So you just bought your inflatable mattress or maybe you are planning on buying one... but you're still wondering how it works, and how you inflate or deflate your air mattress.
Relax! Using an electric pump (which in most cases comes with the mattress) is the absolute fastest and easiest way to get your bed ready for sleep.
This step-by-step guide will show you exactly how to inflate inflatable mattress using an electric pump.
Why Use an Electric Pump?
Before you learn the steps to inflate an inflatable mattress, it's important you know why using an electric pump is the best and quickest way to get it ready. In Kenya, when you buy an inflatable mattress, most come with a free electric pump that you can plug in your home socket and start using right away.
You save yourself loads of time and effort. Forget tiring hand or foot pumps – you just plug it in, turn it on, and watch your mattress fill up super-quick. No sweating, no getting tired out before you even sleep. It's so easy anyone can do it.
Step-by-Step: How to Inflate An Inflatable Mattress
Here's how you inflate your mattress properly using your electric pump:
- Get Ready First: Find a clean spot on your floor. Sweep away anything sharp – stones, toys, bits that could poke holes. Unroll your mattress flat on this spot. Make sure the plastic valve is easy to reach and facing up. Open this valve fully. Now, plug your electric pump into a wall socket near you. Find the right nozzle tip that fits your mattress valve snugly.
- Connect and Pump: Push the pump's nozzle firmly and straight into the open mattress valve. You need a tight fit. If air hisses out around the sides, push harder or adjust it until the hissing stops. Once it's sealed well, switch on your pump. You'll hear it start and feel the air moving. Step back a little and watch your mattress rise. It fills up surprisingly quickly!
- Stop at the Right Time: Watch carefully. Stop pumping when the mattress looks fully puffed up and feels firm under your hand, but not rock-hard. Don't let it get stretched tight like a balloon. Most fill in 2-3 minutes. If your mattress instructions say a time, follow that. Overfilling risks bursting seams. If unsure, stop a little early – you can add tiny bits of air later easily. Immediately turn off the pump the moment it looks full enough.
- Seal It Tight – This is Critical: As soon as the pump is off, pull the nozzle straight out of the valve. Do this fast. Then, instantly close that valve cap. Twist it hard shut, or flip the lever closed – whatever your valve type needs. Press down firmly. You must do this quickly to trap the air inside. Listen hard right at the valve. You should hear absolutely no hissing sound. If you hear even a tiny hiss, open it and shut it again, much tighter this time. This step keeps your mattress firm all night. Do not skip this.
- Check and Adjust: Gently press down on the mattress top. It should feel supportive but still have a little softness. If it feels too soft, don't worry. Briefly reopen the valve, reconnect the pump, and turn it on for just 5 seconds. Turn it off, pull the nozzle out fast, and seal the valve tightly again. Check the feel. Repeat this tiny burst only if absolutely needed. Let the mattress sit flat for a minute so the air spreads evenly inside. Listen one last time at the valve – silence means you did it right.
You're All Set!
That's it. By sealing the valve tightly right after pumping, you lock the air in. Your mattress stays firm, giving you a comfortable, supportive sleep. Remember to unplug your pump and put it away safely. Now, enjoy your good night's rest on your perfectly inflated bed. Sleep well!
Step-by-Step: How to Deflate An Inflatable Mattress
Sometimes you need to deflate your air mattress. Let’s say you want to fold it and travel… or clear space in your room… or store it safely. So how do you let the air out? Follow these simple steps:
- Flip open the valve cap: Find that plastic flap or twist cap on your mattress. You open it all the way. Twist hard or flip it wide open. You need the hole clear so air rushes out fast.
- Press down near the open valve: Use your hands or knees. Push hard right beside the valve. You hear the air hissing out. Keep pressing until that spot feels flat.
- Roll it up tight from the far end: Start at the end farthest from the valve. Press down hard as you roll toward the valve. Squeeze all trapped air out as you roll. You feel the mattress flatten under you. Roll it as tight as your arms can manage.
- Snap the valve shut tight: Once fully rolled, flip that cap closed fast. Twist it hard until it stops. Press down with your palm. Listen close—you must hear no hissing. If you do, shut it harder.
- Tuck it in its bag: Slide your tight roll into its storage bag. Keep it in a cool, dry spot. Avoid dusty corners or sharp tools nearby. Never pack it damp—you dry it completely first.
Done! You’ve locked the air out and kept your mattress safe for next time. Easy when you know how. Now go pack your bags.
Where to Get Quality Inflatable Mattresses in Nairobi, Kenya
Now that you've learnt how to pump inflatable mattress, where can you buy quality and durable inflatable mattresses in Nairobi? Check out Air Mattress Kenya (get free delivery within Nairobi)
