Renting a Hospital Bed: What I Wish Someone Had Told Me Earlier
When my uncle returned home after surgery, we thought a regular bed would be fine. Within three days, we realized how wrong we were. He couldn’t sit up on his own, shifting him was painful, and none of us slept well. That’s when we learned the importance of renting a hospital bed for home care — not just for his comfort, but our peace of mind too.
If you’re in a similar situation — whether for post-surgery care, long-term illness, or senior support — here’s everything I’ve personally learned that might help you make a better decision.
- ✅ 1. Not All Hospital Beds Are the Same
- There are manual, semi-electric, and fully electric beds. The type you need depends on the patient's condition and your budget.
- Manual beds are more affordable but need physical effort to adjust.
- Semi-electric beds allow you to raise/lower head and feet with buttons but height needs manual effort.
- Fully electric beds do it all — great if the patient needs frequent repositioning or you're caregiving alone.
👉 Tip: If you’re not sure, go for semi-electric. It offers decent convenience without high rental cost.
- ✅ 2. Safety First — For Both the Patient and Caregiver
- Hospital beds come with side rails, which are a blessing if your loved one tends to shift or roll in sleep. They’re also useful for support while getting up.
- Also consider:
- Brake-locking wheels for stability
- Easy height adjustment (for transfers or cleaning)
- Mattress type — foam vs. air (air mattresses help reduce pressure sores)
🔍 Look for beds that have a remote control or easy-to-use levers. The fewer the complications, the better when you’re tired or in a rush.
- ✅ 3. Renting Makes Financial Sense
Let’s be honest — buying a hospital bed can cost upwards of ₹35,000 to ₹80,000. For most families, that’s not realistic if the need is short-term.
Rental beds usually cost between ₹800 to ₹3,000 per month, depending on the type and city.
If you need it for 1 to 3 months, renting is the smarter option.
You can also rent other useful items like:
- Overbed tables
- Oxygen concentrators
- Wheelchairs or commodes
👉 Aarogyaa Bharat offers delivery, installation, and pickup — so you don’t have to stress about the logistics.
- ✅ 4. Measure Your Space Before Ordering
Hospital beds are bulky. Before placing an order:
- Measure your doorway width
- Check the room layout
- Make sure there’s room to walk around the bed
- Leave space for a caregiver chair or portable table
📝 Write down measurements and share them with the rental provider. It avoids last-minute surprises.
- ✅ 5. Ask About Mattress & Accessories
Sometimes rental companies offer only the frame — not the mattress.
Be clear when booking:
- Does the rental include a mattress? (Preferably waterproof and easy to clean)
- Are side rails included?
- Is delivery and installation free or chargeable?
- What happens if something breaks?
📞 Don’t feel shy to ask — you’re trusting them with a part of your caregiving.
- ✅ 6. Don’t Forget the Patient’s Comfort
Many patients don’t complain — but discomfort shows in their sleep, appetite, or mood.
After renting the bed, monitor:
- Are they able to sit up comfortably?
- Is the mattress too hard or causing backaches?
- Can they reach water, medicine, or the bell easily?
Consider adding a soft pillow, side table, or adjustable headrest if needed. Small tweaks can make a big difference in recovery.
- ✅ 7. When Should You Return It?
Rent it as long as your patient needs assistance with:
- Sitting up
- Turning over
- Getting in/out of bed
Once they’re walking comfortably or spending more time in a regular chair, you might not need the hospital bed anymore.
But always check with their doctor or physiotherapist before returning it.
FAQs
Q: Is it safe to rent a used hospital bed?
Yes, as long as it’s sanitized properly. Reliable providers ensure beds and mattresses are cleaned before delivery.
Q: How fast can I get a hospital bed delivered at home?
Most services, like Aarogyaa Bharat, can deliver within 24–48 hours depending on your city.
Q: Do I need any tools or help to install it?
Usually no. Most companies include setup. But it’s smart to have one family member around to oversee placement and adjustments.
Q: Can I rent for just a week?
Some companies offer weekly plans, but monthly rental usually offers better value. Always ask for flexible duration options.
Final Word: Make the Right Choice, Not the Expensive One
When someone you love is recovering or needs long-term care, comfort matters. And not just for them — for you, too.
A hospital bed at home isn’t just a piece of equipment. It becomes a space for healing, dignity, and safer caregiving. You don’t have to spend a fortune, and you don’t have to manage alone.
🔗 Explore easy, reliable hospital bed rentals at www.aarogyaabharat.com — trusted by families across India for medical equipment delivered to your doorstep.
