FAQ

Which retailers offer free setup for nursing beds?

Time:2025-09-12
Let's face it—buying a nursing bed is rarely a spontaneous decision. It's a purchase rooted in necessity, whether you're caring for an aging parent, supporting a loved one recovering from surgery, or ensuring your own long-term comfort. And if you've started shopping around, you've probably realized something quickly: nursing beds aren't just "beds." They're complex, often heavy pieces of equipment with motors, adjustable parts, and safety features that demand careful handling. That's why one question keeps popping up for many shoppers: Which retailers actually offer free setup? After all, hauling a bulky bed into your home and figuring out how to assemble it—especially when you're already stressed—sounds like the last thing anyone needs. In this guide, we'll break down the top retailers that take the hassle out of the process by including free setup, why this service matters more than you might think, and how to choose the right option for your needs.

Why Free Setup Isn't Just a "Nice-to-Have"—It's a Game-Changer

Before we dive into the retailers, let's talk about why free setup should be high on your priority list. Nursing beds, especially electric or multifunction models, aren't like assembling a bookshelf from a flat pack. We're talking about beds that can weigh 200 pounds or more, with intricate wiring for motors, remote controls, and safety locks. Even if you're handy with tools, misaligning a single part could compromise the bed's stability or functionality—not exactly a risk you want to take when someone's safety is on the line.

Then there's the logistics. Imagine maneuvering a king-sized electric nursing bed through a narrow hallway or up a flight of stairs. Most of us don't have a team of movers on speed dial, and hiring professional help separately can add $150–$300 to your total cost. Free setup means the retailer sends trained technicians who know exactly how to handle the bed, navigate tight spaces, and ensure everything is installed correctly the first time. Plus, they'll walk you through how to use the bed—adjusting positions, operating the remote, and troubleshooting basic issues—so you're not left staring at a user manual at 2 a.m. when you need to raise the headrest.

And let's not forget peace of mind. When a professional sets up the bed, you can trust that it meets safety standards (hello, FDA guidelines for medical equipment) and that all features work as intended. For families caring for elderly loved ones or individuals recovering from injury, that confidence is priceless. You're not just buying a product—you're investing in reassurance that your care recipient will be safe and comfortable from day one.

Top Retailers Offering Free Setup for Nursing Beds

Not all retailers are created equal when it comes to post-purchase support. Some might advertise "free delivery" but leave setup to you, while others bundle professional installation into the price. Below are the standout options that go the extra mile.

1. CareWell Medical Supplies

CareWell has built a reputation as a go-to for home medical equipment, and their nursing bed offerings are no exception. What sets them apart? A commitment to end-to-end service that includes white-glove delivery and setup at no extra cost. Whether you're buying a basic manual bed or a high-tech electric model with massage features, their team handles everything from unloading the bed to testing all functions before they leave.

They partner with top home nursing bed manufacturers like Medline and Drive Medical, so you'll find a range of options, including fair price multifunction nursing bed models that balance features and affordability. For example, their best-selling electric bed includes adjustable height, head, and foot sections—all set up by their technicians, who also take the time to show you how to use the remote and clean the mattress.

Customer reviews consistently praise their setup team for being punctual, respectful of homes (they wear shoe covers!), and thorough. One reviewer noted, "After my mom's surgery, the last thing I needed was stress. CareWell delivered the bed, set it up in her room, and even showed my dad how to lower the rails. It was worth every penny."

2. HomeCare Essentials

If you're looking for a retailer that specializes in customized multifunction nursing bed solutions, HomeCare Essentials should be on your radar. They work directly with electric nursing bed manufacturers to offer beds tailored to specific needs—think extra-wide frames for larger individuals or beds with built-in pressure relief for patients at risk of bedsores. And yes, their customization options include free professional setup.

What makes their setup unique? They send a consultant to your home before delivery to assess the space. This pre-delivery visit ensures the bed will fit through doorways, align with electrical outlets, and work with your existing furniture. On delivery day, their certified technicians assemble the bed, test all motors and controls, and even dispose of the packaging—so you won't be left with a mountain of boxes.

HomeCare Essentials also stands out for their focus on education. During setup, the team provides a hands-on tutorial, covering everything from adjusting bed positions to troubleshooting common issues (like a stuck remote). They even leave behind a printed guide and a direct phone line to their support team, just in case you have questions later.

Prices here tend to be mid-to-high range, but customers say the personalized service justifies the cost. As one user put it, "We needed a bed that could tilt to help with my husband's acid reflux. HomeCare customized it, set it up perfectly, and the technician stayed for an hour making sure we felt comfortable. You can't put a price on that kind of care."

3. Medical Depot

For budget-conscious shoppers, Medical Depot offers a wide range of nursing bed for sale at competitive prices—without skimping on setup. Their "No Fuss" guarantee includes free delivery and setup on all electric and semi-electric beds, making them a popular choice for families and caregivers on a tight budget.

They stock beds from both well-known and emerging electric nursing bed manufacturers , so you'll find options like basic electric beds with height adjustment to more advanced models with programmable positions. While they don't offer the same level of customization as HomeCare Essentials, their setup service is thorough: technicians assemble the bed, test all moving parts, and ensure it's level and stable. They also remove all packaging materials, which is a huge plus for anyone short on time or energy.

One thing to note: Medical Depot's setup is limited to standard installations. If you need the bed placed in a hard-to-reach area (like a basement with narrow stairs) or require modifications to your home (such as removing a door), there may be an extra fee. But for most standard setups, their free service is reliable and efficient. As one reviewer shared, "I was worried about the cost, but Medical Depot's bed was affordable, and the setup was free. The technician even called 30 minutes before arriving—no waiting around all day!"

4. National Medical Supply

National Medical Supply is a nationwide chain with a strong focus on customer service, and their nursing bed setup is a prime example. They offer free setup on all in-store and online purchases, including beds from top home nursing bed manufacturers like Invacare and Golden Technologies. What's unique about their service is the "Setup Plus" add-on (included at no cost) which covers a follow-up check-in after 30 days. A technician will call or visit to ensure the bed is still functioning properly and answer any new questions that have popped up.

They carry a diverse inventory, from lightweight portable beds for temporary use to heavy-duty bariatric beds for larger users. Their electric beds are particularly popular, with features like quiet motors and backup battery systems (in case of power outages)—all demonstrated during setup. One customer raved, "After my husband had a stroke, we needed a bed fast. National Medical Supply delivered the next day, set it up, and the follow-up call a month later showed they really care. The bed works perfectly, and we feel supported."

How to Compare Retailers: A Quick Reference Table

Retailer Bed Types Available Setup Service Details Additional Perks Price Range
CareWell Medical Supplies Electric, manual, multifunction White-glove delivery, full assembly, function testing, user tutorial Partners with top home nursing bed manufacturers; fair price points $800–$2,500
HomeCare Essentials Customized multifunction, electric, bariatric Pre-delivery home assessment, assembly, customization setup, tutorial Tailored beds for specific needs; direct work with electric nursing bed manufacturers $1,500–$4,000+
Medical Depot Electric, semi-electric, manual Standard delivery, assembly, testing, packaging removal Budget-friendly options; wide range from basic to mid-range models $600–$1,800
National Medical Supply Electric, portable, bariatric, hospital-grade Assembly, testing, tutorial, 30-day follow-up check-in Backup battery options; nationwide chain with local support $900–$3,000

What to Ask Before You Buy: Key Questions for Retailers

Even with this list, it's important to do your own due diligence before choosing a retailer. Here are some questions to ask to ensure you're getting the best setup service possible:

  • "What exactly does 'free setup' include?" Some retailers might assemble the bed but leave it in the living room, while others will place it in the desired bedroom, connect the power, and test all features. Get specifics!
  • "Do you charge extra for tight spaces or stairs?" If your home has narrow hallways or steep stairs, ask if there are additional fees for maneuvering the bed. Some retailers include this in free setup; others don't.
  • "Who will be doing the setup? Are they trained technicians?" You want professionals who know the ins and outs of nursing beds, not just delivery drivers. Ask about certification or training.
  • "What if something goes wrong during setup?" A reputable retailer should offer to fix any issues (like a damaged part) on the spot or reschedule with a new bed at no cost.
  • "Can I request a specific setup time?" Flexibility is key, especially if you're coordinating with caregivers or medical appointments. Ask about scheduling options.

Final Thoughts: Investing in Comfort—Without the Headache

Buying a nursing bed is a big decision, but it doesn't have to be a stressful one. By choosing a retailer that offers free setup, you're not just saving time and money—you're ensuring that the bed is installed safely and correctly, so you can focus on what really matters: caring for your loved one. Whether you opt for a fair price multifunction nursing bed from CareWell, a customized multifunction nursing bed from HomeCare Essentials, or a budget-friendly option from Medical Depot, the key is to prioritize service alongside the bed itself. After all, a nursing bed is more than a piece of furniture—it's a tool that supports healing, comfort, and dignity. With the right retailer, you can rest easy knowing that tool is in good hands from delivery to setup and beyond.

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