How to Clean a Hospital Bed: A Step-by-Step Guide

Key Takeaways:

• Regular cleaning of hospital beds is essential for infection control and equipment longevity
• Always disconnect power before cleaning electric components
• Use manufacturer-approved cleaners to avoid damaging surfaces
• Pay special attention to high-touch areas and crevices where contaminants collect
• Establish a consistent cleaning schedule with both daily and deep cleaning protocols
• Proper mattress cleaning is equally important as frame sanitization

Knowing how to clean a hospital bed properly is vital for infection control, equipment longevity, and patient comfort. Whether used in a medical facility or home care setting, hospital beds require specialized cleaning procedures to ensure they remain sanitary and functioning optimally for years to come.

 

Understanding the Importance of Hospital Bed Cleaning

Hospital beds are complex medical devices with numerous surfaces, mechanisms, and components that can harbor pathogens and contaminants. Proper cleaning is essential for several reasons:

1. Infection Prevention - Reduces risk of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs)
2. Extended Equipment Life - Prevents premature wear from contaminant buildup
3. Improved Functionality - Ensures smooth operation of moving parts
4. Odor Control - Prevents unpleasant smells from bodily fluids and spills
5. Patient Comfort - Provides a clean and dignified healing environment

For electric hospital beds in particular, balancing thorough sanitization with protection of electronic components requires special attention to cleaning techniques and product selection.

 

Materials and Supplies Needed

Before beginning the cleaning process, gather these essential supplies:

Cleaning Tools:

• Microfiber cloths (preferably color-coded for different areas)
• Soft-bristled brushes for crevices and textured surfaces
• Extension tools for reaching underneath and between components
• Clean buckets for solution preparation
• Disposable gloves (change between dirty and clean procedures)
• Protective eyewear if using strong disinfectants

Cleaning Solutions:

• Hospital-grade disinfectant (EPA-registered and approved for medical equipment)
• Mild detergent solution for initial cleaning
• Manufacturer-recommended specialized cleaners
• Distilled water for electronics cleaning and final wiping
• Quaternary ammonium compounds for most surfaces
• Hydrogen peroxide-based solutions for specific pathogens

Additional Items:

• Clean sheets and linens for after cleaning
• Mattress cover if replacing damaged ones
• Documentation materials for cleaning log
• Manufacturer's cleaning instructions for reference

Preparation Steps Before Cleaning

Proper preparation ensures both safety and cleaning effectiveness:

1. Gather Documentation - Review manufacturer guidelines for approved cleaning methods and products
2. Remove Occupant - Ensure the bed is unoccupied and relocate the patient if in a healthcare setting
3. Disconnect Power - Unplug the bed from electrical outlets before cleaning any electric components
4. Remove Linens - Strip all sheets, pillowcases, and removable fabric items
5. Raise Bed Height - Adjust to waist level to reduce back strain during cleaning
6. Lock Wheels - Engage brakes to prevent movement during the cleaning process
7. Flatten Surface - Return bed to flat position for complete access to all surfaces
8. Remove Detachable Parts - Take off headboard, footboard, and rails if possible for thorough cleaning

Step-by-Step Cleaning Process

Follow this comprehensive process to thoroughly clean a hospital bed:

1. Dust and Debris Removal

• Using a dry microfiber cloth, wipe down all surfaces to remove loose dust
• Pay special attention to the underside of the bed frame and spring deck
• Use a soft brush to dislodge debris from joints, crevices, and mechanical components
• For beds with air systems, check and clean air intakes according to manufacturer instructions

2. Surface Cleaning

• Prepare detergent solution according to manufacturer recommendations
• Using a clean cloth, wipe down all surfaces starting from the top of the bed and working downward
• Clean the headboard, side rails, foot board, and frame with special attention to high-touch areas
• Use a damp (not wet) cloth for control panels and electronic components
• Clean the underside of the bed frame, including cross-members and support structures
• Wipe down the bed's legs and wheels/casters

3. Disinfection Process

• Apply an appropriate hospital-grade disinfectant to all surfaces
• Ensure proper "wet contact time" as specified by the disinfectant manufacturer
• Pay special attention to high-touch areas:
  • Bed controls and remote devices
  • Side rail release mechanisms
  • Adjustment handles and cranks
  • Transfer assist devices
• For bariatric hospital beds, ensure disinfection of reinforced components and expanded width areas
• Allow surfaces to air dry completely

4. Mattress Cleaning

Proper hospital bed mattress cleaning is essential for infection control:

• Check for visible soiling or damage to mattress cover
• Wipe down the entire mattress surface with detergent solution
• Disinfect according to mattress type (standard foam, air, gel, or alternating pressure)
• Pay special attention to seams, zippers, and corners where fluids may penetrate
• For specialty surfaces, follow specific manufacturer guidelines
• Allow mattress to dry completely before remaking bed

5. Mechanical Component Maintenance

• Using approved lubricants only if recommended by manufacturer
• Clean and check all moving mechanisms:
  • Height adjustment systems
  • Articulation joints
  • Side rail mechanisms
  • Wheel locks and swivel functions
• Carefully clean control boxes and motor housings with slightly damp cloth
• For low hospital beds, ensure ultra-low mechanisms are free of debris

6. Electronics and Controls Cleaning

• Use electronics-safe cleaners on control panels and remotes
• Never spray liquid directly onto electronic components
• Apply cleaner to cloth first, then wipe surfaces
• Pay special attention to button crevices and seams
• Allow electronic components to dry completely before reconnecting power

7. Reassembly and Inspection

• Reattach headboard, footboard, and any removed components
• Perform a quick operational check of all functions
• Verify that all cleaning agents have been properly removed
• Ensure all surfaces are completely dry
• Remake bed with clean linens
• Document the cleaning in maintenance logs

 

Special Considerations for Different Bed Types

Different hospital bed models require specific cleaning approaches:

Electric Hospital Beds

• Power must be disconnected before cleaning
• Control boxes and motors require special attention
• Avoid liquid intrusion into electrical components
• Check manufacturer guidelines for approved cleaners
• Allow complete drying before reconnecting power

Premium Residential Models

For luxury hospital beds for home use:

• Use gentle cleaners on wood or designer finishes
• Clean hidden components without damaging aesthetic elements
• Pay attention to designer upholstery and decorative details
• Protect wood finishes from harsh chemical damage
• Maintain both appearance and functionality

Specialty Therapeutic Beds

• Clean air bladders and pumps according to manufacturer specifications
• For rotation beds, clean all articulation points thoroughly
• With low air loss systems, ensure proper cleaning of air ports and distribution channels
• For lateral rotation beds, verify all movement mechanisms are debris-free

Cleaning Frequency Guidelines

Establish a regular cleaning schedule based on use environment:

Daily Cleaning (High-Use Settings)

• Wipe down all high-touch surfaces with disinfectant
• Check for visible soiling and address immediately
• Quick inspection of critical moving parts
• Change linens and inspect mattress surface

Weekly Deep Cleaning

• Complete frame disinfection
• Thorough cleaning of all mechanical components
• Detailed inspection of mattress integrity
• Documentation of cleaning and any identified issues

Monthly Maintenance Cleaning

• Comprehensive disinfection of entire bed system
• Detailed cleaning of all mechanical parts
• Thorough inspection and preventive maintenance
• Documentation in service records

As-Needed Cleaning

• Immediately after bodily fluid exposure
• Between patient transfers
• Following isolation precautions
• After extended storage periods

Common Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid

Prevent damage to hospital beds by avoiding these errors:

1. Using Incorrect Cleaning Agents

• Harsh bleach solutions can damage finishes and electronics
• Abrasive cleaners can scratch surfaces and create bacterial harbors
• Unapproved solvents may damage plastics and void warranties
• Always check manufacturer guidelines for approved cleaning products

2. Improper Protection of Electronics

• Spraying liquids directly onto control panels
• Over-saturating cleaning cloths near electronic components
• Failing to properly dry electronic areas
• Using non-approved cleaners on electronic surfaces

3. Inadequate Contact Time

• Wiping disinfectants off before proper contact time is achieved
• Rushing the cleaning process and missing critical areas
• Failing to allow proper drying time between cleaning steps

4. Neglecting Hidden Areas

• Underside of bed frame and cross supports
• Behind headboard and footboard connections
• Caster wheels and brake mechanisms
• Cable routing areas and motor housings

Cleaning After Specific Contamination Events

Special situations require enhanced protocols:

Bodily Fluid Spills

1. Don appropriate PPE (gloves, gown, face protection if splashing is possible)
2. Remove visible contaminants with absorbent material
3. Clean area with detergent solution
4. Apply hospital-grade disinfectant with appropriate pathogen kill claims
5. Allow proper contact time
6. Remove residual disinfectant with clean, damp cloth
7. Thoroughly dry all surfaces

MRSA or C. difficile Exposure

1. Use EPA-registered disinfectants with specific claims for these pathogens
2. Consider hydrogen peroxide or bleach-based products (if approved by manufacturer)
3. Ensure extended contact times as required
4. Pay special attention to porous surfaces and difficult-to-clean areas
5. Consider terminal cleaning procedures for severe contamination

Bed Bug Incidents

1. Remove all linens in sealed bags for special laundering
2. Vacuum thoroughly using HEPA-filtered equipment
3. Apply approved pesticide treatments if necessary
4. Use steam cleaning for mattresses if permissible
5. Consider professional pest management for severe infestations

Safety Precautions During Cleaning

Protect yourself and equipment during the cleaning process:

Personal Protection

• Wear appropriate PPE including gloves and eye protection
• Use respiratory protection when working with aerosolized cleaners
• Practice proper hand hygiene before and after cleaning
• Change gloves when moving from dirty to clean tasks

Equipment Protection

• Avoid excessive moisture around electronic components
• Protect mattresses from punctures during cleaning
• Prevent cleaner overspray onto adjacent surfaces
• Allow complete drying before reassembly

Environmental Safety

• Ensure proper ventilation during cleaning
• Dispose of contaminated materials according to regulations
• Store cleaning chemicals safely and properly labeled
• Follow facility protocols for biohazard management

Training Staff and Caregivers

Proper education ensures consistent cleaning practices:

Key Training Elements

• Hands-on demonstration of proper techniques
• Review of manufacturer-specific guidelines
• Documentation requirements and verification processes
• Recognition of when to escalate cleaning needs

Creating Visual Guides

• Step-by-step cleaning checklists
• Color-coded maps of high-touch areas
• Quick reference guides for common cleaning scenarios
• Photographic examples of properly cleaned components

Final Take

Knowing how to clean a hospital bed properly is essential for infection control, equipment longevity, and patient safety. By following manufacturer guidelines, using appropriate cleaning products, and establishing consistent cleaning protocols, you can ensure that hospital beds remain sanitary and functioning optimally for years to come.

Regular, thorough cleaning not only prevents the spread of infections but also protects your investment in medical equipment by preventing premature wear and damage. Whether in a healthcare facility or home setting, these cleaning procedures will help maintain a safe, comfortable healing environment.

Remember that different bed types have specific cleaning requirements, so always consult manufacturer guidelines for model-specific instructions. With proper care and maintenance, a hospital bed can provide years of reliable service while supporting optimal patient health and recovery.

For more information on selecting and maintaining the ideal hospital bed for your needs, explore our comprehensive collection of top-quality options designed for both home and professional care environments.

Interested in learning more? Explore our guides on Top Brands for Hospital Beds, Understanding the Cost of Hospital Beds, and Best Beds for Elderly and Senior Care to help you make informed decisions about your medical equipment.