Waterbeds have come a long way since their quirky, wave-riding heyday in the 1970s and 80s. Once considered novelty items, they’ve re-emerged as serious contenders in the world of high-quality sleep thanks to modern upgrades in comfort, design, and health benefits. But not all waterbeds are the same. Today, if you’re considering investing in a waterbed, you’ll most likely be choosing between two main types: softside and hardside. While both offer the core benefits of even support, temperature regulation, and dust mite resistance, the differences in structure, maintenance, appearance, and feel can make one a better choice depending on your needs and lifestyle. In this guide, we’ll break down the pros, cons, and key considerations for each so you can confidently choose the waterbed that’s right for you.
Let’s start with the original: the hardside waterbed. This is the classic design that most people associate with the word “waterbed.” It consists of a vinyl water mattress that sits inside a sturdy wooden frame. The wooden box is essential—it provides the support needed to hold the water mattress in place and give the bed structure. Hardside waterbeds typically have a lower profile and may require specific-sized sheets and furniture due to their unique dimensions. The classic hardside design allows for a full-body floating sensation, especially in full-motion or semi-waveless models. Many purists still swear by the feel of a hardside waterbed because it offers the most traditional waterbed experience.
Hardside waterbeds provide maximum contouring support. Because the water mattress is not cushioned or encased in foam on the sides, it responds immediately and completely to your body’s shape. The result is a pressure-free, floating sensation that can be deeply therapeutic for people with joint pain, scoliosis, or other spinal conditions. You lie “in” the bed rather than “on” it, which some users find incredibly calming. Additionally, hardside waterbeds often cost less than their softside counterparts, making them a great value option for those wanting to experience the full benefits of a waterbed without spending more than necessary.
That said, hardside models do come with a few practical trade-offs. Because the wooden frame surrounds the mattress, getting in and out of bed can be more difficult for people with limited mobility. The frame has hard edges and sits lower than standard mattresses, which may require more bending or strength. They also require special-sized sheets, as traditional king or queen bedding may not fit properly. Finally, hardside waterbeds are heavier and more challenging to move. Draining and refilling them takes time and effort, and repositioning the bed often requires assistance.
Enter the softside waterbed, the modern evolution designed to blend seamlessly into today’s bedrooms. A softside waterbed consists of a water-filled bladder (or bladders) encased in a foam perimeter and covered with a quilted fabric top, making it visually indistinguishable from a conventional mattress. Softside waterbeds are built to fit standard bed frames, use traditional bedding sizes, and often come in pillow-top or plush variations. This makes them ideal for people who want the comfort and health benefits of a waterbed without changing the look or layout of their existing bedroom.
One of the biggest advantages of softside waterbeds is accessibility. Because they mimic the shape and height of regular mattresses, getting in and out is much easier—especially for older adults or people with joint issues. The foam sides provide additional edge support, so sitting or turning at the edge of the bed feels stable, unlike hardside beds which can feel less supportive around the perimeter. The softside design also allows for dual bladder systems, which let couples independently adjust firmness and temperature on each side. This level of personalisation is hard to match and is a major reason softside waterbeds have grown in popularity.
Softside models also retain the hygienic and temperature-control benefits that define waterbeds. They are still made with vinyl internal bladders that resist dust mites, allergens, and moisture buildup. The outer fabric cover can be removed and washed, and the interior is still protected from spills, bacteria, and mould. They’re also generally more energy-efficient due to insulation layers built into the cover, which help retain warmth from the built-in heater. This means lower energy bills and a more stable sleeping temperature year-round.
However, all that modern convenience comes with a higher price tag. Softside waterbeds are typically more expensive than hardside models due to the added materials and design complexity. They also weigh more and can be harder to set up initially. While you get more familiar dimensions and styling, the true waterbed “feel” may be slightly muted compared to a hardside, as the foam and padding create a more cushioned experience. For some people, this is ideal—especially if they’re transitioning from a conventional mattress—but for purists, it may feel like a compromise.
So which one is right for you? If you’re looking for the most authentic waterbed experience, prefer to feel fully cradled by the water, and don’t mind the unique frame or extra setup, the hardside waterbed is likely your best choice. It’s the original for a reason and continues to deliver unmatched contour support for people who want full motion or deep therapeutic comfort.
On the other hand, if you want a bed that blends into your bedroom, fits standard sheets, offers easier access, and provides modern features like dual temperature control or motion isolation, a softside waterbed is the better option. It brings the best of both worlds—waterbed comfort and mattress familiarity—into one low-maintenance, highly customisable sleep system.
A few more considerations to help with the decision: For couples, softside waterbeds with dual systems are hard to beat. For those living in rentals or who move frequently, softside beds are often easier to relocate, especially when partially drained. If aesthetics matter and you don’t want your bed to stand out or require new furniture, softside wins again. But if you want maximum water support, easier maintenance of the vinyl surface, and don’t mind the classic look, a hardside waterbed offers excellent value.
In conclusion, the choice between a softside and hardside waterbed depends on your lifestyle, health needs, and personal preferences. Both offer superior support, temperature control, allergen resistance, and comfort compared to traditional mattresses. Whether you choose the sleek, modern feel of a softside or the deep therapeutic support of a hardside, you’re making a powerful decision to prioritise your sleep—and your health. A waterbed isn’t just another mattress. It’s a commitment to rest without compromise, comfort without clutter, and wellness without gimmicks.