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Adjustable beds, also known as electric beds, allow you to change the position of the mattress from top to bottom so that you, or a loved one, can choose the most comfortable sitting or lying position without having to move.
There are lots of beds and features to choose from – and a wide range of prices to match – but they tend to fall into two main categories: lifestyle and profiling.
Keep scrolling for more information on the different types of adjustable beds, how much you should expect to spend and the best mattresses to pair with your bed.
See all of our advice on mobility and disability aids, or head straight to our reviews for recommendations on riser recliner chairs, stairlifts, hearing aids and more.
Here are some things to consider doing before you buy an adjustable bed:
Lifestyle beds usually offer a ‘sit up’ function to make it more comfortable to read or watch TV in bed.
They are unlikely to offer different sleeping positions or adjustable height options, and tend to be aimed at people who want an adjustable bed for comfort rather than for health reasons.
Before choosing which type of bed to buy, it's worth thinking about the future and how your needs may evolve.
If you are looking for additional support and comfort, a lifestyle bed might be for you. But if you need more support and a wider range of functionality, you may want to consider a different type.
Pros
Cons
Profiling beds, also known as variable posture beds, offer a wider variety of positions and features than lifestyle beds, so they can be more suitable for those with specific medical or health needs.
Profiling beds can be adjusted electronically while the person is on the bed.
The movement of the bed is controlled by a handset, which means the person in bed can also make adjustments themselves.
There are three main options when choosing a profiling bed, and they each offer a different range of movement:
Pros
Cons
Everyday tasks can become harder in later life. See all of our advice on staying independent at home.
Just like regular beds, adjustable beds come in a range of sizes, including single, double, king-sized and superking-sized.
Comfort is a consideration here, as are your unique needs and available space.
A single bed might be plenty if you're buying for a person who sleeps alone. But if you're looking for something bigger, bear in mind that most double, king and superking beds tend to have one single operating mechanism.
Handily, many retailers also offer two singles that work independently but clip together to form a double. This is a great option for those wishing to share a bed but move independently, or if there's a chance one partner might need nursing care in the future.
Adjustable beds also tend to be a bit wider than standard beds, so do make sure you've checked it will fit comfortably in your bedroom before purchasing.
Expert tip: an adjustable bed tends to push you down the bed a little as you sit up. So, ideally, the bed should be 15cm (6in) longer than the tallest user.
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Extra features, like the ones below, are typically only found on profiling beds.
Adjustable beds need special mattresses. They have divisions that correspond with the different sections of the bed base, so that they bend with the base of the bed when it moves.
Most retailers offer either 'frame only' deals or a combined deal, which includes the mattress. If you decide to buy the mattress separately, be sure to check first that it's compatible with the base.
The mattress is a really important part of the purchase. Not only does it need to be comfortable, it also needs to be able to withstand any movement from the adjustable frame over time.
Just like with regular mattresses, you will have a range of different types to choose from, including firm, soft, pocket-spring or memory foam.
This isn't advisable. The mattress will need to work with the movement of the bed, and a specially designed mattress will be more robust and comfortable and will also help you to get the most out of the frame functionality.
They also tend to come a little longer than a typical mattress, so they don't spring up too far when the frame is adjusted.
If you've decided an adjustable bed isn't for you right now - see our round-up of the best mattresses.
Prices vary considerably, but buying an adjustable bed is not cheap. Profiling beds are typically more expensive than lifestyle beds and you can expect to pay anywhere between £400 and £5,000, or sometimes even more for a premium model, depending on the features.
As a guide, here’s what you might expect to pay for each size of adjustable bed (prices include both base and mattress):
Many electric beds also come in king or superking sizes. Do shop around, but expect to pay more for these.
It's also worth finding out if the company you purchase from will deliver and install the bed you choose, and how much they will charge for this. Some companies may also offer to take away an old bed.
You can buy adjustable beds from some high street furniture stores as well as specialist stores, where you're likely to find a much bigger range. Retailers include:
If you think an adjustable bed might be right for you, or for someone you are shopping for, it's worth finding out whether you're eligible for any money off first.
Local funding
If you, or the person you are buying for, has been assessed by the local health authority as needing an adjustable bed, there may be some funding available. This is likely to cover only current needs and no unnecessary features.
VAT exemption
If you are registered disabled or have a long-term illness, you don’t have to pay VAT on adjustable beds or any other disability aids for your personal use. This includes installation, repairs, maintenance, spare parts and accessories. See the Gov.UK guidance for more information on the rules.
If you're buying an adjustable bed, as with any other product, you have certain consumer rights.
Under the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations, retailers are not allowed to use misleading or underhand tactics to get you to part with your cash, and products have to be as described.
Whether you are buying in store, online or from a salesperson in your home, you are protected by the Consumer Contracts Regulations if things go wrong.
If your adjustable bed is faulty, or develops a fault, you have rights under the Sale of Goods Act to get a refund, repair or replacement. For more information, check out our consumer rights guide – what do I do if I have a faulty product?