Short answer
Before someone comes home from the hospital, wash all bedding, put on a fitted waterproof protector and a bed pad, and check the mattress for stains or odor. If the bed hasn't been cleaned in a while or there were accidents before the stay, a low-moisture sanitation visit a few days before discharge leaves time to dry and set up. Follow the discharge team's equipment instructions.
Key terms used on this page
- Waterproof protector:
- A removable, washable cover with a waterproof layer that sits under the sheet. It turns most accidents into laundry and keeps urine out of the mattress itself.
- Bed-pad layering:
- Protector on the mattress, sheet over it, washable or disposable pad on top, so accidents are changed at the pad.
Coming home is a good moment to reset the bed. The National Institute on Aging notes that a hospital discharge planner can help with logistics and equipment. The mattress itself is usually left to the family.
General information about mattress care, not medical advice. For health questions, talk with the person's doctor or care team.
Before discharge
- Wash all bedding hot.
- Fit a waterproof protector and a bed pad.
- Check the mattress for stains and odor.
- If it needs cleaning, book a few days ahead so it's dry and set up in time.
If equipment is coming
A hospital bed or air mattress from a supplier comes with their instructions. We service vinyl and coated hospital-bed mattresses but not powered air mattresses.
After an illness at home
Our service page on mattress cleaning after illness covers stomach bugs, fevers and accidents. For vomit, see the stain chemistry hub.
Sleep Sanitation's view
This section is our view. Sleep Sanitation serves Omaha, Lincoln and surrounding towns. Every visit includes dry vapor steam, HEPA vacuuming, UV-C light treatment, the built-in bed mite sensor on our JIGOO UV-C mattress vacuum and a moisture check before we leave. Enzyme treatment is used on urine and other biological jobs, and ordinary accident treatment is included in the $249 first-mattress price. Severe or biohazard contamination carries a surcharge, and we tell you before any work starts. Call or text (402) 512-5658, or email info@sleepsanitation.com.
Changelog
- 14 October 2026: First published. Sources accessed on this date.
Sources
- Different Care Settings at the End of Life · National Institute on Aging
Last reviewed October 14, 2026. Manufacturer specifications and care instructions change; check the current version for your exact model. This page is general information, not medical advice. How we source and check pages: editorial standards.