How to Deflate an Air Mattress in 4 Easy Steps!

We’ve all been there. You spend the evening with your friends, or perhaps you have a sleepover with your kids, and you need a mattress that’s not only comfortable but also easy to store.

But, storing it once you’re finished can be difficult. Thankfully, there are some simple ways you can go about deflating it so that it’s easy to store without getting too wrinkly. Let’s take a look at the best way to deflate these mattresses.

How to Deflate an Air Mattress in 4 Steps

1. Remove All the Bedding

Make sure that you first remove all the bedding from the air mattress. Then place the air mattress on a flat surface such as a floor. Avoid sharp objects that could cause punctures.

2. Open the Air Valve

After you have prepared your air mattress for deflation, remove or unlatch the air valve. As the pressure is released, you should immediately see the air mattress begin to deflate. Alternatively, some air mattresses come with internal pumps that will both inflate and deflate the mattress. If this is the case, just turn the pump to the appropriate setting.

3. Press on the Mattress

You may need to use your body weight to press the air out. To do this, simply apply pressure to the mattress with your hands and knees. Then, gently push the air out using your fingertips. Continue to apply pressure until the mattress is flat. This may take up to 5-10 minutes depending on how large the mattress is and how much pressure was applied.

4. Shake It Out

If you’ve tried letting out the air and it’s still too full to fold, you might need to shake it out. To do this, flip the mattress over and give it a couple of gentle shakes until the air inside moves around and is distributed more evenly throughout the mattress.

What You Need to Know Before Buying An Air Mattress: A Comprehensive Buying Guide

Buying an air mattress can be a daunting task with seemingly endless factors to consider, from price and size to material and inflation. To make the process easier, it’s important to be informed and know what you’re looking for before going to the store or making a purchase online.

Types of Air Mattresses

Before you start shopping, it’s important to know the different types of air mattresses available. The type of air mattress you choose will depend on your personal needs and preferences. There are many different types of air mattresses to choose from, including:

Inflatable Air Beds

Inflatable air beds are ideal for everyday use or for guests because they are easy to inflate, deflate, and store away. This type of air mattress is also great for kids because it’s lightweight and easy to carry around.

While inflatable air beds are versatile and can be used for indoor and outdoor use, they are generally less durable than non-inflatable air beds and may not be as comfortable to sleep on. They’re also usually lower to the ground and may only fit one person.

Air Beds with Electric Pump

Air beds with electric pumps are ideal for indoor use and guests. These air mattresses are often more durable than inflatable models and are usually made with thicker and more comfortable materials. They’re also more expensive than inflatable air beds but are worth the investment if you want a quality product that will last longer and hold at least 2 people.

Air Beds with Internal Pump

An air bed with an internal pump may be a better and more cost-effective option than one with an electric pump. This type of air bed is often more expensive than an inflatable one but is also more durable and comfortable to sleep on. This type of air bed is also convenient because you don’t have to manually pump it or deal with all those cords or plugs.

Features to Look for in an Air Mattress

When buying an air mattress, it’s important to consider the features and factors that will help you find the best air mattress for your needs. This will ensure you choose the best air mattress for your budget and get the most for your money. Take into consideration these important features when buying an air mattress.

Size and Number of People It Can Support

Before purchasing an air mattress, make sure to choose the right size and number of people it can support. Most will hold one or two people or go by weight (such as holding up to 300 pounds). It’s also important to consider the size of the person(s) who will be sleeping on the air mattress.

An air mattress that is too small may be uncomfortable to sleep on, while one that is too large may take up too much space in a room or tent and be cumbersome to store when on the go.

Material

The type of material an air mattress is made of is important because it will determine how comfortable it is to sleep on and how long it will last. Air mattresses made with thicker and more durable materials like high-quality vinyl or PVC tend to be more expensive but are also more comfortable and long-lasting.

Air mattresses made with thinner and less durable materials tend to be less expensive but are also less comfortable and may not last as long.

Inflation Mechanism

When buying an air mattress, take into consideration the type of inflation mechanism it uses. Manual air mattresses are cheaper but require manual inflating, which can be time-consuming and tiresome.

Electric air mattresses are more expensive but use an electric pump that makes inflating the mattress quick and easy (these will usually inflate in less than 5 minutes). Hybrid air mattresses are a combination of both and may be the best option if you’re looking for a middle ground between price and convenience.

Common Challenges with Air Mattresses

There are drawbacks to owning an air mattress. Here are some of the most notable ones.

Noise

Air mattresses may be noisier than other types of mattresses, which may be an issue if you’re sharing a bedroom with someone or if you need to be quiet (like if you’re in a dorm or getting in late).

Punctures

Air mattresses are typically made from PVC, vinyl, or other materials that can be punctured given the right conditions. And though some models hold up better than others, it still isn’t something that you have to worry about with traditional mattresses.

Heat Retention

Air mattresses are not as breathable as other types of mattresses, which can lead to heat retention. This can be an issue if you’re sharing a bed with someone, and your partner tends to run warm.

Harder to Clean

Air mattresses are harder to clean than other types of mattresses, which means they may require more frequent cleaning – especially if you’re using them outside, where they may be prone to debris and dirt.

Slipping & Deflating

Slipping and deflating are also common issues with air mattresses, typically in ones that are on the lower end of the price spectrum. You can prevent slipping across the floor by placing rubber bands over the air mattress, but an air mattress that constantly needs to be inflated can be a bit of a nuisance – which is why it helps to go with a quality brand and model.

Tips for Finding the Perfect Air Mattress

Finding the perfect air mattress is as easy as knowing what to look for and how to narrow down your options. Here are a few tips to help you find the perfect air mattress.

Know Your Budget

Before you start shopping, make sure to set a budget so you don’t overspend on a new mattress. It’s also important to consider the price of the air mattress you’re buying and how long it will last.

Know What You Really Need

Before you start shopping, it’s important to know what you need in a mattress. Do you need something for everyday use or for guests? How many people will be sleeping on the mattress? Do you need something that’s comfortable, durable, and easy to transport? Knowing what you need will help you narrow down your choices and find the perfect air mattress.

Shop Around & Check Out Reviews

Before you make a purchase, it’s important to shop around for the best deal. This will help you save money and find the perfect air mattress for your budget. And don’t forget to always check out customer reviews on sites like Amazon, Target, and Walmart.

Wrapping Things Up

Deflating an air mattress is simply a matter of opening the air valve and using the pump or pressing on it to release the air – it’s a fairly quick process. And if you run into issues, simply look at the owner’s manual for guidance.

Air mattresses are an excellent option for those who are looking for a great night’s sleep but don’t want to buy an expensive mattress. They’re great for camping, fishing trips, sleepovers, and more. If you don’t have a place to store them, you can also buy air mattresses with wheels so that you can roll them when you need to store them.

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Featured Image Credit: Lost_in_the_Midwest, Shutterstock