Waterbed FAQ's

High & Dry Waterbeds - Waterbed FAQ's

Can waterbeds get punctures?

Should a waterbed ever get a puncture, the easy way to fix this is by using our vinyl repair kit. However punctures in waterbeds are very rare. Once fixed, the mattress will be restored to its full life span use. Most repairs can also be carried out without having to empty the mattress.

Waterbeds are built with a vinyl safety liner which allows any spillages to be contained within the liner. This is to prevent leaks from going onto the floor.

Will my waterbed burst?

Waterbeds are pressure less and have no internal pressure to push the water out which thus means that they can never burst. Even when you sit on the mattress and the valve is open, the water will not spill out. In the rare instance that a waterbed has a puncture, the water would gradually be absorbed into the vinyl liner.

How long is the life span of a waterbed?

As long as you have taken care of your waterbed, they can have a life span of approximately ten to fifteen years.

What is the difference between softsided and hardsided mattresses?

Hardsided waterbed mattresses are surrounded by a rigid frame which the mattress sits inside. The mattress is made from vinyl and has straight sides. The frame will usually be made from wood. These mattresses come in different sizes to suit your particular needs. Individual and dual mattresses are also available.

Softsided waterbed mattresses are made from vinyl and have sloping sides. This makes it is easier to get in and out of bed as the mattress sits inside a foam frame. These mattresses also come in different sizes.

Are there different mattresses to choose from?

Mattresses can vary in depths and firmness. Free flow mattresses have lots of movement, whereas fully stabilised mattresses have no moment at all.

Dual mattress systems also offer customers a system where two mattresses are used which allows individual stability and control for each partner.

Can I control the heat of my waterbed?

Most waterbeds have heaters that sit underneath the mattress and liner. They can be set at a temperature between 21° to 38° and the heaters are double insulated and are BSI approved. Heated waterbeds are an effective way of helping and relieving back pain and aching muscles. The temperature controller is designed specifically so that you can indulge in your ultimate comfort.

Heating is very economic. You chose the temperature ideal for you and the insulation afforded by the bedding ensures that the temperature is maintained with minimum use of power. The comfort, support and warmth of a waterbed enhances the quality of sleep and has a therapeutic effect especially beneficial to pregnant woman, those suffering from rheumatism and backache (not a cure, but gives relief not attainable on conventional mattresses) and is used by many hospitals for burns victims.

Medical tests have also found that waterbeds eliminate the problem of bedsores because they do not impair circulation, therefore, accelerating healing of those confined to bed for long periods.

Are waterbeds hygienic?

Waterbeds are more hygienic than other conventional beds. The vinyl mattress prevents dust and mites from going into the mattress. The vinyl can also be cleaned with our vinyl cleaner which cleans away any dust or dirt. Most waterbeds also have a removable cover which can be laundered to kill any dust mites.

Our waterbed conditioner also helps to keep the water fresh and prevent any build up of bacteria within the mattress. This should be used every six months. Conventional bedding absorbs moisture produced by body heat. This causes unhealthy dampness, an ideal breeding ground for bugs and mites. Although sheets and blankets can be washed regularly, a conventional mattress is used daily for years without any means of cleaning.

The hidden hazards (dirt, dust, dampness and the resulting odours) are eliminated in a waterbed which is far more hygienic in that all surfaces areas can be cleaned on a regular basis, The lack of dust makes the waterbed the ideal sleep surface for asthmatics and those who suffer from allergies.

The water in the bed is kept fresh and free from algae by the use of a special conditioner. This is easily added and ensures that there is no need to change the water once the bed is installed.

Do waterbeds have any medical benefits?

Waterbeds are a great way of relieving back pain and aching muscles as the bed moulds around your body shape. The controlled heater especially helps with relieving pain and provides that extra comfort.

The mattresses are also recommended for people who suffer with asthma and allergies as the beds do not harbour dust mites and bacteria when they are well maintained.

Research has also shown that heated waterbeds can alleviate the discomfort of arthritis. Waterbeds have also provided extra comfort and support for pregnant women.

How do I install my waterbed?

Once you have purchased a waterbed, a set of full instructions will be provided to you about the installation of your bed. However Bed Tech Ltd will be happy to install the bed for you for a small fee. 

Sleeping on a Waterbed

Some people worry that they may get sea sick, however this is a complete myth. Any motion of the mattress will be soothing and relaxing. Mattresses that are fully stabilised will cause no movement.

Research on waterbeds has also found that people tend to fall into a deep sleep quicker than other beds. This will then result in a happier, healthier and more relaxed lifestyle.

If I am heavier than my partner will this have an effect on the waterbed?

Waterbeds will support both partners equally, so weight will have no effect on the bed. However a dual system may also be practical as each mattress allows individual stability and control for each partner.

Will I get bubbles in my waterbed?

When the waterbed has been filled and has settled for a few days excess air needs to be removed from the mattress. In this case you should use our Bubble Gone waterbed de-oxidizer to remove any noisy bubbles you may have. It is recommended to use this at least once every 10-12 months.

Do water pillows exist?

Water pillows do exist and they provide great comfort and support. You can even use water pillows on normal mattresses. They help provide support to your neck to prevent aches and pains. It is easy to fill and has a thermal insulator around it to prevent any heat loss.

Waterbed Comfort

Whatever position you prefer to sleep, a waterbed yields to conform to the contours of the body thus distributing the body weight evenly. Pressure points experienced on a conventional mattress which cause tossing and turning, are almost eliminated and circulation is unpaired.

As a result, constant readjustment of the body position is unnecessary allowing more restful undisturbed sleep. For the average healthy person who spends one third of life in bed, a good nights sleep ensures maximum energy in waking hours for work, leisure and overall enhances the quality of life.

Despite their popularity in progressive countries the U.S.A and Scandinavia, many people hold misconceptions about the safety of waterbeds, i.e. the weight of large quantities of water and the danger of flooding. Rest assured, these fears are unfounded.

Waterbed Support

The comfort awarded by lack of pressure does nor diminish the support of a waterbed. The unique properties of water mean that on impact with the human body (which consists of over two thirds water), it is displaced by producing curves into the resulting hollows. Consequently, regardless of size, weight or sleeping position, all surfaces of the body are equally supported.

Conventional mattresses deteriorate with age. Apart from the build up of dirt and dampness, comfort and support are reduced by flattening foam and sagging springs which inevitably occur with constant use. The consequent lumps and bumps are impossible in a waterbed - it never sags and therefore retains the same supportive qualities thought its life.