Hospital beds are essential in modern healthcare facilities, and one of the most overlooked yet crucial components is the caster wheel. A high-quality medical caster not only improves mobility but also enhances patient safety and nurse efficiency. In this guide, we’ll explore how to choose the right casters for hospital beds.
1. Understand the Key Requirements for Medical Casters
Medical environments require casters to meet several standards:
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Smooth and quiet movement: To minimize noise in hospital wards
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Reliable braking system: For patient safety during transfers
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High load capacity: To support various patient weights and equipment
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Anti-corrosion and easy cleaning: For hygiene and longevity
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Durability under continuous use: Hospital beds are moved multiple times daily
2. Choose the Right Wheel Material
The wheel material directly affects performance. Common materials include:
| Material | Features | Recommended For |
|---|---|---|
| TPR (Thermoplastic Rubber) | Quiet, shock-absorbing, non-marking | Most hospital beds & trolleys |
| Nylon | Harder, durable, lower cost | Light-duty use, dry environments |
| PU (Polyurethane) | High wear resistance, quiet | ICU beds, operating rooms |
| Stainless steel support | Corrosion-resistant | Coastal or high-humidity hospitals |
💡 TPR wheels are the most popular for hospital beds because they provide a balance of quiet movement, floor protection, and comfort.
3. Consider the Braking System
Hospital beds need strong and reliable brakes:
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Dual brake: Locks both the wheel and swivel; ensures full stability
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Central lock system: Allows multiple casters to lock/unlock together via foot pedal
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Directional lock: Prevents the wheel from swiveling, helping beds move in straight lines
🔧 If patient safety and nurse operation are top priorities, a central lock caster system is highly recommended.
4. Evaluate Load Capacity and Size
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For hospital beds, load capacity should be at least 120kg per caster
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Common caster diameters:
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100mm (4 inch): Standard for most beds
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125mm (5 inch): For better clearance and easier movement
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Choose a higher capacity if beds are motorized or carry extra equipment
5. Look for Certifications and Manufacturing Standards
A reliable caster supplier should offer:
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CE certification
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ISO 9001 quality management
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RoHS compliance (for materials)
These ensure the product is safe, durable, and compliant with hospital procurement standards.
6. OEM/ODM Customization
If you’re a hospital bed manufacturer, working with a factory that supports OEM customization allows you to:
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Add your brand/logo
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Customize colors or locking mechanisms
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Match specific technical drawings
This helps ensure seamless integration into your product line.
Conclusion
Choosing the right medical casters for hospital beds is about more than just wheels – it’s about patient safety, operational efficiency, and long-term reliability. By considering materials, load capacity, brake systems, and certifications, you’ll ensure your beds move smoothly and safely in any medical environment.
Looking for a reliable medical caster supplier?
We manufacture and export high-quality hospital bed casters with CE certification and OEM support. Contact us to request a free sample kit or catalog.
