Low Air Loss Mattress Guide

✦ Everything you need to know — from Must Medical Equipment, Metro Vancouver ✦

Speak with a specialist about the right mattress for your needs:

A low air loss mattress is a dynamic pressure redistribution system consisting of interconnected air cells that continuously circulate a gentle flow of air. This airflow serves two critical functions:

• Pressure redistribution — air cells inflate and deflate in alternating cycles, preventing any single area of skin from bearing sustained pressure
• 💨 Microclimate management — the constant airflow wicks away heat and moisture from the skin surface, the two primary environmental factors that accelerate skin breakdown

Unlike static foam mattresses, low air loss systems actively respond to the patient's body — making them the gold standard for Stage II–IV pressure injury prevention and treatment.

Immobile Patients

Individuals who cannot reposition themselves independently — stroke, spinal cord injury, advanced dementia

Active Pressure Injuries

Stage II, III, or IV wounds requiring an offloading surface to allow healing without further tissue damage

Bariatric Patients

Higher body weight increases interface pressure — low air loss systems provide consistent redistribution regardless of weight

Diaphoresis / Incontinence

Patients with excessive sweating or incontinence benefit from the moisture-wicking airflow that keeps skin dry

Post-Surgical Recovery

Patients recovering from hip, knee, or spinal surgery who spend extended time in bed during the acute phase

Fragile / Elderly Skin

Aging skin loses elasticity and resilience — even moderate pressure over short periods can cause injury in high-risk individuals

💨 Airflow Rate & Pressure Settings

Look for systems with adjustable airflow rates and pressure settings calibrated to patient weight. Clinical-grade units allow precise pressure control down to 10–15 mmHg — below capillary closing pressure.

🔄 Alternating vs. Static Mode

Premium systems offer both alternating pressure (cells cycle on/off) and static low air loss modes. Static mode is used during wound care procedures; alternating mode is used for ongoing prevention.

🛡️ Cover Material

The mattress cover must be vapour-permeable (to allow airflow to reach the skin) yet fluid-resistant and easy to disinfect. Look for multi-stretch covers that conform to the patient without creating friction.

⚡ CPR / Emergency Deflation

A critical safety feature — the mattress must deflate instantly to provide a firm surface for CPR. Verify this feature is present on any unit used in a home care setting.

🔇 Noise Level

The pump motor runs continuously. Clinical-grade units operate at 35–45 dB — comparable to a quiet library. Avoid consumer-grade units that run louder and disrupt sleep.

⚖️ Weight Capacity

Standard systems support up to 300–350 lbs. Bariatric low air loss systems are available for patients up to 600+ lbs and feature wider cell configurations for full-body coverage.

Therapeutic 5 Zone Support Mattress

Engineered with five distinct pressure zones that mirror the body's natural weight distribution — heavier zones at the hips and shoulders receive greater support while lighter zones at the head and legs maintain comfort. Ideal for long-term home care patients.

• ✦ 5-zone pressure redistribution
• ✦ Vapour-permeable cover
• ✦ Compatible with all standard homecare bed frames

Best for: Long-term immobile patients at moderate-to-high pressure injury risk.

View Product ›

Harmony Relax Mattress

The Harmony Relax combines therapeutic pressure redistribution with a comfort-first design — making it the preferred choice for patients who are partially mobile and spend a mix of time in bed and in a chair. Its medium-firm feel supports safe transfers without bottoming out.

• ✦ Medium-firm therapeutic foam core
• ✦ Fluid-resistant, washable cover
• ✦ Lightweight — easy caregiver handling

Best for: Partially mobile patients and post-surgical recovery.

View Product ›

🏠 Rental

Ideal for short-to-medium term needs — post-surgical recovery, wound healing, or palliative care. Rental includes delivery, setup, and pickup. No long-term commitment required.

🛒 Purchase

For patients with chronic conditions, long-term immobility, or ongoing wound care needs, purchasing provides better value and ensures the system is always available without scheduling constraints.

 How is a low air loss mattress different from an alternating pressure mattress?

Both use air cells, but low air loss systems add a continuous airflow component that actively manages skin microclimate (heat and moisture). Alternating pressure mattresses cycle cells on and off for pressure relief but do not provide the same moisture-wicking benefit. Low air loss is the higher-tier clinical intervention.

Does BC PharmaCare or extended health cover low air loss mattresses?

BC's Aids for Daily Living (ADL) program may cover therapeutic mattresses with a physician's prescription and documented clinical need. Many extended health plans also provide partial coverage. We recommend requesting a written prescription from your physician or wound care nurse before ordering.

 Can a low air loss mattress be used on any hospital bed frame?

Most low air loss mattresses are designed to fit standard homecare bed frames (36" width). Bariatric models require wider frames. Our team will confirm compatibility with your existing bed or recommend a matched bed-and-mattress package.

How loud is the pump motor?

Clinical-grade units operate at approximately 35–45 dB — similar to a quiet library or soft background conversation. Consumer-grade units can be significantly louder. All units we carry are clinical-grade and suitable for overnight use without disrupting sleep.

How do I clean and maintain a low air loss mattress?

The cover should be wiped down with a hospital-grade disinfectant after each use and laundered regularly. The air cells and pump unit require periodic inspection for leaks. Our team provides a full care and maintenance briefing with every delivery.

🌬️