Compare Mobility Beds

As you may already know, mobility beds are available in a variety of styles. Considering the diverse mobility needs across the population, it makes sense that there should be a bed type tailored to each specific requirement. So, let’s find out your mobility bed match.

Adjustable beds

If you're experiencing chronic pain or restricted mobility, an adjustable bed can enhance your comfort and independence to make daily life that little bit easier. Adjustable beds feature a remote control so you can easily alter your sleeping position.

Cost

While adjustable beds are pricier upfront than regular beds, they offer significant long-term benefits for health and mobility support. 

The most affordable models start at around £500, including a pocket-sprung mattress and basic adjustability features. On the other end of the scale, luxury adjustable beds can cost upwards of £2000, offering features like built-in TVs and multiple adjustable areas. 

Comfort

Adjustable beds deliver tailored comfort where users can modify their positions to alleviate pain and enhance their sleep quality. Unlike the fixed positions of low-frame beds or standard hospital beds, this customisation feature is a clear comfort advantage — though we’d say that it’s important to note the mechanics can sometimes be heard when the bed is in motion.

Adjustability

To us, the standout feature of adjustable beds is their versatility. Whether it’s raising the head, adjusting the foot, or relieving pressure to a certain area, these beds can adapt to your needs, unlike the static nature of profiling or bariatric beds. This flexibility, however, may require a learning curve for optimal use — but we think this is something that will naturally come with time as you learn what your body responds to best.

Durability and maintenance

Built to withstand frequent use, adjustable beds are durable but do require periodic maintenance to keep the mechanical parts running smoothly. You can conduct these checks yourself or with the help of a friend or family member if you need any help. 

We’d also recommend always keeping your supplier’s details handy, so you can get in touch with them regarding any maintenance issues or queries. 

We understand that this is slightly more upkeep than with more basic bed types, like low beds, but regular servicing will ensure longevity, adding value despite the extra maintenance care needed.

Profiling beds are often used in healthcare settings but there are certain models suitable for home use that provide intricately adjustable sections that help you or a loved one achieve various sleeping or sitting positions with comfort. They are a more advanced model of adjustable beds, offering multiple adjustment points all the way down to the feet, specialised controls, and programmable positions.

We’d say that profiling beds are designed to support individuals with severe mobility restrictions, aiding in both comfort and medical care. Profiling beds are particularly beneficial for long-term use, especially if you or a loved one have complex care needs.

Cost

Profiling beds are typically more expensive than basic adjustable beds due to their specialised features designed for medical use. 

Prices vary but you could expect to pay up to £4500 for the most advanced profiling bed models. This price point is due to their convenience and peace of mind, offering comfort, safety, and caregiver efficiency in one structure. In our opinion, it’s hard to put a price on safety and peace of mind — but profiling beds are a reliable investment.

Comfort

The multi-adjustable sections of profiling beds enhance user comfort by allowing precise positioning, which can alleviate pain and improve the circulation of mobility users. However, it’s important to note that the clinical design might not appeal to everyone.

Adjustability

Profiling beds offer superior adjustability with multiple sections that can be independently controlled. This is more advanced than basic adjustable beds, providing essential support for various medical conditions.

Durability and maintenance

These beds are built for durability and are designed to withstand frequent use in a home-care medical environment. Maintenance can be more demanding when compared to basic adjustable beds, as the complex mechanisms and electronic components require regular checks to ensure they remain in good working order.

Bariatric beds are robust and specially designed to support plus-size individuals, enhancing their mobility and comfort. These beds are broader and stronger, equipped with motorised controls for easy adjustments.

Cost

Bariatric beds in the UK are a substantial investment due to their specialised construction and features. Prices range from approximately £1000 for basic models to over £5000 for advanced versions with more features. While costly, they are worthwhile for the safety and comfort of plus-size users.

Comfort

With their wider and sturdier design, bariatric beds offer substantial comfort for larger individuals, supporting more restful sleep. However, the bariatric bed’s size may require more room in the home, which could be a constraint in smaller living spaces.

Adjustability

These beds provide excellent adjustability with features like tilt, height, and section adjustments, tailored to accommodate the specific needs of bariatric patients. It’s important to note that the flexibility of a bariatric bed can sometimes be limited compared to standard profiling beds, which can offer more intricate positioning options.

Durability and maintenance

Bariatric beds are built to last, with high durability capabilities designed to withstand significant weight over long periods. However, we’ve noticed that maintenance can be more intensive, as the mechanical systems are robust and occasionally require servicing to ensure they operate smoothly.

Low-frame beds, designed to sit closer to the floor, reduce the risk of injury from falls, making them ideal for those with mobility issues or at risk of falling. They're simple to use and enhance independence efficiently, particularly benefiting elderly individuals or those with conditions that affect balance.

Cost

In the UK, low-frame beds range from around £200 for basic models to £1500 for those with additional features like built-in rails or adjustable sections. This affordability makes them a popular choice among those who need a safer sleeping option without a high expense.

Comfort

Low-frame beds offer stable and comfortable sleeping solutions, especially for those who find it easier to get into and out of a lower bed. However, their proximity to the floor may make it less comfortable for caregivers to assist without stooping down.

Adjustability

While typically less adjustable than other mobility beds, some low-frame beds do offer features like adjustable headrests or footrests. They’re generally more straightforward, focusing on safety and accessibility rather than extensive adjustability.

Durability and maintenance

These beds are generally durable and designed for long-term use, with minimal maintenance required. However, the low height might make cleaning under the bed more challenging, and the simpler designs might not provide the same level of support or features as the other higher-end mobility beds we’ve explored.

Hospital beds for home care are designed to provide medical support and comfort in a home setting. These beds are adjustable, with features that assist in patient care, mobility, and injury recovery — ideal for individuals requiring medical attention or rehabilitation at home for life-changing injuries or illnesses.

Cost

The cost of hospital beds for home use can vary widely, starting from about £500 to over £3000 for high-end models with advanced features. Depending on your circumstances, these beds may be available through the NHS, which can help mitigate costs.

Comfort

Hospital beds are tailored for comfort during prolonged use, with adjustable sections for back and leg support which can help prevent bedsores and aid in patient recovery. However, the clinical design might not blend as seamlessly with home decor as other mobility bed options. 

Adjustability

In our opinion, these beds offer superior adjustability, including height, head, and foot adjustments, catering to various medical needs and enhancing both patient care and comfort. This level of customisation surpasses that of basic adjustable or low-frame beds.

Durability and maintenance

Hospital beds are built for durability, designed to withstand heavy use and frequent adjustments. Maintenance might be more demanding when compared to simpler bed types, as these beds often incorporate complex mechanical and electronic systems.

Choosing your mobility bed is a process that takes time and research. It’s important to select a mobility bed model that not only meets your or your loved one’s specific needs. Let’s take a closer look at where we think each mobility bed model shines…

Best mobility bed for extensive medical support at home

Home-care hospital beds are designed with a focus on medical use and patient recovery, offering features such as adjustable height for easier caregiver access and adjustable sections for patient comfort.

These beds often include electronic controls for precise adjustments, rails for patient safety, and the space and durability to support various medical devices.

Unlike basic adjustable or low-frame beds, hospital beds provide critical features that support serious health conditions, making them indispensable for home-care environments.

Best mobility bed for preventing falls

Low-frame beds are closer to the ground, reducing the risk of injury from falls — a worthwhile feature for individuals with balance or mobility issues.

These beds are designed for easy entry and exit, and often come with optional side rails for safety, to further prevent falls.

While profiling and hospital beds offer adjustable heights, the low-set design is specifically beneficial for fall prevention, especially during unsupervised times.

Best mobility bed for plus-sized users

Strong and durable, bariatric beds are built to support heavier body weights and are wider than typical beds, providing necessary space and support for heavier users.

Profiling and basic adjustable beds may not offer the necessary support or space that bariatric beds provide for the user’s comfort and health.

Best mobility bed for adjustable medical care needs

Profiling beds are tailored for specific medical needs requiring frequent repositioning and adjustments, such as conditions that benefit from elevated legs or upper body.

They feature multiple adjustable sections (head, foot, overall height) that can be independently controlled for targeted relief.

While hospital beds are similarly adjustable, profiling beds offer more specialised configurations that can be better tailored to long-term living environments and specific patient care routines.

Best mobility bed for simple comfort adjustments

Basic adjustable beds provide essential comfort improvements like head and foot elevation, suitable for users looking to enhance their sleep quality and relieve any minor mobility discomforts.

These beds usually include remote control adjustments and some may feature basic massaging or heat functions for a higher price point.

Compared to other mobility bed models, these beds lack the complex medical functionalities of hospital or profiling beds, making them more user-friendly and cost-effective for individuals without extensive medical needs.