Best Mattress for Adjustable Beds

Adjustable beds appeal to many sleepers, from those who read or watch TV in bed to those with medical concerns like GERD or obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Selecting a mattress that is compatible with your adjustable bed ensures you can experience all of its benefits, including customized positioning and pressure relief.

An adjustable bed frame can be elevated at the head, and often the foot, of the bed. This lets sleepers customize their sleeping or resting position. Many adjustable beds have upgraded features, including wireless remote controls, massage features, zero gravity settings, and lighting. Though adjustable bed frames are more popular and increasingly available, it is important to note that not every mattress works with an adjustable base.

If you have invested in an adjustable bed, you will need a specialized mattress that is flexible enough to move with the base. The mattress should also be durable and resilient, ensuring it maintains its shape and level of support, even when regularly repositioned. When selecting a mattress for an adjustable bed, consider your unique needs, preferences, and primary sleeping position.

We’ll review the best mattresses for adjustable beds and what to look for when shopping for this type of mattress. We’ll also cover how these beds work, what type of mattress works best with an adjustable base, and other important considerations for shoppers.

For more mattress options, our guide to 2023’s best mattresses includes several models compatible with adjustable beds. Is pain relief a top priority? Visit our list of the best mattresses for back pain to learn more.

Our Recommendations

The WinkBed is a versatile, high-performance mattress with many qualities that make it compatible with an adjustable bed. We found the Euro-top hybrid design both flexible and durable, and four firmness options ensure most people can find an option that feels comfortable for their body type and sleep position.

Three standard versions of the WinkBed are available. The Softer WinkBed – which rates as a 4 on our 10-point firmness scale, or medium soft – features a plush comfort layer of adaptive polyfoam that contours closely to the body. During our product tests, the Softer WinkBed earned excellent ratings from side and back sleepers under 130 pounds. The Luxury Firm WinkBed (6) is the most balanced option, with moderate conforming and strong overall support from its pocketed coil system. Anyone who weighs 130 to 230 pounds regardless of their sleep position should find this model satisfactory. Many of the back and stomach sleepers on our team preferred the Firmer WinkBed (7).

The fourth version is the WinkBed Plus, which is specifically designed for people who weigh more than 230 pounds. The Plus swaps out the adaptive polyfoam for a comfort layer of responsive latex, resulting in noticeable bounciness that allows you to move across the surface with ease. The latex is divided into seven firmness zones to create extra reinforcement around the midsection, so uncomfortable sinkage shouldn’t be an issue.

Overall, the WinkBed performed exceptionally well during our various product tests. Cooling was one area where the mattress excelled. Steady airflow through the coils, a comfort layer that retains very little heat, and a moisture-wicking Tencel cover all make the WinkBed a great choice for hot sleepers. Edge support was another strong performance area. The coils feel sturdier along the perimeter, resulting in strong pushback and minimal sinkage when you sit or lie down close to the edges of the mattress. This quality was especially noteworthy for the Firmer WinkBed and WinkBed Plus models.

The WinkBed is competitively priced, though the Plus is slightly more expensive than its standard counterparts, and shipping is free for all customers in the contiguous U.S. Each purchase comes with a 120-night sleep trial. If you aren’t satisfied with your original firmness selection, you may exchange the mattress for a model with a different feel at no extra cost. All owners receive a lifetime warranty, as well.

If you’re in the market for an all-foam bed, the Nectar Mattress is a good place to start. This flagship mattress from Nectar has a medium firm (6) feel that should appeal to a wide swatch of sleepers. The price is also approachable compared to competing foam mattresses.

The top layer of the Nectar features 2 inches of gel-infused memory foam that provides strong contouring. Phase change material in this layer helps reduce some of the heat retention that foam is known for. Next is a transitional layer of polyfoam that moderately conforms to the body but also provides firmness to keep your body from sinking too deep. The support core is made of high-density polyfoam that stabilizes the entire mattress.

With its plush memory foam comfort layer, the Nectar provides excellent relief to areas on the body that may experience pressure buildup at night. Side sleepers put a lot of pressure on their hips and shoulders, so the bed is quite suitable for this sleep position. While some foam beds are too soft for back sleepers, the firmer feel of the Nectar makes it appropriate for many back sleepers — though those over 230 pounds may sink too much to receive sufficient back support.

Nectar includes a generous 365-day sleep trial with this bed, as well as a lifetime guarantee. The mattress comes with free shipping within the contiguous U.S.

The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid has a balanced design that strikes just the right balance of support and cushioning to help alleviate back pain. It carries a price-point that falls well below that of the average hybrid, which may appeal to shoppers on a budget.

The Signature Hybrid is available in three firmness levels. In addition to a medium firm (6) option, you can also choose between medium soft (4) and firm (8) feels. All models start with a quilted surface, followed by a comfort layer composed of TitanFlex polyfoam, a material that combines the even conforming of memory foam and the light bounce of latex. The result is a sleep surface that contours to the body and alleviates pressure without sinking too much or causing difficulty when you move across the mattress. Next is a VariFlex polyfoam layer that offers additional support while still maintaining some contouring. The thickness of each foam layer varies between firmness options.

The support core contains pocketed coils over a base layer of dense polyfoam. The coils are zoned with added reinforcement along the edges to reduce sinkage when you get in and out of bed or sleep close to the perimeter. Air circulates freely throughout the coil layer, which helps the mattress maintain a comfortable temperature. A breathable knit cover encases the entire mattress for added cooling. Of all three firmness options, the medium firm model felt the most universally comfortable to our testers. The medium soft model earned the highest marks from side sleepers, while the firm model was comfortable for back and stomach sleepers over 130 pounds.

Brooklyn Bedding offers free ground shipping for all customers in the contiguous U.S. Each purchase includes a sleep trial that allows you to test out the mattress for up to 120 nights before deciding whether to return it or keep it. Those who choose the latter also receive a 10-year manufacturer’s warranty.

Hybrids generally excel at cooling thanks to their coil systems, which promote airflow better than the solid foam or latex layers found in other mattress types. The Nolah Evolution 15 takes temperature control a step further with two comfort layers made of proprietary foam designed to resist overheating. These layers are buffered with a gusset that releases heat to maintain a comfortable surface, and the breathable cover offers a consistently cool-to-the-touch feel.

The mattress is available in three firmness levels. The medium (5) feel provides the deepest contouring and cushioning, making these models best suited to side sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds and back sleepers under 130 pounds. The firm (8) option offers the most support and will likely be most comfortable for back and stomach sleepers who weigh at least 130 pounds. Lastly, the medium firm (6) feel is a balance of the other two and should be a good fit for anyone who wants both noticeable contouring and even support.

The Evolution 15’s support core consists of pocketed coils in a zoned configuration with thicker springs positioned beneath the sleeper’s midsection and along the perimeter. This layout creates extra reinforcement where most people carry a disproportionate amount of weight and reduces sinkage when you get in and out of bed.

Nolah ships the Evolution 15 for free throughout the contiguous U.S. You’ll receive a 120-night sleep trial with your order, though you can opt out of the trial to decrease the overall cost. The mattress is further backed by a lifetime warranty against structural defects. You can purchase additional coverage against stains and superficial damage.

In addition to being ideal for any standard-size adjustable bed, the reversible Layla Hybrid is a great option for hot sleepers. Both sides of the mattress feature memory foam comfort layers infused with copper gel, which is intended to dissipate heat from the surface and keep you cool. A coil layer that generates steady airflow and a breathable cover add to the temperature-friendly design. Our tests show minimal heat retention regardless of which side you choose.

One surface is medium firm (4) and cushioned with 2.5 inches of memory foam over 2 inches of transitional foam. The latter layer is zoned, so you can enjoy deep contouring without sinking too much beneath your midsection. The firm side includes the same components, but the layers are thinner to minimize padding and create a firm (7) feel. Thick pocketed coils rest in the middle and serve as a shared support core for both sides. A cover made of polyester, rayon, viscose, and Lycra spandex encases the mattress. The cover can be unzipped, removed, and machine washed.

During our tests, the softer side earned favorable ratings from side sleepers up to 230 pounds, and back and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds. These testers were able to lie comfortably and enjoy the foam’s cradling effect without feeling stuck. Our back sleepers of at least 130 pounds and stomach sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds preferred the firmer side for its extra pushback and sturdy overall feel.

In addition to excelling at temperature control, the Layla Hybrid performed well for motion isolation. This was especially true of the softer side, though both surfaces earned high marks. The firmer side fared better in categories like edge support and ease of movement. One thing to consider about the Layla Hybrid is its weight — at 104 pounds in a queen size, the mattress is somewhat hefty. Each side is equipped with thick carrying handles, but we don’t recommend lifting or moving the mattress without a partner.

The sticker price is on par with that of the average hybrid model and shipping is free for customers in the contiguous U.S. Your Layla Hybrid comes with a 120-night sleep trial, during which you may return the mattress for a full refund at any time. A 10-year warranty covers structural and material defects such as excessive sinkage. Please note the Layla Hybrid is not available in any split sizes.

The Helix Midnight is a hybrid mattress that carefully balances support and cushioning. This design has a lot to offer side sleepers, who typically benefit from beds that cradle pressure points while also offering support to the lower back.

The mattress begins with a comfort layer composed of memory foam, which cushions the body and relieves pressure buildup in areas like the shoulders and hips. Beneath is a layer of polyfoam, which still contours the body but has a firmer feel to prevent the body from sinking in too deep. The support core is made of pocketed coils, which give the bed a firm but responsive feel. The mattress is encased in a polyester cover.

With an overall medium firm (6) feel, the Helix Midnight is a great match for back and side sleepers who weigh up to 230 pounds. People who sleep in these positions will receive just the right amount of support and cushioning to keep their bodies in healthy alignment at night. Those who weigh above 230 pounds may sink too deep to receive the proper amount of support.

Helix beds come with 100-night sleep trials, and the Midnight includes a 10-year warranty. Shipping is free to all 50 states.

The Saatva Solaire builds on the classic airbed design with luxury comfort layers and a wide range of firmness options. You can adjust the feel of this mattress to 50 different levels ranging from soft (3) to firm (8), so virtually anyone should be able to find a comfortable setting regardless of their body type, sleep position, or firmness preferences. A wireless remote is included with your purchase.

The Solaire’s first comfort layer consists of responsive Talalay latex, and this is followed by a secondary comfort layer of gel-infused memory foam. These materials create a comfortable balance of body-contouring and support regardless of which firmness level you select. The support core contains one or two air chambers of vulcanized rubber, depending on the mattress size. Models with two chambers offer individual firmness adjustments on each side of the bed, making them well-suited to couples with differing preferences.

In addition to the standard Solaire, customers can choose an “Upper-Flex” model that is split at the head of the bed. This allows sleepers on both sides to independently elevate or lower their side of the bed when using an adjustable base.

While the Solaire has a pretty steep sticker price – which is typical for airbeds of this quality – Saatva sweetens the deal for customers by offering free White Glove delivery anywhere in the contiguous U.S. This service includes in-home assembly, a full tutorial on how to operate the remote and change settings, and removal of your old mattress. You’ll also receive a 365-night sleep trial with your purchase and a lifetime warranty.

Couples who share an adjustable bed and disagree about the ideal firmness level can benefit from a mattress with dual firmness. Take the Bear Elite Hybrid, which is available in three firmness levels ranging from medium to firm. If you and your partner opt for the split king, both of you can choose a firmness level for your respective side of the bed. The mattress is also available in standard sizes if you share the same firmness preferences. 

The Elite Hybrid offers other benefits for couples, as well. A memory foam comfort layer over transitional polyfoam helps ensure decent motion isolation, so movement-related sleep disruptions shouldn’t be an issue. Reinforced perimeter coils also reduce sinkage and allow you to use the entire mattress surface for sleep or sex. Thermoregulation is another major strength. The cover is composed of Celliant-blend fabric engineered to dissipate heat on contact, cooling gel is infused in the top foam layer for added breathability, and the coils promote steady airflow to maintain a comfortable internal temperature.

Our team personally tested all three of the Elite Hybrid’s firmness options. For our side and back sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds, the medium (5) and medium firm (6) designs both provided a comfortable balance of cushioning and support. The transitional layer is divided into five firmness zones, resulting in extra pushback for the midsection and gentle cradling elsewhere, so we didn’t notice any of the uncomfortable sinkage that can occur with softer foam hybrids. If you’re looking for maximum support, the firm (8) model should meet your needs. This design earned its most favorable ratings from testers weighing more than 230 pounds.

If you and your partner choose a dual-firmness Elite Hybrid for your split king adjustable bed, reach out to Bear’s customer support team. The mattress is competitively priced in all sizes, and your order includes two pillows at no extra cost. Ground shipping is also free of charge for customers in the contiguous U.S. The mattress comes with a 120-night sleep trial. You’ll receive a lifetime warranty if you decide to keep the Elite Hybrid after the trial ends, and you can purchase additional protection for stains and other types of physical damage.

If you wake up feeling stiff or sore due to pressure points along the spine, there’s a good chance your mattress doesn’t provide enough support. The best mattresses for pressure relief should not only cradle your body, but also maintain an even surface to prevent you from sinking excessively. Those who have found other beds too soft should consider the Birch Mattress, a latex hybrid with a medium firm (6) feel and sturdy, coil-based support system. Latex is naturally responsive, so the mattress has a very bouncy surface, but the thick comfort layer also cushions the body to reduce pressure in sensitive areas like the shoulders and hips.

Temperature control is another strong point of the Birch Mattress. The cover is composed of breathable cotton, while a layer of moisture-wicking wool helps to keep the surface cool. The latex is ventilated to circulate air throughout the mattress. Airflow is also steady through the coils, resulting in a mattress that excels at cooling from top to bottom. The coils are reinforced along the perimeter to reduce sinkage when people sleep near the edges or get on and off the mattress.

Our testing found the Birch Mattress offers the most comfortable sleep experience for side sleepers who weigh at least 130 pounds, and back and stomach sleepers who weigh up to 230 pounds. The mattress should also appeal to shoppers who prefer to buy and use eco-friendly products. Both the cotton cover and wool layers have received organic certifications, and the rubber trees used to produce the latex are sustainably grown and harvested.

Price-points for this mattress are on par with those of the average hybrid, but Birch sweetens the deal with free shipping to all 50 states. Each order comes with a 100-night sleep trial, and those who choose to keep the mattress also receive a 25-year warranty.

Dive Deeper – In-Depth Mattress Guides

If you’re not sure that you’ve found a mattress for your particular requirements, check out our shopping guides for a detailed look at other options.

How to Choose a Mattress for an Adjustable Bed

When investing in an adjustable bed, it is important to choose a compatible mattress. A mattress that is flexible and resilient will keep its shape and offer support for years to come, all while maximizing the benefits of an adjustable base.

Each shopper has unique needs, but there are common factors that you should keep in mind if you are considering an adjustable bed.

What to Look For in a Mattress

The following factors are especially important when purchasing a mattress for an adjustable bed. These features will help you narrow down your options and find the best fit. It is easy to be distracted by marketing claims, and some companies draw attention to mattress features that may or may not be necessary. Instead, pay attention to the following elements to determine your priorities and narrow down your options.

Size

Match the size of your mattress to the size of your adjustable bed, but double-check all of the measurements before making a purchase. Though mattress sizing is standardized, there can be an inch or so of variation. Most mattresses are produced in six standard sizes, including twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, and California king. Split sizes such as split queen, split king, and split California king are also available, but not as common. Adjustable beds may be available in all of these sizes, or they may be limited to queen size and larger.

Split vs. Solid Design

The design of the adjustable bed and mattress can be solid or split. A solid design means that the entire bed adjusts together, so couples cannot adjust each side independently. A split design, on the other hand, allows users to adjust each side of the bed independently. Some beds and mattresses have a full split down the center, which is essentially two mattresses side by side. Others only have a split top, so you can adjust each side of the head of the mattress.

Firmness Level

Choosing the right firmness level for your mattress ensures proper support and pressure relief. Mattress firmness is rated on a scale of 1 (extremely soft) to 10 (extremely firm). Most mattresses range from soft (2-3) to firm (7-8), with many sleepers preferring a medium firmness. The right firmness level for you will depend on your sleeping position and body weight, and you may need to try out a couple of different options to find the best fit.

Weight

Before purchasing a mattress for your adjustable bed, check the weight capacity of the base to ensure compatibility. Some adjustable beds can handle heavier mattresses, especially if the base is more substantial. Others will require lightweight mattresses. Foam mattresses tend to be lighter than hybrid and latex models.

Contouring

The level of contouring that a mattress provides indicates how it responds to pressure and distributes your body weight. Latex and memory foam mattresses work well with adjustable bases and tend to provide top-notch contouring and pressure relief. Those who like the feeling of sleeping in the mattress may prefer the body-hugging feel of memory foam, while those who do not want to sink into the mattress may opt for moderately contouring latex or polyfoam.

Noise

The motor of an adjustable bed may make noise when you change its positioning, but newer motors tend to be quieter. Those who share the bed and want to minimize sleep disturbances should opt for a mattress that is quiet when bearing weight. Foam and latex are typically silent. Innerspring coils can creak when bearing weight, but this is often minimized if the coils are pocketed or surrounded by foam layers.

Price

An adjustable bed is an investment, as it is more expensive than a standard bed frame. Most adjustable bed frames cost between $1,000 and $2,500, though certain features and upgrades can increase the price substantially.

Purchasing a new mattress that is compatible with the adjustable bed adds to that expense, with many mattresses costing between $1,000 and $1,500. As a result, shoppers can expect to spend a couple thousand dollars on a new mattress and adjustable bed frame. Certain brands offer special deals, bundles, or discounts for purchasing a new mattress and an adjustable bed frame together, which can offset the price somewhat.

Temperature Regulation

A mattress that helps regulate temperature can help you stay comfortable throughout the night. Though memory foam mattresses work well with adjustable bases, they can retain heat by conforming closely and letting heat build up in the foam layers. Look for open-cell or gel-infused foam to fight heat retention. Latex and hybrid mattresses tend to be more breathable and can be compatible with adjustable bases.

If you are a hot sleeper, you should also consider your bedding, sleepwear, and bedroom temperature, as these all affect temperature regulation.

Durability

When used with an adjustable base, your mattress is regularly repositioned and held at different angles. A durable mattress will maintain even support despite regular adjustments. Latex and high-density foam tend to be more durable, while low-density foam is prone to sagging over time.

Pressure Relief

An adjustable bed can provide plenty of pressure relief, especially with zero gravity settings that elevate the head and foot of the bed for less pressure on the spine. Your mattress should provide pressure relief, as well, to ensure you experience all the benefits of your adjustable bed. Materials like latex and memory foam conform to the shape of the body and cushion areas where pressure points are most likely to develop.

Which Type of Mattress is Best for an Adjustable Bed?

The following mattress types are commonly found on the market today. We’ve grouped these mattress types together by their consistent features, and some mattress types are better suited for adjustable beds. Keep in mind that there will be variations within each category, and it is important to note that not all mattresses will work with an adjustable bed.

Foam

Definition: A foam mattress is constructed with comfort layers of memory foam and/or polyfoam, and a polyfoam base. The density of the foam layers affects the durability of the mattress. Foam mattresses tend to relieve pressure by responding to your body weight to conform closely and cushion areas where pressure may build.

Flexible and Conforming. A foam mattress is typically flexible enough to pair with an adjustable base and it easily adjusts to different positions. The same features that make a foam mattress flexible also translate to better contouring and pressure relief for sleepers.

Hybrid

Definition: A hybrid mattress combines an innerspring support core with thick comfort layers of foam or latex. The coils are typically pocketed, making the mattress more flexible and better suited for an adjustable base. Coils add airflow and bounce to the mattress. The comfort system, which is usually at least two inches thick, is often made of pressure-relieving layers.

Pressure Relief. The robust comfort system of a hybrid mattress, paired with responsive coils, helps cushion pressure points. This amplifies the pressure-relieving qualities of an adjustable bed and helps keep sleepers comfortable.

Innerspring

Definition: An innerspring mattress has a steel coil support core, with thin comfort layers of foam, latex, or fiber. The comfort system is substantially thinner than what you can expect from a hybrid mattress, so this type of mattress tends to be less conforming. The type of coils used will affect how compatible an innerspring mattress is with an adjustable base.

Affordable. Purchasing a new adjustable base and mattress at the same time can be expensive. Innerspring mattresses tend to be more affordable, and may appeal to shoppers with limited budgets.

Latex

Definition: A latex mattress can be made with natural or synthetic latex. Natural latex is harvested from rubber trees and manufactured using the Dunlop or Talalay method. Dunlop latex is dense and supportive, while Talalay latex is lightweight and breathable. Natural latex is highly durable, but it can be more expensive.

High Resilience. Latex is resilient, meaning it bounces back to its original shape when pressure is removed. This makes it flexible and durable, two ideal qualities for pairing with an adjustable base.

How Do Adjustable Beds Work?

An adjustable bed can be adjusted by elevating the head and/or foot of the bed. This allows you to customize the positioning of the bed, which can result in better pressure relief, improved circulation, and less snoring.

This type of bed typically has hinges at the head and/or foot of the frame where you can change the angles, and an electric motor powers the frame. You can usually adjust the bed as needed with a remote control, though some adjustable beds are controlled by smartphone apps.

Some features, like adjusting the head of the bed, are standard. Other features give users more control over the bed, but they can increase the price of the bed. Common features include:

• Alarms: Some adjustable beds are equipped with silent alarms, which vibrate to wake you up.
• Dual Sides: A split adjustable bed lets you adjust each side independently. Standard models do not allow for this.
• Head/Foot Positioning: Adjustable beds may allow you to adjust the head and the foot of the bed, while others will only allow the head of the bed to be adjusted.
• Lighting: Some adjustable beds have lighting underneath the bed.
• Massage: Adjustable beds may have massage settings that vibrate the bed.
• Memory Settings: This allows you to set your preferred positioning and have the bed remember it.
• Remote Control: The bed can be controlled with a remote, which may be wireless or attached to the bed.
• USB Ports: Since adjustable beds are electric, they may include USB ports for phone charging.
• Wall-Hugging: A wall-hugging design keeps the bed the same distance from the wall or nightstand regardless of positioning.
• Zero-Gravity: A zero gravity setting elevates the top and bottom of the bed to reduce pressure on the spine for a weightless feel.

Since adjustable beds can be positioned at different angles, the mattress used with this type of bed frame must be flexible. It is also important for the mattress to be lightweight, so that it moves easily with the frame, though some adjustable beds can support a heavier mattress.

Last Things to Consider

There are a few additional considerations you should keep in mind when shopping for an adjustable bed. These considerations are especially important when shopping for a mattress online, and some are specific to shopping for a mattress for an adjustable bed. Compare warranty coverage, return policies, and pricing to get the best value.

Warranty & Sleep Trial

Most mattresses are covered by a 10-year warranty or longer, but many warranties have stipulations regarding the type of foundational support used. If a mattress is not compatible with an adjustable base, using it with one may void the warranty and cause premature wear and tear or other damages.

A sleep trial lets you try out the mattress in your home, and most mattress sleep trials range from 90 nights to a full year. Some sleep trials include mandatory break-in periods before the mattress can be returned.

Split vs. Solid Design

Before purchasing an adjustable bed, you will need to determine if you want a split or solid design. A split design is dual-sided, so couples can adjust each side independently. This is helpful if both parties have different sleep positions or preferences, or if one person likes to stay up reading. A split king is the most common, but split queen and split California king sizes may be available.

A solid adjustable bed operates as one unit, so both sides raise and lower together. This is ideal for individual sleepers or couples with similar preferences.

Cost & Value

An adjustable bed can be an expensive purchase, but purchasing one that is durable will provide a better value in the long run. Shoppers with limited budgets should keep an eye out for promotions and discounts, which are frequently available during holidays. Flexible financing options may be available and are worth considering.