Pressure Redistribution Foam, Gel and Multi-Zone Hospital Bed Mattresses
This collection carries 18 foam hospital bed mattresses and related items from Drive DeVilbiss, Lumex, Dynarex, ProActive Medical and Skil-Care: single and multi-layer pressure redistribution foam in 34 to 48 inch widths, multi-zone anatomical designs, gel-infused visco foam, a self-adjusting air-foam hybrid, gel foam overlays that go on top of an existing mattress, plus replacement covers and a transport bag.
Which support surface a patient needs follows a pressure injury risk assessment by the care team. This page covers which foam mattress fits which bed and situation once that level has been set.
→ Part of Hospital Bed Mattresses & Support Surfaces. Also see Alternating Pressure Mattresses, Bariatric Mattresses and Hospital Beds.
Compare Foam Mattress Types
| Model | Type | Width | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lumex Classic 31 Series | Dual layer foam | Standard | Entry-level pressure redistribution |
| Lumex Gold Care 41980 | Four-zone anatomical foam | Standard | Different density at head, trunk and heels |
| Lumex Comfort 600 | Premium foam | Standard | Long term care, higher comfort spec |
| Dynarex DynaRest Visco Gel | Gel-infused visco foam | Standard | Heat management and contouring |
| Skil-Care Pressure Check | Gel visco with perimeter options | Standard | Firm edge for sitting and transfers |
| Drive Gravity 9 | Pressure redistribution foam | 80 inch length | Standard hospital bed frames |
| Drive ShearCare 1500, 42 inch | Multi-ply shear-reducing foam | 42 inch | Wider frames, shear reduction |
| ProActive Protekt Supreme | Self-adjusting air-foam | Standard | Air-cell support without a pump |
| Drive Premium Guard Gel Overlay, 42 inch | Gel foam overlay | 42 inch | Upgrading an existing mattress |
| Lumex Lightest Foam Gel Overlay | Lightweight gel overlay | Standard | Easy handling, home use |
Which Width for the Bed Frame?
Match the mattress to the frame, not to the patient. A standard hospital bed takes a 36 inch mattress; 42 and 48 inch frames need the matching width, and a mattress narrower than the frame opens a gap at the rail. Standard width: the Lumex Classic 31, Gold Care, Comfort 500, Comfort 600 and Select 100 and 150 series, the Dynarex DynaRest tri-layer and the Drive Gravity 9 at 80 inch length. Wider frames: the ShearCare 1500 in 42 inch and 48 inch. For 42 inch frames and above see also Bariatric Mattresses.
Single Layer, Multi-Zone or Gel Visco?
A single or dual layer foam spreads load evenly across the surface. A multi-zone mattress uses different foam densities at head, trunk and heel, because those areas load differently: the Lumex Gold Care four-zone. Gel-infused visco foam contours more closely and draws heat away from the skin: the Dynarex DynaRest Visco Gel and the Skil-Care Pressure Check, whose firm perimeter option gives a stable edge for sitting and transfers. Where air-cell support is wanted without a pump, the ProActive Protekt Supreme self-adjusting air-foam. Patients assessed at higher risk are generally moved to powered surfaces in Alternating Pressure Mattresses.
Overlay or Full Mattress?
An overlay goes on top of an existing mattress and upgrades its surface without replacing it. It raises the sleeping height, which affects rail height and transfers, and it suits a mattress that is otherwise sound. Gel overlays: the Drive Premium Guard 42 inch, the Premium Guard 34 inch and the Lumex Lightest Foam Gel 103 and 104 series. Basic convoluted foam: the Drive M6026 pad at 34 x 76. Covers and handling: the replacement cover for the Drive 15019 multi-zone and the 2 mil clear transport bag. A worn or torn cover makes a mattress uncleanable; replacing the cover extends the mattress.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which mattress size for a standard hospital bed?
36 inches wide by 80 inches long fits most standard frames. Measure the bed deck rather than assuming: 42 and 48 inch frames need the matching width, and a narrow mattress opens a gap at the rail.
Foam mattress or alternating pressure?
That follows the care team's risk assessment. Foam suits lower and moderate risk; patients assessed at higher risk are generally placed on powered alternating pressure or low air loss surfaces. Foam has no pump, no power and no noise, which suits home use where those apply.
Gel overlay or a new mattress?
An overlay upgrades a mattress that is otherwise sound and raises the surface height. A new mattress is the answer where the base is worn, sagging or has a damaged cover. Check that the added height still clears rail requirements.
Which foam mattress for a patient who sits on the edge to transfer?
One with a firm perimeter, such as the Skil-Care Pressure Check with perimeter options. A soft edge compresses under a seated patient and makes the transfer less stable.
Can I replace just the cover?
On models with a listed replacement cover, yes. The Drive 15019 multi-zone has one stocked here. A torn cover lets fluid into the foam and makes the mattress uncleanable, so replacing the cover early protects the whole mattress.
Read the full guide: Expert Buyer's Guide: Top 5 Hospital Beds for Home Use
MediDepot Purchasing Advantages
- Price Match Guarantee: found the same catalogue number for less elsewhere? We will match the verified price.
- Equipment Financing: available on larger facility orders.
- Extended Warranty: available on qualifying equipment.
- Military Discount: available for qualifying military medical facilities and personnel.
- Request a Quote: frame size matching across a facility and volume pricing.
Related Buying Guides
- Expert Buyer's Guide: Top 5 Hospital Beds for Home Use
- Patient Lifts: Sit-to-Stand vs Hoyer Guide
- Clinic Infection Control Supplies Checklist
- Medical Equipment Quote Comparison Checklist
