perfectly healthy or have ailments like back pain or GERD.
These two products come together to create the ultimate sleep experience. Memory foam pretty much always matches well with an adjustable bed with only a few things to consider to make sure the mattress lasts as long as possible and the adjustable bed can still move freely. Once you take a few moments to make sure that the two items fit appropriately, you are sure to have a comfortable sleep. A memory foam mattress and an adjustable bed are a great combination for several types of sleepers.