Zip & Links
February 2024Zip and Link Beds: the ultimate mattress guide
Updated 2024: Zip and link beds can help expand your mattress possibilities with almost endless mattress customisation. Whether it be a split tension mattress, a bed for a guest house or a spare room, zip and link beds offer flexibility for your sleeping requirements. Resulting in no more sleep compromises!
You will probably have slept on one of these beds in a high-end hotel, maybe without even realising it!
Zip and link beds are also a great solution for houses with access issues, meaning larger models can be delivered up tight stairwells.
Zip and Link Mattresses Explained
We cover all the details about zip and link beds and why they have become so popular to help people sleep better each night. We, the sleep experts at John Ryan By Design, explain why zip and links can help you find your perfect mattress even if you have tight access or difficulty sleeping.
- What is a zip and link bed?
- What is a half and half mattress?
- Sizes of zip and link mattresses
- Benefits of a zip and link mattress
- Bedframes and zip and link mattresses
- Are zip and link mattresses comfortable?
- Can you feel the zips on a zip link bed?
- How to zip together a mattress?
- Headboards for zip and link beds
- Zip & Links for Hotel beds
What is a zip and link Bed?
A zip and link mattress is a type of mattress that consists of two separate mattresses, each with its own cover and support system, which can be zipped together to form a larger bed. Typically, the mattresses are designed to be joined together seamlessly using a zipper mechanism along the length of the mattress.
This is a bed that can be either one big bed or two single beds by means of linking bars on the base and zippers on the mattresses, enabling it to be separated when and if you need it to be.
They can also be crafted with a different spring tension on each side, which is great for differently weighted sleepers. They act and look like one mattress but can accommodate two different sleepers.
What is a half and half mattress?
A half and half mattress is another term for either a zip and link mattress or a one piece ‘split tension’ mattress.
The half and half refers to each half of the mattress having a different spring tension. Meaning that sleepers of different weights can have their own tailored spring tension on each side. No more compromises or one sleeper struggling on the wrong spring tension!
Zip and link mattress sizes
Here in the UK there are 3 main zip and link bed sizes. However, you can get completely custom sizes made to your requirements if need be.
- King size ziplink (5’0 x 6’6) – Comprising of 2 x 2’6″ x 6’6″ beds makes a standard Kingsize.
- Super king ziplink (6’0 x 6’6) – Comprising of 2 x 3’0 x 6’6″ beds makes a standard Super Kingsize.
- Extra king ziplink (6’0 x 6’3) – Comprising of 2 x 3’0″ x 6’3″ beds is equivalent to 2 standard single sized beds.
What are the benefits of a zip and link bed?
Zip and links offer a vast number of benefits compared to a regular single-piece mattress.
Each side of the bed is entirely independent of the other, thereby eliminating ‘roll together’. It’s also an ideal solution for users of significantly differing body weights. For example, one half can utilise a firm tension spring, and the other half can be a soft tension spring.
Secondly, most stairwells cannot take a full super king size mattress to be delivered. A zip and link bed makes delivery possible. King size and Super King Zip and Link mattresses are standard sizes and can fit into/onto any standard bed frame but, obviously, cannot be separated.
A zip and link mattress offers several benefits:
i) Customized Comfort
One of the primary advantages of a zip and link mattress is the ability to customize comfort levels for each sleeper. With two separate mattresses zipped together, each person can choose their preferred mattress firmness, whether it’s soft, medium, or firm.
ii) Minimal Motion Transfer
Zip and link mattresses typically have minimal motion transfer between the two sides. This means that movement on one side of the bed is less likely to disturb the other sleeper, promoting better sleep quality, especially for couples with different sleep schedules.
iii) Flexibility and Versatility
Zip and link mattresses are highly versatile and flexible. They can easily be separated into two single mattresses, providing flexibility in sleeping arrangements. This feature is ideal for guest rooms, vacation rentals, or situations where the sleeping configuration may change frequently.
iv) Easy Transportation and Installation
The modular design of zip and link mattresses makes them easier to transport and install compared to traditional king or super king mattresses. The individual components are lighter and more manageable, making them easier to navigate through tight spaces and upstairs.
v) Customized Mattress Spring Support
Each sleeper can enjoy personalized support tailored to their individual sleeping preferences. This can help alleviate pressure points and promote proper spinal alignment, leading to a more restful and rejuvenating sleep experience.
vi) Improved Durability
Zip and link mattresses tend to have better durability compared to one-piece mattresses. Since they consist of two separate units, wear and tear are distributed more evenly, resulting in a longer lifespan for the mattress overall.
vii) Hygienic and Easy to Maintain
Zip and link mattresses typically come with removable and washable covers, making them easy to clean and maintain. This helps promote better hygiene and prolongs the life of the mattress.
viii) Ideal for Partners with Different Needs
Couples with different sleeping preferences, such as varying firmness levels or specific support requirements, can benefit greatly from a zip and link mattress. Each partner can choose their preferred mattress type without compromising on comfort!
Zip & link beds allow larger mattresses into properties with limited access, as they come in two parts.
A zip and link bed enables you to have two different tensions. Great for different weighted sleepers.
Will zip and link mattresses fit on a bed frame?
With cheaper mattresses, certainly, but with high-end luxury mattresses, you will need to check the dimensions to account for additional side panel upholstery and wadding. Bedframes have very little give in them compared to a divan or platform top base.
On a well-built mattress, the side panels will undoubtedly have additional upholstery that would not be on a cheaper mattress. So, four sides (2 on each mattress) have to be accommodated inside the bed frame, along with the slight join where the zippers are. Otherwise, it would have to be crammed in and buckle or be centrally raised. When buying a bed frame and a good quality mattress, always ensure that the enclosure on the frame is slightly bigger than the mattress size.
If using zipped mattresses in a bed frame, you will have to ensure the enclosure is slightly bigger than the intended mattress size. For example, a well-built 6′ zipped mattress is about 6′ and 2 inches.
If you need more advice please get in touch with our team to advise on whether your zip & link mattress will fit your bed frame on 0161 437 4419.
King size zip and link beds
A king size ziplink is the same overall size as a standard kingsize bed. 5’0 x 6’6″. The bed is split into two, making each side 2’6″ wide and 6’6″ long. This size of bed is practical when room size cannot accommodate a super king size bed. If you are looking to buy this type of bed for guest house/B&B use then bear in mind that, when separated, a 2’6 wide bed is rather small for the average person.
Extra king size zip and link beds
An extra king zip & link is 6’0 x 6’3″ the same dimensions as two standard singles. It is only the length of the bed that differentiates it from the super king size. Always bear in mind that some retailers describe this size as a “Superking” which it clearly is not. Always check on the overall size before purchasing. This size of bed is ideal when your available room space is at a premium.
This is also the best solution if you will be frequently using the bed as two singles, as you can buy both standard single and super king size fitted sheets, which will fit perfectly.
Super king size zip and link mattresses
A super king zip & link is 6’0 x 6’6″. This is the standard size of a super king-size bed, whether it be a zip link or one-piece mattress. Remember, if using one as two singles then standard fitted flat sheets won’t fit, so you would be better with an Extra King Size model instead.
Are zip and link mattresses comfortable?
Zip and link mattresses are just as comfortable as a one-piece mattress. In fact, probably more comfortable as you have less transference from the spring unit, given each side is its own independent mattress. The big question about comfort is what is inside the mattress. Are there enough generous layers of upholstery fillings or not?
Can you feel the zips in a zip and link mattress?
You may be wondering if you feel the zips on a zip and link bed, and the answer is no. The zippers are situated on the sides at the top and bottom of the mattress to enable the mattresses to be joined together. They are manufactured so that the zippers are just beneath the seam on the edge of the mattress. When together, the seams fold over the zipper.
What you will be aware of is the noticeable join of two mattresses butted together. The use of a one-piece topper(s) will help to alleviate this as well as providing additional comfort/protection. Read here about the benefits of mattress toppers on your mattress here.
How to zip together two mattresses
We often get asked by customers how do I zip together my zip and link bed?
You only need to zip together the top size of a zip and link mattress. Not both sides.
It’s really quite a quick and speedy process. Watch our quick guide below on how to zip the mattresses together.
When you’re turning your zip and link mattresses over, unzip them. Flip and rotate each mattress and then zip back together the side you’re not going to be sleeping on. Simple!
Why can’t you get a double-sized zip-link bed?
As a double mattress is only 135cm x 190cm (4’6″ x 6’3″) the mattress simply isn’t wide enough to create a comfortable zip and link. For two sleepers, you would both be so close to the central zip and joint that it wouldn’t be comfortable, and you would start to feel the perimeter edging on both mattresses where they join.
That is why zip and link beds are only available in King size and above.
Headboards for a zip and link bed
Remember, when selecting your headboards for zip links you will need 2 x singles (or 2 x 2’6 for King zip and link) in order that the beds can be separated without removing the headboard. If you go for a one-piece headboard, then it will have to be removed when you separate the beds.
Also, be aware of the design. When the beds are together, the headboard has to look like one piece, so the sides that butt up together should be vertical, with no fancy shapes or protrusions (metal headboards).
The best headboard styles for a zip and link bed are:
- Bella
- Georgia
- Laura
This is because the design works well independently when the beds are split and also put back together.
Zip and link Beds for Hotels or Guest Houses
Zip links are also an ideal solution for hotels and guest houses, especially the Extra Kingsize as the beds can be adapted to suit the guests’ requirements – either twin beds or one luxurious big bed. I personally think that you do not have to spend a fortune on beds for Guesthouse or hotel use. It would be better to change the mattresses on a yearly basis than to pay more in order for the mattress to last longer. This is not only a more hygienic option but also can be used as a selling point to your guests.
Summary
Zip and link beds have many benefits, enabling split tensions and to split the mattresses for two separate guests. They really are incredibly flexible! If you’re using zip and links for a guest house or spare room, then our Origins 1500 or Origins Reflex mattresses are ideal for spare room beds, as they suit a wide range of sleepers.
If you’re looking for the absolute best, then our Artisan Naturals or Artisan Sublime in a Zip and link will give you the most luxurious night’s sleep with tailored individual spring tensions.
Zip and link mattresses are also a wise choice if you have access issues in your house. This is especially true in newly built houses or old-period properties. As they come in two parts, they make delivery super easy if you’re dealing with two different body weights; they also allow each sleeper to have the perfect mattress rather than compromise.
If you need advice, why not give our small expert team a call on 0161 437 4419 or drop us a message below?
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