A guide to the different types of bed rails

With limited mobility, it can be difficult to get into or out of bed. You may also find that you need some extra protection from falls or rolling out of bed. Bed rails can give you a helping hand and keep you or your loved one more secure.

There are many different options for you to choose from which can make it hard to know where to start or even know what’s out there. This guide outlines the main types and alternatives, to help make your decision easier.

What are the different bed rails?

There are different types of bed rails, so some might suit you better than others. Below, we describe some of the different types available:

What to look out for when buying a bed rail

How does it attach?

If you have a solid frame, there are some bed rails that fasten with straps, or some with clamps. For others, the rails are designed to fit under the mattress or even to be at ground level to fit under low divan beds.

Check the style of bed you have, to make sure you choose the right bed rail or bed guard.

Will there be any obstruction?

Make sure that your chosen bed rail or guard isn’t going to interfere with other devices such as hoists, or activities such as transferring from the bed to a wheelchair, or to other equipment.

Are they safe to use?

The main questions to ask are: have you picked the most suitable aid for your needs and your bed? And is it installed correctly?

Make sure that the bed rail you choose won’t add any risks to your bed routine – that could be ensuring it provides the correct level of support, or that it will not add any risk of limbs being trapped between the rail and mattress.

It’s vital that the bed rail or guard is fitted correctly, following each products’ own instructions, to make it safe for you to use. NRS Healthcare has developed a useful Bed Rail Measuring Guide to help you fit a bed rail correctly, minimising risk. Suitable for side rails and grab rails, it also links to help videos and general advice.

You also need to keep regularly checking your bed rail or bed guard to ensure it’s still in the right position, and still suitable for your needs.

How do they look?

Though it might not be top of the list to consider for a new aid, we all want our bedrooms to look nice and feel homely. Many aids might have a clinical feel, but you can get ones in various finishes and colours, even with natural wood or wood effects. You won’t necessarily need to sacrifice your bedroom décor to still feel safe and secure in bed.

Further information

Want to know more about the types of bedroom aid available? Read our guide to bedroom accessories for a look at the various aids you can use throughout your bedroom. Or for tips on making it easier to get around your home, check out  how to create an accessible home so you can move around freely.

If you're still unsure which bed rail or other bedroom aids might be your perfect match, you can get in touch with our Occupational Therapists, for free expert advice.