What is an Alternating Air Pressure Mattress?

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There are many types of air mattresses available today. 

Some of these are versatile all-around products. Others are better for use as a guest bed. Meanwhile, there is an entire range devoted to camping products. Whatever your needs, there’s something out there for you!


However, one of the most important types of bed is the alternating air pressure mattress. This special style of airbed is used for medical purposes. People with physical limitations are susceptible to bedsores. However, these special mattresses reduce the chances of them occurring. 

In this guide, we’ll look at different alternating air pressure mattresses. Let’s get started!

How Does An Alternating Air Mattress Work?

These special mattresses contain a row of lateral air cells. 

A pump is connected to the mattress. It continuously inflates and deflates the air cells within the mattress. This gradual movement reduces the pressure of the occupant’s body on the bed. 

Many people who are bedridden struggle to move their bodies. This can lead to unpleasant consequences. Bedsores and ulcers will develop on their skin if they don’t move. The constant movement is designed to provide relief and ease their pain. 

These mattresses are commonplace in hospitals. However, they can also be bought for domestic use. Before buying an alternating air pressure mattress, you should consider what type of bed you plan to place it on. Some pressure pads are compatible with standard beds. These are usually the cheapest options. 

Then there are more specialized products intended for hospital beds. 

Typically, these have more advanced features and superior construction. This is probably the best option for completely-bedridden patients. 

What is the Best Alternating Air Pressure Mattress?

Now let’s look at some of the best alternating air pressure mattresses on the market. We’ll review these airbeds based on their functionality, comfort, and overall value. 

Take a look!

Apex Medical Domus 2s – 5″ Alternating Pressure Mattress with Electric Pump Overlay System

The Apex Medical Domus Alternating Air Pressure Mattress is suitable for medical beds. Find it on Amazon now! 

Pros

The Domus is specially designed to reduce the risk of ulcers and bedsores. 

Apex designed this bed to evenly distribute the weight of a body and relieve pressure points. This is ideal for bedridden people as it is difficult for them to move their limbs. It uses a 10-minute pressure redistribution system for maximum comfort. 

The air pressure is adjustable based on your personal preferences. Meanwhile, the pump is almost soundless, so it won’t disturb the occupant. 

Apex has a one-year warranty for all of its products. 

Cons

Some verified users complained that the pump did not work effectively. Others said that the bed was too hard and uncomfortable. 

Vaunn Medical Cloud Air Whisper Quiet Alternating Air Pressure Mattress Topper with Pump

This mattress topper is approved by doctors. Check it out on Amazon now

Pros

Vaunn’s alternating air mattress topper is an excellent product. The brand uses vinyl as its main material instead of PVC. The latter has a reputation for containing phthalates. Critics regard vinyl as a safer option. 

Meanwhile, the pump is almost silent. Most verified reviews support this claim. The controls are also customizable based on the user’s requirements. Furthermore, the mattress topper’s 130 cells use an algorithm to inflate and deflate. 

Another benefit is that this bed is waterproof and is very sturdy. 

Cons

The majority of users agree that the pump runs with exceptional quietness. However, a couple of users disagreed. 

Some users also complained about the power voltage and claimed that they couldn’t use the airbed. 

Vive Alternating Pressure Mattress 5″ – Air Topper Pad

This alternating air pressure mattress fits on hospital beds. Amazon sells it. 

Pros

One of the Vive Alternating Pressure Mattress’s main advantages is the capacity to change its density. 

You can choose between a soft or firm texture for maximum comfort. It’s very easy to adjust the settings via the dial. Meanwhile, 16 air chambers provide a lot of relief for the occupant. 

Vive claims that the pump is ultra-quiet and simple to adjust. Most agree that it’s a good product based on the size. Also, the vinyl cover is waterproof. 

Cons

Some verified users complain that the air mattress is uncomfortable. 

They also said that the structure is strange and can lead to the occupant rolling in the bed. It may be less balanced than some competitors. 

Drive Medical 14029 Med-Aire Low Air Loss Mattress Replacement System with Alternating Pressure

This premium alternating pressure mattress is extremely advanced. You can find it on Amazon

Pros

The Drive Medical airbed is a top-of-the-range product. 

It’s designed for use in hospitals and hospices as well as homes. The bed contains multiple bladders that continuously shift to reduce pressure and treat ulcers. Furthermore, it’s suitable for long-term use. 

Another great feature is that it has 24 hours of power outage protection. There are multiple airflow cycle times from 10 to 25 minutes, depending on the user’s preference. It even has a pillow function for more comfort and support. 

Drive use nylon instead of PVC. This material is safer and of a higher quality. It’s also waterproof and vapor-permeable in case of accidents. 

Cons

Some users complained that the mattress isn’t comfortable and doesn’t inflate well. 

However, most reviewers agree that this is an excellent alternating air pressure mattress. 

Meridian Alternating Pressure Mattress with Electric Pump

Unlike other alternating air pressure mattresses, Meridian makes this for home beds. Check it out on Amazon

Pros

This product is much cheaper and more accessible than other alternating air mattresses. It may be suitable for somebody who retains limited mobility. 

Install it on top of a regular home mattress. Just plug it in, and it’s ready to work. 

The vinyl mattress uses 130 alternating air cells to provide a comfortable sensation for its occupant. It’s durable and long-lasting, with a dial to select your preferred level of firmness. The airbed has a maximum weight capacity of 300 pounds. Allegedly, the pump runs silently and doesn’t disturb sleepers. 

This is a great product, considering the price. Even if you’re not bedridden, it may help to improve your sleep!

Cons 

A minority of users complained that this alternating air mattress is uncomfortable. However, most people agree that it’s a great product. 

Blue Chip Medical Alternating Pressure Pad with Pump

Place this pressure pad on your regular mattress and plug it in. Check this product out on Amazon now

Pros

The Blue Chip pressure pad is similar to the Meridian Alternating Pressure Mattress. 

You can place it on an existing mattress and adjust it to your taste. Plug it into a socket and enjoy the sensation of relief. It has impressive eight firmness levels, so everybody will find one that suits them best. 

This pressure pad operates 10-minute cycles to ease the user’s tension and reduce the chances of ulcers. It also features a bed hanger bracket to lower the risk of accidental damage. The pressure pad uses fireproof PVC as its main material. 

Cons

Negative reviews claimed that this pressure pad mattress wasn’t comfortable. 


There were also complaints about the quality of the material and the overall construction. One user said that it only lasted for a few months before breaking down. 

Marsdirw Alternating Pressure Pad Air Mattress for Hospital Bed

This alternating air pressure mattress pad is designed for hospital-grade beds. Find it on Amazon now. 

Pros

Marsdirw designed this alternating air pressure pad for completely bedridden patients.

It uses 130 air cells to provide consistent airflow and reduce the occupant’s suffering. The cycle restarts every six minutes. 

The bed’s firmness is adjustable with five levels of inflation and a maximum weight capacity of 300 pounds. Also, the plug-in pump is almost silent. This is important so that the sleeper isn’t disturbed. 

Marsdirw uses vinyl instead of PVC for a high-quality product. The mattress is waterproof, fire-resistant, and passes all safety standards.

Cons 

Some users may find this air mattress uncomfortable. However, the reviews are generally positive. 

Final Thoughts

A good alternating air pressure mattress can change the quality of a person’s life. 

Ulcers and bedsores are no joke. They can be incredibly painful and uncomfortable to live with. If a bedridden person doesn’t move, they are likely to develop these, so it’s crucial to stop them before they arise. Choose the best alternating air pressure mattress for your needs. 

If you want one that fits on top of a standard bed, consider the Meridian pressure pad. It’s available at a fantastic price that belies its overall quality. The comfort level and general features match those of more expensive competitors. 

The Marsdirw Alternating Pressure Pad Air Mattress is a great option for hospital beds. These types of beds require a special type of mattress for more serious medical conditions. Marsdirw maintains excellent reviews and uses quality materials for a great air mattress. 

Finally, the Drive Medical Alternating Air Mattress is the top premium alternating air mattress for severely ill patients. This product isn’t cheap, but it’s one of the best.

Our comments above are not backed by medical expertise. When choosing a suitable bed topper in this category, expert medical advise should always be sought.

Our comments above are not backed by medical expertise but are purely informational. When choosing an air matress in this category, please consult your doctor or a medical expert.

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