Is an Adjustable Bed Worth It? A NZ Buyer’s Guide
If you’re considering an adjustable bed, you’re probably wondering whether the extra investment is actually worth it.
Adjustable beds have become increasingly popular for people looking for more flexibility from their sleep setup. Rather than keeping your mattress completely flat, an adjustable base allows you to raise your head, elevate your legs or find a position that feels more comfortable for reading, relaxing or sleeping.
But are adjustable beds worth the money? And can you use your existing sheets and mattress?
This guide answers the key questions to consider before buying an adjustable bed in New Zealand.
What Is an Adjustable Bed?
An adjustable bed combines a compatible mattress with a powered bed base that allows you to change the position of the mattress.
Depending on the model, you can typically adjust the head and foot sections independently using a remote control or, on some models, a smartphone app.
Adjustable bases can be useful throughout the day, not just at bedtime. You might raise the head of the bed while reading or watching TV, elevate your legs when relaxing, or use a zero-gravity position to create a more supported, relaxed feeling.
Mazon Motion adjustable bases offer head and foot lift functions, with selected models also offering features such as smartphone control, zero-gravity positioning and anti-snore settings.
Is an Adjustable Bed Worth It?
For many people, yes, particularly if you value personalised comfort and expect to use the adjustment functions regularly.
A traditional bed gives you one sleeping position. An adjustable bed gives you the flexibility to change your position depending on what you are doing and how you want to feel.
An adjustable bed can be particularly worthwhile if you:
- Like to read or watch TV in bed
- Prefer sleeping with your upper body slightly elevated
- Want the option to elevate your legs
- Share a bed but have different comfort preferences
- Want more flexibility than a traditional flat bed provides
- Spend a lot of time relaxing or working from bed
- Are replacing your mattress and base at the same time
The key question isn’t simply whether an adjustable bed is worth the investment, it’s whether you will actually use the additional functionality.
If you regularly use different positions, the flexibility can make an adjustable bed a worthwhile long-term investment.
What Are the Benefits of an Adjustable Bed?
Personalised positioning
One of the biggest advantages is the ability to customise your position.
Rather than relying entirely on pillows to prop yourself up, the base itself can provide support by changing the angle of the mattress.
More comfortable reading and relaxing
An adjustable base can make sitting up in bed more comfortable. Simply raise the head section to create a more natural position for reading, watching television or using a device.
Elevate your legs
Raising the foot section can provide another comfortable position when you’re relaxing at the end of the day.
Zero Gravity positioning
Selected Mazon Motion bases include a Zero Gravity setting, which raises the head and legs to create a more elevated, supported position.
Anti-snore positioning
Some adjustable beds also include an anti-snore position, which gently raises the head section.
Mazon’s Motion range includes an anti-snore position designed to promote better airflow and potentially reduce snoring.
Can You Use Any Mattress on an Adjustable Bed?
This is one of the most important things to check before buying an adjustable base.
No, not every mattress is suitable for use on an adjustable base.
An adjustable base needs to work with a mattress that can safely flex as the base moves through different positions. A mattress that isn’t designed or approved for this type of movement may not perform correctly.
Mazon Group recommends pairing your adjustable base with a compatible Mazon mattress. While other branded mattresses may be suitable, Mazon Group cannot guarantee their compatibility or performance with the adjustable base.
Compatible Mazon mattresses include:
- Mazon Align
- Mazon Woola W2000
- Mazon Eco-Coil S2
- Mazon Eco-Coil S3
- Mazon Hybrid mattresses
If you’re buying an adjustable bed and mattress together, it’s important to check compatibility rather than assuming your existing mattress will work.
Can You Use Normal Sheets on an Adjustable Bed?
Yes, but there are a few things to consider.
The mattress moves when you adjust the base, so bedding needs enough flexibility to move with it without constantly pulling loose.
Fitted sheets are generally the most practical option, provided they are the correct size and have enough depth and flexibility to accommodate the mattress and its movement.
When setting up an adjustable bed, avoid bedding that is excessively tight. A sheet that fits well when the mattress is flat may become restrictive when the head or foot section is raised.
Are Adjustable Beds Good for Couples?
They can be, particularly when each person wants a different position.
For couples, the size and configuration of the adjustable base are important considerations.
A split configuration can allow each side of the bed to be adjusted independently. This means one person can raise their head while the other keeps their side flatter, for example.
However, split adjustable beds can require different bedding arrangements, so consider how you want the bed to function before choosing your size and configuration.
Mazon offers Motion bases in a range of configurations, including Long Single, King Single, Double, Queen and split sizes depending on the model.
What Should You Look for When Buying an Adjustable Bed?
Not all adjustable beds are created equal. Before making a purchase, consider:
1. Mattress compatibility
Check that the mattress you want to use is specifically compatible with the adjustable base.
2. Weight rating
Look at the maximum safe working load and make sure it accommodates the sleepers and mattress.
3. Adjustment range
Consider how far the head and foot sections can move and whether those positions suit how you plan to use the bed.
4. Controls
Some bases use a handheld remote, while higher-spec models may also offer smartphone control.
Think about which features you’ll actually use rather than simply choosing the model with the longest list of functions.
5. Warranty
A longer warranty can be an important consideration when investing in a powered bed base.
6. Size and bedroom space
Don’t forget to consider the overall dimensions and height of the base, particularly if you’re replacing an existing bed frame.
Is an Adjustable Bed Worth the Extra Cost?
Adjustable beds generally cost more than a traditional bed base because you’re investing in additional mechanical and electronic components as well as greater functionality.
The question is whether those features will add value to your everyday routine.
If you simply want a flat surface to sleep on and rarely sit or relax in bed, a traditional mattress and base may be all you need.
However, if you value flexibility, regularly read or relax in bed, want different sleeping positions or would like greater control over your comfort, an adjustable bed could be a worthwhile investment.
Think about how you’ll use the bed every day, rather than just how impressive the features look when you’re comparing models.
Who Is an Adjustable Bed Best Suited To?
An adjustable bed isn’t just about getting a better night’s sleep. It can also be considered a lifestyle bed, designed to give you greater flexibility in how you use your bed throughout the day.
An adjustable bed may be particularly appealing if you:
- Want greater control over your sleeping position
- Enjoy reading or relaxing in bed
- Prefer your head or legs elevated
- Share a bed with someone who has different positioning preferences
- Want additional functionality from your bed beyond sleeping
- Like spending time in bed relaxing, watching TV or using a device
As a lifestyle bed, an adjustable bed can become more than simply somewhere to sleep. The ability to adjust the position of the bed means you can create a comfortable setup for different activities throughout the day.
The best way to determine whether it’s right for you is to try one in person and experiment with the different positions.
Mazon Adjustable Beds
Mazon’s Motion range is designed to provide adjustable comfort with different models available to suit different needs and budgets.
Features vary across the range, from cordless handpieces and head and foot adjustment through to smartphone control and additional positioning options.
The Motion range is designed to work with selected Mazon mattresses, including the Align range, Woola W2000, Eco-Coil S2, Eco-Coil S3 and Mazon Hybrid mattresses.
Whether you’re looking for a more comfortable reading position, greater flexibility while relaxing or a personalised sleep setup, an adjustable bed can offer considerably more versatility than a traditional flat base.
Explore Mazon Adjustable Bed Bases
Final Thoughts: Is an Adjustable Bed Worth It?
For the right person, an adjustable bed can be a worthwhile long-term investment.
The biggest advantage isn’t simply having a motorised bed, it’s having more control over how you use your bed.
Make sure your mattress is suitable for the base, check the warranty and weight rating, and consider which adjustment functions will genuinely improve your everyday comfort.
If you’re still unsure, visiting a showroom and trying different positions can be one of the best ways to decide whether an adjustable bed is right for you.