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What Kind of Sheets Do You Use on an Adjustable Bed?

Date Updated: July 28, 2025

Written by:

Rachel Lustbader

Rachel Lustbader is a writer and editor with a background in healthcare and technology. Her work has been published on websites including HealthCare.com, BiteSizeBio.com, BetterHelp.com, Caring.com, and PayingforSeniorCare.com. She studied health science and public health at Boston University.

Both of Rachel’s grandmothers had very positive experiences in senior living communities, and Rachel saw firsthand the impact that kind, committed caregivers and community managers can have on seniors’ and their family members’ lives. With her work at Caring, Rachel hopes to help other families find communities, caregivers, and at-home products that benefit elderly loved ones and make life less stressful for family caregivers

The best sheets for an adjustable bed have deep pockets between 8 and 18 inches, thick elastic all the way around the edges, long and short side labeling and are soft with moisture-wicking and breathable fabric. While regular pillows and comforters work well with an adjustable bed, choosing sheets is a different story. Let’s talk in more detail about the factors to take into consideration.

Why Do Adjustable Beds Need Different Sheets?

Adjustable beds are one of the best ways to reclaim independence and ensure maximum comfort and support while sleeping. If you struggle to get in and out of bed or find it hard to get comfortable, an adjustable bed will give you the assistance you need.

Because of their hinged construction, adjustable beds can make using regular bed sheets a challenge. When the head or foot of the bed is elevated, the sheets can often bulk up around the middle of the bed or the edges can pop off of the corners. For those with mobility or dexterity difficulties, moving the sheets back into position every time the bed is used can also pose a challenge.

What Should You Look For When Choosing Adjustable Bed Sheets?

Finding the right sheets for an adjustable bed is simple if you know what to look for and why you want the adjustable bed. For example, choosing sheets that are elasticated all around the bed and of a suitable size will ensure your sheets can move with the bed while staying firmly in place.

Deep Depth

The main reason why sheets fail to stay on an adjustable bed is that they are not deep enough. The majority of adjustable beds have a mattress depth of 8″, but you should measure the depth of your mattress before purchasing sheets. Make sure they are deep enough to stay wrapped around the entire outside edge of your mattress. Look for sheets that are specifically described as being deep-fitted sheets. These sheets will also stay flat and unpuckered when the bed is in the sit-up position.

Elasticity

Most fitted sheets have elasticated corners. However, these features alone won’t stop your sheet from pinging off the mattress. Instead, choose a sheet that is elasticated 360 degrees – all the way around. Even when your bed is upright or semi-upright, the sheet will stay in place. Some sheets even have long side and short side labels on the elastic for easy bed making.

Length

Typically, adjustable bed mattresses are usually slightly longer than a standard mattress. That means that you’ll need longer sheets to compensate. It’s a good idea to find out or measure the dimensions of your particular adjustable bed so that you can choose suitable sheets that offer room for movement.

Material

Material is another important factor when choosing sheets for your adjustable bed. When it comes to keeping cool and comfortable in bed, nothing can beat the breathable and wicking properties of 100% cotton. For a little extra luxury, choose good-quality Egyptian cotton sheets that wash well.

Do Dual-Action Beds Need Special Consideration?

Dual-action adjustable beds consist of two separate single beds set side-by-side. They allow each person to control their bed to suit their personal preferences. While double sheets are suitable for a typical double bed, they are not ideal when you have two mattresses moving separately from one another. Instead, use two single fitted sheets for each mattress.

Learn More About Adjustable Beds

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The material on this site is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for legal, financial, professional, or medical advice or diagnosis or treatment. By using our website, you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

Caring.com

Caring.com is a leading online destination for caregivers seeking information and support as they care for aging parents, spouses, and other loved ones. We offer thousands of original articles, helpful tools, advice from more than 50 leading experts, a community of caregivers, and a comprehensive directory of caregiving services.

 

The material on this site is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for legal, financial, professional, or medical advice or diagnosis or treatment. By using our website, you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

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