What to check before ordering an air mattress

Identify the format and the fit

Ask whether the product is an overlay used with an existing mattress or a replacement mattress. Record the stated length, width and height, and whether those dimensions describe the inflated product. Include the make and model of the bed frame in your enquiry. If the mattress will be used across several bed types, identify each one.

The FDA's bed-system guidance explains that mattress dimensions and characteristics affect the relationship between the mattress, frame and rails. It also recommends consulting the manufacturer about overlay compatibility. Have the responsible clinical and engineering teams assess the proposed combination; a matching length and width alone do not establish suitability.

Compare the mattress and pump as a set

List the pump reference alongside the mattress reference. Request the pressure range, cycle description, available settings and any stated operating limits. Where alarms or other controls are required, ask the supplier to confirm which are present on the quoted version and to provide the relevant instructions.

Specify mains voltage, frequency and plug type. Confirm hose length, connector type and the pump's mounting arrangement. If the catalogue shows several pump options, name the one you want priced. A replacement pump should be confirmed compatible with the mattress; a connector that appears similar in a photograph is not sufficient evidence.

Materials, maintenance and replacement parts

Ask for the cell material and cover specification separately. Establish whether the cover is supplied, removable and available as a spare. Request the manufacturer's cleaning and disinfection instructions so your team can check them against its own procedures before buying.

Where a weight limit is listed, confirm the precise meaning of that value and the product configuration to which it applies. Keep it separate from shipping weight. If the information is missing or inconsistent between the listing and technical sheet, ask for a corrected, dated specification instead of choosing the more favourable number.

Build a small replacement-parts schedule with the supplier: covers, individual cells where replaceable, hoses, connectors and pump filters where applicable. Ask for part references, minimum order quantities and the current availability of each item. Do not assume that every mattress allows individual-cell replacement.

Request the warranty terms and the process for reporting a fault. Confirm whether the offered arrangement involves repair, replacement or another remedy, and who pays transport costs. Keep those terms with the quotation so they remain attached to the equipment specification after purchase.

Plan what will be checked on arrival

Agree an incoming inspection list before the order is released. It can include the delivered reference and quantities, visible condition, labels, accessories and the presence of the specified documents. Any functional or safety checks should follow the manufacturer's instructions and your organisation's qualified procedures.

Photographs in a catalogue are reference images. Ask the quotation to identify the actual supplied colour, cover, pump and branding. If several sites are receiving equipment, provide the allocation and delivery addresses early so cartons and accompanying paperwork can be agreed.

Send Autograph the catalogue reference, quantity, bed details and destination with your enquiry. Include the specifications that your team considers mandatory.