How To Deflate an Air Mattress

An air mattress is a classic staple of any camping trip and is the key to getting a good night's sleep for many campers. Most of us can admit we’ve been through our fair share of mattresses when out on our adventures, which is why when it comes to packing away your air mattress it’s crucial to deflate it correctly.

In this blog, we’ll teach you how to deflate an air mattress properly and reveal why it’s so important to store and deflate your mattress the right way to ensure it stays in top condition. 

Are you looking for some top-quality camping gear? Why not invest in a luxury glamping bell tent at Boutique Camping? 

Why Is It Important to Deflate an Air Mattress Properly?

You might think that learning how to deflate an air mattress is a simple and easy process, but it’s important to ensure it’s done right for a number of reasons.

• Prevents Damage: One of the main reasons that air mattresses get damaged is due to the force people use in an attempt to deflate them faster. Pushing and rushing the process can cause punctures and affect inflation.
• Maximises Storage Space: When your air mattress is fully deflated and folded correctly it can become compact and much easier to store. If you’ve still got air in the bed or you’ve not followed the storage instructions your mattress can take up more room.
• Extends Mattress Life: Buying a luxury or glamping air mattress offers more comfort and features but it’s important to care for your mattress properly to ensure you get the most out of it. Correct deflation and storage will help your mattress last for many of your outdoor adventures. 

If you want to know more about the inflation process, check out our blog that answers “How do self-inflating mats work?”. 

How to Deflate an Air Mattress - Step By Step 

1. Pack away your bedding

If you’re getting ready to pack up from your trip the first thing you should do is remove any bedding, pillows and blankets and pack them away. This should leave your air mattress clear and as it was when you first unpacked it.

1. Locate and open the valve

Find the air valve on your mattress. If you were the one who inflated it this should be easy to find. Look for a cap or valve at the top or bottom side of the mattress. There are also instructions printed on the side of many mattresses detailing how to inflate and deflate and this will help you easily identify the valve. 

Once you’ve found the valve it’s time to open it. If your mattress has a built-in pump for inflating and deflating, there should be a setting you can press to begin the deflation process. Our deluxe flock airbed has an interlocking quick-release valve which makes deflation much easier and faster when you’re in a rush to get home. 

1. Press the air out of your mattress

It’s important to do this slowly and gently. Press on the mattress from the bottom upwards to help expel the air. Don’t use excessive pressure or jump on the mattress as this can cause it to pop, tear or damage the seams which can cause air to leak when inflated. Pressing out the air from the bottom to the top of the valve will also speed up the deflation process if you’ve not got a pump.

1. Fold up your mattress

Flatten your mattress as much as possible and then begin folding it up to pack away. Some mattresses are made to fold or be rolled up, so double-check your instructions for the best way to pack away for storage. As you fold or roll, any remaining air should be released from the open valve. To make for easy folding, our self-inflating mattresses come with compression straps and a zip-up bag. 

1. Close the mattress valve and pack away

Once you’ve fully deflated your mattress, close the air valve to ensure no air absorbs back in and your mattress stays as flat and compact as possible. If your mattress comes with a storage back, place it back into this and secure it tightly for transporting to and from your campsite.

If your mattress does not come with its own storage bag, pack it away safely in a waterproof and sunproof container or bag to prevent any damage from the elements, scratches or scrapes that could cause holes whilst in transport. 

1. Store the mattress away safely 

Once you’re home and ready to put all of your camping gear away, be sure to store your air mattress in a cool, dry place away from excess sunlight, heat or any tools that could cause punctures. 

Avoid placing heavy objects on top of your mattress or forcing it into tight places as this can cause damage and issues with inflation when it comes to using it again.

How to Keep Your Air Mattress in Top Condition

Learning how to deflate an air mattress isn’t the only way to ensure you get the most out of it. There are a few other simple tricks that allow you to extend the life of your mattress:

• Wipe Down Before Storing: Using antibacterial spray or wipes, clean the surface of your mattress before packing it away. This will remove any dirt or debris that could cause damage or develop into things like mould.
• Add Bedding and Sheets: Always be sure to dress your mattress in bedding and proper sheets. This will prevent sweat or dead skin from transferring to your mattress and causing wear. 
• Inflate Carefully: You might think that filling your mattress to the max will make it comfier, but overinflating it can damage the seams and cause air to leak. Inflate slowly and carefully and stop when you’re able to lie down without touching the floor.

• Invest in Quality: Opting for a higher quality or more luxurious mattress should offer you more durable materials and better inflation and deflation power. Our self-inflating mattress is the perfect solution to things like overinflation as it contains an interior foam layer rather than just air to ensure a spongy and supportive feel with adjustable firmness.
  
  See images of the self-inflating mattress below.

If you want to make things easier you can ditch the air mattress altogether! We offer a brilliant alternative, the roll-up Oxford bed!

Comfortable Camping Every Time with Boutique Camping

Now you know how to deal with an air mattress and how to keep it in great condition you should be set for enjoying a cosy night's sleep on all your adventures. To enjoy the most comfortable camping experience, pair your air mattress with our luxury glamping accessories and spacious bell tents at Boutique Camping. 

If you’re not sure what to pair with your airbed for the best weekend away, get in touch with our camping experts and we can give you personalised style and setup advice!