Hospital Bed Dimensions: Your Guide to Choosing the Right Size at Home

A hospital bed at home can make a real difference in your loved one's comfort and care. Whether they have trouble getting in and out of bed, are recovering from surgery, or need specialized support, the right hospital bed size matters for both their needs and your home's space.

While standard hospital bed dimensions work for most, it's important to understand all your options before making a decision. In this guide, we'll help you understand hospital bed sizes and measurements – making it easier for both you and your caregiver to create a safe, comfortable care environment at home.

Hospital bed dimensions: What you need to know

Hospital beds come in different sizes. The best option for your home depends on the patient's needs and the available space.

Many hospital beds are also adjustable, so you can change the height of the bed and the angle of the head and foot sections — giving you greater comfort and flexibility.

Although hospital bed sizes are standardized, each manufacturer may offer slightly different measurements. Below, we’ve listed the most common bed sizes, measured from headboard to footboard. But always be sure to check before buying or hiring a bed for home use.

Standard hospital bed

The standard hospital bed is the most commonly used in hospital bed in both healthcare settings and at home. These beds accommodate a wide range of adults. It's about the same size as a twin XL mattress:

• 36 inches wide

• 80 inches long

• Height adjusts from 21 to 29 inches

Narrow hospital bed size

If space is tight in your home, a narrow hospital bed might be your best choice. You'll get all the same features in a smaller package:

• 30 inches wide

• 80 inches long

• Adjustable height

Bariatric hospital bed size

Bariatric hospital beds are heavy-duty beds designed for people who need extra support. These beds have a higher weight capacity and wider bed width to ensure comfort and safety:

• 42 to 54 inches wide

• 80 to 84 inches long

• Adjustable height

How to choose the right size bed

Choosing the right hospital bed depends on several factors, all of which contribute to the patient’s needs and the caregiver’s ease of access.

User’s size

One of the most important factors in selecting the right bed size is the patient’s height and weight. With a 90-inch length (7.5 feet) for most beds, even taller patients are generally comfortable without needing further personalization.

Scientists have studied the correlation between BMI and bed size. They found that a person with a BMI of 45 or less will likely fit comfortably in a 36-inch wide bed. A person with a BMI over 45 will likely be more comfortable in a wider bed to ensure they have enough room to reposition comfortably.

Space constraints

Before selecting a bed, it’s important to measure the available space in the room where the bed will be placed. You’ll need to leave enough room around the bed for the patient to move, for caregivers to assist comfortably, and to accommodate any mobility aids or medical equipment nearby. Ideally, you want at least 3 feet (about 36 inches) of space on three sides of the bed.

Type of care needed

Depending on the mobility and needs of the patient, a larger bed may be better for turning, repositioning, and aiding the individual comfortably. Extra width may also be helpful if a caregiver or physical therapist will be treating the individual from the bed.

Hospital bed features

Hospital beds are designed to make caregiving easier and safer. Here are the key features to know about:

• Height controls: Hospital beds can typically move up and down, which makes it easier to get in and out. This adjustable height also helps caregivers provide care without straining their backs.

• Adjustable head and foot positions: You can raise or lower both the headboard and footboard. This flexibility helps with breathing, circulation, and sitting up comfortably.

• Easy-to-use controls: A simple remote lets your loved one adjust the bed themselves, giving them more independence. Healthcare providers and caregivers can also easily adjust settings during care.

• Side rails for safety: Bed rails help prevent rolling out of bed. Many hospital beds let you raise, lower, or remove the side rails to make access easier when needed.

• Attachment points for medical devices: These beds include secure spots to attach things like IV poles or oxygen tanks, keeping necessary equipment organized and within reach.

• Built-in scale: For patients who may be immobile or unable to stand, a built-in scale allows caregivers and healthcare providers to monitor weight without needing to move the patient.

Can I use my own mattress on a hospital bed frame?

While it may be possible to fit a regular mattress on a standard hospital bed frame, it is not recommended. Hospital bed mattresses are made specially to distribute pressure evenly to minimize the risk of bedsores or ulcers. Regular mattresses also won’t work with adjustability features and could pose a risk to the patient and increase their risk of falling.

What size sheet fits a hospital bed?

It’s ideal to purchase sheets that are specifically made for hospital beds to ensure a good fit and improve the patient’s comfort. Hospital bed sheets are often made from 100% cotton or a cotton/polyester blend.

However, if you do not want to invest in hospital bed sheets, most twin XL sheets will fit a standard hospital bed. Ensure the sheet pockets are deep enough, about 6 inches, to properly fit the corners of the bed.

How much room is needed for a hospital bed at home?

To ensure comfort and accessibility, allow about 36 inches (3 feet) of space on at least three sides of the bed. This will provide enough room for caregivers to move around, store mobility aids, and adjust the bed as needed.

Does Medicare pay for a hospital bed?

Medicare Part B categorizes home hospital beds as durable medical equipment (DME), meaning they typically cover up to 80% of the bed cost once you’ve met your Part B deductible.

Have more questions about what Medicare does and doesn’t cover when it comes to DME? Speak with one of our independent Medicare Advisors, who are eager to help you understand your coverage and how to get the most out of Medicare. Get in touch by calling us at (855) 900-2427 or picking a time to chat.