I'm considering a split king adjustable bed because my partner and I have very different sleep needs, but we rent and move every couple of years. Are split adjustable beds significantly harder to move than a regular mattress or a non-split adjustable? I'm worried about disassembling the frames, the weight of two separate mattresses, and whether the whole thing can even fit through a normal doorway. Any experiences would help.
Adjustable Beds
Are split adjustable beds harder to move?
the frames are the main issue, not the mattresses. Most split king adjustable bases are two twin XL bases, so each half is manageable. But they're heavy and awkward. Moving them up stairs is the real test.
We have a split king. Moved it twice. The mattresses are actually easier because each one is smaller than a king. The bases are the pain. You have to unbolt the legs and sometimes the hinge area if it's a folding base. Takes an afternoon.
Define harder. Harder than a regular mattress? Yes. Harder than a non-split adjustable? Not necessarily, because two twin XL bases can be easier to maneuver individually than one giant king base.
The weight adds up. Each twin XL memory foam mattress can be 70-90 lbs. Two of those plus two bases and you're looking at several hrundred pounds total. But you're not lifting it all at once.
Doorways are fine. The bases are usually designed to fit through standard doors when folded or with legs removed. Check the spec sheet for the base you're considering. Some have a folding hinge that makes them much easier.
One thing nobody mentions: the power cords and remote wiring. When you move, you have to disconnect and reconnect everything. Not hard, but it's another step. Label the cables.
we hired movers for ours. They said it was not the worst thing they'd moved, but they charged extra because of the weight and the disassembly. If you're doing it yourself, get a friend.
Also consider the mattress type. A split latex mattress is heavier than a split foam one. If you go with an air bed like Sleep Number, the mattresses are lighter but the pump system is another component to move.
Thanks. The folding hinge detail is useful. I'll check if the base I'm looking at has that.
Another thing: if you move often, keep the original boxes for the mattresses if you can. Split mattresses are easier to move but they can get damaged if they're not protected. A bag or box helps.
I'd argue the opposite on boxes.Who has space to keep two mattress boxes? Just wrap them in plastic and tape. The bases are what need the care, especially the motors.
The motors ars usually fine if you secure the base. But don't lift the base by the head or foot section. Lift from the frame. I learned that the hard way.
How often are you moving? Every couple of years is a lot for any bed. If you're renting, maybe consider a simpler setup until you're settled. Not trying to talk you out of it, just a thought.
Also check if your renters insurance covers the bed during the move. Some policies have limits on furniture. Not directly about moving difficulty, but relevant.
I'll add that reassembly can be fiddly. The two bases need to be aligned so the mattresses don't gap in the middle. It's not hard, but it takes patience. More than a regular bed frame, in my experience.