Properly storing an air mattress helps keep it protected from any unwanted damage. Leaving an air mattress out all day is an absolute no-go if you have cats. Their claws will find a good spot to pop quicker than their mad dash for dinner.
But, rest assured, when you have a tried and true method for storing your air mattress, these problems lessen significantly. I’ll go over some tips and tricks for at-home and on-the-go storage.
This guide will cover basic folding and storage methods for indoor and outdoor use.
Deflating Your Air Mattress
This is arguably the easiest part of the process, despite it containing multiple steps.
- Deflate. Usually, air mattresses will have a clearly labeled valve. Allow your air mattress to sink all the way to the ground you’re working with. Rest a large object on top of it for a few minutes for extra flatness.
- Prepare your surface. You should double and triple-check for any unwanted sharp objects surrounding your workspace. These could accidentally pop holes in your air mattress, and you definitely don’t want that occurring while you fold.
- Smooth. Chances are that your mattress may be wrinkly upon deflating. You can smooth these wrinkles with your hands to make them as compact as possible.
Folding Your Air Mattress
Now that your air mattress is properly deflated, it’s time to fold. The technique you use for folding will largely depend on your air mattress’s size.
Remember that air mattress’ sizing varies largely by brand. Be sure to double-check the exact measurements for your air mattress at varying points of folding and storage.
A twin-sized air mattress can usually be folded in half once or twice.
A full/double or queen-sized air mattress should be folded in thirds. This can be done by:
- Folding ⅓ of the air mattress’ width to the center of it
- Folding the open side over the already-folded side
- Pressing these sides together
Rolling Your Air Mattress
If you’re running low on time or folding isn’t your style, some air mattresses can be rolled for storage. Keep a steady pace, grab one end of the flattened air mattress, and roll it to the other side.
Depending on the size of your storage container, you’ll want to ensure that you can fit the air mattress in it while it’s rolled up. You may be able to fold it in smaller increments, like in half, and then roll it to fit the storage container.
When you roll your air mattress, do so on a flat surface. This creates the most even result and protects it from any potential damage.
Protecting Your Air Mattress For Storage
The protection method you choose is even more important than proper folding and rolling. This will look different if you store the air mattress in your home or outdoors.
If you’re storing the air mattress indoors, it’s likely tempting to throw it in your closet for a fast solution. However, that’s one of the quickest ways to add damage to your air mattress.
You don’t have to keep the air mattress in its original box. Many come with a carrying bag that’s similar to one that would accompany a sleeping bag. Safely place the air mattress in the bag and tighten it as much as possible.
Again, our focus here is protecting your air mattress from any damage. Environmental factors are a major contributor here. Any moisture or weather can severely impact the quality of your air mattress.
Storing Your Air Mattress
Ideally, you’ll be able to keep your air mattress in a space such as the attic. However, linen closets work fine as long as the air mattress is properly covered.
You can keep the air mattress in its carrying bag or place it in a storage bin.
For outdoor storage, if you must keep the air mattress in a tent, ensure it is covered and dry. Checking the ground for any sharp objects is a good idea. This way, you can avoid any unwanted punctures.
If you’re staying windy somewhere, perhaps keep the folded and rolled air mattress under a heavy object so it is not affected by these conditions.
Always remember to remember your air mattress’s dimensions when preparing it for storage. This is especially true if you plan on buying a container to store the air mattress in. If you shop online, most storage containers will have their specific dimensions listed on their label or item info.
FAQ
Where can I get a box to store my air mattress?
Major retailers such as Target and Walmart sell plastic bins for around $10 that can safely house your air mattress.
Can I keep my air mattress in its original box?
Yes, but it is recommended that you fold and roll it properly before placing it in the box.
Does the temperature of the storage location affect the air mattress?
The temperature itself does not, but it’s important to keep your air mattress in a dry location. If you’re working with a location other than a closet or attic, places such as underneath a bed will work.
Summary
Keeping your air mattress at its top quality for the long term is quite simple with little effort. Naturally, this is dependent on your intended use for the air mattress.
Outdoor usage will require a little more effort, while those kept indoors can generally be left and not thought about.
Protecting your air mattress from certain conditions is sometimes as simple as keeping it in a secure bag or bin. Additionally, so long as it’s flattened properly, it won’t take up too much space.
One of the best perks regarding air mattresses is their portability. The multitude of options at your disposal adds flexibility to every lifestyle.