The air bed sleep system was created by the mattress industry because of the realization that not everyone sleeps well on the firmest mattresses. Here’s a look at how they work and the benefits they might provide.

Air-filled mattresses are not a new idea. An early one was invented around 1405 by a German engineer, Konrad Kyeser.

Until recently, air mattresses were popular primarily for backpacking and camping. A sturdier design that was easier to inflate and deflate was developed for people to use for overnight guests when they were short of beds. Some people found that they slept better on these air-filled pads than they did in their own beds.

Even today, most doctors and chiropractors suggest that firmer support helps to relieve morning lower backache and other painful problems. But, that simply doesn’t work for everyone. While there have been no studies concerning which beds are best for backaches or other health problems, there are plenty of people seeking an alternative to the “firm” solution.

The original air-filled design was a little thinner than standard mattresses. While the thickness was acceptable for camping (much better than sleeping on the ground), it placed guests too close to the floor.

As the years have gone by, the temporary guest bedding design became thicker and is now referred to as the raised air-bed. There are several different brands on the market. They are usually a little thicker than standard traditional mattresses, but are still not ideal for permanent use, because both chambers will lose air as time goes by.

The air mattress sleep system was created to provide a permanent solution for people who wanted it. The Sleep Number bed brand is the one with which most people are familiar. It has been heavily advertised. But, it is not the only brand that includes the adjustable design.

Head of person sillouetted inside tentThe air bed sleep system of today is a far cry from camping air mattresses for comfort and durability.
Head of person sillouetted inside tentThe air bed sleep system of today is a far cry from camping air mattresses for comfort and durability.

There are a number of different brands on the market today. The price you will pay for an air mattress sleep system depends a lot on the brand you choose.

These new systems are quite different from camping mattresses and temporary bedding solutions. There is no need to pump them up every night or even on an occasional basis. Many pumping mechanisms are enclosed and internal. Except for the remote you use to select a firmness level, everything is inside of the bed.

An air bed sleep system does not include the spring coils found in traditional mattresses. It is believed that the spring coils push up against the body to create pressure points. The pressure points could cause problems for some people.

Because people are different, there are systems that include dual remotes. The firmness on each side of the bed can be set according to personal preference. You adjust the firmness to a point that makes you feel comfortable. Your sleeping partner does the same.

Manufacturers suggest that air-filled beds will last longer than conventional spring mattresses, because springs can bend and break. While a traditional spring mattress needs to be replaced every 5-10 years, depending on use, an air mattress sleep system may be guaranteed for up to 25 years.

The beds are not that much more expensive than high quality traditional spring mattresses. They come in sizes ranging from twin to king. They fit most frames and use the same bedding found in every department store around the world.

The systems may include a pillow top, which provides an additional layer of softness for those that are truly sensitive. While you may have been told that firmer is better, you have to make the final decision about that. If you are uncomfortable with your current sleeping arrangement, an air bed sleep system could be just right for you.

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