The 5 Best Pressure Relief Mattresses

If you spend a significant amount of time in bed and don’t have the mobility to change positions easily and frequently, your risk for pressure sores, or bed sores, is significantly increased. Each pressure relief mattress on our list is quality-made and designed to help prevent, alleviate, and heal uncomfortable and potentially dangerous pressure sores.

Best Overall Choice:

1) Solace Prevention Therapeutic Foam Mattress by Invacare View Product

The Top 5:

	5) United Plus Bariatric Pressure Relief Mattress View Product
	4) Advantage Homecare Pressure Relief Foam Mattress by Medline View Product
	3) Proex Pressure Relief Visco Elastic Memory Foam Mattress w/ Hospital Grade Cover View Product
	2) Drive Medical Therapeutic 5 Zone Support Mattress View Product
	1) Solace Prevention Therapeutic Foam Mattress by Invacare View Product

Things to Consider

If pressure sores are a concern, you should consider some key design elements when shopping for the best pressure relief mattress.

• Low-tech mattresses are filled with either water, air, foam, or gel and distribute a patient’s weight across the mattress to reduce the amount of pressure on areas of the body that are susceptible to bedsores. These mattresses are covered with support and overlays, and their pressure is not usually adjustable.

• A water mattress distributes pressure evenly, conforming to the patient’s body. This can be very comfortable for patients and relieves pressure where bedsores are most likely to occur.
• An air mattress can be inflated and deflated in different zones and at various times to adjust its pressure, depending on what is most comfortable for the patient and what will best address issues with pressure sores.

• A foam mattress can be cross-cut so the mattress shifts with the patient’s weight. This minimizes the risk of shearing, which occurs when the skin pulls as a person shifts, leading to skin tears.

• A gel mattress conforms to the body and gives the sensation of sinking into a comfortable bed. Because it retains less body heat, a gel mattress is cooler to sleep on. It also provides a more responsive feel when not paired with foam.

• Most high-tech mattresses can be inflated and deflated to allow for zoned adjustments for different areas of the body. Many models are programmable to automatically adjust how the patient’s body weight is distributed in intervals, keeping any single area from being under pressure for too long. Models that can be programmed beforehand free up caregivers for other tasks since they do not have to inflate or deflate the mattress or turn the patient regularly.

• Lateral rotation mattresses rotate the patient from side to side to improve circulation and relieve pressure. The best way to address the issue of pressure sores is to include repositioning with pressure relief, often requiring a caregiver's assistance if the patient cannot change positions independently. Although this style of mattress can turn a patient without a caregiver’s help, it does require extra attention, as patients can roll out of bed from the turning motion if there aren’t bed rails to prevent falls.

Regardless of what design you choose, there is a pressure relief mattress on our top 5 list that will meet your needs!

How Does a Pressure Relief Mattress Work?

A pressure relief mattress relieves stress on pressure points by spreading the user's weight over a large surface area. This reduces the pressure on the bonier points of the body that come into constant direct contact with bedding.

How Do I Get Pressure Sores?

Constant pressure can decrease the blood flow to tissues, leading to tissue and skin breakdown. The pressure on bony areas, including elbows, shoulder blades, spine, tailbone, hips, and heels, makes them especially susceptible to pressure sores. Friction from skin rubbing against clothes or sheets and shearing from your skin surface moving in the opposite direction from the surface you’re laying on creates an environment that can lead to or worsen pressure sores.

Why is it Important to Prevent and Heal Pressure Sores?

Serious complications from pressure sores can include cellulitis, bone infections, joint infections, skin cancer, and sepsis. Amputations and even death from sepsis can be directly attributed to pressure sores that don’t heal.

Do Pressure Relief Mattresses Aid Other Conditions?

Orthopedic patients, either post-surgery or who suffer from chronic pain, enjoy therapeutic benefits from pressure-relieving mattresses. The redistribution of weight takes the pressure off compromised joints and bones.

The Top 5

#5 United Plus Bariatric Pressure Relief Mattress

United Plus Bariatric Pressure Relief Mattress View Product

The United Plus Bariatric Pressure Relief Mattress by United Mattress is our number 5 pick for its exceptional ability to heal and prevent pressure wounds for bariatric patients at home or in a healthcare facility. This mattress is designed to effectively treat pressure wounds up to Level 4 without requiring a power source for inflation or operation. It supports bariatric patients up to 700 pounds and features a durable, machine-washable cover resistant to fluids and tears. The mattress is divided into three adjustable sections for personalized comfort and pressure relief. Its combination of air cells and memory foam provides a weightless sensation, helping patients feel comfortable and supported while reducing pressure points.

Features and Benefits

• Prevents and heals pressure wounds up to Level 4
• Operates without electricity, making it convenient for home use and portable care
• Machine-washable cover is resistant to fluids, tears, and flame, ensuring long-lasting use
• Three individually adjustable sections allow for tailored pressure relief and support

Customer Feedback

Pros

• Provides a weightless, floating sensation that enhances comfort
• No need for an electric pump, reducing noise and increasing portability
• Durable cover withstands regular use and maintains hygiene
• Supports up to 700 pounds, accommodating a wide range of bariatric patients

Cons

• Manual inflation may require caregiver assistance
• The mattress's size and weight could make it challenging to move

#4 Advantage Homecare Pressure Relief Foam Mattress by Medline

Advantage Homecare Pressure Relief Foam Mattress by Medline View Product

The Advantage Homecare Pressure Relief Foam Mattress by Medline is our number 4 choice for its outstanding ability to provide effective pressure injury relief and prevention. Unlike traditional innerspring mattresses, this foam alternative enhances comfort and support through its multi-layered foam construction, evenly distributing body weight to reduce pressure points. This mattress is ideal for home care, nursing facilities, and hospitals. It is lightweight and easy to transport, making it a versatile option for various settings. The water-resistant nylon cover minimizes friction and shearing, protecting the skin and maintaining the mattress in excellent condition. With 6 inches of memory foam, it provides a cozy sleeping surface that supports up to 300 pounds and flexes seamlessly with hospital bed adjustments.

Features and Benefits

• Effectively treats and prevents pressure wounds and ulcers
• Lightweight and easy to transport
• Nylon cover reduces friction and shearing, protecting the skin and enhancing comfort
• The foam construction and water-resistant design protect the mattress

Customer Feedback

Pros

• Provides excellent pressure relief and comfort for extended use
• Lightweight and portable, ideal for easy transport
• Water-resistant cover protects the mattress from spills and accidents
• Compatible with most hospital bed frames

Cons

• Lower weight capacity (300 lbs) than other bariatric options
• The 6-inch thickness may be insufficient for users who prefer a thicker sleeping surface

#3 Proex Pressure Relief Visco Elastic Memory Foam Mattress w/ Hospital Grade Cover

Proex Pressure Relief Visco Elastic Memory Foam Mattress w/ Hospital Grade Cover View Product

The Proex Pressure Relief Visco Elastic Memory Foam Mattress by Medacure ranks as our number 4 pick due to its specialized design for preventing pressure ulcers and providing exceptional comfort during wound care therapy. This mattress is crafted from high-quality foam and includes a built-in heel slope, specifically targeting pressure relief at the heel area. The three-tiered construction ensures that the mattress prevents bottoming out, extending its durability and providing consistent support. The removable, breathable hospital-grade cover is water-resistant, anti-microbial, and flame-retardant, meeting rigorous safety standards and ensuring a hygienic sleeping environment.

Features and Benefits

• Built-in slope provides targeted pressure relief for the heel, preventing pressure sores
• Prevents bottoming out and offers long-lasting support, ideal for wound care therapy
• Removable hospital-grade cover is easy to clean and maintain 
• The cover is water-resistant, anti-microbial, and flame-retardant
• Specifically designed to redistribute pressure and prevent ulcers

Customer Feedback

Pros

• Provides effective pressure relief for the heels, reducing the risk of pressure ulcers
• Durable construction prevents bottoming out, extending the mattress's lifespan
• The hospital-grade cover is easy to clean and protects against spills and bacteria
• Meets federal safety regulations, ensuring high quality and patient safety

Cons

• Limited to Stage II wounds: not suitable for more advanced pressure ulcers
• The raised perimeter option, while providing safety, may not be comfortable for every patient

#2 Drive Medical Therapeutic 5 Zone Support Mattress

Drive Medical Therapeutic 5 Zone Support Mattress View Product

The Therapeutic 5 Zone Support Mattress by Drive Medical is our number 2 pick for its superior pressure redistribution and comfort, making it an excellent choice for patients requiring long-term bed rest. This therapeutic mattress features a firm foam core with a top layer divided into five zones to distribute body weight and evenly reduce pressure on bony prominences. This added top layer helps prevent pressure ulcers. The mattress is designed with a durable, water-resistant, and anti-microbial nylon cover that meets medical-grade sanitation standards and reduces the risk of skin shear and friction. This combination of features makes it ideal for use in hospitals, assisted living homes, and other professional healthcare facilities.

Features and Benefits

• A convoluted top layer and five distinct zones work together to distribute weight and evenly alleviate pressure on vulnerable areas
• Firm foam core provides consistent head-to-toe support and is ideal for patients who need extra stability during extended bed rest
• Deluxe nylon cover is easy to clean, water-resistant, anti-microbial, and reduces skin friction
• Complies with various fire code regulations, ensuring safety in healthcare settings

Customer Feedback

Pros

• Excellent pressure relief, especially for patients prone to pressure ulcers
• Durable and low-maintenance cover that stands up to frequent cleaning 
• Firm support is ideal for patients needing consistent body alignment and comfort
• The five-zone design adapts to different body areas

Cons

• The mattress's extra length may not fit standard sheet sizes, requiring specialized bedding
• The firm foam may be too rigid for some

#1 Solace Prevention Therapeutic Foam Mattress by Invacare

Solace Prevention Therapeutic Foam Mattress by Invacare View Product

The Solace Prevention Therapeutic Foam Mattress by Invacare is our top choice, ranking number 1 for its exceptional ability to support and prevent pressure ulcers. It is ideal for hospital and home care settings. This mattress features zoned layers of high-density foam that evenly distribute weight and relieve pressure on vulnerable areas. These layers significantly reduce the risk of pressure ulcers. The unique "fortress" foam cut design enhances patient comfort by promoting airflow, keeping the mattress cool and moisture-free. The fluid-resistant, nylon-covered mattress complies with federal fire regulations and includes a non-skid bottom surface for added safety. For patients needing additional support, an optional model offers an additional 3 inches of foam around the edges, providing enhanced side stability.

Features and Benefits

• Dual-layered high-density zoned foam design provides targeted pressure relief and support, preventing the development of pressure ulcers
• Fortress foam cutpromotes airflow throughout the mattress, reducing heat and moisture
• Fluid-resistant nylon cover protects against spills and reduces friction 
• A non-skid bottom ensures the mattress stays securely in place

Customer Feedback

Pros

• Provides excellent pressure relief
• The zoned foam design ensures even weight distribution
• Fluid-resistant cover is easy to clean and maintain, ensuring hygiene and safety
• The mattress's firmness levels are well-balanced, with softer sections for comfort and firmer sections for support

Cons

• The 350-pound weight limit may not be sufficient for some bariatric patients

Final Thoughts

For individuals who spend significant time in bed and are at risk of developing pressure ulcers, choosing the right pressure relief mattress is crucial for comfort and overall health. Each mattress on our list offers unique features designed to prevent, alleviate, and heal pressure sores, making them excellent choices for home care and healthcare facilities. 

Our top pick, the Solace Prevention Therapeutic Foam Mattress by Invacare, stands out for its exceptional ability to provide targeted support and pressure relief. This mattress helps prevent pressure ulcers and enhances patient comfort by promoting airflow and reducing moisture. 

If you’re looking to create a supportive and healthy sleep environment, the pressure relief mattresses on our list are s great place to start. For more options, detailed information, or for additional resources, visit us at Caregiver University, where we feature articles on aging in place, elderly fall prevention, and much more!