Lifts:
What is a Hoyer lift?
What is a Hoyer lift?
A Hoyer lift is a mechanical patient handling device designed to safely transfer individuals who have limited or no ability to move themselves between surfaces such as a bed, wheelchair, recliner, toilet, or the floor.
The system consists of a wheeled base with adjustable legs, a vertical mast, a pivoting boom, and a spreader bar (also called a cradle) that holds a fabric sling. The patient is placed in the sling, the sling is attached to the spreader bar, and the boom is raised either electrically or hydraulically to lift the person clear of the surface. Once elevated, the caregiver can move the lift and lower the patient onto the new surface.
Hoyer lifts are used in both home care and professional healthcare settings. They are available in full-body (passive) versions for non-weight-bearing patients and sit-to-stand (active) versions for patients who can partially bear weight.
Our Hoyer experts are one call away and ready to help you choose the right lift — call 877-33-HOYER or email support@myhoyerlift.com.
How do you use a Hoyer lift?
How do you use a Hoyer lift?
Safe operation of a Hoyer lift follows a clear sequence. First, the caregiver positions the lift so the open base surrounds the patient’s chair or bed and locks the rear casters. The appropriate sling is fitted under the patient according to the sling manufacturer’s instructions, making sure leg straps and shoulder straps are correctly placed.
The sling loops or clips are then attached to the spreader bar at matching points on both sides. The caregiver unlocks the casters (if needed), uses the hand control or pump to raise the patient just enough to clear the surface, and carefully maneuvers the lift to the destination. Once positioned over the new surface, the patient is lowered slowly and the sling is removed.
Throughout the process the caregiver should maintain a wide base of support, keep the load close to the body, and never leave a suspended patient unattended. Proper training and practice are essential before using any patient lift independently.
Need help understanding the process for your specific situation? Our Hoyer experts are waiting to help — call 877-33-HOYER or email support@myhoyerlift.com.
How much weight can a Hoyer lift hold?
How much weight can a Hoyer lift hold?
Weight capacity is model-specific and is listed as the Safe Working Load (SWL). Common ranges include:
- Compact portable electric lifts: 340–400 lbs
- Standard professional floor lifts: 450–500 lbs
- Bariatric models: 700–850 lbs
The SWL applies to the total load (patient + sling). Exceeding the rated capacity can cause mechanical failure, instability, or injury. Always verify the capacity plate on the lift itself and match it to the patient’s weight plus any additional equipment. Sling capacity must also be checked separately, as some slings have lower limits than the lift.
Choosing a Hoyer lift with the correct safe working load is one of the most important safety decisions in patient handling.
Can a Hoyer lift pick someone up from the floor?
Can a Hoyer lift pick someone up from the floor?
Yes — most full-body floor lifts are specifically designed to recover a person from the floor. To do this successfully, the lift must have a low enough minimum height at the spreader bar (typically under 20 inches) and sufficient boom reach.
The base legs are opened wide for stability, the sling is carefully positioned under the patient (often using a rolling or log-roll technique), and the patient is lifted slowly to a seated or semi-reclined position before being moved.
Sit-to-stand lifts are generally not suitable for floor recovery because they require the patient to already be in a seated position and able to bear some weight. Always confirm the specific model’s minimum height and floor-lift capability before attempting a floor recovery.
What is the difference between a full-body Hoyer lift and a sit-to-stand lift?
What is the difference between a full-body Hoyer lift and a sit-to-stand lift?
A full-body (passive) Hoyer lift supports the patient’s entire weight using a full-body or hammock-style sling. It is intended for individuals who cannot bear weight through their legs and need complete assistance for transfers. These lifts typically have a longer boom range and can perform floor recoveries.
A sit-to-stand (active) lift, also called a stand-aid, is designed for patients who can bear at least partial weight and can participate in the transfer. The patient is brought from a seated to a standing position using a standing sling that supports the upper body and a knee pad that stabilizes the lower legs. Many sit-to-stand lifts also allow the footplate to be removed so the device can be used for supervised gait training.
Choosing the correct type depends primarily on the patient’s weight-bearing ability and rehabilitation goals.
Can one person operate a Hoyer lift?
Can one person operate a Hoyer lift?
Many modern electric Hoyer lifts with powered bases and smooth hand controls can be operated by a single trained caregiver in appropriate situations. However, several factors influence whether one person is sufficient: patient size and cognitive ability, the environment (tight spaces, carpet, thresholds), the type of transfer, and facility or home-care policy.
Manual hydraulic lifts require more physical effort to pump the boom and are more likely to need two caregivers. Even with electric models, two-person operation is often recommended for heavier patients, floor recoveries, or when the patient is unpredictable. The priority is always safety for both the patient and the caregiver rather than minimizing staff.
How much does a Hoyer lift cost?
How much does a Hoyer lift cost?
Pricing varies significantly by type and configuration. Basic hydraulic (manual) lifts are generally the most affordable. Mid-range electric portable lifts typically cost more due to the battery system and folding design. Full-size professional electric floor lifts with powered bases, Smart Monitor systems, and higher weight capacities command higher prices. Bariatric models with capacities of 700 lbs and above are usually the most expensive.
Additional costs can include extra batteries, scales, specialized slings, and extended warranties. When comparing prices it is important to evaluate total cost of ownership, including expected battery life, service requirements, and sling compatibility, rather than looking only at the initial purchase price.
Our Hoyer experts are one call away if you need help matching a lift to your budget and needs — call 877-33-HOYER or email support@myhoyerlift.com.
Slings:
How do I choose the right Hoyer sling for a patient?
How do I choose the right Hoyer sling for a patient?
Choosing the correct sling is just as important as choosing the right patient lift. Start with a proper patient assessment that includes:
- Mobility level and ability to participate in the transfer
- Type of transfers needed (bed-to-chair, toileting, bathing, floor recovery, sit-to-stand, etc.)
- Patient weight, height, torso measurements, seated width, and any special considerations (amputations, limited head control, pressure-relief needs)
- Caregiver experience and the care environment
Match the sling style to the task:
- General transfers → Full Back, Quickfit, or Quickfit Deluxe
- Toileting/hygiene → Commode or Access-style sling with an opening
- Sit-to-stand transfers → Standing/stand-aid sling
- Infection control → Disposable single-patient-use sling
- Extended time in the sling or amputee patients → Long Seat or specialized designs
Always confirm the sling matches both the weight capacity and the attachment system (loop or clip) of your specific Hoyer lift. When in doubt, contact our Hoyer experts for guidance.
What is the difference between loop-style and clip-style Hoyer slings?
What is the difference between loop-style and clip-style Hoyer slings?
Hoyer uses two different attachment systems that are not interchangeable:
- Loop-style slings attach to a 6-point spreader bar using color-coded webbing loops. These are the most common type and work with the majority of Hoyer floor lifts, including the Advance, Presence, Stature, HPL450, HPL500, HPL700, Calibre, and Elara.
- Clip-style (Comfort) slings use the Securi3 clip system and attach to a 4-point positioning cradle. These are primarily used on the Presence and Stature when fitted with the correct cradle.
Never mix the systems. A loop sling will not work safely on a 4-point clip cradle, and a clip sling will not work on a standard 6-point bar. Always verify which attachment system your lift uses before ordering.
How do I select the correct Hoyer sling size?
How do I select the correct Hoyer sling size?
Hoyer uses a simple color-coded sizing system on the binding of the sling:
Size
Binding Color
Typical Weight Range (guideline only)
Extra Small
Brown
Up to ~100 lbs
Small
Red
~75–150 lbs
Medium
Yellow
~125–200 lbs
Large
Green
~175–350 lbs
Extra Large
Blue
~275–500 lbs
Bariatric slings use striped binding and are rated up to 850 lbs for high-capacity lifts such as the Calibre and HPL700.
Important: Weight ranges are only a starting guide. Body shape, height, torso width, and clinical condition also affect the correct size. Always assess the individual patient. When in doubt, size up or consult a clinician or our team.
Are Hoyer slings compatible with all Hoyer lifts?
Are Hoyer slings compatible with all Hoyer lifts?
No. Compatibility depends on both the sling style and the lift’s spreader bar or cradle:
- Most Professional series lifts (Advance, Presence, Stature, HPL450/500/700, Calibre) use loop-style slings with a 6-point spreader bar.
- Presence and Stature can also use clip-style Comfort slings when fitted with a 4-point positioning cradle.
- Sit-to-stand lifts (Journey, Elevate, Ascend) require specific active/stand-aid slings.
- High-capacity models (Calibre, HPL700) require bariatric (striped) loop-style slings rated to 850 lbs when patient weight approaches or exceeds 500 lbs.
Always match the sling to the specific lift and cradle type. Using non-genuine or incompatible slings creates a serious safety risk. Joerns Hoyer recommends using only authentic Hoyer/Joerns slings with Hoyer lifts.
Can I wash Hoyer slings, and when should they be replaced?
Can I wash Hoyer slings, and when should they be replaced?
Most reusable polyester, padded, and mesh Hoyer slings can be machine washed (typically up to 185°F / 85°C). Do not use bleach — it damages the material and makes the sling unsafe. Air dry or use a cool/low-temperature dryer. Mesh versions are preferred for bathing because they dry quickly.
Disposable (single-patient-use) slings must never be washed or reused. Washing destroys their integrity and creates a safety hazard. Discard them after use with one patient to help reduce cross-contamination risk.
Inspect every sling before each use. Discard and replace it immediately if you see fraying, torn fabric, broken stitching, damaged loops/clips, or bleaching. Never continue using a damaged sling.
Are slings included with Hoyer lifts?
Are slings included with Hoyer lifts?
No. Slings are never included with the lift and must be purchased separately. This allows you to choose the exact style, size, material (padded, mesh, or disposable), and attachment system that matches both the patient and the lift. Always confirm compatibility and weight rating before ordering.
What is the difference between a full-body sling and a sit-to-stand (stand-aid) sling?
What is the difference between a full-body sling and a sit-to-stand (stand-aid) sling?
A full-body (passive) sling supports the patient’s entire weight and is designed for individuals who cannot bear weight through their legs. These are used for bed-to-chair, chair-to-chair, and floor recovery transfers. Common examples include Full Back, Quickfit, Quickfit Deluxe, Hammock, and Long Seat styles.
A sit-to-stand (active/stand-aid) sling is designed for patients who can bear at least partial weight and can participate in the transfer. It supports the upper body while a knee pad stabilizes the lower legs, helping the patient move from a seated to a standing position. These are used with lifts such as the Journey and Elevate and typically have a lower safe working load (around 440 lbs).
Choosing the correct type depends primarily on the patient’s residual strength and rehabilitation goals.
Orders:
How do I check the status of my order?
How do I check the status of my order?
Once your order ships, you will receive an email from support@myhoyerlift.com with tracking information.
If you created an account at checkout (not guest checkout), you can also log in and view your order history and tracking details directly on the website.
Who do I contact with problems about my order?
Who do I contact with problems about my order?
Please email support@myhoyerlift.com or call (877) 334-6937.
Have your order number ready so we can assist you as quickly as possible. Our team is available Monday–Friday, 9am–6pm PST.
How do I cancel an order?
How do I cancel an order?
We process orders quickly, so please contact us as soon as possible if you need to cancel.
Email support@myhoyerlift.com or call (877) 334-6937 and provide your order number. We will do our best to stop the order before it ships.
Do you offer discounts or promotions?
Do you offer discounts or promotions?
Yes. We run promotions from time to time.
The best way to stay informed is to sign up for our newsletter at the bottom of any page. Previous customers may also find a coupon code in their order confirmation email.
Can I use my HSA/FSA card?
Can I use my HSA/FSA card?
Yes. We accept HSA and FSA cards as a form of payment at checkout.
Simply enter your HSA/FSA card details the same way you would a regular credit or debit card. We cannot bill insurance directly.
Shipping & Delivery
When will my order ship?
When will my order ship?
We process all orders the same business day they are received (Monday–Friday, excluding holidays), as long as the order is placed during normal business hours and the items are in stock.
Shipping timelines begin after the order has been processed and handed off to the carrier. Most items ship within 1–2 business days. Some larger or vendor-fulfilled items may take longer. You will receive an email notification if there is any delay.
Do you offer free shipping?
Do you offer free shipping?
Yes. We offerfree ground shipping andfree overnight next day shipping on select products to the contiguous 48 United States.
How long does delivery take after shipping?
How long does delivery take after shipping?
- Ground shipping: Usually 3–5 business days after the order has been processed and handed to the carrier (depending on your location).
- Freight shipping: Used for most larger patient lifts and heavier items; transit times vary by destination.
- FREE Next-Day Air: Available on the following products when inventory and destination allow.
- Hoyer Advance E340
- Hoyer Up Sit to stand Lift
- Hoyer Journey Electric Sit to stand
Do you ship to PO Boxes, military addresses (APO/FPO), or internationally?
Do you ship to PO Boxes, military addresses (APO/FPO), or internationally?
No. We currently do not ship to PO Boxes, APO/FPO military addresses, or international destinations. UPS and FedEx (our primary carriers) do not deliver to these locations for our products.
How will I receive tracking information?
How will I receive tracking information?
Once your order ships, you will automatically receive an email from support@myhoyerlift.com containing your tracking number and carrier details.
If you created an account at checkout, you can also log in and view tracking information in your order history.
Returns & Refunds
What is your return policy?
What is your return policy?
We accept returns on eligible items in accordance with our full Return & Refund Policy.
Most unused items in original packaging can be returned within the stated timeframe. Certain products (especially larger patient lifts) may have specific conditions.
For complete details, including eligibility and any exceptions, please review our full Return Policy.
How do I start a return?
How do I start a return?
To begin a return, please email support@myhoyerlift.com or call (877) 334-6937 with your order number.
Our team will provide return authorization and instructions. Do not ship any item back without first contacting us and receiving authorization.
How long does it take to receive my refund?
How long does it take to receive my refund?
Once we receive and inspect the returned item, refunds are typically processed within a few business days.
The time it takes for the refund to appear in your account depends on your bank or credit card issuer (usually 3–10 business days after we issue it).
Full timing details are listed in our Return Policy.
What if my item arrives damaged or defective?
What if my item arrives damaged or defective?
Please contact us immediately at support@myhoyerlift.com or (877) 334-6937.
Include your order number and photos of the damage if possible. We will work with you to resolve the issue quickly — whether through a replacement, return, or other solution.
