Choosing the right mattress for an adjustable bed is crucial for comfort, support, and long-term durability.
Whether you’re looking for relief from back pain or simply want to enjoy the benefits of an electric bed, this guide will help you find the best mattress types for adjustable beds in the UK.
In the picture above you can see the Sleepmotion 400i Adjustable Platform Bed Frame. With this bed you can adjust or elevate 3 areas of the bed frame: head, feet and lumbar.
This helps release body pressure and improve blood circulation. You can control the different positions using a remote control or an application from your mobile phone.
There are even 2 massage units for your back and feet, so you can relax and enjoy a massage after a long day at work. Bensons for Beds also sells 4 adjustable bed models with similar features.
Since there is a huge selection of available beds to choose from, it can be difficult to choose the ideal mattress. But it’s an important decision. After all, you don’t want to splash out on an expensive adjustable bed only to buy a mattress that isn’t suitable.
Why do you need an adjustable mattress?
When you’re looking for an adjustable mattress, you need to find one that is flexible and can be easily moved into different positions. The mattress should match the curves of the bed frame, without creating a gap or space between the mattress and base.
It should also be durable, as adjustable beds are designed to move. This increases the wear and tear on your mattress, so you should look for one that is built to last.
And finally, and perhaps most importantly, you need to select a mattress that is comfortable and offers the required support. There’s little to no point in buying an adjustable bed if you don’t have a quality mattress to go with it.
Different Types of Mattresses:
In theory, most mattress types should be suitable for use on an adjustable bed. However, let’s look at the most popular types of mattresses and see if they are good choice or should be avoided.
Memory foam mattress
Perhaps the best choice is a memory foam mattress, as it perfectly contours to your body shape and can be purchased in a variety of firmness ratings, so you can buy a mattress with the right level of support. What’s more, memory foam mattresses are flexible enough to adjust to the movements of the bed, meaning you shouldn’t encounter any issues.
In the picture above you can see the Emma mattress, which is UK’s best selling memory foam mattress, Emma sells both a memory foam and hybrid mattress.
The Emma memory foam mattress is made up of three layers of memory foam and is 25cm deep. It has a medium-firm sleep surface, providing good level of support, comfort and flexibility while you sleep.
Nectar mattresses are generally compatible with adjustable beds. Nectar produces memory foam mattresses that are designed to be flexible and adaptable, making them suitable for use with adjustable bed frames. They are priced at £549 for a double size, and come with 365 nights home trial.
The memory foam construction allows the mattress to conform to different positions without compromising its comfort and support.
Latex mattress
Latex has similar properties to memory foam, but may feel a bit more bouncy. It is an eco-friendly alternative that also relieves body pressure as you lay down on it. In addition to this, it has cooling properties so it will cool you during hot summer nights. Just like memory foam, a mattress with latex inside is a good option for an adjustable base.
Shopping Tip: Good option for a latex mattress is the Slumberland Response Latex Luxe Mattress. It has pressure-relieving natural latex, which adjusts to your body’s contours, offering targeted pressure relief.
Hybrid mattress
A hybrid mattress is one that has a layer of memory foam and a layer of springs inside. Usually the springs are mini size (around 2-5cm high), just enough to provide the right support and pressure relief to the different parts of your body. You might want to check how high the springs are.
For example, the Simba Hybrid has titanium mini springs which are 2cm high. The mattress has been tested by the company and works very well with all types of adjustable and electric beds.
Coil spring mattress should be avoided!
Coiled spring mattresses, on the other hand, are perhaps best avoided if you decide to purchase an adjustable bed. Although they offer additional support, the coiled springs can create pressure points that cause discomfort throughout the night.
They’re also a lot less flexible, and constantly adjusting the position of a coiled spring mattress could damage the springs within. This means it would need to be replaced more often.
Other Features to Consider with Mattress for Adjustable Bed:
There are few other factors you should keep in mind when choosing the right mattress for your electric bed.
- First, consider how thick the mattress is. You’ll be able to find mattresses that are 20cm to 35cm thick, however you don’t want to pick one that is too thick, since it won’t be able to adjust to the curves of the bed. Pick one that is around 25cm deep, which can adjust well to the curves and offer good comfort and support.
- Another thing to consider is how firm is the mattress. You’ll be able to find mattresses with different comfort levels: soft, medium, firm, or extra firm. The comfort level you choose will depend on your personal preference.
- However, if you’re looking to buy a firm or extra firm mattress, just double check that it is compatible with adjustable beds, since they have a harder feel and might not be able to adjust to the curves so well.
Lastly, check that the mattress is the same size as the bed frame. While this is pretty straight forward, there is a tricky part when it comes to “super king size adjustable beds”.
In some cases you will find a super king size adjustable beds that is split into two bases, so that each couple can adjust and elevate their side as they wish. In this case you will have to buy two European single size mattresses, which measure 90cm x 200cm.
Conclusion:
Choosing the right mattress for an adjustable bed is essential to maximise comfort, support, and the benefits of your electric bed. The most suitable options are flexible, durable, and designed to adapt to the bed’s movements — making memory foam, latex, or certain hybrid mattresses the top choices.
Avoid traditional coil spring mattresses, as they lack the flexibility required and may wear out quickly.
Before buying, always check the mattress thickness, firmness, and size compatibility — especially for super king adjustable beds, which may require two separate mattresses.
Still unsure? Make sure to ask the retailer or manufacturer to confirm your chosen mattress works with an adjustable bed frame.
Invest wisely — a quality, compatible mattress ensures you get the most from your adjustable bed night after night.
