Adjustable Bed Safety for Pets & Children: What to Know

Adjustable beds can be a game-changer for comfort, snoring, reflux, and back support—but if you have kids or pets at home, safety deserves a quick, honest look. Most adjustable bases are safe for normal use, but pinch points, moving parts, and unsupervised play are where problems can happen.

This guide covers practical, real-world safety tips so your adjustable bed stays a comfort upgrade—not a household hazard.

Quick Answer

Yes—adjustable beds are generally safe for homes with kids and pets, as long as you follow basic precautions: keep children from playing on the base, prevent pets from sleeping near moving mechanisms, and use locking/child-safety controls when available.

Why Adjustable Beds Can Be Risky (If Misused)

Adjustable bases contain:

• Moving frames and hinges

• Gaps that open/close during motion

• Motors and lift mechanisms under the platform

These aren’t dangerous in normal use—but they can be risky when a child crawls under the bed or a pet sleeps close to the base while it’s moving.

Common Safety Concerns to Watch For

1) Pinch points & gaps

When the base raises or lowers, small gaps can appear near the frame. Hands, paws, or toys can get caught if someone is in the wrong place during movement.

2) Kids treating it like a ride

The #1 real-world issue: kids jumping on the bed or playing “elevator.” That’s hard on the base, and it increases the chance of someone getting pinched or falling.

3) Pets sleeping near the mechanism

Cats and small dogs love warm, hidden spaces. Under-bed and frame-adjacent areas can be tempting—right where moving parts live.

4) Remote control access

If a child can reach the remote, they can trigger motion at the worst time. Some remotes have lock features; if yours does, use it.

Safety Best Practices for Families

Use these habits and you’ll eliminate most risk:

• Keep the remote out of reach (nightstand drawer, wall hook, etc.)

• Enable child lock if your remote/app supports it

• Never allow kids to play under the bed

• Don’t adjust the bed while pets are on/near the base frame

• Check clearance around the bed (nightstands, walls, cords)

• Inspect under-bed space before adjusting (quick glance is enough)

Setup Tips That Improve Safety

• Use a properly fitted mattress so it flexes with the base

• Keep cords secured so nothing snags when moving

• If you use under-bed storage, ensure bins don’t block motion or airflow

• Consider bed rails for young kids if they sleep on the bed (especially with head elevation)

FAQs

Can a pet get hurt by an adjustable bed?
Not typically during normal use, but pets can be at risk if they lie near moving parts or underneath the base.

Is it safe to sleep elevated with a child?
Generally yes, but ensure the child can’t roll off—especially if the bed is raised. Consider guard rails if needed.

Do adjustable beds have safety sensors?
Some do, but many don’t. Treat it like a power recliner: safe when used responsibly.

Final Thoughts

Adjustable beds are safe for most homes—including those with kids and pets—when used properly. The key is remote control access, supervision, and keeping pets away from moving mechanisms. With a few simple habits, you get the comfort benefits without the risk.