An adjustable bed is a type of bed with a movable base. Instead of lying flat all the time, you can adjust the position of the head, back, lumbar or foot area, depending on the model. This is usually controlled using a remote control, app or built-in electric adjustable system.

An electric adjustable bed can be useful if you want more flexibility from your bed. Some people use an adjustable bed to sit up more comfortably, raise their legs, support their back or find a better sleep position. Others choose one because they want a bed frame that feels more personal than a standard bed.

The main benefit of an adjustable bed is control. You can change your position without needing to stack pillows or move around as much to get comfortable.

An adjustable bed can make everyday comfort easier. Raising the head of the bed can help when reading, watching television or having a quiet morning with a cup of tea. Raising the foot section can also help you find a more relaxed position after a long day.

The best adjustable bed for you will depend on how you sleep. Back sleepers may enjoy a slightly raised upper body or leg position. Side sleepers can also use adjustable beds, although they may prefer a gentler incline so the body still feels naturally supported.

If you sleep with a partner, a split adjustable or split king style option may be worth considering where available. This can allow each side of the bed to move more independently, which is useful if one person likes to sit up while the other prefers to lie flat.

Some adjustable bases include positions designed to help reduce pressure through the body, such as Zero Gravity. This kind of position raises the head and foot sections to help create a more weightless feeling. It is not a medical treatment, but many people find this position comfortable for relaxing and settling into bed.

An adjustable bed can also be a practical option if getting in and out of bed, sitting up or finding a comfortable sleeping position has become more difficult. It offers more flexibility than a standard bed while still looking like a stylish piece of bedroom furniture.

There are different types of adjustable beds, so it helps to think about how you plan to use yours.

An adjustable base can often be used on its own or paired with selected compatible bed frames. This can be a good choice if function is your main priority, or if you want a more minimal look.

An adjustable bed frame combines the movement of an electric bed with the look of a traditional bed frame. This means you can choose a design that suits your room, while still enjoying adjustable comfort.

Some electric adjustable beds include extra features such as app control, sleep tracking, massage, USB ports, under-bed lighting or anti-snore settings. These features vary by model, so it is always worth checking the product details before purchasing an adjustable bed.

Choosing the right mattress for an adjustable bed is just as important as choosing the bed frame itself. Our Sleepmatch Mattress Finder is a simple way to narrow down your options based on how you sleep, the support you prefer and what feels comfortable for you. Just answer a few quick questions and we’ll help match you with mattresses from our range, making it easier to find a compatible mattress for your adjustable bed with confidence.

Yes, in most cases you need a mattress that is compatible with an adjustable base. Not every mattress can bend and flex properly with the movement of an adjustable bed frame.

A mattress for an adjustable bed should be designed to move with the base without affecting comfort or support. If the mattress is too rigid, too deep or not designed for adjustable use, it may not sit correctly when the bed moves.

The best mattress for an adjustable bed is one that is clearly listed as compatible. Adjustable mattresses are designed to flex with the base while still offering the support you need.

Memory foam mattresses can often work well with adjustable bases because they are flexible and contouring, but compatibility should always be checked. Some pocket spring mattresses may also be suitable if they have been designed for adjustable use. A traditional sprung mattress or pillow top mattress may not always be suitable, depending on its construction.

Before buying, check whether the mattress is compatible with adjustable bases and whether it is the right size for your chosen bed frame.

Our online Mattress Finder powered by Sleepmatch™ technology will help you find perfect mattress in minutes.

Just answer a few simple questions and our exclusive Sleepmatch™ tool will browse your results to find the mattresses that are best suited to you. 

You may be able to use your current mattress with an adjustable bed, but only if the mattress is compatible. If your existing mattress is not designed to bend with an adjustable base, it may affect the comfort, movement and lifespan of both the mattress and the bed.

If you are unsure, the safest option is to choose a new mattress designed for adjustable beds. This helps ensure the mattress and base work together properly.

Adjustable beds are available in different bed sizes, so it is important to measure your room and check the product dimensions before buying. Think about the full footprint of the bed frame, not just the mattress size.

A single adjustable bed can work well for one sleeper or a smaller bedroom. A king adjustable or super king adjustable bed can offer more space for couples. If you share a bed, look at whether the model offers split adjustable movement, as this can give each sleeper more control over their side of the bed.

Always check the individual product details, especially with split bases. Some larger adjustable beds may require two separate compatible mattresses rather than one single mattress.

When comparing adjustable beds, it helps to think about how you will use the bed every day. The best bed is not always the one with the most features. It is the one that fits your lifestyle, your bedroom and your sleep needs.

Most adjustable beds allow you to move the head and foot sections. This lets you sit up, raise your legs or lower the head and foot sections independently, depending on the model.

Some adjustable beds include extra lumbar support. This can be useful if you want more control around the lower back area while resting or sitting up.

Zero Gravity is a comfort setting designed to create a more weightless feeling by raising the head and foot areas. It can be a useful feature if you want an easy pre-set position for relaxing.

Some adjustable beds include built-in massage units. These are usually designed for relaxation rather than medical treatment, but they can be a nice feature if you want a more luxurious sleep set-up.

A simple remote control can make an electric adjustable bed easy to use. Some smart adjustable beds may also include app control or the option to save your favourite positions.

Selected adjustable beds include practical extras such as USB ports, USB-C charging or under-bed lighting. These are not essential, but they can make the bed feel more convenient day to day. Under-bed lighting or LED lighting can also help create a softer bedroom atmosphere.

If you share a bed, look for features that make the bed work for both sleepers. A split adjustable base can be helpful if one person wants to raise their side of the bed without disturbing the other.

An adjustable bed may help some people find a more comfortable sleeping or resting position, especially if lying completely flat feels uncomfortable. Being able to raise the head, legs or back area can make it easier to reduce pressure and settle into a supportive position.

However, back pain can have many causes. An adjustable bed should not be seen as a cure or a replacement for medical advice. If you have ongoing back pain, sleep apnoea, mobility concerns or a medical condition, it is best to speak with a healthcare professional before choosing a new bed.

Some adjustable beds allow you to slightly raise the head of the bed. For some sleepers, this may help reduce snoring caused by sleeping flat. Selected models may also include anti-snore features.

That said, snoring can have different causes and may sometimes be linked to conditions such as sleep apnoea. If snoring is severe, sudden or affecting your health, it is worth getting medical advice.

Adjustable beds and hospital beds are not the same thing. Hospital beds are designed for clinical care and may include specialist medical features. Adjustable beds are designed for comfort, support and everyday bedroom use.

If you need a bed for medical care, speak to a healthcare professional. If you want a more comfortable and flexible type of bed for sleeping, reading and relaxing, an adjustable bed may be the better fit for your home.

Adjustable beds offer lots of benefits, but there are a few practical points to consider before buying.

They are usually heavier than a standard bed, especially because adjustable bases are heavy and include motorised parts. They may also cost more than a standard bed frame. You will need to check mattress compatibility carefully, and some models may need assembly or extra space around the bed.

It is also worth thinking about power access. As an electric bed needs power to move, you will need a plug socket nearby. If there is a power cut, the bed may not adjust again until power is restored, depending on the model.

When choosing the right adjustable bed, start with how you sleep and how you use your bedroom.

Think about whether you mainly want better sleep, more comfort when sitting up, extra support for your back or legs, or added features such as massage and smart controls. Then consider the size of your room, whether you share a bed, and which mattress is compatible with the adjustable base.

It can also help to try different positions in-store where possible. What feels right for one sleeper may not suit another, so taking time to test the bed can make the decision easier.

Yes, you usually need a mattress designed for adjustable use. A compatible mattress will flex with the bed frame and help the adjustable features work properly.

No. Not every mattress is compatible with an adjustable base. Always check the product details before using a mattress with an adjustable bed.

The best adjustable bed is the one that suits your needs, your room and your mattress. Look at the size, adjustment options, comfort features, mattress compatibility and whether you sleep alone or share a bed.

Yes, side sleepers can use adjustable beds. A gentle incline may work better than a high sitting position, as side sleepers still need good alignment through the neck, shoulders, hips and back.

It may help some people find a more comfortable resting position, but it will not cure back pain. If you have ongoing pain, it is best to speak with a healthcare professional.

This depends on the bed frame and base. Some adjustable bases have compatible headboards available separately, while others are designed to sit inside selected compatible bed frames. Always check the product information before buying.

This depends on the mattress. Some mattresses are designed to be rotated rather than turned, while others should not be flipped. Always follow the care instructions for your specific mattress.

An adjustable bed can be worth it if you want more control over your sleeping and relaxing position. It is especially useful if you read or watch TV in bed, want to raise your legs, prefer not to sleep completely flat, or want a more personalised sleep set-up.

At Dreams, our range of adjustable beds is designed to bring together comfort, support and practical features for everyday sleep and relaxation. From simple electric adjustable options to more advanced designs with smart controls, massage, Zero Gravity and partner-friendly split bases, there are choices to suit different bedrooms and sleep needs.

When buying an electric adjustable bed, remember to check the bed size, mattress compatibility and the features that matter most to you. Choosing the right bed and mattress together will help you get the best from your adjustable bed frame and enjoy a more comfortable night’s sleep.