Best Hospital Beds For Home Use – A Complete Guide 🏥

Having a hospital bed at home can be advantageous to aid your loved ones who are aging, disabled, or potentially suffering from degenerative diseases that reduce mobility over time.

The added functionality and practicality of a hospital bed for home use means your family members can be closer to you for longer whilst you make them feel at home and comfortable.

While it used to be expensive and difficult to source these bespoke hospital beds, reputable suppliers now specialize in high-quality, practical hospital beds for use at home.

This article will explain what a new buyer should consider and our top 5 picks for hospital beds for home use.

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Our top 5 hospital beds for home use range between $400 – $1,400, with the average price somewhere around $700. Our hand-picked choices are based on a number of criteria, including the functionality, the features, the most comfortable, those with a ‘homely’ feel, and of course, value for money.

We’ve also included a ‘Hospital Bed Buyers Guide‘ and FAQ’s section to help you understand more about hospital beds at home in more detail so you can be armed with the knowledge before making your purchase.

The Best Hospital Beds Review

Invacare Fully Electric Homecare Bed

“The most highly rated fully electric and multi-function hospital bed.”
Safe Sleep Systems Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Last update on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Invacare homecare bed is our top pick for several reasons, and hundreds of people agree with it being a top seller on Amazon. For most people who need a hospital bed at home, a fully electric bed is ideal. An ergonomic rubber pendant to control the bed position is included, and the design is also well thought out.

With the likelihood of the pendant falling on the floor, the strong rubber coating will protect the electronics inside for long-term use. Having the ability to support 450lbs (204kg) can hold more than the average person; in fact, it could probably support two!

A backup manual crank is a great design idea if, for whatever reason, there is a failure in the electrics or a power cut, your carer will be able to adjust your position as required.

The only downside is the mattress that comes with the bed, although there is an option to purchase without it. The durability and quality could be improved, but this might not be an issue if you’re already considering a dynamic air mattress to alleviate bedsores and ulcers.

The most popular and best value alternating pressure pad is available is on sale from Vive with over 1,000 reviews and a 4.5-star rating.

The Invacare bed has a stylish wood finish and is equipped with 4 casters, two with locking capabilities on the head side of the bed to allow easy movement. Find the best prices available on Amazon.

Lucid L300 Adjustable Base Bed

“All the features of a hospital bed without looking like one!”
Safe Sleep Systems Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Last update on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

If you’re looking for an adjustable medical bed that doesn’t make your home feel like the hospital, this might be exactly what you’re after. Lucid has built a bed with all the features and functionality of a fully electric hospital bed but can even fit inside your current home bed frame.

Because of the bed’s clever packing method, the delivery and unboxing are effortless. On top of that, assemble takes just 5 minutes, so there’s no need to bring out the whole toolbox and stress over putting it together!

The bed’s head and foot can adjust independently with a 0-60 and 0-45 degree range of motion, respectively.

Available in a range of sizes, from Twin XL, Full, and Queen, you’ll be sure to find exactly what works for you. The larger sizes are great for those who are still able to sleep with their partner.

Whilst this isn’t a bariatric bed, the ability to support 750lbs does put it into that class, which is a bonus.

The standard model doesn’t come with a mattress, but buying a 10-inch or 12-inch from Lucid is available. These mattresses also include a 10-year warranty, the same as the adjustable bed, more than most other hospital beds offer.

The main downside here is the lack of bed rails available. However, because the bed fits into certain bed frames, it could work out perfectly if your bed frame had rails.

With over 800 reviews and a 4.6-star rating on Amazon – you can’t go wrong with the L300. Check out the best prices available on Amazon.

LUMEX Patriot Semi-Electric Homecare Bed

“A trusted bed from a trusted brand”
Safe Sleep Systems Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Last update on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Lumex offers a range of hospital beds and is known for its quality and reliance. Their semi-electric homecare beds are ideal for those conscious of noise and may also require adjustments while the user is still asleep.

Their grid deck is purpose-built to ensure a firm surface and foundation for both the mattress and patient. This also means that the mattress on top won’t sag under heavier users.

The bed’s semi-electric element is a manual hand crank adjusts the height crank, but the head and foot can be adjusted via the electric pendant.

The Lumex Patriot has cleverly included a backup 9v battery if there is a power cut or a fault, so the individual is not stuck in a given position.

An easy 5-part assembly is promised, ideal for anyone who wants to avoid the hassle of constructing a hospital bed for home use. Although there are no rails, it is possible to find half and full rails from resellers if needed.

Lastly, a mattress isn’t included, so you’ll need to find one that fits the right size.

Whilst the Lumex bed has some great benefits, there are better options out there. See the latest prices on Amazon.

Classic Brands Adjustable Hospital Bed

“The finest craftsmanship through innovative designs and premium materials”
Safe Sleep Systems Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Last update on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Classic brands have put in a lot of effort to create a solution for people who require medical beds at home and want it to feel normal and less ‘institutional,’ all of this for a reasonable price.

With the user in mind, they’ve built in massage features, which are ultimately 3 different vibrating functions both on the bed’s head and foot side. There’s also a zero-gravity function that sets the user up in a position that alleviates pressure from your lower back, similar to a recliner chair.

There are also pre-set positions you can configure to save time finding that perfect position and two USB ports to charge devices nearby. You should note that it’s not recommended to charge devices overnight when sleeping.

The Classic Brands bed comes in all sizes, from Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, and King split. Whilst there is an option to purchase just the adjustable bed without a mattress, it’s important to ensure you by the right mattress for your needs, especially if you’re considering adding a dynamic air mattress to prevent ulcers and bedsores.

This bed caters to those in need of a hospital bed at home and users who want an adjustable bed. Because of this, it’s important to weigh up the options of whether it caters to all your needs.

Although its head and foot are adjustable, does the height work for you? Do you need guard rails? Can your carer perform all their functions without any obstruction?

If you’re looking for a high functioning and well-priced adjustable bed, the Classic Brands bed is a solid contender.

Drive Medical Heavy Duty Bariatric Hospital Bed

“A larger, more supportive medical bed built to last.”
Safe Sleep Systems Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Last update on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

When looking for a bariatric bed, the number one priority is the durability and strength to support the user. Drive, which designed and built hospital beds since 2000, is one of the leading companies in this space.

This bed is 42″ wide, the standard width for bariatric beds, to support the larger user.

The total weight capacity is 600lbs (272kg), enough for large users and people suffering from obesity. However, other regular hospital beds, such as the Lucid L300, have proven to support 750lbs, so Drive should support more in some respects.

The ‘T’ rails that are equipped on the Drive bed allow for support when repositioning oneself and a fully electric control function to adjust the head and foot as needed. Also included is a manual crank as a backup.

As Drive doesn’t sell the mattress with the bed, you should also consider a 42″ mattress with this purchase. The Drive mattress is constructed of high-density foam, and the nylon cover is fluid-resistant in case of spills, mess, or incontinence.

The great benefit of this is also pressure support, which can help with ulcers and bedsores.

This bariatric hospital bed is designed for home use, and the wood finish makes for a homely environment. Find the latest prices on Amazon.

Top 5 Hospital Beds for Home Use – Comparison Table

Last update on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

A Guide To Buying Hospital Beds For Home Use

Whilst you can easily buy an actual hospital bed and have this set up in your home, most people would much rather a bed that feels ‘homely’ so your loved one can relax, be comfortable, and, most importantly, sleep well.

Different Types of Hospital Beds

There are 6 main hospital beds to choose from fully electric, semi-electric, manual, low bed, bariatric, and Trendelenburg.

• Fully-Electric Hospital Beds: As the name suggests, these hospital beds are fully electric, meaning the height of the bed frame, the height of the header, and the height of the footer can be adjusted to a set degree. Most electric beds will allow the user to adjust the varying heights, but this can be locked by a caregiver to ensure the changing position doesn’t negatively impact the individual or cause accidents such as falling out of the bed. Whilst these beds are typically more expensive, they are physically less taxing and can be adjusted to various heights in seconds.
• Semi-Electric Hospital Beds: The main difference between a semi and full electric bed is the ability to adjust the height of the hospital bed, so if you’re not necessarily changing the height often, then a cheaper semi-electric hospital bed might be better value for money. Improvements in technology and increased competition in the hospital bed market have actually meant that there isn’t a massive difference between fully electric and semi-electric hospital beds. An example of this is the Full Electric Hospital Bed and Semi-Electric Hospital Bed from Drive Medical, with the price difference being around $170.
• Manual Hospital Bed: As the name would suggest, manual hospital beds can be adjusted without any electrical components. This means a hand crank at each end of the bed. Whilst they are much more economical to purchase, it wouldn’t be fit for purpose for someone who is severely movement constricted if they ever needed to adjust the bed themselves. These are less common nowadays as the easy use of electric hospital beds is becoming more and more popular.
• Low Hospital Bed: These beds are still fully-electric, but their height profile is more closely aligned to the ground, usually about a foot away from the floor. Low-beds still have height adjusted headers and footers but are designed and allow an easier ingress (getting into) and egress (getting out). These low hospital beds will prevent injury and minimize the risk of falling out of bed.
• Bariatric Hospital Bed: These purpose-built beds are designed for individuals who are very heavy or obese. A bariatric bed can usually hold weights of up to 700lbs (317 kg) and are wider than normal hospital beds for home use. Whilst these beds are more expensive due to the build and material quality; it’s important to realize the potential risks of not choosing the right bed for your loved one or patient.
• Trendelenburg hospital beds: These ultra-adjustable hospital beds are most suited for serious recovery, aging, or therapy. Each part of the bed allows for more degrees of movement, such as the head or foot, and often patients won’t need pads or additional pillows to support that position. You’ll often see a Trendelenburg bed in what looks like a recliner chair position rather than a standard electric hospital beds ‘V’ position. These beds are fully-electric as standard, and the most flexible therefore expect the highest price tag.

Mattress Types for Hospital Beds at Home

Static Foam Mattress

Static foam mattresses (or pressure redistribution mattresses) are designed to redistribute the individual’s peak points of weight throughout the mattress. This is done through various technological designs such as highly resilient foams, gels, and air chambers inside the mattress.

Typically, the peak pressure points occur on boney parts of the body, such as the elbows, knees, ankles, hips, scapula (upper back), sacrum (upper buttocks), and heels.

When the head of a hospital bed is elevated, it pushes the user towards the bed’s foot, creating more friction. This friction between the user and the bed can cause pressure sores (bed sores / Decubitus Ulcers -caused by constant pressure on the skin).

Whilst pressure redistribution mattresses are good, they do not remove the required element of a carer to help turn and rotate an individual on the bed.

Dynamic Air Mattresses

Dynamic or alternating air mattresses are powered by pumps that cycle air throughout the mattress. Deflating and inflating the mattress relieves pressure from specific body areas and gives the skin relief from constant pressure.

A dynamic air mattress is ideal and will be more effective than a static mattress. It is especially beneficial for people who are severely disabled or have minimal movement in their bodies. To mitigate pressure sores, bedsores, and Decubitus Ulcers.

Several products on Amazon have dynamic air mattresses, but Vive’s alternating air pressure pad is one that we highly recommend.

Last update on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Mattresses, Sizes, and Bedding

Caring for your loved ones can sometimes be a challenge, both mentally taking a toll and physically. Knowing that you’re helping by giving them comfort during rest can ease some of this stress.

If your hospital bed doesn’t already come with a mattress, you’re likely looking for a twin XL mattress roughly 80″ in length by 36″ in width. Typically you’ll find either Innerspring, Foam, or a dynamic air mattress topper.

Drive, one of the most reputable ‘hospital bed’ companies operating since 2000, offers great options for extra firm innerspring and fluid-resistant foam mattresses.

Both options are good and fit a twin XL bed size. Both mattresses have a thickness of 6-inches, which is ideal as being higher can cause more damage if a fall from the bed occurs.

If you’re looking for mattresses to prevent bedsores, then Drive also offers a Therapeutic 5 Zone Support Mattress, which has a cross-cut foam design to increase comfort and support for the user but also redistribute weight to relieve pressure.

Last update on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Mattress Sizes

Some hospital beds come with a mattress, but it’s more than likely you’ll need to purchase one yourself. Mattresses sizes for hospital beds are commonly found in 36″ wide by 80″ length (91cm x 203cm), although this can vary by a few inches either way.

Hospital beds for home are designed to comfortably fit one individual, so the standard bed and mattress size is equivalent to a Twin XL sized bed, which gives a little more height than a regular Twin bed or mattress.

Bariatric mattresses come in a slightly wider size. Starting from around 39 inches, the bariatric mattresses cater to heavier users and can be bought in sizes up to 48 inches in width. Whilst bariatric beds and mattresses will cost more, they’re built to take a heavier weight and are more durable than standard hospital beds and mattresses.

Typically the height of a hospital bed mattress is 5-6 inches (15cm) as some individuals may be at risk of falling out of the bed, and a reduced height can help prevent this. However, in most cases, the beds will have rails to prevent any falling.

Hospital bed mattresses, or sometimes known as medical mattresses or therapeutic mattresses, are important and should be picked carefully.

There are various features that hospital bed mattresses are built with, including anti-fungal fabric, easy-clean surfaces, waterproof covers, and purpose-built designs for profiling hospital beds.

Mattress Bedding and Sheets

When looking for hospital bedding, sheets, or linen, it’s important to factor in these 3 key points:

• Ease of Cleaning
• Comfort
• Durability

Spills and mess may likely occur with individuals using hospital beds, such as something as normal as incontinence. Sometimes spills and wet patches can occur when giving your loved ones a bed bath.

It’s essential to ensure that the equipment you use can cater to your loved ones when this happens, and it’s easy for you to work around this. Using something as simple as waterproof bedding can ensure a long lifetime on your hospital bed mattress.

Finding a balance between linen material that can be completely waterproof such as polyurethane, compared to textile-based linen, is more dependent on how you’d like to balance durability, comfort, and the lifetime of the bedding.

While polyurethane-based bedding may protect your mattress for longer, it can mean that the individual isn’t as comfortable as it gives a more “institutional” atmosphere than being at home.

On the other hand, a more comfortable textile-based bedding will wash at higher temperatures and wear it quicker.

Pillows

Pillows are essential to ensure a good night’s sleep is had in a hospital bed. People who use hospital beds at home are susceptible to neck and back pain, which can occur if the right pillow isn’t used.

There are clearly many different reasons why someone may be using a hospital bed, so sleeping styles may vary.

There are special pillows for sufferers of epilepsy and seizures to prevent suffocation and ensure adequate rest.

Epilepsy pillows

‘Epilepsy pillows’ or ‘anti-suffocation’ pillows are designed so that the user can breathe comfortably and safely no matter what way they sleep. They are typically firmer and contain multiple layers.

One of the market leaders in anti-suffocation pillows is Breathe-zy. The pillows they sell are registered as Class 1 Medical Device through the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), an executive agency of the Department of Health in the UK. However, their products are available internationally too.

They offer pillows in red, white, and blue.

Last update on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Crash Mats

In some cases, especially with people living with seizure disorders, it may be worth looking into crash mats to prevent additional damage to an individual who may fall out of bed. If your loved one doesn’t have rails on their hospital bed, it’s definitely worth considering.

In addition to crash mats, fall alarms are available, alerting you if the user of the bed falls out onto the floor unexpectedly during the day or night.

Bed Exit Alarm

This might not apply to everyone, but if the person using the hospital bed is memory-impaired, then the carer will want to be alerted if they leave the hospital bed. This is where a smart, value-for-money product like a bed alarm can work wonders to avoid unnecessary problems.

The alarms will sound once the person in the bed moves towards the bed’s edge or sits up. The Smart Caregiver Wireless Sensing Pad is also incontinence protected and has a warranty of up to 1 year, so it’s definitely good value for money.

Last update on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Weight Capacity

During your research to find the perfect home use hospital bed, make sure that you understand the maximum weight capacity of the bed you invest in.

Most hospital beds can comfortably support an average person with an average weight capacity of 450-550 lbs (204 -250kg). Still, if the individual is suffering from obesity or is a larger person, then a bariatric bed can be a more comfortable and safer option.

Bariatric beds can typically support up to 1,000 lbs (453kg).

Remember to factor in all the additional weight that will go on the tops of the bed, such as the mattress, the bedding, and pillows. Be sure to calculate this correctly!

Elevation

Hospital bed elevation refers to the distance from the floor to the bed. All hospital beds for home use will have the ability to adjust the elevation to allow for more comfortable ingress (getting in) and egress (getting out) from the medical bed.

It’s important to choose a bed type that will be suitable for the needs of the user. For example, if the user frequently gets in and out of bed, they may require a low hospital bed for home use. If it’s less frequent, then a semi or fully electric hospital bed may suffice.

Side Rails for Hospital Beds at Home

Falls from the bed are one of the leading causes of injury in care and nursing homes. This could happen just the same in your own home if the right precautions aren’t taken to injury-proof your hospital bed area.

Full Rails and Half Rails

Full or high rails are recommended for patients who might have problems with memory, sleeping, uncontrolled body movements, or who may try to walk unsafely unassisted.

It’s always best to check with a professional whether high rails are required for your loved one’s situation.

Half rails are there to protect the upper half of the patient’s upper half and egress, although these rails can be removed if required. Also, half-rails will provide security and comfort without as much feeling of being enclosed and restricted.

Frequently Asked Questions about Hospital Beds for Home

Given that hospital beds’ full costs at home can be upwards of $1,000, it’s important to be armed with all the knowledge before finally making a purchase. Here are some frequently asked questions about hospital beds and their use at home.

What are the benefits of a hospital bed?

A person typically needs a hospital bed when suffering from a long-term illness, a chronic condition, or even post-surgery, requiring long-term recovery.

In these cases, a traditional bed doesn’t have the support functions to ensure the individual feels comfortable, safe, and secure in their bed.

Hospital beds designed for home use come in various forms, but the main benefits are the ability to adjust the height, the head, and the foot of the bed.

This means an ideal resting or sleeping position can easily be positioned to alleviate pain and discomfort.

Also, medical beds typically have extra safety features and helpful designs to allow a carer to easily look after the patient, such as rails, electric adjustments, and manual cranks.

What are the top hospital bed manufacturers?

The best hospital bed manufacturers are Invacare, Drive, Hill-Rom, and Lumex, which we’ve listed in our review. These companies have long been manufacturing and building hospital beds, specifically for hospitals.

In more recent years, these beds have become affordable and practical for use at home.

How much does it cost to buy a hospital bed?

Typically hospital beds alone cost between $400 – $2,000. Depending on what you need from a standard manual twin XL-sized hospital bed, which sits on the lower end of the scale, it will be more expensive than a fully electric king-sized bariatric bed.

If your hospital bed doesn’t come with a mattress, it can range from $100 to $400.

Can you rent hospital beds for home use?

Yes. Hill-Rom offers daily and fixed period rentals. You can find out more here.

In the UK, you can use Mobility Hire.

Are hospital beds covered by Medicare?

Yes. Hospital beds are covered by Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) under Durable Medical Equipment (DME). Your doctor will prescribe this. You can find out more here.

What size is a hospital bed mattress?

The average size of a hospital bed mattress is a Twin XL which is 80″ in length by 36″ in width. This can vary by the hospital bed and mattress type, so ensure you check before buying.

How do I maintain my hospital bed?

It’s important to read and keep the instruction manuals provided by the manufacturer to understand how to take the best care of your hospital bed.

Regularly checking the casters’ stability, the locking functionality, the metalworks underneath the bed, and general wear and tear will help your hospital bed last a long time.

How else can I protect my loved one?

Ensuring your loved one is as comfortable as possible in a hospital bed is crucial, especially if they spend a lot of time there.

One of the most recommended items for any bed with rails is rail pads to prevent harm or injury through scrapes, bangs and knocking.

A nightlight can be a great addition, too, if the individual struggles to sleep in total darkness at night. It can be comforting and relieve tension and stress at night.

Ensuring the bed is comfortable and secure can also mean good quality bed sheets, both comfortable and waterproof, to prevent damage to the mattress and bed through incontinence or other accidents.