5 Best Waterbed Mattresses of 2022-Reviews
You make think of waterbeds as a fad from the 70’s and 80’s. Did you know that the same concept was being used as far back as 3600 BC? Waterbeds have developed even more in the last few years as different technologies and innovations allow for better support and comfort. The improved design of waterbeds has also made it easier to find a high quality waterbed mattress at a reasonable price. Here are our top 5 picks which can help you choose the best waterbed mattress according to your needs:
Comparison Chart-5 Waterbed Mattresses
| Brand | Weight | Dimensions | Mattress1000 Grade | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California King Waveless Waterbed Mattress | 33 pounds | 84 x 72 x 9 inches | A+ | |
| Queen Size 60 x 84 Waveless Waterbed Mattress | 30.9 pounds | 22 x 22 x 29 inches | A+ | |
| INNOMAX Sanctuary Free Flow Full Wave Waterbed Mattress | 11.7 pounds | 84 x 72 x 9 inches | A | |
| INNOMAX Genesis 500 Reduced Motion Waterbed Mattress | 21.2 pounds | 84 x 72 x 9 inches | A- | |
| California King Free Flow Waterbed Mattress | 11.75 pounds | 84 x 72 x 9 inches | A- |
5 Top-Rated Waterbed Mattresses
#1. Boyd Specialty Sleep Waveless Waterbed Mattress Lumbar Supreme, California King
This Boyd Specialty Sleep California King Size waterbed mattress is our editor’s choice. It can relieve problems caused by sciatica, arthritis, lumbago, and other joint pains to provide a comfortable environment where you can sleep peacefully even with a partner. It includes a complete fill kit and a bottle of 4-ounce premium conditioner. The mattress top reduces the surface tension which allows the mattress to contour better. Meanwhile, it has 3 layers of cushioning and support especially in the lumbar area. With 4 layers of Quadra-tech reinforcement, rest assured that its durability is guaranteed.
- Weighs 33 lbs with 84 x 72 x 9″ product dimension
- 4 point memory stretch tether system keeps all its fiber layers from shifting by holding it in place
- Reduced surface tension top gives it extra body contouring comfort
- 3 fiber lumbar layers provide ergonomic support
- Patented Quadra-Tech reinforced corners increase its durability
- Wave and motion transfer reduced by 99% so you can have an undisturbed sleep
- Exclusive Thermo-vinyl heat resistant material keeps it supple even after years of use
- Best to be used with a hard side waterbed frame
- Designed to last for years with virgin vinyl
- Reduces the motion transfer by 99% when you sleep with someone else
- Distributes your weight evenly across the bed
- Too heavy to be shifted or lifted alone
- The valve should be readjusted manually to drive out its bubbles and set the water level
#2. Boyd Specialty Sleep Waveless Waterbed Mattress Lumbar Supreme, Queen
Named as the “waveless” waterbed, this mattress from Boyd Specialty Sleep is sure a discreet mattress. It is made of premium grade of pure vinyl and vacuum molded material to provide you quality sleep. Underneath the vinyl layer, it has 4 layers of materials that reduce and formation of any wave transfer across the mattress. This isolates the motion transfer by up to 99% which helps in distributing your weight evenly. Its 4 point memory stretch foam tether system keeps the mattress fibers firm and maintains the internal components’ stability. At the same time, its 3 layers of support on the upper end provide lumbar support to avoid back pains.
- Weighs 30.9 pounds with 60 x 84 x 12 inches product dimension
- 3 layers of additional lumbar support take care of your back while sleeping
- 4 layers of wave reduction system reduce its motion transfer by 99% to avoid disturbing your sleep when more partner moves
- 4 point memory stretch tether system keeps its fibers from shifting by keeping
- Specially designed long-lasting virgin vinyl with a vacuum model impression top sleep surface
- Includes a complete fill kit with 3 bottles of 4 ounce of conditioner
- Provides up to 5 years of full warranty and 12 years of pro-rated warranty to ensure your satisfaction
From a simple neck to shoulder pain, this waterbed lives up to its name for providing a waveless sleep environment. However, its waveless mechanism is not enough to relieve existing back pains and arthritic pains. Thus, it is better as a preventive solution instead of a pain reliever.
- Distributes your weight evenly through the entire mattress
- Reduces the motion transfer by 99%
- Constructed with reinforced corners
- Provides additional lumbar support with layers of lumbar fibers
- Includes a complete kit for hassle-free use and a long warranty period
- Too heavy to be shifted easily
- May not fit in regular bed sheets since it is too big
- Not comfortable enough to relieve arthritis and back pains
#3. InnoMax Sanctuary S.G.L. Free Flow Full Wave Waterbed Mattress, King
If you are on a tight budge, this is a great option, coming in under $100. This Sanctuary Free Flow Deep Fill waterbed from Innomax is constructed with a full depth rigid side box. You don't have to worry about it losing its stability or shape over time. It has a No Wave Reduction feature and weightless feel that makes it easier to move than traditional waterbeds. Moreover, this controlled heated mattress promotes the proper distribution of body weight over the surface which helps improve your blood circulation while you sleep. With its warmth and motion, you can relax faster and improve your sleep.
- Weighs 11.7 lbs with 72 x 84 x 9″ product dimension
- Full depth rigid side box frame provides full wave performance
- No Wave Reduction and full-motion body support
- 20 Mil premium vinyl body material offers a low tension top
- Double reinforced corner guards provide added strength
- Fill valve with easy-to-pull cap and seal is designed for watertight security
- Contouring comfort and support design provides a weightless feel using its neutral fluid suspension mid-body support
- Sanctuary the Genesis of Luxury Support design guarantees its superior performance, durability, and comfort
- Includes 20 years of limited warranty
We recommend this to budget-seekers who want to eliminate the pressure on hips, tail bone, and lower back. This is one of the most affordable and the best waterbed mattresses that is available on the market today.
- Super lightweight and affordable
- Provides a long warranty period
- Reduces pressure on your joints
- Built to last with reinforced corner guards
- Encased in a premium grade vinyl material to ensure quality
- The color can be visible under white and light colored sheets
- Harder to be fit in sheets with its wooden frame
#4. InnoMax Genesis 500 ST Reduced Motion Waterbed Mattress, King
Another masterpiece by InnoMax, this Genesis 500 is built with 3 layers of motion control and mid-body support. It has a specially formulated pearlized azure 20 mil vinyl body profile surface with an overcut low tension design. Its smooth top with T-seam construction is combined with an inch of double strength corners. In addition, it's constructed with a 4-way corner tethered support system that boosts internal component stabilization. For your safety, it is compatible with approved waterbed heaters, safety liner, and vinyl conditioner.
- Weighs 21.2 lbs with 84 x 72 x 9″ product dimension
- Deep fill King Size waterbed mattress with full depth rigid side box frame and 1″ of double strength corners
- 3 layers of motion control/wave elimination system with mid-body support reduce its wave transfer
- Weightless feel with reduced motion performance and gravity neutral fluid suspension offer mid-body support
- 20 mil premium vinyl body profile sleeping surface with overcut low tension mattress design
- 4-way corner tethered support system and T-corner lap seam construction increases its durability
- Includes 20 years limited warranty
- Constructed with low tension mattress design
- Multiple layers of wave elimination system
- Promotes proper body and spine alignment
- Stable and durable enough to prevent accidental leaks
- Includes a long warranty period
- Doesn’t isolate waves completely which triggers the motion transfer
- Doesn’t include a heating feature which can be bought separately
#5. Classic Free Flow Waterbed Mattress, California King
From a well-known brand, this Classic California King Size waterbed comes with its own unique appeal. From Class Mattress and Aqua Fusion, it provides an elegant and functional waterbed that can last for a long time. Designed with a cooler color, it helps sleepers relax and improve their mood. It has an excellent support system and slow movements. Moreover, its cover material is made of high-quality vinyl that doesn’t get scratched or ripped easily.
- Weighs 12.35 lbs with 84 x 72 x 9″ product dimension
- California King free flow with hard side waterbed mattress construction allows your muscles to relax better
- 22 mil virgin vinyl with reinforced corners boosts its durability to increase its lifespan
- Surface movements last for 10 to 20 seconds after settling in
- Comes with 4 ounce bottle of free premium clear conditioner
- Includes 12 year warranty
- The quality of its vinyl doesn’t rip or tear easily
- Ideal for budget-seekers and first-time waterbed users
- All corners are always perfectly puckered
- Doesn’t form any crease to prevent leaks and holes
- Lightweight and easy to move around
- The reinforced corners are unique but not as strong as other waterbeds
- The head area of the bladder gets brittle and hard over time
Points to Consider Before Buying a Waterbed Mattress
Mattress manufacturers have made huge improvements to the 20th-century waterbeds with many innovations leading to higher quality and lower prices. To make sure that you get the best waterbed mattress out there, here are some things to consider before buying:
- Size
Take time to consider the exact size of the bed you need. Make sure that it fits well in your room as well as your existing bed frame.
- Lumbar Support
Some waterbeds are made with additional short fiber layers that provide better lumbar support. However, the thickness of fiber may vary depending on its manufacturer.
- Flotation and Tethering
The flotation feature reinforces the waterbed’s fiber layers while an appropriate tethering system can keep your sheets in place. If you prefer a neat appearance when the bed is made, check for this feature. Some mattresses have thick elastic bands that are stitched at all corners to keep the sheets from moving.
- Comfort Level
You should consider not only the softness of the mattress, but also its firmness to make sure you have sufficient support for your weight. It’s up to you how plush or firm you want it to be. If you’re willing to invest in expensive waterbeds, there are some that offer an adjustable firmness level.
- Durability
Though most waterbeds can last 10-25 years, its lifespan really depends on how you use it. Waterbeds require more care compared with traditional mattresses since they should be kept away from sharp objects and animals. The water inside the mattress should be monitored and treated occasionally to prevent molds.
- Reinforced Corners
Reinforced corners will come in handy by preventing your waterbed from wearing away or losing its shape at the corners. Reinforcement keeps the corners in place even with years of use.
- Motion Transfer
This is vital if you intend to share your bed since some waterbeds are notorious for their high motion transfer. If you or your partner moves, it will automatically send waves to the other side of the bed. This could be a nightmare for a light sleeper since even a small movement can disturb you.
- Warranty
A good warranty should be able to provide you with a customer support system to satisfy your needs. Take careful note of the warranty and return policy so that you can return the product, get a refund, or ask for a replacement within the warranty period if necessary.
Conclusion
When it comes to waterbeds, it is best to stick with the trusted brands when looking for the best waterbed mattress. These brands have already been tested and proven to ensure each product’s quality and longevity.
If you've never tried a waterbed before, it seems exciting but it’s not for everyone. Some users experience dizziness or seasick after using it for a few hours. If possible, test the waterbed you are planning to buy first and use our guide before paying for it.
