Mattresses
Choosing the Right Mattresses
Mattresses for pressure-care and home-care provide essential support that protects skin integrity while promoting restful sleep. Choosing the right mattress balances firmness, pressure redistribution, and comfort to reduce the risk of pressure injuries. Modern mattresses combine specialised foam cores, breathable waterproof covers and weight-bearing capacity to suit a wide range of users. A well-matched mattress works with any bedside frame to create a safe, comfortable environment at home or in a care setting.
Explore Mattresses by Type
Types of Mattresses
Solid foam mattresses use a single density or layered foam construction, such as a Support Core BioLift core with a ModuCore Layer System, to evenly spread body weight. Ideal for users with low to moderate pressure-injury risk who prefer a low-maintenance, always-on surface.
Hybrid models combine a supportive foam core with an integrated alternating air-cell system to provide dynamic pressure relief. They deliver the consistency of foam with the therapeutic benefit of micro-adjustments for higher-risk patients.
These mattresses feature a network of air chambers that cyclically inflate and deflate, typically on a 7-10-minute cycle, to shift pressure points throughout the night. While a deeper dive is provided in the dedicated Air Mattresses category, the core benefit is continuous micro-re-positioning for severe pressure-care needs.
Designed for higher weight capacities (150-300 kg), bariatric mattresses employ reinforced foam layers and robust frame-compatible covers. They maintain pressure-relief performance without compromising durability for heavier users.
Entry-level foam mattresses such as the Elata E100-E300 range offer lightweight, breathable, waterproof covers for everyday home-care. They provide basic pressure distribution suitable for short-term use or low-risk individuals.
Key Features to Consider Before Buying
Each mattress is rated for a specific SWL, ranging from 150 kg for standard models to 300 kg for bariatric options, ensuring reliable performance under the user's weight.
Advanced foams like the Support Core BioLift and ModuCore Layer System deliver targeted support and responsive pressure redistribution, while the Elata range offers varied densities for customised comfort.
Covers are either breathable for temperature regulation or waterproof for fluid protection, with removable, machine-washable fabrics that maintain hygiene without sacrificing comfort.
Mattresses are available in single, king single and double dimensions, with depth options to match different bed frames and accommodate patient positioning needs.
Hybrid and alternating-air models feature programmable cycle times (typically 7-10 minutes) that automatically rotate pressure points, reducing prolonged stress on vulnerable areas.
Hybrid mattresses blend foam stability with the therapeutic motion of air cells, offering a seamless transition between static comfort and dynamic pressure relief.
High-SWL models incorporate reinforced cores and stronger cover stitching to withstand heavier loads while preserving the same pressure-relief technology.
Funding & Costs
Products in this category are commonly funded through the pathways below — always confirm eligibility and the current code with your plan manager, OT, or our team.
National Disability Insurance Scheme
- Core or Capital Supports — Standard — Level 2 : Standard pressure-care mattresses -- OT recommendation. (prescription required — Occupational Therapist (OT))
- Capital Supports — Specialised — Level 3 : Standard alternating systems -- AT Specialist assessment and trial recommended. (prescription required — AT Specialist / Assessor)
- Capital Supports — Specialised — Level 3 : Hybrid/higher-spec systems -- AT Specialist assessment and trial recommended. (prescription required — AT Specialist / Assessor)
- Capital Supports — Complex / High Cost — Level 4 : High-cost/complex bariatric systems -- AT Specialist assessment, trial and NDIS planner approval. (prescription required — AT Specialist / Assessor)
Australian Government Support at Home Program
- AT-HM Medium Tier
- AT-HM High Tier (prescription required — Occupational Therapist (OT))
- AT-HM High Tier (prescription required — Occupational Therapist (OT))
Statewide Equipment Program (Victoria)
- Aids & Equipment Program : Beds and mattresses are explicitly covered under SWEP's Aids & Equipment program. (prescription required — Occupational Therapist (OT), Physiotherapist, Speech Pathologist)
- Aids & Equipment Program : Higher-risk pressure care equipment covered under SWEP's Aids & Equipment program. (prescription required — Occupational Therapist (OT), Physiotherapist, Speech Pathologist)
Department of Veterans' Affairs
- Gold Card — Full Coverage (prescription required — Occupational Therapist (OT), General Practitioner / Medical Specialist)
- Gold Card — Full Coverage (prescription required — Occupational Therapist (OT), General Practitioner / Medical Specialist)
- White Card — Accepted Condition Only (prescription required — Occupational Therapist (OT), General Practitioner / Medical Specialist)
- White Card — Accepted Condition Only (prescription required — Occupational Therapist (OT), General Practitioner / Medical Specialist)
Frequently Asked Questions
Static foam mattresses suit users with low to moderate pressure-injury risk and who prefer a low-maintenance surface. Alternating or hybrid mattresses are recommended for higher-risk patients, as the micro-inflation cycles continuously shift pressure and help prevent skin breakdown.
Mattresses come in single, king single and double widths, with standard depths to match most hospital or home-care frames. Measure the frame's internal dimensions and select a mattress that fits comfortably without over-extending the sides, ensuring proper wheel and side-rail clearance.
Waterproof covers are removable and machine-washable on a gentle cycle with mild detergent. Air-dry or tumble-dry on low heat to preserve the breathable membrane, and replace the cover if it shows signs of wear or loss of waterproofing.
Yes. Bariatric models are rated for up to 300 kg SWL and feature reinforced foam cores and stronger stitching. They provide the same pressure-relief technology while maintaining structural integrity under higher loads.
All mattresses are designed to fit standard frame dimensions and include depth options to align with side-rails and wheel bases. Hybrid and alternating-air models may require a compatible frame that accommodates the air-cell unit, but most commercial and home-care frames support the standard attachment points.