Waterbeds: What Is the Proper Fill Level For A Waterbed?

Carolina Rose Hardside Waterbed

Selecting a Waterbed

There are a few different style waterbeds to choose from. The hardside waterbed is the original style that you once heard about in the 1970s. This mattress sits directly on a strong wooden frame for support that is covered with safety lining that protects in the rare instance of leaks.

The modern waterbed that most of us see today is called the softside waterbed. This type of mattress rests within a soft foam edge on top of what appears to be a box spring. The support from the foam frame can stand on its own or can be fitted into an existing bed frame.

Generally, most people prefer this style over the hardside water mattresses because waterbed owners do not need to purchase more wood frames and furniture to match. You will experience the same contouring and pressure-free support as you would with a hardside waterbed. However, we do suggest reinforcing existing metal or wood frames for a new softside waterbed to avoid weight distribution troubles in the future.

Normally first-time users may want to start with a firm mattress with a lumbar support, because this will allow you to sleep in any position comfortably. Free-flow waterbeds are the least expensive and are widely popular, but we recommend enough stabilization to achieve full weight displacement without hitting the bottom while in the prone position. A waveless waterbed will move very little when in use, which means motion will stop almost immediately, whereas a traditional free flow mattress will continue to move for a few seconds or more.

What is the Proper Fill for a Waterbed?

One of the primary objectives of a waterbed is to reduce surface skin pressure. This is the pressure that causes pressure sores in quadriplegics. To optimize this amazing waterbed benefit, an individual needs to have an adequate amount of loose surface vinyl to compensate for the total weight of the common user or users. For example, if the bed is for two people this equals more weight, which means looser surface vinyl and a lower fill level. This makes perfect sense physically but it counters common sense, where most people believe, that a person needs a “firm bed” for the best sleeping results (Not true).

How Long Does the Water Last?

Many people feel the need to empty and refill their waterbeds after a certain point of use. However, the waterbed does not need to be drained or refilled at all unless you plan on moving it to a new location. The water will be clean and fresh as long as you add waterbed conditioner once every six months, or as often as you feel the need to prevent odors and lengthen material life.

Can I Rest Easy Quickly?

Monarch Hardside Waterbed

Once you are done filling in your waterbed you should let it settle for about five minutes then take a quick rest on it to experience how comfortable it is as it forms to your body. It is possible and almost likely to overfill your mattress. It will not get firmer if you add more water but it will change how it interacts with your body and usually in a negative fashion. It is designed to be filled within 7 to 9 inches deep depending on which product you select. As long as you follow your installation guide, your waterbed should be good to go after filling it up and releasing air bubbles and allowing the temperature control to bring the bed up to your selected temperature. This may take 24 hours to complete but should not affect your use.

What are the Benefits of Owning a Waterbed?

Another element in sleeping comfort is spinal alignment. Proper flotation displacement from a waterbed allows a normal person’s spine to be horizontal whether on their back or side therefore reducing spinal stress and promoting better sleep.

How Does a Waterbed Work to Improve Backaches, Arthritis and other Musculoskeletal Conditions?

Natural floatation of a waterbed causes the effects of weightlessness and allows near complete elimination of pressure points on the back, neck and joints allowing you to relax comfortably. Combined with the proper amount of heat, this effect is maximized to potentially lower your blood pressure and improve circulation.

Now is the time to make the switch to a waterbed. If you need any help finding a softside waterbed or a hardside waterbed, and want to know how to fill it properly, then contact us online or a friendly customer representative today by calling 1 (866) 647-2735.