Types of Waterbed Mattresses

Free Flow Mattress

• Free flow waterbeds were the first type of waterbed mattresses made available in the 1960s. In the 21st century, the free flow mattress is generally seen as the worst type of waterbed mattress available. It is called ''free flow'' because the mattress does nothing to control the flow of water. This generally gives the feeling of sleeping on a boat. It is uncomfortable, especially if two people of different sizes are sleeping on the same bed. The different sizes will cause the bed to be lopsided.

Hydraulic Mattress

• Hydraulic mattresses use technology that helps regulate the flow of water in the bed. This is especially important for two people sleeping on the same bed because a hydraulic mattress will balance any size differences. Hydraulic mattresses have tiny round vinyl coils which fill with water and float in the mattress just beneath the surface of the mattress. There is often a fiber layer between the coals and the surface so the sleeper does not feel the coils. These mattresses are often more expensive than others and are not the most widely chosen.

Fiber Fill Mattress

• Fiber fill mattresses use less technology than hydraulic mattresses but offer more back support and a firmer sleep. Fiber waterbed mattresses use layers of fiber boards, which help to reduce the movement of water in the mattress. A disadvantage of the fiber fill mattresses are that they are extremely hard to move, especially if they are not drained. The weight of the fiber adds on a lot of weight to the mattress. Not draining the bed could cause damage to the mattress if the fiber boards slip out of position.

Heated Mattress

• The option of temperature control is one of the benefits of having a waterbed mattress. Many users have cited the therapeutic benefits of sleeping on a heated surface, according to the Best Bed Guide. The heat comes from a heating pad that sits under the mattress and controlled by a thermostat. Experts on the Best Bed Guide website suggest that users do not set the temperature higher than 88 degrees.