Inclined Bed Therapy (IBT) involves raising the head of your bed by 4 to 8 inches to promote better circulation, reduce acid reflux, and improve spinal alignment. This method has gained popularity for its potential health benefits, including reduced snoring, enhanced digestion, and better overall sleep quality. Choosing the best mattresses for IBT is crucial to maximizing comfort and support while maintaining the therapeutic benefits of this sleeping position.
Key Features to Look for in the Best Mattresses for IBT
When selecting the best mattresses for IBT, consider the following factors:
1. Firmness and Support
A medium-firm to firm mattress helps maintain spinal alignment and prevents excessive sinking. Memory foam, latex, or hybrid mattresses with reinforced edges are ideal choices. Firmer support ensures that your body remains in an optimal position throughout the night, reducing pressure on the back and joints. The best mattresses for IBT offer targeted support for improved comfort.
2. Pressure Relief
Since your body is positioned at an incline, pressure relief becomes essential. Look for mattresses with multiple foam layers or zoned support to prevent discomfort at pressure points. Soft top layers combined with a supportive base help distribute body weight evenly, minimizing stress on sensitive areas. Many of the best mattresses for IBT feature advanced pressure-relieving technologies.
3. Compatibility with Adjustable Bases
Many people use bed risers or adjustable bases to achieve the incline needed for IBT. Ensure that your mattress is flexible enough to conform to these setups without sagging or losing shape. Some mattresses, particularly those made from rigid innerspring designs, may not be compatible with adjustable bases, so it’s crucial to check specifications before purchasing. The best mattresses for IBT are designed to work seamlessly with adjustable bases.
4. Breathability and Temperature Regulation
Since IBT improves circulation, a mattress with cooling properties—such as gel-infused memory foam or breathable hybrid designs—helps regulate body temperature for a comfortable sleep. Look for materials like open-cell foam, moisture-wicking covers, and coil layers that allow for air circulation. The best mattresses for IBT ensure breathability and temperature control for optimal sleep quality.
Top Mattress Recommendations for Inclined Bed Therapy
1. Saatva Classic Mattress
- Type: Hybrid (Innerspring + Memory Foam)
- Firmness Options: Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, Firm
- Best for: People needing strong lumbar support and breathability
- Compatible with Adjustable Bases? Yes
- Why It’s Great for IBT: Features high-quality materials and zoned lumbar support that helps keep the spine aligned.
Buy the Saatva Classic Mattress here.
2. Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-ProAdapt
- Type: Memory Foam
- Firmness Options: Soft, Medium, Firm
- Best for: Pressure relief and motion isolation
- Compatible with Adjustable Bases? Yes
- Why It’s Great for IBT: Contouring memory foam adapts to the body, ensuring even weight distribution while maintaining incline support.
Check out Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-ProAdapt.
3. Nectar Memory Foam Mattress
- Type: Memory Foam
- Firmness Options: Medium-Firm
- Best for: Budget-conscious buyers seeking contouring support
- Compatible with Adjustable Bases? Yes
- Why It’s Great for IBT: Gel-infused foam helps regulate temperature, and its balanced firmness ensures consistent support.
Shop the Nectar Memory Foam Mattress.
4. Sleep Number 360 p6 Smart Bed
- Type: Airbed + Memory Foam
- Firmness Options: Adjustable
- Best for: Customizable support and IBT-friendly adjustments
- Compatible with Adjustable Bases? Yes
- Why It’s Great for IBT: Allows precise adjustments in firmness and elevation to optimize comfort and therapeutic benefits.
Discover the Sleep Number 360 p6 Smart Bed.
Setting Up Your Bed for IBT
To properly implement IBT, you need a reliable setup. Here are a few methods:
Using Bed Risers
Risers placed under the head of your bed provide a gradual incline. Choose durable and non-slip options that can support your bed frame’s weight. Check out our Bed Risers Guide for recommendations.
Adjustable Bed Frames
An adjustable bed frame allows for precise control over the incline level, offering flexibility for different IBT needs. These frames are particularly beneficial for those who need to switch between different sleeping positions or require varied elevation levels for comfort. See our Adjustable Bed Setup Guide for installation tips.
DIY Solutions
Stacking books or using wedges beneath the mattress can provide a temporary incline. However, stability and safety should be prioritized. While these solutions can work in a pinch, they may not offer the durability and consistency required for long-term IBT use.
Additional Benefits of IBT-Compatible Mattresses
Beyond comfort and support, investing in one of the best mattresses for IBT can offer the following benefits:
- Reduced Acid Reflux: Keeping the upper body elevated helps prevent stomach acid from traveling up the esophagus, minimizing symptoms of GERD.
- Improved Circulation: Gravity assists blood flow, potentially reducing swelling and improving cardiovascular function.
- Spinal Alignment: The right mattress ensures that the spine remains in a neutral position, reducing back pain.
- Better Respiratory Health: An inclined position can help alleviate symptoms of sleep apnea and snoring by promoting better airflow.
Final Thoughts
Finding the best mattresses for IBT ensures that you experience the full benefits of inclined sleeping without discomfort. Whether you choose memory foam, hybrid, or an adjustable smart bed, the right mattress can enhance spinal alignment, reduce reflux, and improve circulation. Prioritizing key features like support, breathability, and compatibility with adjustable bases will ensure long-term comfort and health benefits.
For more information on setting up IBT at home, check out our Bed Risers Guide and Inclined Bed Therapy Setup Tips to create the perfect sleep environment.