Waterbeds and Stuff: The Ultimate Guide to Buying and Using Waterbeds

Waterbeds are not just a relic of the 80s; they are still a viable and comfortable option for sleeping and relaxing. Waterbeds are mattresses filled with water that conform to your body shape and provide pressure relief and heat therapy. However, waterbeds are not as simple as regular mattresses; they require more care and maintenance, and they come in different types and styles. In this blog post, I will give you the ultimate guide to buying and using waterbeds and stuff, including the benefits, drawbacks, types, accessories, and tips of waterbeds.

Benefits of Waterbeds

Waterbeds have several advantages over traditional mattresses, such as:

Pressure relief: Waterbeds distribute your body weight evenly, reducing pressure points and improving blood circulation. This can help relieve back pain, arthritis, insomnia, and other ailments.
Heat therapy: Waterbeds can be heated to your desired temperature, providing warmth and comfort. This can help relax your muscles, ease tension, and promote healing.
Hygiene: Waterbeds are resistant to dust mites, mold, and bacteria, making them more hygienic than regular mattresses. You can also easily clean the vinyl surface with a mild soap and water.
Customization: Waterbeds can be adjusted to your personal preference, such as the firmness, motion, size, and shape. You can also choose from different types of waterbeds and accessories to suit your needs and style.

Drawbacks of Waterbeds

Waterbeds also have some disadvantages that you should be aware of, such as:

Maintenance: Waterbeds require more maintenance than regular mattresses. You need to fill them with water, add conditioner, check for leaks, drain them, replace parts, etc. You also need to use a special heater, pump, liner, and pad for your waterbed.
Weight: Waterbeds are very heavy when filled with water. They can weigh up to 2000 pounds or more depending on the size and type. This means that you need a strong and sturdy foundation and frame for your waterbed. You also need to consider the floor capacity of your home or apartment.
Cost: Waterbeds are more expensive than regular mattresses. They cost anywhere from $100 to $2000 or more depending on the quality, features, and accessories. You also need to pay for the electricity, water, conditioner, repair kit, etc. for your waterbed.
Comfort: Waterbeds are not for everyone. Some people may find them too soft or too hard, too hot or too cold, too wavy or too still. You may also experience motion sickness or noise from the water movement.

Types of Waterbeds

There are two main types of waterbeds: hardside and softside.

Hardside Waterbed

A hardside waterbed is the traditional type of waterbed that has a wooden frame that holds the rectangular shape of the bed. It is essentially a large wooden box that contains the vinyl bladder filled with water. Hardside waterbeds have no extra padding or cushioning on top of the vinyl surface.

Hardside waterbeds are cheaper and simpler than softside waterbeds. However, they are also heavier, bulkier, harder to move, and less comfortable than softside waterbeds. They also require special bedding that fits their unique size.

Softside Waterbed

A softside waterbed is a newer type of waterbed that has a foam frame that supports the shape of the bed. It is similar to a regular mattress that contains a vinyl bladder filled with water inside. Softside waterbeds have a padded foam top and an upholstered base that cover the vinyl surface.

Softside waterbeds are lighter, more durable, more comfortable, and more versatile than hardside waterbeds. They can fit standard bedding, frames, and foundations. However, they are also more expensive and complex than hardside waterbeds.

Accessories for Waterbeds

Waterbeds require some accessories to function properly and enhance your comfort. Some of these accessories are:

Heater: A heater is an essential accessory for your waterbed. It keeps the water at a constant temperature that you can adjust with a thermostat. A heater can prevent condensation, mold growth, algae formation, and freezing of the water in cold climates.
Pump: A pump is a useful accessory for your waterbed. It helps you fill or drain the water from your bladder quickly and easily. A pump can save you time and hassle when you need to move or clean your waterbed.
Conditioner: A conditioner is a necessary accessory for your waterbed. It prevents the growth of bacteria, fungi, algae, and odors in the water. It also lubricates the vinyl surface and prevents it from cracking or hardening. You need to add conditioner to your water every six months or so.
Repair kit: A repair kit is a handy accessory for your waterbed. It helps you fix any leaks or punctures that may occur on your vinyl surface. A repair kit usually contains a patch, glue, and scissors. You need to apply the patch and glue to the affected area and let it dry.
Liner: A liner is an optional accessory for your waterbed. It is a thin layer of vinyl that goes under the bladder and inside the frame or base. It acts as a backup in case of a leak or spill. It protects your frame, foundation, floor, and furniture from water damage.
Pad: A pad is an optional accessory for your waterbed. It is a thick layer of fabric that goes over the bladder and under the sheet. It adds extra comfort and insulation to your waterbed. It also protects your vinyl surface from dirt, stains, and wear.

Tips for Buying and Using Waterbeds

Here are some tips to help you buy and use waterbeds and stuff:

Do your research: Before you buy a waterbed, you should do some research on the different types, styles, features, and prices of waterbeds. You should also read reviews and testimonials from other customers who have bought and used waterbeds. You can find some useful information on websites like Waterbeds ‘n’ Stuff or Amerisleep.
Try it out: Before you buy a waterbed, you should try it out in person if possible. You should lie down on the waterbed for at least 15 minutes and see how it feels. You should also check the quality, durability, and warranty of the waterbed. You can visit some local stores that sell waterbeds or order online from reputable sellers that offer free trials and returns.
Follow the instructions: After you buy a waterbed, you should follow the instructions carefully when you set it up. You should assemble the frame or base, fill the bladder with water, add conditioner, plug in the heater, adjust the temperature, etc. You should also check for leaks or air bubbles and fix them if needed.
Maintain it regularly: Once you use a waterbed, you should maintain it regularly to keep it in good condition. You should change the sheets, clean the vinyl surface, add conditioner, check the heater, etc. every few months. You should also drain and refill the water every year or so.
Enjoy it safely: Finally, you should enjoy your waterbed safely and responsibly. You should avoid jumping, bouncing, or puncturing your waterbed. You should also keep sharp objects, pets, children, or smokers away from your waterbed. You should also unplug the heater when not in use or during storms.

Conclusion

Waterbeds and stuff are not just a fad; they are a viable and comfortable option for sleeping and relaxing. Waterbeds have many benefits such as pressure relief, heat therapy, hygiene, and customization. However, they also have some drawbacks such as maintenance, weight, cost, and comfort. There are two main types of waterbeds: hardside and softside. Waterbeds also require some accessories such as heater, pump, conditioner, repair kit, liner, and pad. To buy and use waterbeds and stuff effectively, you should do your research, try it out, follow the instructions, maintain it regularly, and enjoy it safely.