How to Use a Slide Sheet Safely
08/10/25
Key Takeaways
What is a slide sheet?
What are the different types of slide sheets?
When is it necessary to use a slide sheet?
How to use slide sheets safely
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What is a slide sheet?
A slide sheet is a large sheet that is folded in half and made of low friction material to enable a smoother move of residents. Slide sheets are used to manoeuvre residents without having to lift them. If the resident is larger, a two layered slide sheet may need to be used. This is different to a normal-sized slide sheet, as it doesn’t need to be folded in half to create two sheets. Slide sheets are safer for both the care staff and residents as it requires less strength for the carers and residents are less likely to be injured during a lift. As certain residents may be identified as a risk by the manual handling risk assessment, slide sheets make this a simpler process. Always follow the slide sheet training manual, which should be given to all care nurses.
Different Types of Slide Sheets
Single Layer Slide Sheets
As mentioned, there are single layer slide sheets which fold in half to create the slide motion used on residents. These are the most commonly used slide sheets in care homes and are there to assure residents stay comfortable with minimal injury risk when being moved safely.
Quilted Slide Sheets
Quilted slide sheets are similar to single layout slide sheets, however they are quilted for additional comfort. A quilted slide sheet will safely manoeuvre residents and can also be used to keep residents in an upright sitting position when in a chair or bed.
Slide Sheets with Handles
Slide sheets with handles are often used when additional grip is needed from a carer. This may be due to the resident's specific mobility needs or if carers require an extra handle to help for a more smooth manoeuvre. Handles on sheets offer peace of mind to users and can help with residents who may be larger.
When is a slide sheet necessary?
Usually when a resident is very frail with limited mobility, often bed bound, a slide sheet will be used. Moving residents can be tough on both staff and the residents themselves. There is a risk of injury to both care nurses and residents, with strains and potentially broken bones being a factor. A resident will need to have a risk assessment to see if they can be lifted without a slide sheet, or need assistance with movement. However, in some cases, care staff may find a slide sheet useful to move larger residents or just feel more comfortable using a slide sheet than lifting the resident.
How to use a slide sheet safely?
Before you use a slide sheet, there are necessary rules to follow to make sure you are safely moving the resident.
Preparing before using a slide sheet
Firstly, you need to have two care nurses available to use a slide sheet, with a nurse standing on each side of the bed. You also should check beforehand that the slide sheet is clean to be used without any fluids or stains.
Also, check to see if your resident is able to talk to you, they may be able to help with the manoeuvre if they have some mobility.
The room should be clear of any obstacles that may prevent the slide sheet being used safely, or could impact the care nurse's ability to move the resident.
Slide Sheet Instructions
Position each care nurse at either side of the bed.
Roll your resident onto their side, with help from them if they are able. The other care nurse will then begin their manoeuvre with the slide sheet.
Fold the slide sheet in half and place it on the resident’s bed.
Tuck the end of the slide sheet, which is folded, underneath the resident.
Roll the resident onto the sheet, they should now be laying on the slide sheet on their back.
Roll the resident onto their other side, they will now be supported by the other care nurse.
The carer who previously supported the resident will now pull the slide sheet through under the resident.
Turn the resident onto their back, making sure they are now placed on top of the slide sheet.
By holding the edges of the slide sheet, care nurses can easily move the resident with the two sheets sliding over each other.
To remove the slide sheet, push the folded side underneath the resident and pull the bottom layer of the open side in an upwards direction.
Remember Other Important Moving & Handling Equipment
At Spearhead, we support the full moving and handling process. To provide a complete functioning care environment, it is recommended that you invest in all key items of Moving & Handling Equipment:
Slings - Our complete range of hoist-compatible slings.
Transfer Aids - Ideal for independent or assisted transfers.
Bath Hoists - Safe bathing support for residents.
Sling Belts - A great alternative for short-distance transfers or repositioning.
We work closely with care home teams to help them choose the right configuration of solutions for their space and resident needs.
Why Choose Spearhead for Your Slide Sheet Needs?
We Listen | We Understand | We Deliver.
We’ve been working alongside care providers for over 30 years. We understand that it’s not just about selling products, it’s about delivering solutions that improve quality of life.
Whether you're running a new facility, upgrading old equipment, or responding to resident-specific needs, we're here to support you every step of the way. Discover why so many care homes choose Spearhead.
Want to Test Slide Sheets? Visit Our Showroom
Want to see the different types of slide sheets before making a decision?
Come to our fully equipped showroom and get hands-on with our most popular products.
Our team will walk you through demonstrations, comparisons, and recommendations tailored to your specific requirements.
Plan your visit to the Spearhead Showroom:
Spearhead Help You Make Informed Slide Sheet Choices for Better Care
With so many slide sheet types and options available, it’s important to choose the right equipment for the people you care for. From single sheet to quilted sheets with handles, understanding the different types of slide sheets empowers care teams to provide safer, more dignified, and more efficient care.
Explore our complete selection of Slide Sheets, or speak with our product experts to get tailored advice.
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