While you’ve probably mostly seen adjustable beds in hospital or care settings, they are becoming more popular as an alternative bed frame option for everyday home use. People with chronic sleep issues, medical issues, or even just dealing with the occasional cold can benefit from a frame that lets you lift your torso or legs.

In this article, we look at the pros and cons of an adjustable bed frame, outline who might benefit from one vs. a standard bed frame, and explain how to choose the right frame for you.

Adjustable bases and mattresses

An adjustable base for a mattress is an electronic bed frame that lets you raise and lower the upper half of a mattress. Some frames also let you raise and lower the bottom half. You control the frame with either a remote or buttons. Adjustable bed frames can come in a split model that lets you raise and lower each side of the mattress independently, which can be a nice option if you sleep with a partner. You can read more in our guide to the best split king adjustable beds.

Adjustable mattresses can successfully bend without becoming damaged. Memory foam, latex, non-spring, and hybrid mattresses tend to be the best kinds for use on an adjustable bed. Innerspring or extra-firm mattresses don’t bend as well, and you risk either damaging the mattress or voiding its warranty.

Companies that sell an adjustable frame often have compatible mattresses for sale that are designed specifically for that frame. But you can also purchase a separate mattress as long as it’s flexible enough to bend. You can learn more about what types of mattresses to look out for in our guide to the best mattresses for adjustable beds.

The biggest difference between adjustable beds and standard beds is that an adjustable bed can be lifted or lowered to provide an inclined sleeping experience, while a standard bed frame stays flat and can’t be moved. Adjustable bed frames are becoming increasingly popular, and the market for them is expected to grow year over year for the next decade.¹ 

The pros and cons of an adjustable bed

Adjustable beds come with their own set of benefits and drawbacks. Depending on your needs, goals, and budget, you might find that an adjustable bed is a good investment. Or you might find that the perks are simply not worth the money.

Adjustable beds have several pros, including: 

• Better sleep for people with health issues: Adults with health conditions like sleep apnea or acid reflux can find relief from their symptoms by tailoring the incline of their mattress to their specific needs. Adjustable beds can also help to reduce snoring or swelling in the feet and legs.
• Accessibility features: Some adjustable beds include features like voice assistance, which is helpful if you have dexterity issues that make it difficult to use buttons or a remote.
• Overall increase in comfort: If you enjoy reading before bed or watching TV, an adjustable bed can increase your comfort by making it easier to sit up.

But adjustable beds also come with some cons, including:

• Expense: Adjustable bed frames are usually more expensive than a standard bed frame. Plus, if your current mattress isn’t compatible, you’ll need to buy a new one.
• Noise: Some adjustable bed frames have noisy motors, which can wake up a partner or disturb your sleep if you’re trying to adjust the frame throughout the night.
• Maintenance: Because adjustable beds have mechanical parts, they require more maintenance and repairs over the years than a standard bed frame would. These repairs take up money and time.

Adjustable beds are often marketed as a solution for health issues like sleep apnea, acid reflux, COPD, or chronic pain.² The idea is that the ability to incline your head or legs while sleeping can reduce symptoms and discomfort. And while it’s true that some symptoms might be eased due to sleeping on an incline, it’s important to keep in mind that your specific condition might need other treatment. Always talk to your doctor before investing in a product like an adjustable bed.

Choosing the right adjustable bed  

Choosing the right adjustable bed for you will depend on your specific sleep needs, goals, and budget. Ask yourself: 

• Do I have a specific chronic condition that would benefit from an inclined mattress?
• Do I need accessibility features like voice assistance? 
• Do I have a partner who would want a split model? 
• What am I hoping to achieve with an adjustable bed?

You’ll also want to think about the cost. In our guide to the best adjustable beds, the average cost of the beds is between $899 - $1,599. But some beds can be more expensive based on the size and amount of features they come with, like voice assistance, Bluetooth speakers, or vibration. 

An adjustable bed could be worth the investment if you have specific conditions you’re trying to address by sleeping on an incline. People who might benefit from an adjustable bed include those with chronic pain conditions or sleep issues like sleep apnea or acid reflux, older adults with mobility challenges who could use extra support getting in and out of bed, and people who enjoy having a customized sleep experience. 

If you don’t have sleep or pain issues, you might end up spending money on something that won’t benefit you any more than a standard bed would. 

If an adjustable bed is outside of your budget, you can also look at more affordable options like mattress toppers or mattresses to improve sleep. Read more in our guide to best mattress topper for cooling, best mattress for back pain, best orthopedic mattress, and best mattresses.  

“As we age, our sleep may change, but our need for rest, comfort, and routine never does,” said Samantha Capacillo, MPH, CHES, a Program Specialist at NCOA’s Center for Healthy Aging. “Limit caffeine, dim the lights, and enjoy a few quiet moments before bed." 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

Can you have a headboard with an adjustable bed? 

Yes, you can typically install a headboard on an adjustable bed with brackets. 

Can you put an adjustable base in a bed frame? 

Yes, you can put an adjustable base in a bed frame if you remove specific supports, like bed slats. The right construction will depend on the frame’s design specific design. Some might not work, so you’ll want to double-check before purchasing. 

Does an adjustable bed help with sleep apnea? 

An adjustable bed may help with sleep apnea by keeping your upper body in an incline that reduces snoring and can keep airways clear. Some people, like those with positional or mild sleep apnea, might benefit the most. 

Does Medicare cover adjustable beds? 

Yes, Medicare covers certain types of “hospital beds” if they are deemed medically necessary. Medicare coverage usually applies to hospital-grade beds and not commercial ones, so you’ll want to double-check your policy. Learn more about which beds are covered. 

Sources  

1. Market.Us. Adjustable Bed Frames Market. June 2025. Found on the internet at https://market.us/report/adjustable-bed-frames-market/ 

2. Thurrott, S. Do Adjustable Beds Really Help You Sleep Better and Reduce Pain? May 5, 2023. Found on the internet at https://www.bannerhealth.com/healthcareblog/advise-me/do-adjustable-beds-really-help-you-sleep-better.