01Adjustable Beds: What They Do, Who They're For, and How to Choose One

An adjustable bed base lets you raise or lower the head and foot of your mattress independently. That simple feature turns out to have a meaningful impact on how well people sleep — especially those dealing with back pain, acid reflux, snoring, or mobility issues.

This guide covers how adjustable beds work, who benefits most, what features actually matter, and how to choose the right one.

03What Is an Adjustable Bed?

An adjustable bed — sometimes called a power base or adjustable base — is a motorized bed frame that can be positioned at different angles. Unlike a standard flat foundation, it allows you to elevate your head, raise your legs, or use preset positions like zero gravity.

They're controlled by a remote or smartphone app, and many models let two people in a split king or split queen adjust their sides independently.

04Health and Comfort Benefits

Adjustable bases are popular not just for comfort — they address real sleep health concerns.

Back and Spinal Relief

Sleeping flat puts continuous pressure on your lumbar spine. Slightly elevating the head and feet — the "zero gravity" position — takes that strain off. Many people with chronic lower back pain report meaningful relief after making the switch.

Acid Reflux and GERD

Elevating the head 6–8 inches reduces nighttime acid reflux by using gravity to keep stomach acid down. It's one of the most clinically supported reasons to consider an adjustable base.

Snoring and Sleep Apnea

Raising the head opens the airway and can reduce snoring intensity. It's not a substitute for a CPAP machine if you have diagnosed sleep apnea, but it can complement treatment and reduce snoring for bed partners.

Circulation and Swelling

Elevating the legs improves venous circulation and can reduce swelling in the lower legs and feet — particularly helpful for people who stand all day or have circulation concerns.

Reading, Watching TV, and Working in Bed

Propping yourself up with pillows is an imperfect solution. An adjustable base gives you proper ergonomic support whether you're reading, watching a show, or answering emails from bed.

05Features Worth Paying For

Feature What It Does Worth It?
Zero Gravity Preset Elevates head and legs to reduce spinal pressure Yes — very useful
Wireless Remote Adjusts position without getting up Yes — standard on most models
App Control Smartphone integration, position memory Nice to have
Massage / Vibration Built-in vibration modes for relaxation Situational — try before committing
Under-Bed Lighting Low-level nighttime lighting Convenient, low cost
USB Charging Ports Bedside charging without a separate charger Convenient
Wall Saver Function Base moves forward as head rises, protecting the wall Yes — important for smaller rooms
Anti-Snore Preset Slightly elevates head to reduce snoring Useful if snoring is the main concern
Split Design Each side adjusts independently Essential for couples with different preferences

06Who Should Consider an Adjustable Bed

Good Fit If You:

  • Have chronic lower back pain or sciatica
  • Experience acid reflux or GERD at night
  • Snore or have a partner who snores
  • Have circulation issues or leg swelling
  • Spend significant time reading or watching TV in bed
  • Are recovering from surgery or a physical injury
  • Are an older adult looking for easier bed entry/exit
  • Sleep with a partner who has different comfort preferences

May Not Be the Best Fit If You:

  • Sleep on your stomach (most positions don't benefit stomach sleepers)
  • Have a small bedroom with limited floor clearance around the bed
  • Prefer a simple, minimal bedroom aesthetic
  • Are working with a very tight budget (good adjustable bases start around $500–$800)

07Mattress Compatibility

Not every mattress works with an adjustable base. Here's a quick guide:

Mattress Type Compatible? Notes
Memory Foam Yes Ideal — flexible and conforms well
Latex Yes Works well, slightly less flexible than foam
Hybrid Usually yes Depends on coil type — ask before purchasing
Traditional Innerspring Generally no Bonnel coils don't flex well and may be damaged

If you already own a memory foam or hybrid mattress, there's a good chance it's compatible. When in doubt, bring your mattress model info to one of our showrooms and our team can confirm compatibility before you buy.

08Sizes and Configurations

Adjustable bases come in the same sizes as standard mattresses:

  • Twin XL — Common for single sleepers; also used in pairs for split king setups
  • Full — Less common but available
  • Queen — Most popular; moves as one unit
  • Split Queen — Two halves that adjust independently
  • King — Moves as one unit
  • Split King — Two Twin XLs side by side; each half adjusts independently
  • California King — Available; split cal king also an option

For couples with different sleep preferences, a split king or split queen is often worth the upgrade. Each person can adjust their side without disturbing the other.

09Tips Before You Buy

  • Measure your room. Adjustable bases need floor clearance and wall space. The wall-saver function helps, but check dimensions first.
  • Test the positions in person. Zero gravity feels different for different body types. What works for one person may not work for another. Visit a showroom to try different preset positions before committing.
  • Ask about mattress compatibility. If you're keeping your existing mattress, confirm it works with the base you're considering.
  • Look for a trial period. Adjusting to a new sleep position takes time. A 90–120 night trial gives you enough time to know if it's working.
  • Compare warranties. Good adjustable base warranties run 10–20 years on the frame and 1–3 years on parts and labor.
  • Consider a package deal. Buying a compatible mattress and base together often saves money and ensures compatibility.

Our team at LA Mattress Store helps customers try adjustable bases in person at our 5 LA showroom locations. We can walk you through features, help you find the right size, and pair your base with the right mattress. Financing is available on all adjustable bed purchases.

10Frequently Asked Questions

Are adjustable beds good for side sleepers?

They can be. Side sleepers often benefit from slight head elevation to reduce shoulder pressure, and leg elevation can improve hip alignment. The best way to know is to test different positions in a showroom.

Can I use my existing mattress on an adjustable base?

Memory foam, latex, and most hybrids are compatible. Traditional bonnel coil innerspring mattresses generally aren't. Check your mattress specs or ask one of our sleep specialists.

How long do adjustable beds last?

Quality adjustable bases typically last 15–20 years with normal use. The motors and electronics are the components most likely to need service over time.

Do adjustable beds make noise?

Better-quality models are nearly silent. Budget models can be louder. Testing in person is the best way to judge noise levels before buying.

Can I use a headboard with an adjustable base?

Yes. Most adjustable bases have brackets for standard headboards. Confirm compatibility with the specific model you're considering.

Are adjustable bases worth the cost?

For people dealing with back pain, acid reflux, or snoring, they often are. The sleep quality improvement tends to be more significant than with most other sleep accessories. If you're unsure, start with a trial period to verify it works for you before committing.

What sizes do adjustable beds come in?

Twin XL, Full, Queen, Split Queen, King, Split King, and California King. Split configurations are available for couples who want independent adjustment.

Is financing available?

Yes. LA Mattress Store offers flexible financing options on adjustable beds and mattress packages.

Ready to try one in person? Visit any of our LA Mattress Store showrooms to test adjustable bases and get hands-on guidance from our sleep specialists. We carry a range of options from entry-level to premium — and we'll help you find what actually works for your sleep needs.

Browse our full adjustable bed collection online, or stop by a store to try before you buy.