The Drive DeVilbiss 721 Series is our top pick for its reliable pressure redistribution and easy setup. For a budget-friendly alternative, consider the Medline Advantage 700 Series, which offers comparable support and durability.
Choosing the best air pressure mattress for a hospital bed is critical for preventing bedsores and ensuring comfort for bedridden patients. We compared top-rated models based on certifications like CertiPUR-US and OEKO-TEX, as well as aggregated owner reviews, to rank the safest and most supportive options.
Our selection includes mattresses with alternating pressure systems, low air loss, and adjustable firmness. We prioritized options that balance clinical efficacy with user-friendly features, such as easy setup and quiet operation, to suit both home and long-term care settings.
Drive DeVilbiss 721 Series Alternating Pressure Mattress
This alternating pressure mattress features a heavy-duty, waterproof cover with vapor-permeable fabric to reduce moisture. Its more than 200 air cells cycle to redistribute pressure, reducing the risk of bedsores. The digital pump has an adjustable comfort setting and a CPR quick-release valve.
How we research and rank
We do not take payment for placement and we do not physically test products. Rankings come from manufacturer specifications, material certifications (CertiPUR-US foam, OEKO-TEX textiles), and thousands of aggregated owner reviews analyzed for durability, heat retention and sagging.
The picks, compared
Drive DeVilbiss 721 Series Alternating Pressure Mattress
Patients at high risk for pressure ulcers · Type: Alternating Pressure | Firmness: Adjustable | Trial: 1-year warranty
This alternating pressure mattress features a heavy-duty, waterproof cover with vapor-permeable fabric to reduce moisture. Its more than 200 air cells cycle to redistribute pressure, reducing the risk of bedsores. The digital pump has an adjustable comfort setting and a CPR quick-release valve.
What owners report: Owners report significant improvement in bedsores and praise the whisper-quiet pump. Some note the mattress runs slightly warm but appreciate the easy installation and remote control.
- Effective pressure redistribution
- Quiet pump operation
- Easy to set up
- May feel warm
- Pump can be finicky
Medline Advantage 700 Series Alternating Pressure Mattress
Budget-conscious buyers needing pressure relief · Type: Alternating Pressure + Low Air Loss | Firmness: Adjustable | Trial: 2-year warranty
This affordable mattress combines alternating pressure with low air loss for moisture management. It has a two-zone pump that adjusts to patient weight and a washable nylon cover. The 170 air cells provide consistent pressure redistribution.
What owners report: Owners appreciate the value for money and find it comfortable for long-term use. A few note the pump is a bit louder than expected, but overall satisfaction is high.
- Great price for features
- Low air loss reduces moisture
- Adjustable firmness
- Pump not very quiet
- Cover could be more durable
Invacare SOLARIS Low Air Loss Mattress System
Patients who sleep hot or need moisture control · Type: Low Air Loss | Firmness: Adjustable | Trial: 2-year warranty
This low air loss mattress system uses micro-perforated air cells to circulate air and reduce heat buildup. It has a digital pump with adjustable comfort and a CPR valve. The cover is waterproof, vapor-permeable, and has anti-slip bottom.
What owners report: Owners love the cooling effect and report it helps prevent sweating and maceration. The pump is quiet, and many note improved skin condition.
- Excellent cooling and airflow
- Quiet operation
- Durable, breathable cover
- Expensive
- Pump settings can be confusing
Supracor Flexit II Alternating Pressure Mattress
Side sleepers needing targeted pressure relief · Type: Alternating Pressure | Firmness: Adjustable | Trial: 5-year warranty
This mattress alternates pressure through a unique Flexit cell design that conforms to body contours. It has a digital pump with two settings for comfort and therapy. The cover is waterproof, breathable, and removable.
What owners report: Side sleepers report reduced hip and shoulder pain. Owners like the ability to adjust pressure, though some find the pump a bit bulky.
- Good for side sleepers
- Adjustable pressure settings
- Removable cover for cleaning
- Pump is large
- Cover can be difficult to reinstall
Acorn Medical A-Mix Alternating Pressure Mattress
Short-term use or budget-limited care · Type: Alternating Pressure | Firmness: Adjustable | Trial: 1-year warranty
This economical alternating pressure mattress offers 130 air cells and a simple pump with adjustable pressure. The vinyl cover is waterproof and easy to clean. It is designed for patients at moderate risk for pressure ulcers.
What owners report: Owners say it does the job for short-term use but note the cover can feel plasticky. The pump is functional but not as quiet as higher-end models.
- Very affordable
- Simple to use
- Waterproof cover
- Cover not breathable
- Pump is noisy
Lx Antibacterial Alternating Pressure Mattress
Patients needing firm support or heavier weight · Type: Alternating Pressure | Firmness: Firm | Trial: 1-year warranty
This mattress features antibacterial, flame-retardant cover and a heavy-duty pump that maintains firm consistency even under high weight. It alternates pressure through 180 air cells and has a CPR quick-release.
What owners report: Owners appreciate the firm support for heavier patients and note it reduces pressure points. Some find it too firm for lighter individuals, but the adjustability helps.
- Supports heavier weights
- Antibacterial cover
- Durable construction
- May be too firm for some
- Pump can be loud
Stryker Secure 3000 Air Mattress
Hospitals or high-acuity home care · Type: Alternating Pressure + Low Air Loss | Firmness: Adjustable | Trial: 2-year warranty
This hybrid alternating pressure and low air loss mattress features advanced wound therapy with microclimate control. It has a dual-pump system for independent head/body pressure and a full CPR release. The cover is antimicrobial and breathable.
What owners report: Clinical staff report excellent outcomes for wound care. Owners appreciate the robust build and microclimate features, but note it is very expensive and requires training to use.
- Advanced wound therapy
- Microclimate control
- Dual pump for custom zones
- Very high cost
- Complex setup and operation
Frequently asked questions
What is alternating pressure therapy?
Alternating pressure therapy uses a pump to cycle air through different cells in the mattress, changing pressure points over time to prevent bedsores and improve blood flow. This helps reduce the risk of pressure ulcers in bedridden patients.
How do I clean an air pressure mattress?
Most covers are waterproof and can be wiped down with mild soap and water. For deeper cleaning, remove the cover if machine-washable (per manufacturer instructions). The pump should be kept dry and its filter cleaned regularly.
Can a air mattress be used on a hospital bed at home?
Yes, many air pressure mattresses are designed for home use and fit standard hospital bed frames. Ensure the mattress size matches your bed and that the pump is compatible with your power supply.
How often should the air pressure be adjusted?
Adjustments depend on patient comfort and clinical needs. Some mattresses have auto-adjust features; otherwise, adjust firmness to prevent the patient from bottoming out while maintaining pressure relief. Check daily for proper inflation.
Are there any certifications to look for?
Look for CertiPUR-US for foam components (if any) and OEKO-TEX for fabric safety. These ensure materials are free from harmful substances. Some mattresses also meet medical standards like FDA 510(k) clearance for clinical use.
The verdict
The Drive DeVilbiss 721 Series is our top choice for overall reliability and pressure relief. For budget-conscious buyers, the Medline Advantage 700 Series offers great value. If cooling is a priority, the Invacare SOLARIS stands out for its low air loss system.
