Cleaning, maintenance and servicing: pressure redistribution mattresses

In this phase, the trained health professional and equipment provider provide education on cleaning, maintenance and servicing requirements for the pressure redistribution mattress.

Effective maintenance supports safe and reliable use, reduces risk of equipment failure, and helps maintain performance over time.

Cleaning, maintenance and servicing considerations

• Cleaning, maintenance and servicing align with manufacturer guidance, including recommended cleaning methods, products and servicing intervals
• routine maintenance includes simple tasks such as visual checks and cleaning, which may be completed by the person with spinal cord injury or their support network, while more complex servicing such as pump repair, internal component replacement or electrical safety testing is completed by a qualified technician
• structured cleaning and maintenance schedules (daily, weekly and monthly) support consistent care and help maintain mattress performance and longevity
• signs of wear or damage are identified early, including cover tears, fluid ingress, changes in inflation or reduced performance that may increase risk of skin breakdown
• faults or concerns that may affect safety or performance are escalated promptly through appropriate repair or funding pathways
• maintenance processes align with funding requirements, including documentation and approved repair pathways
• replacement timeframes are anticipated to support timely reassessment, trial and prescription of replacement equipment.

Maintenance overview

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.