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IC20 vs IC30: Which iCare Hospital Bed Mattress Is Right for You?

28.12.2025

IC20 vs IC30: Which iCare Hospital Bed Mattress Is Right for You?

Choosing the right hospital bed mattress can make a world of difference for pressure relief, transfers, and overall comfort. If you're comparing iCare's IC20 and IC30 mattresses, you're looking at two excellent options—but they serve slightly different needs.

View all Hospital Bed Mattress Options. View the IC30 Icare Mattress and IC20 mattress at MedShop Direct

For information direct from ICARE the IC20 link is here and the IC30 link is here

This guide breaks down the real differences between the iCare IC20 and IC30 mattresses so you can make the best choice for your situation. Please note for standard hospital beds that are 36"x80 it's important you select Icare's 35"x80 Twin XL option.

What Both iCare Mattresses Have in Common

Before we dive into differences, here's what matters most: both the IC20 and IC30 use ActiveX™ pressure care technology.

ActiveX™ is a high-grade elastic foam that responds to temperature and pressure. Here's how it works:

When a pressure point develops on your body, that area gets warm and inflamed. The ActiveX™ foam detects this heat and automatically softens in that exact spot. This allows blood to circulate freely again, preventing pressure sores before they start.

Whether you choose the IC20 or IC30, you're getting this intelligent pressure relief system. That's non-negotiable with iCare mattresses—and it's why they're trusted for long-term home care.

iCare IC20 Hospital Bed Mattress: The Comfort Standard

Best for: General home care, pressure relief, and all-around comfort

The IC20 is iCare's most popular hospital bed mattress, and for good reason. It's the medium-feel option that balances support with comfort.

IC20 Key Features:

  • Medium firmness - soft enough for comfort, firm enough for support
  • ActiveX™ pressure-sensitive foam - responds to heat and pressure to prevent sores
  • Excellent pressure relief for back pain and circulation issues
  • Budget-friendly compared to the IC30

Who Should Choose the IC20?

The IC20 hospital bed mattress works well if:

  • Comfort and pressure relief are your top priorities
  • You want proven ActiveX™ technology without premium add-ons
  • Transfers and repositioning aren't happening multiple times per day
  • You're looking for the best value in a quality pressure care mattress

The IC20 gives you everything you need for long-term care: pressure relief, back pain support, and the responsive foam technology that prevents skin breakdown.

iCare IC30 Hospital Bed Mattress: The Transfer Specialist

Best for: Frequent transfers, repositioning, mobility assistance, and advanced pressure care

The IC30 takes everything great about the IC20 and adds features specifically designed for easier, safer transfers.

IC30 Key Features:

  • Firm edge support - the game-changer for transfers
  • ActiveX™ pressure care in the main sleeping surface (same as IC20)
  • Gel-infused foam - keeps the mattress cooler throughout the night
  • Charcoal layer - absorbs moisture and odors for better hygiene
  • High-risk pressure care rating - suitable for those at greater risk of pressure injuries

Why the Firm Edge Matters for Transfers

Here's the feature that sets the IC30 apart: firm edge support.

When someone sits on the edge of a regular mattress to get in or out of bed, the edge collapses and sinks. This makes transfers harder, less stable, and more physically demanding for caregivers.

The IC30's firm edges stay solid when you sit on them. This means:

  • Safer transfers when getting in and out of bed
  • More stable surface when repositioning
  • Less physical strain on caregivers
  • Greater confidence during movement assistance
  • Reduced risk of falls during transfers

If transfers, repositioning, or any mobility assistance is part of your daily routine, the IC30's firm edge support is a legitimate safety upgrade.

The Cooling and Hygiene Benefits

The IC30 also includes:

Gel-infused foam - The gel helps regulate temperature, keeping the sleeping surface cooler. This is especially helpful if night sweats or overheating are concerns.

Charcoal layer - Activated charcoal absorbs moisture and neutralizes odors. For anyone dealing with incontinence or extended bed rest, this helps maintain comfort and dignity.

Who Should Choose the IC30?

The IC30 hospital bed mattress is worth the investment if:

  • Transfers happen multiple times per day
  • You or a caregiver assist with repositioning regularly
  • Mobility support is a daily reality
  • You want the added benefits of cooling gel and odor control
  • High-risk pressure care is medically necessary

IC20 vs IC30: Side-by-Side Comparison

FeatureiCare IC20iCare IC30FirmnessMediumMedium with firm edgesActiveX™ Pressure Relief✓ Yes✓ YesFirm Edge Support✗ No✓ YesGel Cooling✗ No✓ YesCharcoal Layer✗ No✓ YesBest ForComfort & pressure careTransfers & advanced carePrice PointBudget-friendlyPremium

Which iCare Mattress Should You Choose?

Choose the IC20 if:

You need excellent pressure relief and back pain support without the extra transfer features. It's the smart choice when comfort and pressure care are the priorities, and budget matters.

Choose the IC30 if:

Transfers, repositioning, or mobility assistance are part of your daily life. The firm edge support makes movement safer and easier for everyone involved. The cooling gel and charcoal are valuable bonuses for long-term comfort.

Why iCare Mattresses Stand Out

Both the IC20 and IC30 are designed by iCare, a brand that specializes in hospital-grade home care beds and mattresses. Their ActiveX™ technology sets them apart from standard foam mattresses—this isn't just cushioning, it's intelligent pressure management.

Whether you're managing chronic back pain, recovering from surgery, or providing long-term care for a loved one, iCare mattresses deliver hospital-quality pressure relief in a home setting.

The Bottom Line

The difference between the IC20 and IC30 isn't about "better" or "worse"—it's about what fits your specific needs.

IC20 = Proven pressure relief and comfort at a great value
IC30 = All that, plus firm edges for safer transfers and premium cooling/hygiene features

Both mattresses give you the ActiveX™ pressure care technology that prevents sores and supports circulation. The IC30 adds features that matter most when movement and transfers are part of daily life.