Electric mattresses

Electric motors and heaters can be used for a variety of purposes in beds and mattresses. These features are usually optional extras, or luxuries included in the most expensive bed and mattress products. They include the following.

Tilt and raise mattress

The adjustment of the mattresses incline, usually at the head and foot of the bed is a feature of adjustable beds. This is motion is achieved using a remote control unit which powers sound buffered motors that raise or lower the top or bottom sections of the mattress. This functionality can ease getting into and out of the bed, or offer a more suitable posture for pastimes like reading or watching TV.

An optimum sleeping position can also be attained easily by using the bed’s remote control for a perfect resting posture.

In the case of double beds, these tilting actions can usually be controlled independently by both sleeping partners.

Air mattress

The adjustment of inflation pockets in an air mattress to maximise comfort, or to reduce localised pressure points, is done with electric motors. These motors can also be used to provide a therapeutic effect or to reduce localized pressure points on the body.

Remote units are used to control these actions and the motors power hydraulic inflation systems that pressurize the air pocket in the mattress.

Massage mattress

Massage mattresses can simulate a rolling or massaging motion which is restful and relaxing. Mattresses that offer this functionality can be used to relieve stress and induce a relaxed and restful state. They can also be good for muscles and ligaments. Many of these mattresses have different program settings allowing the speed and pressure of the massage simulation to be adjusted wit a remote control unit.

Heated mattress

Heated mattresses are becoming increasingly common on some of the more expensive bed and mattress lines. These mattresses are controlled thermostatically based on user settings. Some of these mattresses have dual controls for both sides of a double bed.

All mattresses using electricity should have safety cut-outs and in the case of motorised units, an alternative manual means of adjustment in the even of power outages.

Another type of electric bed is the sunbed or tanning bed which, although not having a mattress or being used for sleep, is still described as a bed.