Cleaning, maintenance and servicing: pressure redistribution mattresses

In this final phase, the trained health professional and product specialist should provide information and education about the recommended cleaning, maintenance and servicing program for the assistive technology (AT).

This is essential to ensure the person with spinal cord injury (SCI) can safely and effectively operate the AT, while maximising its longevity.

Considerations for cleaning, maintenance and servicing of pressure redistribution mattresses

Follow the manufacturer’s guidance on cleaning methods, compatible cleaning agents, recommended maintenance schedules, servicing intervals, and any warranty conditions
Arrange repair of any damage or significant wear promptly, including tears in the cover, signs of fluid ingress, reduced inflation, or changes in mattress performance that could increase risk of pressure injury
Ensure all procedures comply with funding body requirements, including cleaning standards, service record documentation, and approved repair pathways
Contact the funding body immediately if you observe issues that may compromise safety or PRM function. If the item was privately purchased, contact the supplier directly
Some maintenance tasks are simple, such as visual checks or routine wiping, while others should only be performed by a qualified technician, such as pump repair, internal component replacement, or electrical safety testing
Establish daily, weekly, monthly cleaning schedules and maintenance checks and ensure they are undertaken to improve longevity of the mattress
Check the frequency of replacement of the mattress with the funding body and ensure to allow enough time for trial, prescription and delivery prior to replacement.

General guidelines for cleaning, maintenance and servicing of pressure redistribution mattresses may include: 

Feature	Clinical Considerations
Cover	– Wipe the cover daily or after each care episode using a mild detergent or facility approved cleaning wipe – Inspect for tears, worn areas, seam failures, or signs of fluid ingress; deterioration increases risk to skin integrity and infection control – Ensure any replacement cover is compatible with the PRM type (e.g., vapour permeable, multi-stretch).
Insert (foam / air cells / hybrid components)	– For foam mattresses: check for sagging, compression, crumbling, or discolouration; these indicate loss of pressure redistribution capacity – For hybrid mattresses: ensure both the foam and air components function as intended; reduced performance in one component alters overall pressure management – Any evidence of internal moisture or staining warrants removal from use pending review.
Pump / motor unit	– Ensure pump is positioned safely with unobstructed airflow and adequate ventilation – Check for unusual noise, overheating, or loose fittings; these may indicate motor strain or internal component failure – Confirm alarms activate correctly during testing and that pressure settings correspond to clinical needs – Filters (if present) should be cleaned or replaced at recommended intervals to prevent reduced performance – Arrange servicing by qualified technician every 6-12 months or as per manufacturers/funding body specifications.
Power cables, hoses and connectors	– Inspect regularly for cracks, kinks, exposed wiring, or air leaks at connectors – Ensure hoses are not trapped under bed frames or moving parts that may restrict airflow or cause damage – Replace damaged tubing or cables immediately to prevent system malfunction or safety risks.
Replacement parts / manufacture specific components	– Only use manufacturer approved spare parts to maintain warranty and ensure correct function – Keep service records up to date, particularly when pumps or internal cells are replaced – Schedule servicing according to manufacturer and funding body requirements.
Overall system safety	– Conduct regular “bottoming out” checks (e.g., hand check where appropriate) to confirm adequate immersion and pressure redistribution – Ensure the mattress remains correctly positioned on the bed base and straps (if present) are secure – Remove the mattress from use immediately if safety concerns arise, transferring the person to an alternative surface while awaiting review.