You might remember the 80s craze of waterbeds if you’re old enough. Though they were first invented in the 1960s, it wasn’t until the 80s that they became trendy. But what are waterbeds, exactly? And why were they so popular? In this blog post, I’ll answer all those questions and more! I will also look at some interesting facts about waterbeds that you might not know. So read on to learn more about these fascinating pieces of furniture history!
10 Fascinating Facts About Waterbeds
1. The first waterbed was invented in 1971 by Charlie Hall.
Hall was a design student at San Francisco State University when he devised the idea for a water-filled mattress. He originally designed it to reduce pressure sores for hospital patients. However, it wasn’t until the 1980s that waterbeds became popular among the general public.
2. Waterbeds were initially designed for patients who were bedridden or had to lie still for long periods, as they were thought to help prevent bedsores.
Bedsores, also known as pressure sores or decubitus ulcers, are a severe problem for people confined to bed. They occur when constant pressure is on one part of the body, which cuts blood flow to the area and causes the tissue to break down. Waterbeds were thought to help reduce the risk of bedsores by evenly distributing the body’s weight and relieving pressure on specific areas. However, there is no evidence that waterbeds effectively prevent bedsores.
3. There are two main types of waterbeds: hard-sided and soft-sided.
Hard-sided waterbeds have a frame made of wood or metal; the mattress is filled with water and sits on top of the frame. On the other hand, soft-sided waterbeds have a frame made of foam, and the mattress is filled with water and sits inside the frame.
4. Waterbed mattresses are typically made from vinyl or waterproof material.
The material is then welded or sewn together to create a watertight seal. The mattress is then filled with water, and the bed is ready to be used!
5. Waterbeds must be filled with water before use and can take up to 24 hours to fill.
The amount needed to fill a waterbed depends on the bed size. A typical double waterbed requires about 80 gallons (300 L) of water. And it would be best if you drained the waterbed before moving it, as it can take up to an hour to drain completely. To account for evaporation, you must periodically add water to the bed.
6. Most waterbeds have a heater to keep the water at a comfortable temperature.
Waterbeds are typically filled with water a few degrees warmer than room temperature, considered the most comfortable temperature for sleeping. The heater helps to maintain the water at this temperature throughout the night.
7. Waterbeds typically last around 10 years with proper care and maintenance.
To extend the life of your waterbed, be sure to drain and clean it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. You should also add water to the bed as needed to keep it at the proper level, and avoid overfilling the bed. Additionally, you’ll need to replace the vinyl liner every few years.
8. Waterbeds can be heavy, so it’s essential to ensure your bed frame is strong enough to support one.
When filled, the average waterbed weighs about 400 pounds (180 kg), so you’ll need a sturdy bed frame to support this weight. You’ll also need to ensure the floor can support the weight of the bed and water.
9. Some people find sleeping on a waterbed helps relieve muscle pain and tension headaches.
The bed water helps distribute your body weight evenly and takes the pressure off your joints and muscles. This can help to reduce pain and tension headaches. The water’s warmth can also help relax your muscles and ease the pain.
10. Waterbeds can be used for more than just sleeping—they’ve also been used for everything from couples’ massages to meditation.
A waterbed’s soft, pliable surface can be used for various activities. For example, some people use them for couples massages, as the bed allows you to sink in and get comfortable. Others use them for meditation, as the gentle rocking motion can help to relax the mind and body. And still, others use them for physical therapy, as the water can help to reduce swelling and pain.
So why were waterbeds so popular in the 80s?
There are a few reasons. First of all, they were seen as being very luxurious and exotic. Waterbeds were also considered good for your health, providing better support for your back and joints. And finally, waterbeds just plain old looked cool! They were statement pieces of furniture, and owning one was a surefire way to impress your friends.
Despite their popularity in the 80s, waterbeds have fallen out of favor recently. They’re not nearly as popular as they once were, but that doesn’t mean they’re not still around. There are a few companies that still make waterbeds today!
Conclusion about 80s waterbeds
If you’re interested in learning more about waterbeds, or if you’re thinking about getting one, be sure to do your research. Before purchasing, you need to know a few things, such as how to properly care for and maintain a waterbed. But if you’re up for it, a waterbed can be a fun and unique addition to your home.
