7 Problems With Split King Adjustable Beds (& How to Solve Them)

Did you decide to buy a Split King adjustable bed? That is a great choice, as it gives couples comfort and more restful sleep due to separate mattresses that can be adjusted to each sleeper’s needs.However, a Split King comes with some problems. Let’s address them so you can decide if getting an adjustable Split King bed is worth it.

1. Split King Beds Have a Split

The primary reason why people decide to buy the Split King adjustable bed is to have separate mattresses they can adjust according to their own liking and sleep more comfortably without disturbing the person sleeping next to them.

A Split King is a King-sized bed (80×76) made of two Twin XL mattresses that allows you to share the bed without compromising your individual sleep preferences.

While the split between the two mattresses is quite small (it can vary depending on the manufacturer), there is one. If you prefer to sleep more in the middle of your Split King, you can find this split annoying.

There are several solutions:

• Use zip ties or velcro straps to secure the legs of the two adjustable bed frames together.
• Place non-slip furniture coasters, especially if your bed frame is placed on laminate, hardwood, or tiles.
• Get a bed wedge or gap filler—an accessory made of foam you can place between the two mattresses.
• Get a King size mattress topper to cover the split.
• Use a bed bridge or a mattress connector to keep the mattresses together.

All of these solutions will help you get rid of the slip, but some prevent you from operating two adjustable bases independently.

2. Split King Mattresses May Slide

All mattresses have the potential to slide from the base and move from their position as you sleep. Sliding isn’t as big of an issue with Twin XL mattresses when they aren’t combined to make a Split King, but this largely depends on the base. As the mattresses wiggle, they can create an even bigger gap between the two Twin XL beds. There’s an easy solution for this problem: use a rug gripper pad between the base and each mattress to keep the two beds together.

3. Making the Split King Bed is More Difficult

Making the bed should take you no more than a couple of minutes, something that you can do immediately when you wake up. However, making the Split King adjustable bed is a more complex process.

Many people are confused when it comes to which sheets to use. Do you go for the two separate sheets or King-size sheets?

Most people get two sheets and this is where you can use the adjustable base to make the process easier. Instead of cramming the edges of the sheets in the middle crack, you can create a slightly bigger gap between the two mattresses and hold the “head up” button to lift one side of the bed.

Then, place the sheets on the elevated sides and move them to the foot of the bed before you put your bed in the flat position. Do the same with the other mattress.

The other option is to use King-size sheets and treat it as the standard King mattress, but this limits your comfort later on as you’re unable to adjust your separate beds.After a few times, you’ll get the hang of it but, it takes longer, as you’re essentially making two separate beds.

4. Price Can Be Too High

Although a Split King adjustable bed is an excellent choice for couples who have specific needs and preferences, it is an expensive bed.

Split King adjustable beds are quite large and require a lot of space and because they come with special features to raise the sides and adjust them to your needs, the price is steep.An adjustable base alone can cost anywhere from $1,300 to $2,800, and you also need two mattresses.

5. Split King Adjustable Bed Can Have a Loud Mechanism

The special frame needed for an adjustable Split King mattress can make some noise when you’re setting things up.Make sure not to do this during the night when your spouse is sleeping to wake them up. There’s not much you can do to reduce the noise—just choose the time when you want to adjust your bed.

6. Cuddling On a Split King Can Be Uncomfortable

If you like to cuddle with your partner as you fall asleep, Split King mattresses aren’t the right choice. You’ll have a crack in the middle, which can make you uncomfortable, and eventually, you’ll give up on cuddling.If you’re a cuddly sleeper, we recommend getting the regular King size bed. While you sacrifice adjustability, you’ll have all the space in the world to fall asleep together and not be uncomfortable.

7. Finding the Right Bed Frame

There are multiple options when it comes to finding the right bed frame for your adjustable King bed. 

Sleep experts recommend getting an adjustable bed frame that allows you to set the height of your bed and customize the mattress however you like it, creating the perfect sleeping environment. 

That’s the whole point of this bed – to have customizable settings and ensure quality sleep.

The other solution is to put the mattresses in a King Bed frame. The King bed frame will keep the mattresses secure throughout the night without you having to worry about them sliding, which can be a perfect solution if you want to save some money on adjustable bed frames but still get Split King mattresses.Additionally, if a bed frame has a headboard and sideboards, it will keep your King bed secure. You can be creative with the headboard and add some LED lights for ambient lighting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you need to use a pillow with adjustable beds?

Yes and no. The answer depends on you, but with a Split King adjustable bed, your pillow preferences may change.

What mattresses can be used with an adjustable base?

When it comes to size, you need the Twin XL mattress, but speaking of types, you can choose innerspring, memory foam, hybrid, and other mattresses, and that’s the beauty of the Split King. Look for different mattress companies to find the best offers.

Can I Fall In?

No. The crack between the mattress is a small one and it can widen a bit if the mattresses slide, but never for you to fall in.

Adjustable Split King is Worth The Money

Adjustable Split King Beds provide a lot of comfort for couples who want to have good quality sleep and customize their sleeping space without splitting apart.The positives outweigh the negatives by far and the only reasons not to buy a Split King Bed are the lack of space in the bedroom or the steeper price.