How to Make a Bed with Someone In It

Caring for someone who is bedridden requires patience, attention to detail, and a gentle touch—especially when it comes to keeping their bed clean and comfortable. Whether you're a caregiver for an elderly parent, a loved one recovering from surgery, or someone with limited mobility, knowing how to change bedding without disturbing them too much is essential. A fresh, dry bed prevents discomfort, skin irritation, and even bedsores, making a big difference in their well-being.

Why Changing the Bed is Important for Bedridden Individuals

Lying in the same sheets for too long can lead to problems beyond just discomfort. Sweat, spills, and incontinence can cause moisture buildup, which leads to skin irritation and even infections. If someone spends long hours in bed, their bedding should be clean and dry to avoid pressure sores and unpleasant odors.

Many caregivers rely on SPC incontinence products, such as SPC quilted underpads (30 x 36 inches) or SPC reusable underwear, to help manage leaks and keep beds dry longer. But even with these, regular bedding changes are still necessary.

Steps to Make a Bed Without Moving the Person

Changing the bed while someone is still in it can feel tricky at first, but with a few careful movements, it’s completely manageable. The goal is to minimize movement and discomfort while keeping them supported throughout the process.

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

Before you begin, have everything you need within reach: clean fitted sheet, flat sheet, pillowcases, waterproof mattress protector or SPC quilted underpad for extra protection, and gloves (if needed for hygiene purposes). Having everything ready prevents unnecessary back-and-forth, which can help keep the person more comfortable.

Step 2: Position the Person Safely

Start by rolling the person gently onto one side. If they can assist you by shifting their weight slightly, encourage them to do so. If not, use slow and steady movements to turn them while supporting their back and hips. For extra protection, tuck an SPC incontinence quilted underpad underneath to absorb moisture and reduce the number of bedding changes needed. These underpads are designed for high liquid absorption, which helps keep the bed dry overnight and prevents skin irritation.

Step 3: Remove the Soiled Sheets

Once they are on their side, roll up the soiled sheet toward the middle of the bed, keeping it away from the person. If you are using a waterproof mattress protector, wipe down the surface before placing a fresh one.

Step 4: Place the Clean Sheet

Tuck one side of the clean fitted sheet onto the mattress, then roll up the other side toward the person’s back. Gently roll them to the other side over the bundled sheets. Pull out the soiled bedding and finish stretching the clean sheet over the mattress. This “roll method” is a simple way to swap sheets without lifting the person entirely.

Step 5: Adjust the Top Sheet and Pillows

Once the fitted sheet is in place, lay a clean flat sheet over the person. Adjust their pillows, ensuring they are properly supported and comfortable. SPC incontinence medical supplies, such as pillow protectors, can also help keep everything fresh longer.

How Often Should You Change the Bedding?

It depends on the situation. If the person is not incontinent and stays dry, changing the sheets every few days may be enough. However, if there are spills, sweat, or incontinence, bedding should be changed daily or as needed. Using SPC bladder control products or SPC reusable underwear can help reduce the frequency of full bedding changes by keeping moisture contained.

Preventing Bedsores and Skin Irritation

A clean bed isn’t just about comfort—it helps prevent pressure sores, which can develop when someone stays in the same position for too long. To prevent this, use SPC quilted underpads to wick away moisture and prevent skin breakdown. Reposition the person every couple of hours to relieve pressure on certain areas. Keep the sheets smooth and wrinkle-free, as bunching can irritate the skin.

Managing Incontinence with the Right Supplies

If incontinence is a concern, using SPC incontinence products can make a big difference. These products, including SPC reusable underwear, guards, and mattress protectors, help absorb moisture, reduce odor, and keep the skin dry. High-absorbency materials ensure less leakage and more peace of mind, both for the person in bed and the caregiver.

At San Pablo Commercial, we're a family-run business dedicated to supporting seniors and caregivers by offering dependable, affordable incontinence supplies. From SPC disposable underpads to reusable underwear and sanitary pads, our range is designed for comfort and confidence. We understand the challenges of managing incontinence and strive to make it easier for you to stay clean, dry, and independent every day.