Homestyle Bed Rails: A Guide To The Best Bed Rails
Contents
Although bed may be the most comfortable place in the home, sometimes getting in and out of it can be a pain, literally.
If the bed isn’t at the perfect height for us, occasionally a little help is needed.
For children just learning to sleep in a big kid’s bed, bed rails are often necessary to help prevent them tossing and turning their way off the bed.
That’s where homestyle bed rails come in. What makes these bed rails “homestyle” is the fact that they look like they’re part of the bed. They don’t look like they belong in a hospital or nursing home.
Because you’ll want something suitable and sturdy, our guide to the best bed rails will help you in your search.
Bed Rail Safety First
Adult bed rails can help with getting in and out of bed, but they carry real risks. The FDA and the Consumer Product Safety Commission have received reports of deaths and injuries from adult portable bed rails, mostly from entrapment, suffocation and falls.
Entrapment happens when a person slips into a gap between the rail and the mattress. People with dementia, delirium, Parkinson’s disease, stroke or other conditions affecting movement or thinking are at higher risk.
Before you buy, the FDA recommends that you:
- Check that the rail meets the ASTM F3186-17 safety standard.
- Confirm the rail fits your specific bed frame and mattress, and inspect often for gaps.
- Install it exactly as the instructions say, with any safety strap secured to the frame.
- Never use a rail as a restraint or as a substitute for supervision.
If rails are not a good fit, the FDA suggests alternatives such as lowering the bed, foam bumpers or roll guards. Ask a doctor or occupational therapist if you’re unsure.
Drive Medical Adjustable Height Bed Rail
This adjustable homestyle bed rail by Drive Medical is simple, yet super effective in helping adults, especially the elderly, get in and out of bed with no messing about.
There are no contraptions to worry about making fit your bed.
This model simply slips under the mattress and nonslip foam keeps it in place.
The height of the bar is completely adjustable to suit you.
You can remove it completely when not needed when stored flat.
The chrome-plated steel will help provide stability when handling. It comes in three pieces to be assembled easily without the need of tools.
Only one bed rail for one side of the bed is included.
When it comes to homestyle bed rails, this is one of the simplest designs, without a load of bars to worry about.
Drive Medical Home Style Bed Rails
Drive Medical have also designed a double, longer bed rail that’s easy to install into your bed frame.
This bed rail goes underneath the mattress with two rails on either side.
The rail length adjusts with a push button, and the removable crossbars extend to fit wider beds.
Check the current listing for exact lengths and bed-size compatibility before you buy.
When getting in and out of bed, the easy spring release will make adjusting the rails up and down simple. The one-inch steel provides extra durability.
RMS Adjustable Dual Bed Rail
RMS adjustable bed rail is another highly rated bed rail that goes on either side of the bed.
This bed rail is designed for twin and full size beds. Check the listing for the current warranty terms.
The RMS dual rail has three handles on each rail, making it easier to get in and out of bed without needing to adjust too much.
The rails raise above the mattress when in use and retract to below bed level when not needed.
Essential Medical Supply Adjustable Bed Rail
The Essential Medical Supply adjustable bed rail is another good example of a single rail for one side of the bed.
The rail slips under the mattress and stays in place with foam grips. Its height is adjustable.
Check the listing for the current weight capacity and dimensions, and make sure it suits the user.
You can even purchase an additional accessory pouch that fits over this rail, a great way to store books, magazines, the remote, and more.
Regalo Swing Bedrail
When it comes to young kids, transitioning from a crib to a big bed can be quite daunting.
With bed rails, both you and your child will get some peace of mind, but you’ll want one of the most reliable, best bed rails for toddlers out there.
This rail has a quick set up with no tools required. It has a steel frame covered with a soft mesh, which can be removed and washed.
Follow the manufacturer’s age and mattress guidance, and check that there is no gap between the rail and the mattress.
When it’s time to get up, the bed rail swings down.
Conclusion
Get peace of mind for yourself, child, or another family member with one of the great homestyle bed rails listed in our guide.
They can make getting in and out of bed easier and lower the risk of rolling out of bed.
No rail removes every risk, though. Choose one that fits your bed, check it often for gaps, and keep an eye on anyone at higher risk of entrapment.
These easy to assemble homestyle bed rail choices will be a much-welcomed addition for those who need it.
Sources
- Safety Concerns about Adult Portable Bed Rails, U.S. Food and Drug Administration
- Recommendations for Consumers and Caregivers about Adult Portable Bed Rails, U.S. Food and Drug Administration
