Some beds are designed for partners with widely differing body weights or comfort needs.

Zip-and-link beds comprise two mattresses of different firmness and can be separated into two single beds, if required.

Zoned mattresses also provide various firmness levels, either on each side (see combination mattresses by Vi-Spring and dual-tension models from Somnus), or along the length corresponding to pressure points (see Sealy Posturepedic). The Sleep to Live range by Bensons for Beds offers in-store computer body profiling to indicate which bed is most suitable; for partners with different profiles, the mattress is made with a dual sleep zone.

Offering greater flexibility, the Comfort Control pocket-sprung adjustable mattress from Feather & Black uses a remote-controlled air-pump system to make one side firmer or softer, as required.

Adjustable beds

Electrically operated adjustable beds, such as the Restmaster from Rest-Assured and the Superb Adjustable from Sleepeezee, allow the occupant to adjust the mattress for maximum comfort. Models, such as the Restamatic from Vogue Beds, have massage units. Auping’s Royal base with AVS Maestro mattress has five motors on each side, can heat the whole body or just the feet; it also airs and dries itself in the day and kills dust mites. The 160x200cm size costs around £14,000.

Adjustable double beds are linked so that each side can be operated independently; this type of bed may require investing in single sheets. and the Superb Adjustable from