Once upon a time, adjustable bed frames were rarely seen outside of hospitals or nursing homes. With customizable functionality and seemingly limitless positions, they’ve always been the perfect alternative to standard bed frames for anyone coming back from an injury, dealing with mobility issues, or living with certain sleep disorders.
Thankfully, we’ve all come to a very important conclusion: the convenience and versatility of adjustable beds can be something everyone enjoys. Adjustable bed frames can offer more rejuvenating rest, better comfort, and muscular relief.
So, are adjustable frames worth it? In our humble opinion, they’re worth every penny. Once we outline all the reasons why, we think you’ll conclude the same.
What is a Bed Frame?
A bed frame is the foundation for your mattress and is designed to provide support and structure for your sleep. Traditional bed frames are static, offering one position for your mattress, while an adjustable bed frame can allow you to customize your sleeping position, elevating either the head or the legs for added comfort and support. This flexibility is key for improving sleep quality, whether you're adjusting for comfort or therapeutic needs.
History of Adjustable Bed Frames
The first adjustable bed frame was invented by Dr. Willis Drew Gatch way back in 1909.1 An accomplished surgeon and eventual chair of the Indiana University School of Medicine, Dr. Gatch developed an early type of adjustable bed with the goal of helping post-surgical patients convalesce in comfort.
Eponymously called the “Gatch Bed,” the original model was designed to promote:
- Efficient bladder and bowel irrigation
- Drainage from surgical wounds
- Easier breathing
Nowadays, adjustable bed frames are becoming increasingly popular outside of healthcare as more people are switching out their standard frames for movable models.
Are Adjustable Bed Frames Worth It? Pros & Cons
Adjustable bed frames are becoming increasingly popular—and for good reason. They offer customizable comfort and wellness benefits that go beyond traditional sleep setups. But, like any sleep solution, they’re not without a few trade-offs. Let’s break it down.
Pros of Adjustable Bed Frames
An adjustable bed frame can do more than just elevate your head—it can elevate your entire sleep experience. Here are a few reasons sleepers are making the switch:
- Improved Sleep Quality: Adjustable positions can help reduce snoring, ease acid reflux, and support spinal alignment—making for a better night’s rest.3
- Customizable Comfort: Whether you’re reading, streaming your favorite series, or sending one last email, an adjustable bed lets you find your perfect position with the push of a button.
- Health Benefits: Elevating your head or feet can help relieve back pain, improve circulation, and reduce pressure on joints.
- Convenience Features: Many models come loaded with perks like wireless remotes, USB ports, and under-bed lighting—bringing a little extra ease to bedtime.
- Mobility Assistance: For those with limited mobility, adjustable frames can make getting in and out of bed a whole lot easier.
With so many benefits to offer, an adjustable bed frame can be a game-changer for both comfort and overall sleep health.
Cons of Adjustable Bed Frames
Even the most dreamy sleep setups have a few things to consider. Here’s what to keep in mind before upgrading to an adjustable base:
- Higher Cost: Advanced features and technology make adjustable bed frames pricier than traditional options.
- Noise: Motors and moving parts can create some noise during adjustments, which may be noticeable at night.
- Weight and Mobility Issues: Adjustable bases are heavier and trickier to move—something to consider if you’re planning on rearranging your space or moving homes.
- Maintenance and Repairs: More moving parts mean a higher potential for maintenance needs (though when you buy high-quality like from Casper, you can rest a little easier).
- Restricted Movement: Sleeping at an incline may limit movement for those who tend to toss and turn.
- Compatibility Issues: Not every mattress plays nice with an adjustable base—you’ll want to pair it with a flexible option like memory foam or a hybrid.
While these factors are worth weighing, many sleepers find the comfort and versatility of an adjustable base far outweigh the drawbacks.
Is an Adjustable Bed Frame Right For You?
If you’ve been thinking of purchasing an adjustable bed base, the real question isn’t “are adjustable bed frames worth it?” The question you should be asking is, are they worth it for you?
To help answer this question, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. So before you decide whether or not to bring one home, ask yourself the following questions:
- Do you have mobility issues that complicate getting in and out of your cozy bed?
- Do you have chronic back pain from conditions like osteoarthritis or spinal stenosis?
- Do you snore or have a sleep condition such as sleep apnea?
- Do you experience frequent cases of heartburn or acid reflux?
Answering “yes” to any or all of these questions could be an indication that purchasing an adjustable frame might be a worthy investment in your overall health and wellness.
Invest In Your Sleep With a Casper Adjustable Bed Frame
Modern adjustable beds are far more advanced than the prototype Dr. Gatch invented over a century ago.1 Not only do their present-day successors offer more sleeping comfort, but many of them also come equipped with added amenities, such as:3
- Audio speakers
- Programmable bed lighting
- Sleep monitoring
- USB ports
- Voice assistance
Casper is proud to offer adjustable beds in three phenomenal models and a variety of sizes, all at prices that won’t give you nightmares. You can choose between the following models:
- Adjustable Base – Simple, supportive, and seriously comfortable. The Adjustable Base lets you lift your head and feet with ease, offering customizable positions that can help reduce snoring, relieve pressure, and promote relaxation. It even features a Zero Gravity preset designed to help take the tension off your back after a long day. This base works seamlessly within most bed frames or can stand on its own—and it’s compatible with any Casper mattress.
- Adjustable Base Pro – Take comfort to the next level with the Adjustable Base Pro. This model adds adjustable lumbar support for extra lower back comfort, plus a soothing massage feature to help you wind down in style. Like the standard model, it’s designed to fit within most bed frames or stand alone and works perfectly with all Casper mattresses. More support, more relaxation, and more reasons to love bedtime.
- Adjustable Base Max – Our most advanced option for the ultimate in sleep luxury. The Adjustable Base Max includes everything you’ll find in the Pro, plus added perks like Pillow Tilt for fine-tuned head positioning and wall-aligning technology to keep you within easy reach of your nightstand. It’s built for those who want to experience the peak of comfort and convenience—all while catching better Zzz’s.
Join the population of sleepers who have discovered why adjustable bed frames are alive and well in this day and age. Personalize a sleep experience that fits your wellness needs—and never look back at your standard metal bed frame again.
Sources:
- Richmond.edu. The Man, the Mystery, Dr. Willis Gatch: Inventor of the Adjustable Hospital Bed. https://historyengine.richmond.edu/episodes/view/6611
- Sleep Advisor. Will an Adjustable Bed Wear Down Your Mattress? https://www.sleepadvisor.org/do-adjustable-beds-damage-mattresses/
- Consumer Reports. Is Adjustable Bed Frame Right For You? https://www.consumerreports.org/mattresses/adjustable-bed-frame-a5623890769/
