fbpx
Home Medical Equipment

How to Pick a Hospital Bed Table or Tray

It can be hard to get much done when you’re bedbound. Even with a fully-adjustable hospital bed, it’s not exactly easy to use a computer, read a book, or eat a meal entirely on your lap.

Yet the capacity to do all of these things is not only important but arguably critical to your recovery. You need that sense of normalcy. The ability to get things done, and to take your meals without creating a huge mess in your bed.

That’s why choosing a good bed tray or table is so important. Whether you’re recovering from surgery or suffering from a chronic illness, they can make a world of difference in your life.

Here’s a bit of advice on choosing one that works for you.

Decide What Type of Home Hospital Bed Table You Want

Generally, there are three types of bed tables.

The first, and simplest, is a tray that rests over your legs. This may either have folding supports for easy storage or be a single, solid object. If you decide to go this route, make sure it’s not too heavy or difficult to move, particularly if you suffer from reduced strength or impaired motion.

Your second option is a wheeling overbed tray. These have the benefit of being slightly sturdier and much more adjustable than on-bed trays. Additionally, because they’re supported by a rolling frame rather than resting over your legs, they tend to be a bit larger, as well.

Finally, you can go for a heavy-duty one that spans your entire bed-frame. These trays either clip onto the bed directly or are wide enough that they can be placed over your mattress. Most are also adjustable, with multiple height options, though some people may find their size a bit excessive, and they may not work as well with adjustable mattresses.

Uses For Home Hospital Bed Tray Tables

The best way to choose between the different types of tables and trays is to think about what you’re going to be using it for.

If you just want a tray to hold your food and drinks, then you’re probably fine sticking with a smaller on-bed tray or a wheeling over-bed tray. Note that a table made for food should have barriers to prevent food spillage, with cup holders for your drinks.

If, however, you’re looking to get some work done on a desktop computer, you’re going to want a larger one with space for your mouse and keyboard. There are also many bed trays designed to be used with laptops, with adjustable components and even built-in storage drawers.  That’s the kind of thing that’s perfect for someone who’s looking to do some arts and crafts while in bed, and equally useful for anyone who’s working from home.

You also need to consider how you want the table to look. Do you want one that meshes with your unique sense of style, or is functionality more important? Do you need a table that’s incredible sturdy and stable, or will any tray table do?

Finally, how flexible or adjustable do you want your table to be? Do you want to have one table that works for literally every task you want to get done, or are you okay with purchasing a few different ones and swapping them out as necessary?

There are plenty of one-size-fits-all multipurpose tables out there, but they do tend to be a bit more expensive than single-purpose ones.

Closing Thoughts on Finding the Right Hospital Bed Tray Table

Having access to a hospital bed table or tray is essential to your recovery process, and not just because you need it to eat properly. It’s a matter of comfort, a chance to add a bit of normalcy back into your routine.

From creative endeavors to work to a bit of light reading, a good table can be a great help across the board, particularly when paired with a well-designed adjustable bed,

Top

Questions? Contact a Bed Expert.

Our friendly staff is here to answer your questions and can help configure a bed to fit your needs.

Call Us @ 877-445-6233

Other ways to contact us

Transfer Master

About Transfer Master

Transfer Master has built electric adjustable hospital beds for the home and medical facility since 1993. We started with a simple goal that hospital beds should allow wheelchair users to transfer independently in and out of bed. Thirty years later, our customers are still at the center of everything we do. You’ll feel the difference.