In the 1960s, the King's Fund caused a major stir when it developed a new specification for hospital beds. Manufacturers implemented the specification as the 'King's Fund bed', which was revolutionary in its time and a major step forward in patient care. Today, more than 30 years later, the bed is still in widespread use throughout hospitals and other health care organisations in the UK. However, research shows that modern requirements can no longer be met by a single basic specification; better beds are now needed, not only in hospitals, but also in the community and in nursing and residential homes. This study looks at why high quality beds are an essential part of improving patient care. It explains what matters in choosing the right bed in different circumstances and includes recommendations for change in policies, management and practice.