All About Adjustable Airbeds

Air bed overview

Constructed from multiple air chambers, most king and queen size air beds offer independent adjustment levels for each sleeper within a few seconds.  Handheld controls allow easy adjustment changes while in bed.  The inflation systems offer quiet motors and engage for short periods to adjust support. Twin and full size air bed mattresses usually have single support adjustments.  Since specialty sheets are not required for air beds, there is no added investment cost for bedding other than to indulge your celebration of a new bedtime haven.

Reasons to consider an air bed

Consider an air bed mattress if you suffer chronic back problems, sleep restlessly searching for a comfortable position, are awakened by movements of your bed partner, or prefer a different level of mattress support than your bed partner. The adjustable support of an air bed mattress may resolve all of these complaints.

Air bed advantages

Advantages over traditional mattress systems include:

Component parts are lighter weight and more easily moved; good news for renters and those who rearrange furniture regularly. 
Lighter weight materials reduce stress on support flooring compared to waterbeds
When wear or damage occurs, individual components can be replaced without purchasing an entire mattress.
Air bed mattresses do not require mattress rotation as with conventional mattresses, saving time and effort.

Sleep benefits include:

Adjustable air beds redistribute weight rather than absorb it, which may result in more energizing sleep by reducing back pain and other muscle or joint discomforts upon waking. 
Relieving pressure points may benefit blood circulation for improved rest and general health.
Independent support adjustment reduces disturbance from other sleeper's movements for uninterrupted, refreshing sleep. 
Many choices for mattress top contents, including memory foam and wool fleece, allow personal selection of sleep surface. 
Some air bed mattress tops are removable for dry cleaning or give access to the mattress interior for vacuuming; either may give an advantage to allergy sufferers.

Air bed construction

Basic air bed mattress components include:

Support structure including bottom and sides
Individual air chambers
Mattress top
Inflation system for adjustable support
Inflation controls for selecting adjustable support level

Construction components should be manufactured for strength and durability. Most manufacturers offer at least a 20-year warranty.

Air bed mattress tops may be comprised of several layers.  Choose materials that best suit your sleep comfort. This may be another compromise opportunity when selecting a single mattress to satisfy two different sleepers.  Memory foam tops and memory foam mattress pads are available for those who prefer a more enfolding support.  Wool fleece can provide significant warmth on the sleep surface. 
 

More information on Air Beds