How To Correctly Use An Adjustable Bed

When it comes to improving sleep, comfort, and everyday independence, an adjustable bed can be a truly worthwhile investment. These beds are designed not just for luxury, but for real, practical support, especially if you live with pain, stiffness, or reduced mobility. At the touch of a button, you can adjust your position, ease pressure on joints, improve circulation, and find a posture that genuinely suits your body’s needs and personal preferences.

Features of an adjustable bed

Adjustable beds are thoughtfully designed to offer comfort, support, and flexibility, whether you're sleeping, relaxing, or managing an ongoing health condition. Let’s take a closer look at their unique features and benefits.

Motors

Most adjustable beds come with either single or dual motors. A single motor typically moves both the head and foot of the bed together, which keeps things simple. Dual motor beds, on the other hand, allow you to control the top and bottom of the bed independently, offering a wider range of positions to suit your exact needs. This is especially handy if you want to elevate your legs but keep your head flat, or vice versa, for increased personal comfort.

Controls

Every adjustable bed comes with an easy-to-use control, usually a remote or wired handset. The buttons on a remote are straightforward, often with clear labels or symbols, so there's no need to fiddle around guessing which button performs which action. Some remotes will come with preset positions, including; sleep, sit, or zero-gravity, making it easy to find your preferred posture at the touch of a button.

Leg support

For anyone dealing with swollen ankles, poor circulation, or general restlessness, getting a good night's sleep isn’t always easy. An adjustable bed makes it simple to lift your legs with the press of a button, gently elevating your lower body to encourage better blood flow and take the pressure off your legs and feet. This raised position can also help to reduce fluid build-up, making it easier to relax and drift off to sleep comfortably.

Back and neck support

Unlike stacking pillows, which can shift around or put your neck at odd angles, an adjustable bed offers smooth, stable support that follows the natural curve of your spine. Gently raising your upper body can help to relieve pressure on the spine and are especially great for those suffering with COPD as they open up the airways, and make breathing feel easier. It can also be a real game-changer for those who experience acid reflux or heartburn, as sleeping in an elevated position can help keep stomach acid where it belongs. With an adjustable bed, you can find that perfect incline that supports your posture without straining your body.

How do adjustable beds work?

Recliner beds use a motorised base that can be raised or lowered at the head and foot. These adjustments are typically controlled via a remote, allowing you to find the best position for your body, whether you're lying down or sitting up. The bed's movements are smooth, quick, and importantly, quiet too, and because the mattress flexes with the frame, you stay supported no matter the position or angle.

Some beds also come with memory settings, letting you save your favourite go-to positions. Dual models allow for separate movement on each side of the bed too, this is particularly ideal if you’re sharing with a partner who has different needs or does not want to be disturbed by the change in bed’s position.

Using an adjustable bed properly?

Adjustable beds have the power to transform not only pain, but restorative, restful sleep too, but they must be used thoughtfully. Here’s how to use your bed in a way that supports your comfort and physical health.

Weight distribution

It’s important to lie evenly across the mattress, keeping the torso straight and centred. This helps the mechanisms of the bed to function smoothly, supporting your body in all the right places. Avoid sitting on the edge of an adjustable bed for long periods of time, especially when the bed is raised, as this can put strain on both the bed and your joints. Some adjustable beds also have weight limits and restrictions, so be mindful of this when looking to purchase.

Relieving pain and pressure

One of the biggest benefits of a recliner bed is how it helps your body rest in a more natural, supported position. By adjusting the bed to suit your body, whether that’s lifting your knees slightly or reclining your upper body, you can ease tension in areas that typically bear the brunt during the night, such as the lower back, hips, and shoulders. This personalised support helps to reduce pressure build-up and minimises the need to toss and turn.

Sitting vs sleeping

It’s tempting to keep the bed in a semi-upright position all night, especially if you’ve been watching TV or reading a book, but it’s important to remember that the body needs a flat, neutral posture for proper rest. While some people benefit from sleeping with their upper body slightly raised, for example as a result of medical reasons, it’s usually best to lower the bed into a flatter position for sleep unless advised otherwise by a healthcare professional.

Mattress and bedding

It’s important to remember that your mattress should be designed to work with an adjustable bed base; flexible, supportive, and not too bulky. Memory foam or hybrid mattresses often work best. As for bedding, opt for fitted sheets with deep pockets so they stay put as the bed moves, and consider lighter blankets if you tend to overheat when sleeping with your back raised.

Other considerations

Spacial awareness

Adjustable beds require space around them in order to function properly. Make sure there's enough space for the bed to move freely without bumping into furniture or walls, especially at the foot and head. It’s almost important to consider how you’ll get into and out of the bed, and whether there is enough space surrounding the bed for additional mobility needs, such as a walker or wheelchair, should this be required.

Bed positioning

Position your bed so that the controls are within easy reach and getting in and out doesn’t involve unnecessary twisting or straining. Ideally, you want to be able to swing your legs out of bed easily and stand up safely. Many adjustable beds also feature side pockets for remotes and other bedroom or sleep accessories. These can better help to make the space one of relaxation and ease.

Moving on your adjustable bed

Take your time when adjusting positions or getting in and out of an adjustable bed. Remember to let the bed do the work, there’s no need to force your body into a position you aren’t familiar or happy with. Always use the controls to bring the bed to a height or angle that makes movement safer and more comfortable.

Dual control

If you share your bed, a dual control model offers a practical and personalised solution. It allows each person to adjust their side of the bed independently, so individual comfort isn’t compromised. Whether one of you prefers to sit up and read while the other rests fully flat, a dual control bed makes it easy to meet both needs at once.

Book an appointment with our team

If you’re thinking about upgrading to an adjustable bed or want help choosing the right one, we’re here to guide you. Our friendly team of Mobility Experts at Oak Tree Mobility specialise in helping people find solutions that truly fit their needs. Book a FREE home appointment today and we’ll help find the perfect bed to support your sleep, comfort, and independence.