The Complete UK Guide to Buying Electrical Automatic Beds
What Are Electrical Automatic Beds?
Adjustable beds, also known as electric beds, let you change the position of the mattress from top to bottom – so you or a loved one can choose the most comfortable sitting or lying position without moving. These motorised bed bases transform your bedroom into a personalised comfort zone.
Think of them as sophisticated furniture that adapts to you rather than the other way around. At the push of a button, you can elevate your head to read. Raise your feet to improve circulation. Find the perfect angle for watching television.
How Do They Work?
Electric motors power these beds. Operated by a remote control, you can easily elevate the head or foot of the bed to find the perfect position for sleeping, relaxing, or getting in and out of bed. Most models use whisper-quiet mechanisms that won't disturb your partner.
Types of Electric Beds Available
Lifestyle Beds
Designed to enhance comfort during activities like reading or watching TV, these beds are ideal for users seeking leisure and relaxation features. Perfect for healthy individuals who want extra comfort.
- Basic head and foot elevation
- Simple remote controls
- Lower price point
- Stylish designs for home use
Profiling Beds
Suitable for medical or therapeutic needs, profiling beds offer electronic adjustability, versatile positioning, and are available at different price points to accommodate specific health requirements.
- Multiple adjustment zones
- Advanced positioning options
- Higher weight capacities
- Medical-grade features
Key Differences Explained
Most adjustable beds sold by major bed retailers are called 'lifestyle' adjustable beds. They'll lift your head up so you can watch Match of the Day in bed, or you can try out a few positions to stop you snoring or feel more comfortable.
More specialist adjustable beds are called 'profiling' beds. They aren't generally sold by major bed retailers but are sold at places like Complete Care Shop and Bakare. They are more akin to the kind of thing you'd have in a hospital or residential home.
Essential Features to Look For
Basic Must-Haves
- Independent head and foot adjustment: Independent head and leg movement for personalised comfort.
- Wireless remote control: Look for backlit displays and memory buttons
- Quiet motors: A smooth, whisper-quiet mechanism to avoid disruptions during use.
- Sturdy construction: Strong construction to support weight without creaking or instability.
Advanced Features Worth Considering
Zero Gravity Position
Zero Gravity technology helps to minimise the pressure that causes aches and pains caused by your natural sleeping style. This position elevates your legs slightly above your heart level, reducing pressure on your spine.
Massage Functions
Dual Massage: Activate at the head and or foot with 3 intensity levels with 10, 20, or 30min timer. These vibrating motors help relax muscles and improve circulation.
USB Charging Ports
USB Charging Ports: Twin XL (4), Queen (4), Split King (8), and Cal King Split (8). Keep your devices charged without extension leads cluttering your bedside.
Under-Bed Lighting
LED Underbed Lighting: Borders the underside of the base for ambient lighting. Provides gentle illumination for nighttime navigation without disturbing your partner.
Smart Features for Modern Living
Some beds also allow users to control their bed via a phone app. It's worth considering a Dreams Sleepmotion model if you like the idea of using an app to control your bed.
Advanced models include:
- Smartphone connectivity
- Sleep tracking capabilities
- Automatic snore detection and adjustment
- Pre-programmed positions
- Memory settings for favourite positions
Health Benefits You Should Know About
Adjustable beds offer a wide range of benefits for various health conditions and comfort preferences:
Proven Health Benefits
- Improved circulation: Electronic beds allow you to raise both the head and foot of the bed, helping reduce pressure on the body, promote blood flow, and reduce discomfort.
- Pain relief: Well suited to individuals with back pain, arthritis and joint issues, adjustable beds change position to help you find a more comfortable angle to reduce pain.
- Better breathing: Elevating the head can alleviate conditions such as snoring and sleep apnoea, helping you enjoy a better night's sleep.
- Reduced acid reflux: Raising the head also reduces heartburn symptoms for a more comfortable night's rest.
- Easier mobility: Adjustable settings make getting in and out of bed easier by allowing you to raise and lower the mattress.
Potential Drawbacks
- Higher initial cost than standard beds
- Heavier and harder to move house
- May require more maintenance
- Need compatible mattresses
- Electricity dependency
Choosing the Right Size
It's important to choose a large enough bed if you are sleeping with a partner. A single electric bed is ideal for those sleeping alone and with limited space. Alternatively, those sharing a bed will likely want an adjustable double bed or something larger.
| Size | Dimensions | Best For | Typical Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single | 90cm x 190cm | Individual use, limited space | £400 - £1,500 |
| Small Double | 120cm x 190cm | Single sleeper wanting more space | £600 - £2,000 |
| Double | 135cm x 190cm | Couples with limited bedroom space | £800 - £2,500 |
| King | 150cm x 200cm | Couples wanting comfort | £1,000 - £3,500 |
| Super King | 180cm x 200cm | Maximum space and comfort | £1,500 - £5,000+ |
Split King Options for Couples
Many manufacturers offer split king configurations. If you sleep with a partner, our Split King size allows you to individually control each sleeper's position separately with two Twin XL mattresses. Adjust each side however you like, so you can both get your best rest.
Weight Capacity Considerations
Weight limits of adjustable bed frames can vary. Most Dreams Sleepmotion beds have weight limits of 355 kg (782 lbs), including the mattress. Always check the specifications match your requirements.
Typical weight capacities:
- Budget models: 300-400kg total
- Mid-range models: 400-500kg total
- Premium models: 500kg+ total
Compatible Mattresses: What You Need to Know
The ideal scenario is to buy an adjustable base that comes with a mattress or buy a mattress which calls itself an 'adjustable bed mattress'. However, there are lots of 'normal' mattresses on the market that say they are perfectly fine for an adjustable mattress.
Mattress Types That Work Well
- Memory foam: The mattresses recommended by Dreams are memory foam mattresses, which tend to work well with adjustable mattresses. They flex easily with the bed's movement.
- Latex mattresses: Natural flexibility makes them suitable for adjustable bases
- Hybrid mattresses: Combine springs with foam for flexibility and support
- Pocket spring mattresses: Individual springs allow better contouring
Mattresses to Avoid
- Traditional innerspring mattresses with continuous coils
- Very firm mattresses that resist bending
- Mattresses over 12 inches thick (may not bend properly)
- Waterbeds (obvious reasons!)
Price Ranges and What to Expect
Let's break down what you get at different price points:
Budget Range: £400-£800
- Basic head and foot adjustment
- Simple wired remote
- Limited preset positions
- Basic warranty (1-2 years)
Mid-Range: £800-£2,000
- Wireless remote with memory settings
- Multiple preset positions including zero gravity
- USB charging ports
- Basic massage functions
- Better build quality
Premium Range: £2,000-£5,000+
- Advanced massage systems
- Under-bed lighting
- Smart home integration
- Split configurations for couples
- Extended warranties (5-10 years)
- White-glove delivery and setup
Top UK Brands and Retailers
Recommended Retailers
You can purchase these bed frames from reputable online retailers like Tempur UK, Opera Beds, Beds Online, the Luxury Bed Company, Willowbrook Beds, or Get Laid Beds, all of which have positive reviews.
We wouldn't recommend buying electric beds from companies like Leggett, Smart Beds UK, or Adjustamatic Beds, as these retailers have more negative reviews.
High Street Options
- Dreams: Market leader with Sleepmotion range
- Argos: You can also shop for electric beds in Argos, but you will likely have fewer options for in-store shopping or home delivery.
Specialist Medical Suppliers
- Complete Care Shop
- Bakare Beds
- Laybrook (medical focus)
- Mobility Direct North
Installation and Setup
All our adjustable beds come with easy-to-follow step-by-step assembly and user instructions to help you build and operate your electronic bed. However, we also offer a professional assembly service so you can sit back and relax while our team takes care of everything, ensuring your bed is expertly constructed and positioned in your room of choice.
DIY Assembly
Most beds come with:
- Clear instruction manuals
- All required tools
- Step-by-step video guides
- Customer support helplines
Professional Installation
Consider professional setup if:
- You have mobility issues
- The bed is very heavy or complex
- You want warranty protection
- You're not confident with DIY
Maintenance and Warranty
Buying an adjustable bed requires a good sum of money. Look for National Bed Federation mark of approval before you invest.
Regular Maintenance Tips
- Keep the remote clean and dry
- Vacuum under the bed regularly
- Check all connections periodically
- Keep the motor mechanisms dust-free
- Test all functions monthly
Warranty What to Look For
- Motor warranty: Minimum 5 years
- Frame warranty: 10+ years ideal
- Electronics warranty: 2-3 years standard
- Parts and labour coverage
Making Your Decision
Questions to Ask Yourself
- What's your primary reason for wanting an adjustable bed?
- Do you have specific health conditions that need addressing?
- What's your realistic budget including mattress?
- How much space do you have in your bedroom?
- Do you sleep alone or with a partner?
- Which features are must-haves versus nice-to-haves?
Red Flags to Avoid
- Prices that seem too good to be true
- No warranty or very short warranty periods
- Poor customer reviews about reliability
- No return policy or trial period
- Unclear delivery and installation terms
Summary: Your Next Steps
- Determine your budget and primary needs
- Research reputable retailers and brands
- Read customer reviews thoroughly
- Check warranty terms and return policies
- Consider professional installation
- Factor in mattress compatibility
- Make your purchase from a trusted supplier
An electrical automatic bed is a significant investment in your comfort and health. Take the time to choose wisely, and you'll enjoy better sleep for years to come.