BED RAIL SAFETY WATCH
Know What to Look For Before You Buy
Not all bed rails are created equal. Some bed rails sold today don't meet current safety standards, creating unnecessary risks for the people who rely on them.
Recognize the warning signs before an unsafe bed rail ends up in your home.
BED RAIL SAFETY
BY THE NUMBERS
*Source: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
4 million+
Bed Rails Recalled
since 2021
280+
Entrapment Deaths
since 2003
79,500+
Entrapment Injuries
since 2003
Learn to Recognize These Recalled Bed Rail Designs
These dangerous bed rail designs have been recalled, yet similar products remain on the market today.
Their shapes can create openings that trap a person's head, neck, chest, or limbs, potentially causing serious injury or death.
These dangerous bed rail designs have been recalled, yet similar products remain on the market today. Their shapes can create openings that trap a person's head, neck, chest, or limbs, potentially causing serious injury or death.
Potential entrapment zones highlighted in red
Single Loop Overhang
Creates an opening between the rail and mattress where a person's head, neck, or body could become trapped, potentially restricting movement or breathing.
Double Loop Overhang
Creates multiple openings and potential entrapment points. A person could become wedged between the loops, rail supports, or mattress, increasing the risk of injury or suffocation.
Wide Overhang
Extends farther across the mattress, creating a larger area where a person could slide beneath the rail and become trapped between the rail structure and mattress.
Extended Overhang
Creates an opening between the rail and mattress that worsens as it's extended. A person's head, neck, or torso could become caught between the rail and mattress, particularly if the mattress shifts or compresses.
Potential entrapment zones highlighted in red
UNDERSTANDING BED RAIL ENTRAPMENT
See How Dangerous Openings Lead to Entrapment
A bed rail may look protective, but its design can create hidden hazards. A lower price doesn't always mean a better value, especially when safety is at stake. Learn what to look for before you buy.
WATCH VIDEOEntrapment can happen in just seconds and may result in serious injury or even death.
Understand the risks and choose bed rails properly designed to prevent entrapment.
ENTRAPMENT LOOKS LIKE THIS
Entrapment Can Happen in Multiple Ways
Entrapment occurs when part of a person's body becomes caught in an opening between the mattress, bed frame, or bed rail and can lead to serious injury or even death.
Head and Neck Entrapment
The head or neck becomes caught in an opening, preventing movement or breathing.
Chest Entrapment
Pressure against the chest can restrict breathing and make self-rescue difficult.
Limb Entrapment
Arms or legs can become trapped between rails or mattress gaps, increasing the risk of injury.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
When Choosing a Safer Bed Rail
Before buying a bed rail online, check the listing for safety compliance, bed and mattress compatibility, and installation requirements. Missing or unclear product details should be a warning sign.
Meets Current Safety Standards
Look for a clear statement of compliance with current federal safety standards, including ASTM F3186-17.
Designed for Your Bed Type
Check that the listing specifically confirms compatibility with your bed type, whether traditional, adjustable, or another style.
Compatible with Your Mattress
Look for a clearly stated mattress height range to ensure the bed rail is compatible with your mattress.
Includes a Retention System
Check how the rail attaches to the bed. Look for a secure retention system, such as safety straps or a hard-mounted attachment.
Leaves No Dangerous Gaps
Review product photos for openings between the rail and mattress that could cause entrapment, especially when the bed is adjusted.
NEWS & MEDIA COVERAGE
Bed Rail Safety in the News: Recalls, Risks, and Investigations
Explore news coverage and independent reporting on adult bed rail recalls, entrapment hazards, and important safety concerns.
CONSUMER REPORTS
Unsafe Bed Rails Have Led to Hundreds of Deaths and Thousands of Injuries. They’re Still Easy to Buy.
In its independent testing, 4 of 10 adult bed rails failed safety tests but are still being sold.
Read Article
LEARN MORE
For more information on bed rail safety and entrapment prevention, visit these trusted resources.
