- Choose between a traditional waterbed---a frame-style bed with hard sides---or a soft-sided bed similar to a traditional bed. The soft-sided bed has three distinct advantages over the frame-style bed: It is easier to get in and out of bed, it is possible to sit on the edge, and the waterbed mattress uses standard bedding.
- Waterbed mattresses may contain one or two bladders. Choosing two bladders lets you customize each side separately, allowing separate temperature control as well as different stability levels and lumbar support.
- Decide how much motion is right for you. Waterbed firmness is determined by the number of stabilizing fiber layers in the mattress. For example, a mattress with six fiber layers will not move at all while a mattress without layers will move for 20 seconds or longer. Some waterbed mattresses also have extra fiber layers in the lumbar area to provide support for people with back or muscular pain.
- Larger beds are more comfortable, so buy the largest waterbed mattress that will fit in your bedroom. Waterbed height varies depending on which base you choose, so be sure to find a comfortable height and remember to consider the height of your nightstands.
