Maintaining and Cleaning Your Pressure Sore Mattress Overlay: Dos and Don’ts

Pressure relieving products have long been invaluable in the healthcare industry, offering protection and comfort to individuals in hospitals or care homes who find themselves confined to bed for extended periods. However, pressure sore mattress overlays are now being used by individuals in the community too and they can have a big impact on quality of life. 

These innovative medical devices are designed to relieve pressure and reduce the risk of injuries to the skin and underlying tissue. While they offer invaluable support, their effectiveness largely depends on proper care and maintenance. In this post, we have explored pressure relief overlays and their maintenance needs in more detail, listing some key dos and don’ts to ensure longevity and continued effectiveness for years to come. 

The Benefits of Pressure Sore Mattress Overlays

Pressure sore mattress overlays are undeniably beneficial for individuals who are at a high risk of developing pressure ulcers. The Treat-Eezi overlay is a preferred choice for those in the community looking for an easy-to-use and cost-effective way to get a peaceful night’s sleep. Simply placing the overlay on top of a standard foam mattress can help to distribute body weight evenly, protecting pressure points that can lead to painful injuries. 

By conforming to the natural body contours, the overlay helps to prevent friction too, reducing skin breakdown and shearing. When using a pressure sore mattress overlay, individuals can experience improved blood flow and comfort, promoting overall well-being. 

The Importance of Proper Care

Looking after your pressure sore mattress overlay is not just about prolonging its lifespan, it’s about ensuring it remains effective at keeping your skin healthy. Neglecting maintenance can lead to deterioration, making the overlay less capable of providing the necessary support and protection. Here are some essential dos and don’ts to help you keep your pressure sore mattress overlay in excellent condition;

Dos

The Treat-Eezi overlay is known for being low-maintenance. It doesn’t require pumps, electricity or adjustments and it’s made from a breathable, hard-wearing material that’s guaranteed for two years. However, there are some things you should do to keep it in good condition.

• Regular Cleaning – Clean the overlay regularly to remove dirt, sweat and any build-up of moisturisers or body oils. You can wash the Treat-Eezi pressure sore mattress overlay at 92 degrees and it can also be bleached to avoid cross-infection. Always follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions to prevent any damage. 

• Rotate and Flip – To ensure even wear and pressure distribution, periodically shake and rotate the mattress overlay as recommended by the manufacturer. If you are using a vapour permeable cover, take it off every now and then to allow the overlay to breathe and the thousands of fibres inside to bounce back. 

• Check for Damage – Inspect the pressure sore mattress overlay for signs of damage, such as tears or loose seams. Address any issues promptly to prevent further deterioration and ensure you can still use the overlay. 

• Follow Weight Limits – Adhere to any weight limits specified by the manufacturer. Overloading the overlay can lead to premature wear and reduced effectiveness. The Treat-Eezi overlay is available in two weight-bearing loads, so check which is most suited to your needs before buying.

Don’ts

As well as doing everything mentioned above, there are a few things you shouldn’t do to your pressure sore mattress overlay. 

• Use Harsh Chemicals – Don’t use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning products when you’re cleaning the overlay, as they can damage the external material and compromise the internal functionality.

• Overlook Cleaning – Neglecting cleaning can lead to the buildup of dirt and bacteria, making the overlay less hygienic and effective. Remember to clean the overlay on a regular basis, especially if you’re using it 24/7.

• Ignore Manufacturer’s Instructions – Always follow the care and maintenance instructions provided by the manufacturer. Disregarding these guidelines may void warranties and reduce the overlay’s lifespan.

Investing in High-Quality Pressure Relief Products 

All in all, pressure sore mattress overlays play a vital role in preventing pressure injuries and ensuring the comfort of those who spend extended periods sitting or lying down. To maximise their benefits, it’s essential to stay on top of any required maintenance and cleaning. This can help to extend the life of your pressure sore mattress overlay and maintain its effectiveness in pressure redistribution. Remember that proper care is an investment in both your well-being and the longevity of this essential medical device.

If you’re searching for a new mattress overlay that is easy to use and maintain, explore the Dan Medica South website today. Pressure care is our passion and over the years, we have helped thousands of people to achieve the best possible comfort. Our highly experienced team focuses solely on pressure relief and we work tirelessly to assist individuals when other more common equipment has failed. As the only UK specialised company that manufactures pressure relieving products for more than just the healthcare industry, we will have a solution that works for you.