Struggling to find a mattress that balances safety, comfort, and support? Wing mattresses, with their innovative raised perimeter design, are transforming sleep for those seeking enhanced security and pressure relief. Perfect for healthcare settings or home use, these mattresses offer unique features that prioritize user well-being. In this post, we’ll explore what makes wing mattresses special, their benefits, and how to choose the right one for your needs. Ready to elevate your sleep experience? Let’s dive in!
What Is a Wing Mattress?
A wing mattress, often called a raised perimeter mattress, features elevated edges—typically 8 inches high—that create a cradling effect. This design, as noted by Rehabmart, helps prevent users from rolling too close to the edge, reducing the risk of falls or injuries. Commonly used in hospitals, nursing homes, and home care, wing mattresses like the Span America Geo-Mattress with Wings combine safety with therapeutic comfort, making them ideal for individuals with mobility issues or high-risk conditions.
The “wings” refer to the supportive bolsters that frame the mattress, filling gaps between the bed rail and mattress surface to prevent entrapment. According to AliMed, these mattresses also incorporate advanced foam technologies to enhance pressure redistribution and skin integrity, setting them apart from standard mattresses.
Key Features of Wing Mattresses
What makes wing mattresses a standout choice? Here are their defining features:
1. Raised Perimeter for Safety
The hallmark of wing mattresses is their 8-inch raised edges, which gently guide users away from the bed’s edge. Savaria Patient Care highlights how this design discourages independent bed exits, reducing fall risks while complying with restraint reduction regulations.
2. Pressure-Relieving Foam
Many wing mattresses, like the Span America Geo-Mattress with Wings, feature over 800 individually articulating foam cells. These cells adapt to the body’s contours, redistributing pressure to prevent ulcers, as explained by Rehabmart.
3. Heel Slope Technology
A subtle taper in the heel area, known as the Heel Slope™, shifts pressure from the sensitive heels to the more tolerant calves. AliMed notes this feature is crucial for protecting vulnerable skin in high-risk users.
4. Anti-Shear Surface
The tissue-friendly Geo-Matt® foam topper minimizes shear forces, which can damage skin. MedEquip Health emphasizes that this 2-inch topper enhances comfort and supports skin integrity.
5. Durable, Easy-to-Clean Cover
Wing mattresses come with fluid-proof, antimicrobial covers that are easy to wipe down. MedMattress describes these covers as tear-resistant and replaceable, ensuring hygiene in healthcare settings.
Benefits of Wing Mattresses
Why choose a wing mattress? Here’s how they improve sleep and safety:
1. Enhanced Fall Prevention
The raised perimeter acts as a natural barrier, reducing the need for side rails or restraints. Savaria Patient Care notes that this aligns with modern safety guidelines, making wing mattresses ideal for elderly or mobility-impaired users.
2. Superior Pressure Relief
With over 800 responsive foam cells, wing mattresses like the Span America Geo-Mattress excel at redistributing pressure, lowering the risk of pressure sores. This is especially beneficial for bedridden patients.
3. Improved Skin Health
The anti-shear topper and moisture-wicking cover help maintain a dry, comfortable sleep environment. Rehabmart highlights how these features protect against skin breakdown, a common concern in long-term care.
4. Versatility for Various Settings
From hospitals to home care, wing mattresses adapt to diverse needs. AliMed recommends them for moderate to high-risk users, with a 400-pound weight capacity and multiple size options (75”, 80”, or 84” lengths).
5. Long-Term Durability
Built with premium Geo-Matt foam and sturdy covers, these mattresses are designed to last. MedMattress notes their 5-year warranty, ensuring reliable performance in demanding environments.
Who Should Use a Wing Mattress?
Wing mattresses are tailored for specific users, including:
- Elderly Individuals: The raised edges provide security for those prone to rolling out of bed.
- Patients with Mobility Issues: Fall prevention and pressure relief are critical for those with limited movement.
- Healthcare Facilities: Hospitals and nursing homes benefit from the safety and hygiene features, as noted by Rehabmart.
- Home Caregivers: Families caring for loved ones at home can ensure safety without compromising comfort.
If you’re a healthy individual with no mobility concerns, a standard hybrid or foam mattress like the WinkBed might suffice. However, for therapeutic needs, wing mattresses are unmatched.
How to Choose the Right Wing Mattress
Selecting the perfect wing mattress depends on your specific requirements. Here’s what to consider:
1. Size and Fit
Ensure the mattress fits your bed frame. The Span America Geo-Mattress with Wings comes in 75”, 80”, and 84” lengths, all 35” wide, with a 6” center height and 8” sides.
2. Weight Capacity
Most wing mattresses support up to 400 pounds, as noted by AliMed. Confirm the capacity matches the user’s needs.
3. Therapeutic Needs
For high-risk patients, prioritize advanced pressure relief and anti-shear features. Rehabmart recommends the Geo-Mattress for its 800+ foam cells and Heel Slope™.
4. Cover Quality
Choose a mattress with a fluid-proof, antimicrobial cover for easy maintenance, as described by MedMattress.
5. Warranty and Trial
Look for a solid warranty, like the 5-year guarantee offered by AliMed. Some retailers may offer trials, though this is less common for medical-grade mattresses.
Where to Buy a Wing Mattress
Ready to invest in a wing mattress? Here are top options:
- Span America Geo-Mattress with Wings: Priced around $693, available in multiple lengths with free shipping.
- Rehabmart: Offers the Geo-Mattress with a best-price guarantee and free shipping.
- AliMed: Stocks the Geo-Mattress with detailed specs and a 5-year warranty.
Check for promotions, as retailers like Rehabmart often include free shipping or discounts.
Maintaining Your Wing Mattress
To maximize longevity, follow these care tips:
- Clean the Cover Regularly: Wipe down the fluid-proof cover with mild disinfectant, as advised by MedMattress.
- Rotate Periodically: Rotate the mattress every few months to ensure even wear.
- Inspect for Damage: Check for tears or foam degradation to maintain safety, per Rehabmart.
Why Wing Mattresses Are a Smart Choice
Wing mattresses combine safety, comfort, and durability, making them a top pick for healthcare and home care settings. Their raised perimeters, pressure-relieving foam, and anti-shear surfaces address critical needs for high-risk users, as praised by Savaria Patient Care. Whether you’re outfitting a hospital or caring for a loved one at home, a wing mattress like the Span America Geo-Mattress delivers peace of mind and restful sleep.
Sleep Safely with a Wing Mattress
A wing mattress is more than just a bed—it’s a solution for safer, more comfortable sleep. With features like raised edges, advanced foam, and easy-care covers, it’s no wonder products like the Geo-Mattress with Wings are trusted in healthcare settings. Ready to prioritize safety and comfort? Explore options at AliMed or Rehabmart and transform your sleep environment today.