Invacare Softform Premier Hospital Bed Mattress Review: Ultimate Comfort & Pressure Relief

The Invacare Softform Premier Hospital Bed Mattress is a premium foam mattress designed for medical and homecare use. This 36″×80″ (and 36″×84″) hospital-style mattress features a unique layered construction to balance softness with firm support. It is specifically engineered to reduce pressure points for at-risk patients while remaining durable and easy to maintain. Throughout this review we examine its materials, design, comfort, performance, and who will benefit most from this high-end Invacare mattress. Our goal is to give you the detailed information you need to decide if the Softform Premier is the right choice for a hospital bed or homecare setting.

Key features include:

Layered foam design with a U-shaped base core and a contoured foam insert for support and comfort.
Pressure redistribution technology – castellated “mushroom” foam cells that allow deep immersion to spread weight evenly.
Three-zone support – denser foam zones under the head, torso, and legs for targeted support.
Robust edge support – firmer rails along the sides to make entering and exiting the bed easier.
Removable, fluid-resistant cover – a four-way stretch polyurethane cover that is machine washable and designed to protect the mattress.
High weight capacity – supports up to 500 pounds, suitable for bariatric and heavy patients.

Together, these features make the Softform Premier a best-selling hospital-grade mattress for patients at moderate to very high risk of pressure injuries. In use, caregivers and patients find it more comfortable and supportive than standard rental mattresses. Below we dive deep into its design, materials, performance in real use, and who it suits best.

Design and Construction

Figure: Exploded view of the Invacare Softform Premier mattress layers. The blue cover (top) and the contoured yellow foam insert can be seen above the U-shaped blue foam base.

At first glance the Softform Premier looks like a standard 6-inch-thick hospital mattress, but under the surface is an advanced layered foam design. The Invacare Softform Premier contains a single-piece U-core base made of high-density foam. This U-shaped core forms a supportive frame around the perimeter of the mattress. Inside the “U” sits a separate contoured foam insert. The two independent foam components work together to give a balance of gentle cushioning and firm support.

U-Core Base (Blue foam layer): A continuous high-density foam core runs along the sides and foot of the mattress in a “U” shape. This base provides strong edge support that stiffens the perimeter, making the sides firmer. The purpose is to keep the mattress shape and help when transferring patients into or out of bed. It also prevents sagging under heavy load. Because the base encloses most of the bottom, it resembles a solid rectangular piece under the mattress cover.
Contoured Insert (Yellow foam layer): Above the U-core base is a specialized foam insert cut into many small blocks or “cells.” This insert has an “egg-crate” style top layer. The foam blocks are often called castellated or mushroom-shaped cells. These cutouts break up the foam surface, letting the patient’s body immerse more deeplyinto the mattress. As the body sinks into these cells, the pressure of contact is spread over a larger area, which helps reduce pressure points on the skin. The contoured insert is relatively thick and sits flush inside the base, forming the primary pressure-relief layer.

The combination of these two layers – a rigid support base and a softly contoured comfort layer – is what gives the Softform Premier its unique feel. Invacare describes it as a “balanced composition of softness and support.” This design helps avoid the feeling of bottoming out (where one touches the hard base) because the contoured foam progressively compresses under weight. At the same time, the U-core stops the entire mattress from collapsing at the edges, so the user feels safe rolling to the side without slipping off.

The three-zone support is another key part of the design. Though internally it is a single contoured insert, the foam is of different densities in the head, torso, and foot areas. The middle zone (where the hips and torso lie) typically has slightly softer foam to cushion bony areas, while the head and foot zones have slightly firmer foam to keep the body aligned. This zoning is built into the foam insert contours. It ensures that each part of the body gets the right amount of give: soft enough on the shoulders and hips to relieve pressure, and firmer under the legs and head for stability.

Overall, the Softform Premier’s construction is hospital-grade. It stands out from simpler foam mattresses by addressing multiple needs: firmness at the edges, deep contouring in the center, and a durable base. The layers are encased in one mattress, so it looks like a normal single-piece item on the bed. The covers are fully removable (discussed in the cover section), so when unzipped, you can actually see the two foams inside if needed for inspection. In practice, a caregiver simply places the whole unit on the bed frame. No assembly is required because the components are already glued together.

Comfort and Support

When lying on the Softform Premier, users report a comfortable yet supportive feel that’s a step above ordinary hospital mattresses. The combination of high-resiliency foam and the U-core means the mattress is not extremely plush, but rather medium-firm. This is intentional: it must both cushion pressure points and prevent excessive sinking.

Pressure Relief: The contoured foam insert is relatively soft and cradles the body. Its cut-out cells allow the user’s hips and shoulders to sink in slightly, while still providing resistance. This prevents the hard peaks of the foam from digging into softer tissue. Many patients find this more comfortable than a flat foam slab, especially over long periods.
Uniform Support: Even though it’s soft in the center, the foam still pushes back firmly so the user does not feel like they’re lying on a cloud. Invacare’s high-density foam retains its shape and springiness longer than cheap foams. This keeps the patient’s spine aligned. In practice, the Softform Premier feels like a well-balanced mattress – not too stiff and not too bouncy.
Edge Support: A standout comfort feature is the firmer perimeter from the U-core. When a patient sits on the side or is helping transfer onto the bed, this edge feels supportive. It prevents the side from collapsing under weight. Reviewers often mention that it’s easier to get in and out of bed because the edges don’t mush down. Even when the patient’s weight is near the rail, the mattress remains stable rather than folding under them. This gives both caregiver and patient more confidence during movement.
Articulation Flexibility: Many hospital beds are adjustable at the head and foot. The Softform Premier is designed to bend at the head section reasonably well due to the segmented cut of the foam. Most users find it accommodates the usual head-raising motion without issue. The foot section of the mattress (where the legs are) is less frequently adjusted. In this model, the foam under the knee/leg region is somewhat firmer and does not collapse entirely on its own. This means if the foot section is raised, that part of the mattress may stick out a little rather than folding completely. However, this is generally seen as a trade-off for having a sturdier build – the mattress has “substance” and avoids sagging.
Weight Capacity: The Softform Premier is rated for up to 500 pounds. Heavy patients will still find the mattress supportive. It won’t compress flat under normal loads. Even at 400–500 pounds, the layered foam will contour appropriately. Light to medium-weight users (under 250 pounds) will notice it’s on the firmer side relative to standard pillows, but this firmness is by design for durability and longevity. There are no corners or low-cost foam layers that overly soften under weight, which might compromise support over time.

In essence, comfort on the Softform Premier comes from its ability to conform intelligently and provide consistent resistance. It avoids the “bottoming out” common with thin or low-density foam, yet it offers more cushion than a bare board or a cheap rental mattress. Many users compare it favorably to a soft box spring or memory foam topper, though it is not memory foam – it is quicker to respond and does not retain heat or leave deep impressions.

Physically, the mattress is somewhat heavy (around 30–35 pounds). Lifting it requires two people, especially since it has a vinyl-like cover that can grab at hands. It is important for caregivers to handle it carefully to avoid tearing the cover. When placed on the bed, it does not slide easily thanks to its weight; it stays positioned during typical movements.

Overall, the Softform Premier feels “just right” for most users needing a hospital bed mattress. Those coming from firmer rental mattresses often say it feels cushier and more gentle on joints, while those coming from very soft couches or memory foam may find it moderately firm. Its design goal is to provide pressure relief without sacrificing support, and in practice it succeeds for the majority of patients.

Pressure Redistribution and Patient Care

One of the primary reasons medical professionals choose the Invacare Softform Premier is its ability to prevent pressure injuries (bed sores) for patients who spend extended time in bed. The mattress is classified for “Very High Risk”patients, meaning it is intended for individuals who are immobile or have fragile skin.

The key to pressure relief on this mattress is the castellated (“mushroom” shape) foam cells in the top layer. These are visible as many small square or rectangular blocks in the foam (see image). When a patient lies on the mattress, their body presses into those cells. Because the cells are independent, each cell compresses under weight. This breaks the surface contact so that instead of sitting on one flat plane, the body contacts many small foam pillows. This maximizes immersion– the body sinks into the foam somewhat – which increases the area of contact. More contact area means pressure at any single point (like the heel or tailbone) is reduced.

Imagine lying on a perfectly flat foam sheet: all weight is focused on your shoulder blades, hips, etc. The Softform Premier’s egg-crate contour works differently. It allows parts of the body that typically stick out to drop slightly into the troughs. Meanwhile, the peaks (foam blocks) press against your softer areas, distributing the force. This design is widely regarded in medical bedding as superior to a flat foam pad for preventing skin breakdown.

Additionally, the mattress has three different support zones as mentioned. The middle zone (center of the mattress) typically correlates with the torso/hips. That zone uses slightly softer foam density under the surface, permitting deeper immersion where people need it most. The head and foot zones are a bit firmer to provide a stable lift and to follow body contours appropriately. This zoning means pressure points on sensitive areas get extra relief, while overall support remains even.

Invacare engineers also mention that the Softform Premier “breaks the surface tensions of the foam” (an industry way of saying the foam can compress independently in patches) so that patients can sink in. This is clinically important: research shows that increased immersion and pressure distribution can significantly reduce the chance of tissue damage for someone who cannot reposition themselves. For example, an elderly patient or someone in rehabilitation can spend longer periods without a new pressure sore forming.

The weight capacity of 500 lbs further supports pressure management. Heavy individuals would normally create higher pressure points on a lesser mattress. With two-tone foam and many little cubes, even heavy patients are embraced by the mattress rather than resting on one point. In practice, this means caregivers can have more confidence when caring for bariatric patients on this mattress; it should not compress dangerously or fail prematurely under higher loads.

It should be noted that the Softform Premier is a static foam surface – it does not have pumps, motors, or air bladders. It falls under the category of therapeutic foam mattress, not an alternating pressure air mattress. For many situations (especially home care or basic hospital use), a good static mattress like this one is sufficient and has the advantage of zero maintenance. The surfaces breathe naturally since it’s open-celled foam. The manufacturer states it is suitable for “Very High Risk” patients, which is at the high end of prevention classifications for foam surfaces.

To maximize its pressure-relief effect, it is critical that the mattress cover remains intact and the foam is not overly soiled or compressed by heavy items. Fortunately, the cover is waterproof and wipeable, so bodily fluids typically do not reach the foam. Washing or replacing the cover regularly, as recommended, helps maintain the foam’s condition. Ultimately, when used correctly, the Softform Premier becomes part of a pressure injury prevention program: the combination of its foam technology and proper patient care can reduce bed sore incidence.

In summary, this mattress provides excellent pressure redistribution through its innovative foam geometry. For nursing staff and patients alike, the result is fewer complaints of soreness and less need for constant repositioning. Many medical professionals appreciate that it meets stringent guidelines for pressure management while remaining comfortable.

Cover and Maintenance

Figure: The Softform Premier’s blue vinyl cover fully removed, revealing the yellow top foam and blue base foam. The cover is fluid-resistant and can be completely unzipped for machine washing.

A hospital bed mattress must stay hygienic, and Invacare addresses this with a high-quality removable cover. The Softform Premier comes encased in a durable four-way stretch polyurethane cover (often called PU vinyl). This cover plays several roles: it protects the foam core, resists liquids, and provides a smooth sleeping surface.

Key points about the cover:

Fluid-Resistant: The cover material is waterproof and will not let fluids soak into the foam. This is crucial in medical settings to prevent stains, mold, or odor. Spills, leaks, and cleaning agents simply bead on the surface. The underside of the cover is also coated to keep moisture out.
Four-Way Stretch: Unlike stiff vinyl, this cover stretches in all directions. This elasticity makes it more comfortable and reduces shear forces. When a patient shifts, the cover moves slightly with their skin, reducing friction that can aggravate skin. It also allows the cover to accommodate the underlying foam expansion and contraction without tearing.
Removable and Washable: The entire cover can be unzipped and removed. This is a major advantage. Nurses or family members can wash it periodically in a commercial laundry machine. Invacare recommends gentle cycle with mild detergent. High-frequency welded seams and a full-length concealed zipper ensure the cover comes off easily but won’t leak or tear during use. After washing, simply dry flat or hang to air-dry (a dryer is not recommended as heat can damage vinyl). Having a removable cover greatly extends the mattress life, because the foam stays clean and dry inside.
Seam Design: The seams of the cover are RF-welded (radio frequency welded), meaning they are fused rather than sewn. This eliminates needle holes which could let liquid penetrate. There is a flap covering the zipper, so even the zipper is shielded. Invacare specifically markets this as a concealed zipper design. This protects against fluid ingress through the zip area during use.
Robust Material: The cover fabric is tough: Invacare notes that it has a “tough coated polyurethane base” on the underside. In practical terms, the cover resists tears, punctures, and abrasion. Caution is still advised when handling sharp objects, but it is less likely to be ruined by normal wear or by small instruments (e.g. if the bed rails or sharp corners brush against it, the vinyl stands up well).

Cleaning and care are straightforward due to the cover:

Daily Cleaning: Most hospital staff will simply wipe the cover with a disinfectant or soapy cloth after patient use. This kills germs without damaging the cover.
Machine Wash: Periodically (weeks or months), the cover can be laundered in a large machine. The zipper is opened and the cover turned inside-out to avoid trapping any debris in seams. After washing, it should be fully dried before putting back on the foam.

Because of the removable cover, inspecting the foam underneath is easy if there is ever concern. One can simply unzip and visually inspect the interior for sagging or damage. When it’s time to replace the foam (after several years), the cover itself can often be reused with new foam by some maintenance staff.

Overall, the mattress cover is professional grade. It’s the kind of cover you’d expect on any hospital mattress: waterproof, stretchable, and wash-friendly. This not only maintains cleanliness but also protects against mattress odors and contamination. In reviews, many caregivers note that the mattress is “easy to clean” and the cover remains like-new after multiple washes. Maintaining the cover properly is crucial for making the most of the Softform Premier’s pressure-relief capabilities over time.

Sizes, Dimensions, and Compatibility

The Invacare Softform Premier comes primarily in two standard widths and lengths for hospital beds:

Regular Model (IPM1080): Measures 80″ long, 36″ wide, 6″ thick. This fits most home-health hospital beds and standard adjustable frames.
Long Model (IPM1084): Measures 84″ long, 36″ wide, 6″ thick. This is for taller individuals or beds that require extra length.

The 36-inch width is slightly less than a home twin mattress (which is 39″), matching the typical hospital bed frame inside rail width. Some users note that fitted twin sheets do work on these mattresses with a bit of stretching or tucking, but it’s advisable to use hospital-grade sheets and protectors that fit 36″ width. The 6-inch height is typical for hospital foam surfaces – thick enough to cushion yet not so tall as to interfere with rails or bog down bed adjustments.

Under the official product codes, the Regular model is IPM1080 and the Long is IPM1084. Invacare also manufactures a bariatric version (IPM1180) at 42″ width, but unless you need extra width for very large patients, the standard 36″ is common. This review focuses on the 36″ model, as requested.

Weight Capacity: Up to 500 lbs as per manufacturer rating. The same capacity applies to both the 36″ and 42″ versions. This means the mattress is designed to support a single heavy adult or a patient with assistive devices without structural failure. For context, 500 lbs is above the standard hospital bed rating (often ~350 lbs), making this suitable for bariatric use as well.

Bed Compatibility: The Softform Premier is marketed as a “hospital-style” mattress, meaning it’s meant for hospital frame beds (both manual and electric). It fits any bed base that is designed for a 36″-wide mattress (with rails). Common examples:

Invacare’s own beds (like the 5410IVC or 5310IVC full electric hospital beds) – the mattress is specifically recommended for these. Using them together ensures proper function of rails and bed mechanisms.
Non-Invacare hospital beds or rental units – as long as the frame is 36″ wide and the deck is flat (no sag), the mattress fits.
Home adjustable beds (with head/foot sections) – it fits frames that accommodate a 36″ wide, 6″ thick mattress. Many adjustable beds do accept this, but when buying for an adjustable frame, check if any special tensioning straps are needed for foam surfaces.

It’s important to note that this mattress is not intended for platform or spring box beds. It is a foam mattress that requires a firm, solid base. You should always use it on a slat-free surface or a solid hospital bed deck. It is not suitable for waterbeds or slatted standard beds.

Rail Entrapment Safety: Invacare mentions (in fine print) that their beds, mattresses, and rails system meet FDA guidelines for bed rail entrapment when used together. In practice, this means the Softform Premier combined with compatible rails should not create hazardous gaps. For example, the firmer edges and the correct width help prevent a patient from slipping into a dangerous gap.

Sheer Dimensions: In actual use, expect these outer dimensions:

80″ model: approximately 81″ x 37.5″ including cover.
84″ model: around 85″ x 37.5″.

Thickness is about 6″ firm, which is flatter than a typical home mattress (often 8–12″). That makes sheet tucking and rail setup easier. Under the bed, you do not need to worry about it being too tall for the rails, since it is at the same thickness as most hospital mattresses.

Height Alignment: One detail to consider: since the Softform Premier is foam, its effective thickness under weight can vary. But because the base foam is quite firm, the head of a patient (for example) will sit roughly at the same level from the bedframe surface as with other similar mattresses. In other words, if you replace an existing 6″ hospital mattress with this one, the patient’s height will be roughly the same relative to the rail.

In summary, the Softform Premier fits standard hospital beds and is versatile for most scenarios. The main things to double check before purchase are the bed size (to pick 80″ vs 84″) and confirming a 36″ mattress is what you need. The mattress itself will work with nearly any hospital bed base as long as the sizing matches, and it even has a higher weight rating than many competitors.

Durability and Warranty

Durability is a key concern for hospital equipment, and the Invacare Softform Premier is built to last under heavy use. Several aspects contribute to its longevity:

High-Density Foam: Both the U-core base and the contoured insert are made of high-resiliency polyurethane foam with a density around 2.5 lb/ft³ or higher. This is thicker and more resilient than standard household foam. Higher density means the cells (especially the base) will not easily crush or bottom out under repeated use. Over time, low-density foams soften and break down; this foam is specifically chosen to maintain its shape for years.
Protective Cover: As discussed, the waterproof cover shields the foam from spills, body oils, and other wear. Keeping liquids out helps prevent the foam from deteriorating or developing mildew. Because the cover is removable and replaceable, you can essentially get a new cover if it ever is damaged, giving the mattress an extended life.
Welded Seams: The cover’s welded seams prevent ripping. In testing and real use, this holds up better than stitched edges. This means that even with frequent zipping and heavy cleaning, the cover tends not to split.
Weight Capacity and Use: Although rated for 500 lbs, real-world use often involves shifting, sliding, and uneven loading. The design accommodates this – the U-core prevents permanent sagging at the edges. Some very heavy users report that the mattress supports them comfortably for a few years, though even the best foam will eventually compress slightly.
Warranty: Invacare provides a limited warranty that is reassuring: eight years on the foam, four years on the cover. This is a strong warranty in this market. It means Invacare stands behind its construction. If the foam cracks or irreversibly softens within 8 years under normal use, they should replace it. The cover being warranted for 4 years suggests they expect the cover to last at least that long of daily use/washing. The warranty likely requires proof of purchase, proper use, etc., but it shows confidence in the product.

In practice, many buyers report the mattress remains serviceable beyond the warranty if well cared for. However, hospital mattress foam will inevitably degrade under continuous heavy use, so some softening or “hot spots” may develop after 3–5 years, especially in very high-use areas like nursing homes. This is true of any foam mattress. The Softform Premier’s foam is just higher-grade so it compresses more slowly.

Users have noted that after a couple of years, some deep impressions can start to appear under the hips or shoulders if not rotated or if the same patient stays all the time. Rotating the mattress (head-to-foot) occasionally can help extend evenness of wear. Because the cover is waterproof, you cannot flip it upside down like a cotton mattress (the foam shape is asymmetric), so the only rotation is reversing head-to-foot. Nevertheless, since one side is already slightly softer in the middle, this rotation can even out wear patterns.

Maintenance tips to maximize durability:

Keep it clean: Wipe daily, launder cover as needed. Dirt and oils can degrade foam if they penetrate, so keeping the cover intact is crucial.
Avoid kneeling on edges: The foam edges are firm, but using them as a step or kneeling might eventually weaken them. Always use a step stool rather than step on the mattress.
Protect from sharp objects: While the cover is strong, heavy or sharp items (like bed rails or medical equipment) could cut it. Some people add a thin fabric mattress protector for light duty use just for extra peace of mind.
Air it occasionally: If possible, leave the cover open to air out moisture every few months. This prevents any hidden dampness.

Overall, the Softform Premier is built for the rigors of healthcare. In a hospital or home health environment, this means daily in/out of bed transfers, frequent cleaning, and continuous occupancy. Invacare’s construction choices – firm supportive core, robust foam, high-quality cover – ensure the mattress can meet those demands for many years. Given the warranty and user reports, it is reasonable to expect comfortable support for 5–8 years under normal conditions. Beyond that, it may still function but could show typical age-related wear.

Installation and Everyday Use

Getting the Softform Premier set up on a bed is straightforward, but there are a few best practices to ensure longevity and safety.

Initial Handling: Two people should position the mattress because of its weight (roughly 30–35 lbs for the 36×80 version). Always use clean hands or gloves to avoid staining the cover. Lift it vertically in its packaging or lay it flat on the deck of the bed. Unwrap any packaging and give it a quick air-off; new vinyl covers sometimes have a slight manufacturing odor that disperses in an open room.
Orientation: Make sure to place the correct end of the mattress at the head of the bed. The Softform Premier may have a subtle head/foot marking or design. The high-density foam at the edges and corners should align with the bed rails. The U-core design does not have a visual arrow, but it is important that the firmer edges are at the sides to support transfer.
Bed Rails: When using bed rails, the mattress fits snugly without large gaps, thanks to its exact 36″ width. The firmer edge acts almost like a cushion against the rail. If using half-rails or side guards, the mattress’s firmer border helps maintain the safety barrier without collapsing. For full-length rails, no additional steps are needed—the mattress naturally fills the space between rails.
Sheets and Bedding: Standard hospital mattress pads and fitted sheets that are 36″×80″ will fit. If using home sheets, twin XL sets (39×80) can usually work by tucking extra fabric under the mattress. However, nursing homes often use special tight-fitting sheets. The mattress’s relatively thin profile makes tucking easier than on thicker home mattresses. One point: the high-quality cover is not intended to be the only “sheet.” Always use a washable top sheet or protector over it for the patient’s comfort and to prolong cover life. The cover itself, while soft on touch, is not as cozy as bedding.
Adjustable Beds: If placing on an electric bed, the mattress should articulate at the head/foot joints. Most users find that the Softform Premier bends sufficiently for head elevation (when the head of bed is raised). As mentioned earlier, when the foot segment is raised, it may stick out a bit. It won’t flat-fold entirely under its own weight. So if the bed has a foot elevation feature, expect a slight gap to form at the hinge. This is mostly a cosmetic note; functionally the patient’s legs will still be supported. To get the most bending, one could try placing the mattress so that the transition lines in the foam (if any) align with the bed hinge. But usually this is not adjustable.
Transfers and Mobility: In everyday use, patients lying near the edge of the mattress will feel a firmer surface to push against. This is helpful for transferring. Caregivers should still guide patients carefully, but the mattress feels stable. Some people put a non-slip pad between the mattress and bed platform to keep it from sliding on hydraulic beds; however, due to its weight and full cover, the Softform rarely needs extra non-skid underlay.
Rotation: To even out wear, rotate the mattress periodically (e.g., every few months) by swapping the head-to-foot ends. Because one end zone is slightly firmer, alternating which end is up can extend evenness of the comfort layer wear. Mark the head and foot lightly with a piece of tape or note so you know how to rotate without getting it backwards.
Inspection: Every month or so, inspect the mattress by unzipping the cover and checking the foam for any lumps, tears, or fatigue. The knitted foam blocks should still be intact, and the U-core should not be collapsed. If any part looks weak, it may be time to replace or repair. The cover should be looked at for zipper function and seam integrity as well.

Users report that after installation, the Softform Premier does not require adjustment. Unlike waterbeds or complex air mattresses, there’s no assembly beyond putting it in place. There’s no need to add air or adjust firmness. This simplicity is appreciated in busy care settings. Some note that the mattress feels slightly stiff initially, but after a few days the foam naturally softens up a bit (though not excessively). It generally feels right out of the box, with no break-in period required.

In short, installing and using the Invacare Softform Premier is easy for healthcare staff. It works just like a regular mattress: unroll, lay it down, secure with bedding. Unlike a hospital bed rental mattress that might need strap attachments, this one holds itself by weight. The fact that it is thicker and firmer means it gives a feeling of quality from day one, and users see no performance drop due to improper setup. This straightforward, user-friendly approach helps build confidence: you can start using it immediately after setup, and it performs consistently.

Performance and User Experiences

Feedback from patients and caregivers on the Softform Premier is largely positive. While every user has unique preferences, several common themes emerge from real-world use:

Comfortable Upgrade: Many users who switch to the Softform Premier from a basic rental mattress report it feels significantly more comfortable. It often gets praised as “much softer and supportive” than the rock-hard stock mattress that usually comes with a hospital bed. Patients recovering from surgery or injury note that they sleep better and experience less joint pain with this mattress.
Sturdy and Solid: People frequently describe it as feeling well-made and sturdy. Because of the dense foam, it has a solid, robust feeling. Some users even said it feels like a quality home mattress (minus springs). Even though it’s soft, it doesn’t feel flimsy. Caregivers feel the mattress is holding up well under wheelchair transfers and patient mobilizing. The extra edge support is often singled out: one user mentioned that “the firmer edges make it easier to put weight on when getting in and out of bed.”
Support for Heavy Users: Reviews often come from heavier individuals or those helping heavy patients. The consensus is that it performs reliably under heavier weights. No one has reported breakage or collapse, and in fact users appreciate that it did not compress as quickly as some cheaper foams.
Heats Less, Sleeps More: While this mattress isn’t advertised as cooling, some users mention that because it is open-cell foam (despite the cells), it feels cooler than some memory foam surfaces. Of course, it’s not a gel or airy mattress, but for patients who complained about heat retention on viscoelastic foam, the Softform Premier has been acceptable.
Machine Wash Cover: Users confirm the removable cover is easy to clean. Repeated washing in hot water has not caused it to shrink or tear (thanks to its polyester composition). The seams held up, and one nurse noted that even after half a year of laundry, the cover still zipped smoothly.
Longevity Feedback: A few users have comments about durability over time. One longtime user said that after 12+ months of daily use, the mattress still felt “pretty comfortable and holding up.” Another reviewer (after a year) said it should last a few more years with normal wear. However, at least one comment noted that after two months of heavy use, there was a visible dent where the hips rest – suggesting that any foam can compress if pressured in a small area continuously. This indicates that while the Softform Premier is durable, it is not indestructible; appropriate replacement after years of use may eventually be needed.
Firmness Observations: There is some variability in perception of firmness. A minority found the mattress “too stiff” in the very short term, especially if they are very lightweight and expected a softer feel. This aligns with the design: it is firmer than a memory foam bed. However, most find it just right for medical needs. It flexes at the head as needed, but its resistance to bending is actually praised as a sign of quality. For instance, one reviewer said the foot section not bending under its own weight was “not a failing, but a strength.”
Fit and Dimensions: A common minor issue is that the mattress measures a hair wider than exactly 36″ (sometimes 36.5″ with cover), so people with bed rails have to position it carefully. It still fits under rails and side guards, but it is not overly narrow. Sheets can be a slight struggle if exactly the same size, but most people either use hospital linens or just tuck a little. This is a small quibble – it does not affect comfort.
General Satisfaction: The Amazon sales data (with a high 4.6/5 stars and over 600 ratings) reflects widespread approval. Customers often end their reviews stating they would choose it again. Comments emphasize how it greatly improved quality of life (better sleep, less pain). For caregivers, investing in a few good mattresses like this can reduce time spent fussing with patients’ discomfort, so it pays off.

In summary, the performance in day-to-day use is solidly on the positive side. It delivers on its promises of comfort and support. Any criticisms are relatively mild or about longevity beyond the expected lifespan of a foam product. Most users consider it a premium choice worth the cost for the improved patient well-being. In an environment where patients may lie on their mattress for many hours each day, the extra comfort and pressure relief are highly valued.

Prospective buyers should note these first-hand experiences: the Softform Premier will feel more like a high-end foam bed than a minimal hospital pad. It’s a notable upgrade. If the main complaint about older hospital mattresses is “it’s too hard” or “it doesn’t give,” this mattress addresses that while still maintaining safety and support.

Who Should Consider the Softform Premier?

The Invacare Softform Premier Mattress is tailored for individuals with elevated comfort and health needs. Ideal users include:

Immobile or Bedridden Patients: Those at risk of pressure ulcers (sores) due to limited mobility. For example, elderly care residents, paralyzed patients, or anyone confined to bed for recovery or chronic illness will benefit from the pressure redistribution this mattress provides.
Post-Surgery Recovery: Patients recovering from operations, especially orthopedic surgeries (hips, spine, etc.), often need a soft yet supportive surface. The Softform Premier can help reduce surgical site pressure and assist healing.
Heavy or Bariatric Patients: People weighing up to 500 lbs need sturdy support. This mattress is specifically rated for that range, making it a good fit for bariatric care.
Hospital/Homecare Use: Clinics, long-term care facilities, and home caregivers who use hospital beds will find this an excellent fit. It is essentially hospital-grade in comfort. Even if a hospital bed is rented, some families choose to buy this mattress for home use during recovery.
Patients with Pain or Tenderness: Anyone who complains that regular mattresses exacerbate soreness (like people with rheumatoid arthritis or tender skin) may find relief on the Softform Premier. Its foam contours to the body gently.
People Using Adjustable Beds: Those who have a bedside lift function can use this mattress as it flexes at least for the head-up positions.

However, it is not the right choice for everyone:

Low-Risk or Budget Cases: If a patient moves easily and has no risk of pressure damage, a simpler mattress might suffice. The Softform Premier is more expensive than basic foam mattresses. For a rarely-used guest bed in a home health scenario, it might be overkill.
Extreme Active Therapy Needs: If someone needs an alternating air mattress (for severe ulcers or spinal injuries), the Softform Premier alone is not enough. It is static foam; those requiring active therapy beds will need different equipment.
Very Lightweight Sleepers Wanting Plush Feel: People under ~100 lbs or those who simply prefer a super plush comforter might find the Softform a bit firm. Its purpose is clinical support, so it’s firmer than a luxury home mattress. The top layer will compress a bit under light users, but the general feel is medium-firm.
Those Needing Extra Thickness: Since it is only 6″ thick, if a patient or caregiver specifically needs a thicker mattress (for extreme heavy-duty cushion), then the Softform Premier may feel shallow. But for most uses, 6″ is the standard.

In terms of setting, the Softform Premier excels in institutional or medical home use, rather than as a replacement for a comfort mattress in an everyday bedroom. It’s perfect for ensuring a sick or recovering person sleeps in safe conditions.

For instance, parents often buy one when they have a child in home health who needs a hospital bed. Elderly couples sometimes keep one in their home for one spouse’s needs. Nursing homes purchase them for high-risk residents.

The only time to pause is if a user has special conditions. For example, some diabetic patients might need specially ventilated mattresses, but even they often still use foam-based products. Invacare also makes other models (like Softform Optima or Softform Elite) – those are for lower risk cases. The Premier sits in the mid-to-upper tier: it’s over the basic models like Comfort or Advance, but under extremely high-end dynamic systems.

In short, if comfort and health support are top priorities for your hospital bed mattress – and budget is not the only concern – the Softform Premier is a strong candidate. It’s especially suited for anyone who spends many hours a day in bed or has fragile skin. This mattress is built to maximize patient well-being in those situations.

Conclusion

The Invacare Softform Premier Hospital Bed Mattress is a robust, well-designed medical mattress that delivers on its promise of pressure relief and comfort. Its thoughtful construction – a supportive U-core base combined with a deep-contouring foam insert – provides a balance of softness and firmness that benefits patients with a range of needs, from post-op recovery to chronic immobility.

Key advantages include excellent pressure redistribution for at-risk patients, firm edge support that aids transfers, and a fully removable fluid-resistant cover for hygiene. It is built to handle heavy use, supporting up to 500 pounds and backed by a strong warranty. In daily use, it consistently earns praise for being far more comfortable than standard hospital mattresses, often alleviating body aches and improving sleep quality for bedridden individuals.

No mattress is perfect for every scenario, but for its intended use, the Softform Premier scores highly. It is not the plushest foam on the market, but its firmness is precisely what allows it to meet medical needs safely. If you care for someone who is spending significant time in a hospital bed – whether at home or in a facility – this mattress will give them a safer, more comfortable surface. That peace of mind for caregivers and relief for patients can make it a worthwhile investment.

In short, the Invacare Softform Premier stands out as a premium hospital-bed mattress option. It is designed to support healing and comfort, backed by reputable medical-grade construction. For anyone seeking a durable, high-quality mattress to keep a patient comfortable and reduce pressure sores, the Softform Premier is highly recommended. It represents good value in the context of healthcare: it costs more than an economy mattress, but it also performs at a higher level and can literally improve patient outcomes.