Hospital bed mattresses

Hospital bed mattresses are designed to bend and move with adjustable beds. They usually offer better pressure distribution, stronger edges for transfers and covers that are easier to clean. Standard domestic mattresses are made for fixed bases and may not flex safely on an electric bed, or provide the pressure care needed for people who spend long periods in bed.

Pressure care should always be guided by an allied health professional. They will assess the person’s skin, mobility, continence, weight and overall risk level, then recommend a suitable mattress type, such as a foam, hybrid or alternating air mattress. The aim is to match support, immersion and ease of repositioning to the person’s needs and care plan, not just comfort alone.

Some hospital mattresses can be used on a flat domestic base, but many are designed specifically for hospital or electric frames. Using them on the wrong base may affect pressure care, safety around rails and how the mattress wears over time. Always check the manufacturer’s guidance and speak with your therapist or our team before using a hospital mattress on a standard bed base.

Lifespan depends on the mattress type, user weight, how many hours are spent in bed each day and how well it is cared for. Regular checks for sagging, cracks, cover damage or “bottoming out” are important. Many services review pressure care mattresses every 2–5 years, but your allied health professional can advise when it is time to replace a mattress based on clinical risk and product condition.

Most hospital mattresses have waterproof or water-resistant covers that can be wiped down with approved cleaning products. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning, disinfection and stain removal. Additional protectors, sheets and incontinence products should be chosen to avoid trapping moisture or creating extra seams that may affect skin. Product details and our product catalogues include cleaning and maintenance guidance for different brands.

In many cases, hospital bed mattresses and pressure care overlays are funded as assistive technology under the NDIS when they are recommended by an allied health professional and clearly linked to goals like skin protection, safer positioning and staying at home for longer. The level of funding and approval process depend on the risk level and mattress type. For more information on assistive technology, you can visit the NDIS page on assistive technology explained . We can provide quotes, product specifications and invoices for participants, support coordinators and plan managers.

Some hospital beds and compatible mattresses may be available for short-term hire through our dedicated hire service. This can be helpful after surgery, during rehab or while NDIS or other funding is being arranged. Current hire options and availability are listed at https://hire.shhc.com.au/ . If you are unsure which mattress is right for your pressure care needs, or whether to hire or buy, please contact our team with details from your therapist or care team so we can help you narrow down suitable options.