Renting a hospital bed is often your first step when setting up home care—but knowing exactly what's bundled into a package saves you hundreds in surprise fees and delays. Most rental companies offer different tiers, and the difference between a basic frame and a fully loaded package can mean the difference between adequate care and comfort for your loved one. Let's break down what actually comes standard, what costs extra, and how to compare packages smartly.
What's Typically Included in Standard Rental Packages
Basic hospital bed rentals usually cover the bed frame itself, a firm mattress, and side rails—usually priced between $150–$250 per month depending on your region. The frame will be manually operated (hand cranks to adjust height and incline) or semi-electric (motorized head and foot sections with manual height adjustment). You'll get delivery and setup, though some providers charge $50–$100 separately if you're outside their immediate service area.
Most packages include weekly maintenance checks during the rental period. If parts wear out or the mattress develops issues, reputable rental companies swap them without extra cost. This is crucial because it protects you from liability if something fails mid-care.
Electric Bed Packages and Add-Ons
Fully electric beds—where you control height, head tilt, and foot elevation with a remote—run $250–$400 monthly and represent a significant jump in convenience, especially for caregivers managing multiple daily adjustments. These beds typically include the same delivery, setup, and maintenance as standard models.
Common add-ons that are not included in base packages:
- Pressure relief mattresses ($30–$60/month): Essential for patients at risk of bedsores; memory foam or air-surface options
- Bed rails or safety bars ($20–$40/month): Extra grab handles beyond standard side rails
- Trapeze bars ($25–$50 one-time): Helps patients reposition themselves, reducing caregiver strain
- Bedside table or over-bed table ($15–$25/month): Convenient for meals, medications, remote controls
- Bed pad and waterproof protector ($10–$20/month): Often recommended but sometimes billed separately
Patient Lift Rental Packages
If you're also renting a patient lift—critical for safe transfers without back injury—most companies bundle bed and lift rentals at a modest discount. A standard mechanical or motorized patient lift runs $150–$300 monthly and typically includes:
- The lift unit itself (electric or hydraulic)
- One set of slings (usually mesh for bathing situations)
- Monthly inspections and weight-capacity verification
- Delivery and basic training on operation
Additional slings (for different transfer scenarios: toileting, bathing, or standing lifts) cost $20–$50 each. Most caregivers benefit from 2–3 slings to avoid constant laundry.
Rental Duration and Commitment Terms
Month-to-month rentals are standard, with no long-term contracts required—a major advantage over purchasing. However, some providers offer slight discounts (5–10%) if you commit to 3, 6, or 12 months upfront. Clarify cancellation policies; legitimate companies allow 48–72 hours' notice without penalty.
If you're unsure about duration, start with month-to-month. Once you understand your actual needs and budget, you can negotiate better rates or lock in longer terms.
Delivery, Setup, and Training
Most rental packages include free delivery within a service area (typically 15–30 miles from the provider's location). Setup usually means assembling the bed, testing electric components, positioning it in the chosen room, and confirming proper function. Training on adjusting height, operating electronic controls, and using side rails should be included; if a provider glosses over this, ask for a dedicated walk-through.
Out-of-service-area deliveries typically cost $100–$250 extra, depending on distance.
Red Flags When Comparing Packages
Watch for providers who require upfront deposits beyond the first month's rental—especially large ones. Legitimate companies collect payment on delivery or via established billing cycles. Also, confirm whether maintenance and repairs are truly included; some budget providers charge service calls at $50–$150, which defeats the purpose of renting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need to purchase a new mattress separately, or is one included? Most rental packages include a basic hospital-grade mattress, but if your loved one is at high risk for pressure sores or has specific comfort needs, you'll want to upgrade to a pressure relief mattress—usually a monthly add-on rather than an upfront purchase.
Q: Can I rent a bed and lift together, and will I get a discount? Yes, virtually all providers offer bundle discounts of 10–20% when you rent both simultaneously, and it simplifies billing to a single company.
Q: What happens if the bed breaks down during my rental? Standard rental agreements include maintenance and repair at no additional charge; the provider typically sends a technician within 24–48 hours, or swaps the unit immediately for a loaner while repairs happen.
Use Mercoly to compare hospital bed and patient lift rental packages from trusted providers in your area—you'll see exactly what's included, pricing, and cancellation terms side-by-side.