Hospital Beds with Mattress: What to Know Before You Hire

Hospital Beds

Choosing affordable hospital beds for home care is about more than comfort — it’s about safety, support, and peace of mind. Whether it’s a temporary recovery or long-term need, your decision between hospital beds with mattress for sale or hire can directly impact patient outcomes and caregiver wellbeing.

Need clarity on your options? This guide covers everything — from NHS support and local council schemes to VAT relief and real-world cost comparisons.

Why the Mattress Matters in Hospital Bed Selection

The mattress isn’t just an accessory — it’s the first line of defence against pressure ulcers, discomfort, and deterioration. According to NICE guidelines on pressure ulcer prevention, all at-risk patients should have a pressure-relieving surface appropriate to their needs.

That’s why hospital beds with mattress — not just the frame — must be chosen carefully. Whether hiring or buying, ensure the package includes a mattress that supports clinical requirements. Care Bed Hire provides medically compliant pressure-relief mattresses with all hire packages, ensuring safety from day one.

Hospital Beds for Sale vs Hospital Bed Hire

Purchasing might suit permanent conditions, but for most families managing transitional care, renting a hospital bed offers unmatched flexibility.

FeatureRent a Hospital BedBuy a Hospital Bed
Upfront CostLow (£55/week)High (£2,000–£3,000+)
CommitmentShort or long-termPermanent
Mattress IncludedYesOften not included
ServicingIncludedBuyer responsibility
Delivery & SetupIncludedMay incur extra cost
Ideal ForRecovery, short-term careLong-term, static needs

Still undecided? Let the flowchart below guide you.

Decision-Making Flowchart: Buy or Rent?

Choosing between hospital beds for sale and rental options can feel overwhelming, especially when care needs are urgent. Do you invest in long-term equipment, or would a short-term solution suffice? If you’re weighing up the pros and cons of buying outright versus deciding to rent a hospital bed, our visual guide below can help. Whether you’re focused on flexibility, upfront cost, or medical necessity, this flowchart offers a fast, practical route to the right choice — especially if you’re seeking affordable hospital beds without compromising on comfort or safety.

This simple decision tree helps most families decide based on duration and budget flexibility of the choice between hospital beds for sale or whether to rent a hospital bed.

What Support Can You Get from the NHS and Local Councils?

🔹 NHS Equipment Loan Services

Under NHS Continuing Healthcare or Community Equipment Services, individuals may be entitled to free hospital bed hire through their local Integrated Care Board (ICB).
These services typically cover:

  • Profiling beds
  • Pressure-relief mattresses
  • Hoists and mobility aids

To access this:

  • Speak with your GP, hospital discharge team, or community nurse.
  • Equipment is usually provided on loan, with installation and servicing included.

Learn more about NHS equipment services

🔹 Local Council Support

Councils may:

  • Provide hospital beds and medical equipment for home use via adult social care.
  • Offer grants or discretionary funds to help cover private rental or purchase costs.
  • Conduct occupational therapy assessments to determine eligibility.

Start by contacting your local authority: Find your local council here

Tip: Even if you don’t qualify for full NHS provision, your local council may help with part-funding or suggest VAT-exempt options.

🔹 VAT Relief on Medical Equipment

If the user has a long-term medical condition or disability, hospital beds for sale or rent may be zero-rated for VAT under HMRC rules.

  • Applies to hire, purchase, and delivery.
  • Must complete a VAT exemption form (often provided by the supplier).

Full guidance here: VAT relief for disabled people – Gov.uk

What to Look for in Hospital Beds with Mattress

Pressure-Relief Mattresses

High-density foam or alternating air systems. Reduces risk of pressure ulcers.

Adjustable Electric Controls

Smooth elevation of head, foot, and overall height — vital for both patients and carers.

Side Rails

Added safety, particularly for those with mobility issues or risk of falls.

Setup and Maintenance Included

Hospital bed hire through Care Bed Hire includes delivery, setup, and servicing — no extra fuss.

Explore Care Bed Hire’s full rental range with setup included: View rental options

FAQs on Hospital Beds for Sale and Hire

Can I rent hospital beds with mattress included?

Yes. All Care Bed Hire rentals include a clinically approved mattress as standard.

Is it cheaper to rent a hospital bed or buy one?

To rent a hospital bed is significantly cheaper for short-to-mid term use. Buying is more cost-effective if the bed will be used for multiple years.

Can I claim VAT relief on hospital beds for home use?

Yes — if the user qualifies as disabled under HMRC definitions. 

Can I get help from the NHS or council?

Absolutely. Many NHS Trusts offer free short-term hospital bed loans. Councils can assess needs or offer financial support. Start by contacting your GP or local council.

How fast can I get a hospital bed delivered?

Most rentals through Care Bed Hire include next-day delivery and full installation.

Final Thoughts

Navigating care decisions can feel like walking a tightrope — balancing cost, time, comfort, and medical advice. But when you have the right information, the path becomes clearer.

Whether you’re comparing hospital beds for sale, looking to rent a hospital bed, or unsure where to begin — start by assessing duration, budget, and eligibility for NHS or council assistance.

Ready to act? Get a quote or call the experts at Care Bed Hire today. Flexible options, rapid delivery, and real peace of mind.

Further Reading & Official Resources