Have you ever fantasised about eating breakfast in bed propped up on a luxury mattress? Do you need to alleviate back pain by sleeping in a different position? Or are you looking to maintain your independence at home? An adjustable bed could be what you need.

Shopping for adjustable beds can be an exciting adventure or a daunting prospect. We help you understand what adjustable beds can do and how to choose which type will best suit your needs.

Adjustable beds can bend, tilt and move up and down. These functions allow you to sleep in different positions and can help you get in and out of bed. These days, most adjustable beds are electric, driven with a remote control.

Thanks to their customisable nature, adjustable beds can help with a variety of health conditions.

Remember to always speak to a health professional about whether an adjustable bed is likely to benefit your particular health issue.

Read more: How to stop snoring

Adjustable beds come in standard Australian bed sizes, non-standard sizes and can also be custom made. Sizes for split-bases can vary, but they're usually the same as standard sizes.

CHOICE tip: Choose a bed at least 15cm longer than you, because electric beds tend to edge you down the bed when you elevate your upper body.

We've tested to find you the best.

Read more: How to buy the comfiest mattress for you

Adjustable beds are generally more expensive than standard beds. Price increases with split models, increased functionality (such as tilting capability) and with the addition of fancy features like vibrating silent alarm clocks, and if they come with mattresses.

The following prices for adjustable bed bases are rough guides only, as the combinations of functionality and features are wide and varied.

If you need to buy a compatible mattress, this could add thousands to your purchase. Depending on the mattress material and model, you could pay: 

As mattresses on adjustable beds bend and slide, you may need to buy fitted sheets with deeper pockets or sheet suspenders to help keep the bottom sheet in place. If you buy a split adjustable bed, you'll probably need bedding a size larger than your bed to allow for the difference in height levels between partners.

Functional additions such as grip bars can add to your costs by a few hundred dollars. Lifestyle additions, such as massage units, are also sometimes sold separately, which could add hundreds or more to your purchase.

If your adjustable bed is for a disability, a health issue or to help you live independently, you may be eligible for funding through the NDIS, My Aged Care, or the Department of Veteran affairs.

CHOICE tip: Bed retailers have frequent sales, so wait until recommended retail prices are slashed.

Whether you'll need to buy a new mattress depends on the size, weight and type of your current mattress, and also on the model of adjustable bed you choose.

To use your existing mattress, firstly it has to be the right size and an appropriate weight for the new base.

Secondly, the mattress type must be compatible. Foam and latex mattresses that are soft, light and relatively thin will work with most adjustable beds. Innerspring mattresses and thick, firm mattresses will not work.

Some adjustable beds can only be used with special mattresses that flex in sections. These mattresses are available at both specialty retailers and regular bed stores.

Read more: How to dispose of your mattress and pillow

Specialty retailers offer a wider variety of beds for complex needs and can provide one-on-one appointments with experts, give assistance with applying for government funding, and do product demonstrations in your home. Always remember, however, to consult a health professional who is completely independent of any retailer.

Adjustable bed sales staff can be rather proactive in their style, but good staff will not rush you and will understand the need to test out beds thoroughly. Take your time using the controls, trying out the positions and functions, getting on and off the bed, and testing different kinds of mattresses. It's also a good idea to have someone with you for support and another perspective.

Some practical additions, such as grab rails, are only compatible with certain types of bed frames, so it's wise to think ahead. 

Read more: 5 ways to get better sleep

Modern electric beds generally don't require any special maintenance. However, some care instructions include recommending occasionally lubricating the moving parts. Most warranties cover the motor and parts for two, five or 10 years. During that time, the supplier will generally carry out any repairs at your house.

To keep your adjustable bed working well, keep it and the surrounding area as free from dust and moisture as you can.

An adjustable bed should last in good condition from about five to 10 years. Even though the frames are often covered for long periods, the electrical components and parts are sometimes only covered for two or five years.

Adjustable beds are large, heavy items that are difficult to move on, but when yours has reached the end of its life you do have some options. You can:

We've tested to find you the best.

Stock images: Getty unless otherwise stated.

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We at CHOICE acknowledge the Gadigal people, the traditional custodians of this land on which we work, and pay our respects to the First Nations people of this country. CHOICE supports the First Nations people's Uluru Statement from the Heart.