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Best Mattress for Adjustable Beds of 2026
Expert Tested and Reviewed
Adjustable beds allow you to change the angle of the head or foot of your bed, which can help address sleep issues like snoring, swelling, and joint pain. Adjustable beds are also good for sleepers with limited mobility, those experiencing digestive issues like acid reflux, and couples who have individual sleep preferences. This guide includes several of the best mattresses for adjustable beds and covers key info to guide your purchase.
Our #1 Pick: WinkBed
The WinkBed’s four firmness options allow you to choose a mattress that provides both support and comfort at every angle. Since the pocketed coil support core is zoned for firmer support through your pelvis, there’s less chance of losing support even when the bed is adjusted for sitting upright.
Read on to see our full list of best mattresses for adjustable beds of 2026 based on performance ratings from our in-house testing team, in-depth product inspections, and verified reviews from real mattress owners.
Our Top Picks
Best Mattress Overall
:WinkBed
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Most Comfortable Mattress
:Helix Midnight Luxe
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Best Mattress and Adjustable Bed Bundle
:Nectar Adjustable Bundle
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Best Value Mattress
:Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Memory Foam
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Best Mattress for Back Pain
:Bear Elite Hybrid
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Best Mattress for Side Sleepers
:Nolah Evolution 15
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Best Temperature Regulating Mattress
:Layla Hybrid
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Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers
:Ziwi ZiPP Classic
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Best Mattress for Couples
:Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid
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Best Luxury Mattress
:Solaire
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Best Mattress for Pressure Relief
:Birch Mattress
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Best Mattress Deals Happening Now
- Save $771 — WinkBed
$1,799(List Price $2,570) - Save $652 — Helix Midnight Luxe
$1,847(List Price $2,499) - Save $2,436 — Nectar Adjustable Bundle
$1,398(List Price $3,834) - Save $150 — Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Memory Foam
$449(List Price $599) - Save $849 — Bear Elite Hybrid
$1,578(List Price $2,427)
How We Tested the Best Mattresses for Adjustable Beds
Testing Criteria
Before selecting our list of the best mattresses for adjustable beds, we analyzed what makes a mattress a good fit for this type of base and the sleepers who prefer it.
Here were our top considerations:
- Flexible design: To be compatible with an adjustable base, a mattress needs a flexible design that allows it to move with the positional changes.
- Mattress type: The mattress type plays a major role in how flexible the sleep surface is and how compatible it is with an adjustable base. Hybrid and foam mattress models typically dominate in this area, but we included all different types for sleepers with various sleeping needs and preferences.
- Variety of firmness levels: Adjustable beds work best with mattresses that offer enough pressure relief and support for the sleeper’s needs. Softer models tend to contour well for side sleepers and lighter bodies, while firmer models can better support back sleepers and those in larger bodies.
- Sleeper profile: Adjustable beds appeal to a wide range of sleepers, especially those who want easier breathing, reduced snoring, or less pressure on the lower back. Both back and side sleepers can benefit from mild head or knee elevation.
How We Evaluated
Our search for the best mattresses for adjustable beds began by reviewing our database of over 2,000 models, focusing on the following factors:
- Flexible split-style construction that moves easily with an adjustable base
- Exceptional pressure relief
- Top-tier durability for those with limited mobility or health issues like sleep apnea or acid reflux
These top-rated models were brought into our Seattle Test Lab for hands-on testing. Our team, representing a variety of body types and sleep positions, evaluated each mattress’s feel, support, and flexibility to determine how well it may work for sleepers using an adjustable base.

From there, they provided scores for key performance categories, then assigned accolades to each option. Based on our rigorous testing process, these mattresses were selected for their comfort, adaptability, and overall performance. These options cater to a diverse range of sleeper needs and preferences while providing a high-quality adjustable bed experience.
Our Testing Team

Logan Foley
Editorial Director
Full Bio

Mary Fenton
Head of Product Content
Full Bio

Jeremy Klein
Senior Product Testing Manager
Full Bio

Brad Nehring
Senior Product Analyst
Full Bio

Colin Simpson
Product Research Manager
Full Bio
Best Overall: WinkBed
Best Overall
9.4/10Test Lab Score
WinkBed
High end hybrid bed providing ample support, cushion, and cool sleep.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: People of all body types and sleep position preferences, depending on model.
- Feel: Feel varies between firmness options, which range from the gentle “hug” of the Softer model to the responsive bounce of the WinkBed Plus.
- What It’s Made Of: All four models feature a pocketed coil support core. The Softer, Luxury Firm, and Firmer models pair a Euro-top with polyfoam layers, while the WinkBed Plus uses both natural latex and polyfoam in its comfort system.
- What We Don’t Like: Very light sleepers might find they notice movement from their partner.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.
Performance


Construction Breakdown
The medium-soft, medium-firm, and firm WinkBeds incorporate adaptive polyfoam quilted into the surface, followed by a denser foam layer designed to cushion and support your body. In the WinkBed Plus model, the second foam layer is replaced with zoned latex, offering a responsive feel that resists buckling, even for sleepers over 230 pounds.
Most Comfortable: Helix Midnight Luxe
Most Comfortable
9.7/10Test Lab Score
Helix Midnight Luxe
A premium quality, hybrid mattress created with side sleepers in mind.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: Side and back sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds.
- Feel: Soothing pressure relief without sacrificing support, giving it a cozy but balanced feel we rate as medium firm (6).
- What It’s Made Of: Memory foam and polyfoam comfort layers over a pocketed coil support core. The standard cover is polyester, and a cooling GlacioTex fabric cover is available for an additional cost.
- What We Don’t Like: Sleeps warmer than some of its hybrid competitors. Strong off-gassing odor for the first couple nights.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.
Performance



Construction Breakdown
The Helix Midnight Luxe is designed for both comfort and durability, with a build that complements adjustable bases. Helix’s Memory Plus Foam comfort layers cradle pressure points while maintaining responsiveness, allowing smooth movement and alignment during position changes. A layer of transitional polyfoam adds extra support and prevents excessive sinking, ensuring the mattress adapts seamlessly to elevated positions.
Best Value: Nectar Adjustable Bundle
Best Value
8.5/10Test Lab Score
Nectar Adjustable Bundle
An all-inclusive sleep bundle at a terrific price.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: Side sleepers.
- Feel: Medium firm (6) hugs the body closely, creating a deep cradle that molds to your curves. And firm (7) contours to a lighter extent and doesn’t sink as much.
- What It’s Made Of: All-foam models are high-density base foam in the support core. Hybrids contain pocketed coils for extra reinforcement and bounce.
- What We Don’t Like: Initial odor can be strong for the first few nights. Thicker models have less support and more compression along the edges.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.
Performance
Construction Breakdown
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.
Best Value: Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Memory Foam
Best Value
8.6/10Test Lab Score
Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Memory Foam
Hugs and soothes pressure points for restful sleep.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: Side sleepers at least 130 pounds and back sleepers 230 pounds or less, as well as couples and hot sleepers.
- Feel: Medium firm (6) with a plush surface feel, support, and stability. Some gentle contouring when you get into bed and some light pushback around your midsection.
- What It’s Made Of: Euro-top comfort system contains a top layer of polyfoam quilted to the cover, two memory foam layers, and three-zone transitional polyfoam. Copper fibers infused in the top memory foam layer, and the cover is made of GlacioTex fabric. Two high-density polyfoam layers make up the support core.
- What We Don’t Like: Strong odor for three days after unboxing. Lacks support for stomach sleepers weighing 130 pounds or more and back sleepers over 230 pounds.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.
Performance
Construction Breakdown
The CopperFlex mattress features a top layer of adaptive polyfoam, followed by two memory foam layers. Infused with copper fibers, the top memory foam layer is designed to pull heat away from your body, promoting a cooler sleep experience.
Best for Back Pain: Bear Elite Hybrid
Best for Back Pain
8.5/10Test Lab Score
Bear Elite Hybrid
A close-conforming memory foam hybrid offering great pressure relief.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: Side sleepers, back sleepers above 130 pounds, and some stomach sleepers above 130 pounds.
- Feel: Medium (5), medium firm (6), and firm (8), designed to help prevent spinal misalignment and has a supportive-yet-cushioned feel. Pressure-relieving contouring that feels comfortably cradling.
- What It’s Made Of: Copper-infused memory foam and zoned polyfoam, the latter features cut outs. Pocketed coils and high-density polyfoam provide support. The quilted cover is Celliant fabric and phase-change material.
- What We Don’t Like: Difficult to roll over or change positions.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.
Performance




Construction Breakdown
The Bear Elite Hybrid is a 14-inch mattress with four layers designed for comfort and support. The top layer features memory foam infused with copper to resist heat buildup, offering solid cushioning, pressure relief, and motion isolation.
The second layer is a responsive polyfoam that enhances cushioning while preventing excessive sinkage. Below that, individually wrapped metal coils provide reinforced support around the perimeter. The fourth and bottom layer is high-density polyfoam, which helps absorb vibrations and reduce noise.
Best for Side Sleepers: Nolah Evolution 15
Best for Side Sleepers
8.7/10Test Lab Score
Nolah Evolution 15
A cloud-like experience with a plush euro-top in multiple firmnes options.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: Side sleepers of all body types. Back and stomach sleepers over 130 pounds (firm model).
- Feel: Medium (5), medium firm (6), and firm (8). A unique feel that’s fluffy yet conforming, with responsive support that encourages proper spinal alignment but may take time for some sleepers to adapt to.
- What It’s Made Of: Proprietary materials, including ArcticTex fibers in the organic cotton cover, a two-inch layer of zoned AirFoam polyfoam, a Euro-top with quilted polyfoam, multiple polyfoam layers, and an 8-inch pocketed coil support core.
- What We Don’t Like: Some sleepers love its unique feel while others dislike the amount of pushback and lack of contouring pressure relief.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.
Performance



Construction Breakdown
The Nolah Evolution 15 blends foam and coils for a well-rounded performance. The Euro-top cover is designed for comfort, featuring 2 inches of polyfoam quilted into the surface.
Its breathable cotton and ArcticTex fibers work together to help regulate temperature, while the breathable gusset around the mattress’s side allows heat to escape without affecting your body temperature.
Underneath the Euro-top are three foam layers: 2 inches of zoned AirFoam, 2 inches of resilient polyfoam, and 1 inch of denser transition polyfoam. These layers offer moderate contouring to relieve pressure, particularly in areas like the shoulders, lower back, and hips.
Best Temperature Regulating: Layla Hybrid
Best Temperature Regulating
8.5/10Test Lab Score
Layla Hybrid
A close-conforming, flippable hybrid with a different firmness on each side.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: Sleepers above 230 pounds, side sleepers under 130 pound, as well as back and stomach sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds.
- Feel: Depends on side: Soft side creates a deep cradling effect with exceptional pressure relief, while the firm side has a much more responsive feel with minimal contouring.
- What It’s Made Of: Six-inch pocketed-coil support core sandwiched between each side’s comfort system. Both sides feature the same materials — polyfoam and copper-infused memory foam — but the soft side is nearly twice as thick.
- What We Don’t Like: Heavy and difficult to flip or move. Firm side is less pressure-relieving and motion-isolating than the soft side.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.
Performance
Construction Breakdown
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.
Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers: Ziwi ZiPP Classic
Best for Pressure Relief
8.3/10Test Lab Score
Ziwi ZiPP Classic
A plush all-foam mattress with a responsive, interlocking support system.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: This mattress is a prime selection for back and side sleepers who need a combination of lumbar reinforcement and pressure-point relief to manage daily back pain.
- Feel: Medium firm (6) design that pairs an adaptive surface with a support core that delivers a distinctive upward push.
- What It’s Made Of: The 12-inch profile features a memory foam comfort system layered over a proprietary core of alternating firm and soft foam pillars.
- What We Don’t Like: A noticeable chemical odor often persists for up to three days after unboxing while the compressed foam layers air out.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.
Performance
Construction Breakdown
The ZiPP Classic begins with a plush comfort layer of memory foam that feels invitingly plush as soon as you lie down. This material is engineered to respond to individual weight and heat, creating a tailored cradle that fills in the gaps at the lumbar region to support the natural curve of the spine. By distributing weight evenly across the surface, this top layer helps to soothe sensitive areas and reduce the likelihood of morning aches and pains. A breathable, stretchy cover encases the mattress and can be removed for machine-washing to keep the sleep environment fresh.
Beneath the comfort layer lies the ZiPP Support Core, which is the defining feature of this bed’s construction. The system consists of vertical foam pillars that alternate between firm and soft formulations to provide targeted weight distribution. These columns flex independently to push back against the heavier parts of the body, such as the hips, while remaining gentle enough to cushion the legs and shoulders.
Best for Couples: Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid
Best for Couples
9.0/10Test Lab Score
Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid
A foam hybrid that cushions your body without trapping heat.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: Side and back sleepers across all weight groups, hot sleepers, and couples.
- Feel: You can choose from medium (5), medium firm (6), and firm (7) designs.
- What It’s Made Of: Four comfort layers, including gel-infused polyfoam and memory foam, followed by a support core with zoned pocketed coils and high-density base foam.
- What We Don’t Like: Since the mattress measures 14 inches thick, you’ll need to purchase a fitted sheet with deep pockets. There’s also a noticeable off-gassing odor when the mattress is unboxed that may linger for up to three nights.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.
Performance
Construction Breakdown
All three Sapira Chill Hybrid designs share the same general construction. The comfort system begins with a 2-inch layer of adaptive, gel-infused polyfoam sewn to the Euro-top cover. Memory foam and polyfoam layers add to the plush surface feel, while dense transitional foam pushes back against your weight to prevent you from sinking too deeply into the mattress. However, people who weigh 130 pounds or more will probably sink too much on the medium (5) model, and may need the extra support of the medium firm (6) or firm (7) design.
Best Luxury: Solaire
Best Luxury
8.7/10Test Lab Score
Solaire
Luxury airbed you can adjust to virtually any firmness.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: Sleepers of all body types and sleep preferences, except stomach sleepers who weigh less than 130 pounds.
- Feel: 50 firmness settings, ranging from soft (3) to firm (8). Support is always paired with targeted pressure relief.
- What It’s Made Of: Vulcanized rubber air chambers in the core. The comfort system includes an organic cotton and quilted polyfoam pillow-top, zoned Talalay latex, low-density gel-infused memory foam, and a protective layer of polyfoam and PVC sheeting over the air chambers.
- What We Don’t Like: Price-point is at the upper end of average in this category.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.
Performance






Construction Breakdown
The cover on the Solaire is made from breathable, lightweight organic cotton. The top layer is a 3-inch pillow top with quilted fabric with extra cushioning in key zones, like the lumbar area, for added comfort.
Next, a 1-inch layer of aerated natural latex enhances airflow and provides zoned support for a more tailored feel. Below that, a 2-inch layer of gel-infused memory foam offers improved comfort, pressure relief, and spinal alignment.
Best for Pressure Relief: Birch Mattress
Best for Pressure Relief
8.8/10Test Lab Score
Birch Mattress
A latex hybrid with responsive comfort materials and a robust support system.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: Sleepers more than 130 pounds, particularly side and stomach sleepers.
- Feel: Bouncy and responsive while still feeling plush and cushioned. Pressure relief without close contouring or excessive sinking.
- What It’s Made Of: Organic cotton cover, layers of wool batting and Talalay latex, support core with pocketed coils and reinforced perimeter, as well as additional wool batting.
- What We Don’t Like: Isolates motion poorly compared to synthetic foams.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.
Performance
Construction Breakdown
The cover of the Birch Natural Mattress is made from fair-trade, GOTS-certified organic cotton. Directly beneath the cover is a fire barrier made of organic wool batting.
Underneath this, a layer of organic wool adds softness with minimal contouring. Wool is naturally moisture-wicking and breathable, helping to keep the mattress surface cool.
Below the wool, a layer of natural latex provides gentle contouring and a considerable amount of bounce. Latex resists heat retention, contributing to the mattress’s cool temperature. It is also certified by organizations like OEKO-TEX and the Eco-Institut, ensuring it is free from harmful chemicals.
Who Should Sleep on an Adjustable Bed?
An adjustable bed frame has hinges and motors that allow you to raise or lower the head of the bed, the foot of the bed, or both. Setting up an adjustable bed requires having an adjustable frame and a compatible mattress that won’t be damaged when it bends.
Adjustable Beds Are Best for
Those With Limited Mobility or Other Health Issues
- Adjustable beds can make it easier to sit up and get out of bed, which can be especially beneficial for older adults and people with limited mobility.
- Keeping the legs above the heart can decrease swelling, so you may benefit from an adjustable bed if you have lower extremity edema or other conditions that cause fluid retention like kidney disease, liver disease, and heart failure and involve swelling of your feet or legs.
- Dr. Dustin Cotliar, M.D., MPH, says people who have an injury or are recovering from surgery can benefit from using an adjustable bed. “[An adjustable bed] reduces pressure on that area and can also help reduce swelling by helping to elevate the extremity.”
Anyone Who Likes to Lounge in Bed
- Having an adjustable bed gives you more options for finding a comfortable position, including reclining when watching TV or reading in bed.
Sleepers With Sleep Apnea or Acid Reflux
- When lying on your back, raising the head of the bed can help keep your airway open, which may cut down on snoring and breathing interruptions from positional obstructive sleep apnea.
Adjustable Beds Are Less Than Ideal for
Shoppers on a Tight Budget
- Although adjustable beds suit many sleepers, they tend to be expensive and may not be an option for people on a tight budget.
Stomach Sleepers
- If you’re a stomach sleeper, you may not find an adjustable bed very comfortable.
- Stomach sleepers tend to need a flat, even surface to promote spinal alignment.
What Type of Mattress Is Best for an Adjustable Bed?
Mattresses are categorized by their internal components, and certain types are better suited to adjustable bed frames. For any specific mattress, we recommend confirming that it can be safely used with an adjustable base. It’s also advisable to check whether using an adjustable bed frame will impact the mattress warranty.
Foam
These mattresses are made from multiple layers of different kinds of foam, like memory foam and polyfoam. They typically work well with adjustable bases because of foam’s ability to compress when the base bends and then regain its shape when the bed is flat. Foam mattresses excel when it comes to pressure relief, but they can sleep hot.
“When dealing with chronic pain,” Dr. Cotliar writes, “the combination of positional adjustability and foam’s pressure-relieving properties can help create more comfortable sleep conditions, though individual needs may vary.”
Hybrid
Hybrid mattresses have a support core of individually wrapped metal coils with comfort layers of one or more other materials, like memory foam. Many hybrids are compatible with adjustable frames, but some models have springs that cannot bend without being damaged. Overall, hybrids offer a nice mix of support and pressure relief.
Latex
Latex mattresses are known for their bounce, durability, and moderate contouring. Because of latex’s ability to spring back after being compressed, most latex mattresses are compatible with adjustable beds.
Innerspring
Innerspring mattresses are made with interconnected metal coils and only a thin layer of material above them. They are generally less conducive to adjustable frames because of the potential stress that can be placed on the coils.
Airbed
An airbed uses inflatable air chambers in its support core, with a comfort layer made from foam or latex. Certain airbeds can work on an adjustable frame, but other models could be damaged when the frame bends. Compatible airbeds are a good option for anyone who likes a customizable firmness option.
Split Bed
A split bed is designed so that each side of the mattress can be independently adjusted. A split adjustable bed appeals most to couples who have distinct preferences. For example, a split bed can accommodate one bed partner who likes having their head or legs elevated and another who wants the bed flat. The most common split bed size is a split king, but some brands offer split queen adjustable beds.
What to Consider in a Mattress for Adjustable Beds
When deciding which mattress to choose for an adjustable bed, consider the factors that are most likely to impact its performance and your satisfaction.
Support
Support refers to how well a mattress contributes to healthy spinal alignment. For most sleepers, this means that a mattress provides enough cushioning to relieve pressure around high-impact zones of the body. At the same time, a mattress shouldn’t have too much give, which can cause the spine to bend out of alignment.
“With adjustable beds, support needs to be considered dynamically rather than just in a flat position,” says Dr. Cotliar. “The ideal mattress should maintain proper spinal alignment whether you’re lying flat, sitting up, or have your feet elevated – a particularly important consideration for those using adjustable features for health-related reasons.”
Firmness Level
The ideal mattress firmness is subjective, since some people simply like a harder or softer feel. That said, firmness can affect support, and the best firmness level is influenced by body weight and sleeping position.
Side sleepers and people under 130 pounds usually get better results from softer mattresses, while people who weigh over 230 pounds or those who sleep on their back or stomach generally do better with a firmer model.
Size and Weight
For an adjustable bed to work properly, your mattress has to be the right size for your frame. You also want to check the weight capacity of your adjustable base to ensure that it can accommodate the combined weight of the mattress and anyone sleeping on the bed. Exceeding the weight limit could prevent proper functioning or cause damage to the frame or its motors.
Noise
In most cases, noise from an adjustable bed only occurs when the motors are raising or lowering a part of the bed. However, low-quality mattresses may add to this noise as a result of creaky coils or crinkling foam. If you want to minimize potential sleep disruptions, look for a well-constructed mattress with components that are less likely to be noisy.
Sleep Trial and Warranty
A sleep trial gives you an extended period to try a mattress on your adjustable base. During the sleep trial, you can return the mattress for a refund if you aren’t happy with its firmness or performance. Most online mattresses have a sleep trial of at least 90 nights.
A warranty can also protect your purchase in the rare case that the mattress you receive is defective. We suggest reading the fine print and double-checking that you won’t void the warranty by using the mattress with an adjustable frame.
How We Test: Your Comfort Is Our Science
Our industry-leading product testing team cares deeply about improving your sleep. Having a holistic understanding of a mattress’s role as part of a sleep system is paramount to our testing process. Since a bed’s comfort and feel depend largely on body weight and sleeping position, our testing team represents a wide range of body types, sleep positions, and comfort preferences.
In our Seattle-based Test Lab, we use an objective, hands-on process to evaluate mattresses across performance categories. The following are the key guidelines that inform our performance ratings. Our ultimate goal is to ensure you have all the information you need to make the best purchase decision for you.
Construction analysis:Mattress construction plays a major role in our ratings system. We begin our testing with a top-to-bottom analysis of each mattress, making note of its materials, firmness, thickness, and other physical attributes. Price-point is another major factor as we assess quality of materials and overall value.
Product testing:For hands-on testing, our team members take turns lying and moving on each mattress. This immersive process helps us evaluate beds for performance categories like motion isolation, pressure relief, ease of movement, and temperature control.
Field testing: Once we’re finished testing a mattress in our lab, one of our team members takes it home and sleeps on it in their own bedroom for two to three weeks. Field testing helps us understand how each mattress performs in the long term.
User testing:In addition to our team’s testing data, we draw from customer surveys and product reviews to calculate our final ratings. This helps us ensure our findings are consistent with real-world experiences.
How We Determine Our Overall Scores

To determine a mattress’s overall score, we assign weighted percentages to performance categories based on how important they are to the individual sleep experience. For instance, areas like pressure relief and temperature control tend to matter more to people than something like off-gassing, and because more people sleep on their side and back than on their stomach, we weigh those positions more heavily.
Performance Categories
Motion Isolation
This criteria alludes to the amount of motion a mattress absorbs when a sleeper moves on the surface. We use two testers lying side by side to evaluate motion isolation, who each feel for transfer while the other person moves on the mattress.
Temperature Control
To determine how well a mattress regulates temperature, we perform temperature tests and look closely at its materials and construction. Many mattresses are designed with cooling components meant to reduce heat retention.
Pressure Relief
A bed with strong pressure relief excels at preventing pressure from building up in areas like the shoulders and hips. Beds with even contouring and weight distribution are top performers when it comes to pressure relief.
Off-Gassing
A mattress in a box may release unpleasant chemical odors for a short period after you’ve unboxed it. The initial smell may be strong but typically fades within 2 or 3 days.
Ease of Movement
This criteria reflects how easily a sleeper can move across a bed’s surface. Responsive surfaces made of latex typically perform better than foam surfaces, which can inhibit movement.
Edge Support
We perform sit tests along a bed’s perimeter to measure how well the edges push back against weight. Mattresses with strong edge support have minimal sagging when sleepers sit on or lie close to the perimeter.
Dive Deeper – Mattress Guides by Type
Besides this general guide to mattresses for adjustable beds, our testing team has also hand-picked the best adjustable beds for seniors. If you’d like more mattress options to pair with an adjustable base, check out some of our specific guides below.
Still have questions? Ask our community!
Join our Sleep Care Community — a trusted hub of product specialists, sleep health professionals, and people just like you. Whether you’re searching for the perfect mattress or need expert sleep advice, we’ve got you covered. Get personalized guidance from the experts who know sleep best.

