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An air mattress is a great investment for those who like to be prepared for hosting guests for the holidays, unexpected visits, sleepovers, or even a camping trip. The best air mattresses can be set up quickly and stored easily, but are still comfortable enough for a good night's rest.
As a researcher with five years of experience studying sleep and running a sleep lab, I've seen firsthand the importance of getting a good night's sleep &#; no matter the circumstances. As with choosing the best mattress, it can be a challenge to find an air mattress that suits all your needs, and you might not even know what to look for when sifting through options.
We tested nine of the best air mattresses on the market and evaluated each on firmness, comfort, durability, and ease of use. Our top choice is the Sound Asleep Dream Series Air Mattress, a comfortable option with discs that help mimic the firmness and bounce of a spring mattress. It's available in various sizes and is easy to get in and out of. For those on a budget, the Intex Pillow Rest Raised Airbed can be found under $50; it's very cushiony, but best for occasional use.
Learn more about how Insider Reviews tests and researches home products.
Best overall: Sound Asleep Dream Series Air Mattress - See at Amazon
Best cheap: Intex Pillow Rest Raised Airbed - See at Amazon
Best with an automatic pump: Insta-Bed Raised Air Mattress - See at Amazon
Best twin: King Koil Air Mattress - See at Amazon
Best self-inflating: EZ Bed - See at Grandin Road
Sleeping on the SoundAsleep Dream Series feels like you're resting on a giant soft pillow; it's a durable, comfortable option for in-home use.
What we likeThe SoundAsleep Dream Series Air Mattress is so comfortable that I almost forgot I was sleeping on an air mattress. Discs on the surface that are meant to mimic the firmness and bounce of a spring mattress provide balanced distribution of air throughout the mattress.
The queen-sized air mattress inflated relatively quietly and in under four minutes. The pump is built into the mattress, so all you have to do is plug it in and set the dial to inflate until you've reached your desired firmness.
The bottom of the mattress has a grippy material to ensure it stays in place. The whole mattress is made with puncture-resistant polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which makes it extra durable and waterproof. While it initially had a plastic odor, the smell disappeared after a couple of hours.
The mattress's soft, velvety surface prevented my deep pocket sheets from slipping off and also helped maintain the right temperature throughout the night. It's raised 19 inches off the ground, a good height for climbing out of bed in the morning.
I had to give it a quick top-up on the fourth night of testing, but I didn't notice any air loss during the first few nights. The integrated cord storage and carrying bag are convenient additions.
The Intex Pillow Rest Raised Airbed is an affordable option that still provides great support and comfort for occasional use.
What we likeConsidering the price, the Intex Pillow Rest Raised Airbed is one of the best air mattresses for occasional use. Thousands of high-strength polyester fibers provide stability and support.
The mattress inflates with the push of a button. It took less than four minutes to lay out and inflate, and I could adjust it to my desired level of firmness by turning the dial. The chemical odor was stronger than the other air mattresses I tested but slowly decreased after a few days.
Sleeping on this air mattress for the first two nights was very comfortable. The firmness is good, and the surface is very cushiony. By the third night, it had lost a noticeable amount of air, so I had to reinflate it.
My deep pocket sheets didn't slip off during the night thanks to the indented sides positioned to keep sheets in place. The top is covered in a velvety material for extra comfort. On chilly nights, I noticed that the air mattress felt colder than usual, even with sheets on.
It's raised 16.5 inches from the ground, making it slightly more difficult to get in and out of than some other models we tried. Since it's so lightweight, it tends to move during the night. While the built-in pillow rest sounds like a great idea, it creates too much elevation and is too firm.
The Insta-Bed Raised Air Mattress is built with two internal pumps that constantly adjust the air pressure throughout the night to ensure that you never wake up flat on the floor.
What we likeThe Insta-Bed Raised Air Mattress is constructed with a top layer of pierce-resistant PVC, making it water-resistant and exceptionally durable. It's built with 35 circular coils to provide a balanced and supportive surface and can hold up to two people and 500 pounds.
The primary built-in pump inflates the mattress to your preferred firmness (plush, medium, or firm) and automatically shuts off when the air mattress has reached the desired level. Then the secondary pump system monitors air levels and maintains the mattress at your chosen level of firmness throughout the night.
Setting up the Insta-Bed Raised Air Mattress was the most effortless experience of all the air mattresses I tested. All I had to do was plug it in and turn the dial to my desired firmness level (medium). The pump is loud compared to the other air mattresses, but it only took about four minutes to inflate.
My sheets fit well, and I had no issues with them slipping off during the night. The mattress had a very strong and supportive surface that was comfortable to sleep on. It's raised 19 inches from the ground, so it was easy to climb in and out. That said, it's a little on the heavy side, weighing 22 pounds.
Some users might be bothered by the subtle buzzing of the secondary pump. I didn't have an issue with it, but I recommend sleeping on the opposite side of the pump if you think you'll be disturbed by it or you can choose to turn it off. Deflating the Insta-Bed works the same as inflating: Just set the dial to deflate, wait around three minutes for it to completely collapse, fold it, and pack it inside the included carry bag.
The King Koil is not your average air mattress. It inflates twice as fast as the others and is great for at-home use or camping.
What we likeThe twin-size King Koil is our recommendation for those who are seeking a quality air mattress in a small package. Its small profile packs a lot of features that will make you feel like you're sleeping on your normal mattress. A strong pillar support system ensures that you won't wake up with the mattress sagging in the middle of the night. It did not require reinflation during my testing.
The mattress has a puncture-proof finish and a velvet texture that keeps sheets right in place. This is important for restless sleepers who may untuck their sheets. The bottom has a nonslip surface to ensure it doesn't move around and the thick PVC walls add extra durability.
To set it up, simply turn the inflate valve and press the on switch. In my testing, it inflated quickly in under 40 seconds.
I found the mattress maintained temperature and breathed well thanks to the pocket-like dimples on the sleeping surface, allowing for better temperature control. The smaller-sized pillow stop will accommodate most pillow sizes but could be underwhelming for side sleepers. Its compact package will leave sleepers over 6 feet tall, limited in coverage but snug enough.
This self-inflating, easy-to-store air mattress is a must-have for short-term overnight guests and can accommodate up to 450 lbs.
What we likeSometimes you desire an option that more closely resembles a bed than an air mattress. Beyond its elevated design, raised 24 inches off the ground, the major selling point of the EZ Bed is its self-inflating design. With the push of a button, the caterpillar-like metal legs automatically unfurl to create the bed's frame before inflating the mattress. The auto-shutoff pump inflates to the selected firmness (there are four to choose from) and then shuts off automatically.
Contributor Colleen Sullivan used the bed to host family members and slept on it herself when her husband was sick. She found that adding a mattress pad helped tailor her comfort even more. Her queen-sized sheets were a bit loose around the mattress and slid a bit on the PVC finish, but the company sells its own custom sheet set that includes a flat sheet, a fitted sheet with a 14" deep pocket, and an attached dust ruffle to disguise the metal legs.
When not in use, the process of deflating is basically the reverse of the setup. It is also stored in a case with wheels for easy portability.
One of the biggest drawbacks of the EZ Bed is that the mattress is not available separately from the frame, should you run into any issues outside the one-year warranty. Though billed as puncture-resistant, it does include a repair kit and instructions should a pinhole develop.
Read our full EZ Bed review.
To determine the best air mattress on the market, I used my knowledge of sleep science from two years in sleep research and implemented what I learned from sleep expert Bill Fish, president of OneCare Media, and Steven Shoshany, chiropractor at NYC Chiropractic and Spinal Decompression Center, on how to properly test air mattresses. I slept on every air mattress in this guide for at least four consecutive nights.
During the testing period, here's what I looked for:
Inflation: I took notes of the unboxing process for each air mattress, including how easy it was to assemble (if necessary) and whether or not the product came with instructions. I also timed how long each air mattress took to inflate and noted whether or not the air mattress emitted any strong chemical odors.
Firmness: This was the most important factor since a good air mattress should be firm enough to support you throughout the night. I paid close attention to any air loss over the course of four nights by measuring the air mattresses with a ruler after each use. Then I took notes on my sleep quality and how refreshed I felt after waking up.
Comfort: I noted how comfortable each air mattress was to sleep on over four nights, including any major issues with temperature regulation. I also recorded if the air mattresses made any noise when I moved, or whether my pillow and sheets fell off during the night. I also considered how easy it was to climb on and off each mattress.
Durability: At the end of the four days of sleeping on each air mattress, I used an uncapped pen to test the durability of the air mattress by poking it in three different places and noting if it punctured. Fortunately, all the air mattresses passed this test.
Deflating/packing up: I recorded how long it took for each air mattress to deflate. I assessed the difficulty of folding up and packing the air mattress into its respective carry bag and also noted the ease of storage considering its weight and size.
Size: I noted the dimensions of each air mattress, including length, width, and height, both when fully inflated and when packed up and stored. I also noted each mattress's weight and method of inflation.
A medium-firm air mattress tends to result in better sleep quality, according to a scientific systematic review in the journal Sleep Health. The material should be durable, and the bed should have a high weight capacity. "Spinal alignment is key to getting a good night of sleep, and an air mattress is no different," Bill Fish, president of OneCare Media, said. "It's best to have an air mattress supported on one side to prevent too much movement," added Steven Shoshany, chiropractor at NYC Chiropractic and Spinal Decompression Center.
To clean your air mattress, first lay it out flat on the floor and use a handheld vacuum to remove any crumbs and dust on the surface. To remove stains, you can inflate the air mattress, unplug it, and use a soft cloth and a mild soapy solution to spot clean. Don't use any harsh chemicals or cleaning products as they could damage the air mattress.
Due to the elastic materials, you might think that the air mattress is losing air during the first couple of uses. There's nothing wrong with your air mattress: it usually takes a few inflations for it to completely stretch to its full shape. Manufacturers recommend inflating your brand-new air mattress a few hours before using it and then topping it off before sleeping on it.
There are three main types of air mattress pumps: manual, electric, and automatic. A manual pump is one that you operate by hand or foot. These can be a great option for situations where you don't have access to electricity. An electric pump, the most common type, uses electricity to inflate the mattress with no manual labor required. These pumps can either be separate from or built into the air mattress. An automatic pump is a built-in electric pump that automatically inflates the mattress to your desired firmness, stops when full, and periodically adjusts the air to maintain the right firmness levels.
An air mattress won't last you as long as your regular mattress. Most air mattresses are designed for occasional use and should not be used to replace an actual mattress. Proper use and care can keep it in good condition for more than five years. The best way to extend the life of your mattress is to avoid opportunities for punctures. Use it on clean floors, don't allow pets on it, don't jump on the bed, and avoid overfilling it with air. If the mattress comes with a dust bag for storage, be sure to use it, especially when storing it in a garage or anywhere damage could occur.
If your mattress came with a warranty, it's likely limited to only manufactured defects. Holes caused by use or puncture will not be covered. You can usually contact the company for a patch kit, however.
If your air mattress is beyond repair, check with your local recycling center to see if they accept items made of PVC and similar materials. Otherwise, you'll have to throw the mattress away. If you want to get rid of a blow-up mattress in good condition, consider giving it to a local shelter or donation center.
The company is the world’s best custom air mattress manufacturer supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.
Suzy Hernandez Freelance Writer Suzy is deeply passionate about sleep science, dedicating her career to understanding and improving sleep quality. She's a certified sleep science consultant who led a sleep psychology lab for over two years, focusing on the effects of naps on cognitive function and sleep inertia. Suzy has presented her research at the Eastern Psychological Association and has collaborated with companies like SleepScore Labs to test sleep products. Through her writing, Suzy actively promotes effective sleep strategies and advocates for the importance of healthy sleep habits.She resides in the scenic coastal city of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, with her husband and two cherished cats. When not immersed in sleep research, Suzy enjoys exploring new travel destinations, relaxing by the seaside, and nurturing her garden oasis.Learn more about how our team of experts tests and reviews products at Insider here. Read more Read lessYou can purchase logo and accolade licensing to this story here.
Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising team. We welcome your feedback. us at .
Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you didn't have a bed to sleep on? It might have happened when you hosted a visitor, attended a sleepover, or even went camping. Air mattresses are useful in situations like these when you wish you or a friend had a comfortable surface to rest their tired bodies on. This article will educate you all about air mattresses, including what they are made of, the various types, how they each function, and what to look for when purchasing one.
Key Takeaways:
An air mattress is an inflatable mattress commonly used for camping, sleepovers, or traveling. It is lightweight and portable, making it an excellent choice for people seeking a temporary sleeping solution. It is also a more affordable option than an innerspring or memory foam mattress.
Air mattresses are typically made of plastic or vinyl and are filled with air via an internal or external pump. The air pumped within the mattress provides cushioning and support. It can also be adjusted to provide varying levels of firmness and support, making it an adaptable option for people with varying sleeping preferences.
There are three common types of air mattresses you can find on the market today:
Raised air mattresses are those that are elevated off the ground to a similar degree as any other common mattress type would be. They are "double high," or more than 10 inches thick.
Raised air mattresses offer a more conventional feel than "single high" air mattresses, which fall below the 10-inch thickness threshold.
Self-inflating air mattresses have a built-in pump that uses a remote control or a knob to automatically inflate the mattress. With a self-inflating mattress, you simply plug it into a nearby power outlet, and your mattress will be ready to use in just 5 minutes.
As the name implies, manually inflatable air mattresses are inflated and deflated manually, typically using an external pump.
Unlike self-inflating air mattresses, manually inflatable air mattresses do not need to be plugged into a power outlet to be inflated. This is ideal for people who take their air mattresses outside and must rely on an external pump. Manually inflatable air mattresses are also less expensive than self-inflating air mattresses.
There are numerous advantages to using an air mattress. Here are some of the primary advantages:
While using an air mattress has many perks, there are a few drawbacks to take into account.
Air mattresses may be a good option for people who:
However, air mattresses may not be the best option for people who:
When determining whether an air mattress is the right choice for you, it's critical to take your needs and preferences into account. If you want a long-term, permanent sleeping solution, a traditional mattress is a better choice. However, if you only need a mattress for occasional use or travel, an air mattress could be ideal.
Your preference for air mattresses will differ depending on your convenience and environment. Here are the important factors to consider regarding this dilemma:
Knowing whether an air mattress suits your body type is essential to achieving the best level of comfort. A soft air mattress is best for thin people under 130 pounds. A medium-firm air mattress will do if you weigh between 130 and 230 pounds. Choose a firm air mattress that is more than 10 inches thick if you weigh more than 230 pounds.
As a general rule, the heavier you are, the thicker and firmer your air mattress should be. Fortunately, air mattresses let you inflate them to your desired level of support, so if you require more support, add more air. Some air mattresses feature built-in lumbar support or contours that can be beneficial for people with specific types of back pain.
Some medical conditions may make it difficult for a person to sleep peacefully on an air mattress. For instance, due to the lack of support and potential buildup of pressure points, people with chronic back pain or arthritis may find sleeping on an air mattress uncomfortable. Also, the lack of airflow on an air mattress may make it difficult for people with respiratory conditions like asthma or emphysema to breathe.
We suggest you consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns about how an air mattress may affect your health.
Air mattresses are available at a variety of price points, so you should be able to find one that fits your needs. Budget-friendly options include basic air mattresses that are simple and easy to inflate and deflate, with prices ranging from $20 to $50. Going a step further, mid-range options include air mattresses with built-in pumps, adjustable firmness settings, and extra features like raised edges, which typically range from $50 to $150.
If you want to go all out and buy high-end options, you can choose air mattresses with advanced features like automatic inflation, built-in air pumps, and wireless remote controls, which typically cost $150 to $300 or more. Keep in mind that a higher price does not always imply higher quality. Therefore, it is essential to read reviews and assess the features of an air mattress before making a decision.
There are a few features to keep an eye out for when choosing an air mattress. The following are some of the most crucial aspects to take into account:
Air mattresses are available in a range of sizes, including twin, full, queen, and king. While full and queen air mattress sizes are great for two people, and king-size air mattresses are made for more than two people, twin-size air mattresses are typically the smallest and are made for just one person. Depending on the air mattress's brand and model, each size can have different dimensions.
The height of the air mattress is important because it influences how easy it is to get in and out of bed and how comfortable the mattress feels. Air mattresses are available in a variety of heights ranging from 7 to 20 inches. Single-high air mattresses are typically lower to the ground, measuring 7 to 9 inches in height. These air mattresses are smaller, making them easier to store and transport. They are usually less expensive as well.
Double-high air mattresses, on the other hand, are typically taller, ranging in height from 18 to 20 inches. They are usually more comfortable and easier to get in and out of because they are closer to the height of a traditional bed. However, their prices are typically higher than those of single-high air mattresses.
When it comes to firmness, you can find air mattresses that range from extra soft to extra firm. Aside from that, the firmness of an air mattress is typically determined by the amount of air contained within the mattress. More air means a firmer mattress, while less air means a softer mattress.
Consider your personal preferences for mattress firmness when selecting an air mattress. Some people like a firm mattress for support, while others like a softer mattress for comfort. According to research, a medium-firm mattress provides the best comfort and support.
Most air mattresses are made of one of the following materials:
The top layer of some high-end air mattresses may also be made of memory foam or latex, which is more supportive and comfortable to sleep on. When selecting an air mattress, the material is crucial to take into account, as it can affect the mattress's comfort, durability, and ease of cleaning.
The typical design of an air mattress includes one or more air chambers that can be inflated to create the sleeping surface. PVC, TPU, or other synthetic materials that are long-lasting and waterproof are used to create the air chamber.
Two major components make up an air mattress' construction:
Some air mattresses include built-in pumps that allow you to inflate or deflate the mattress to change its firmness. Others might necessitate the use of an external pump.
Air mattresses must be inflated using either a built-in or external pump. Most air mattresses include an in-built pump that is typically powered by batteries or electricity. Some air mattresses include an external pump that can be used to manually inflate the mattress.
When choosing an air mattress, think about the inflation options and figure out which one is best for you. If you intend to use the mattress frequently, especially indoors, you should consider getting one with a built-in pump. If you intend to use the mattress only occasionally, especially as an outdoor air mattress, an external pump may be a better option.
The majority of air mattresses come with a warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship. The warranty period varies depending on the brand and model of the air mattress. Some air mattresses have a one-year warranty, while others may have a two-year or longer warranty.
It is critical to carefully read the warranty information and understand what is and is not covered. It's also important to keep a copy of the purchase receipt or proof of purchase, as this is typically required to make a warranty claim.
Test an air mattress out first to make sure it is cozy and supportive before making a purchase. The following advice will help you test an air mattress:
If you are dissatisfied with any of these features, skip ahead to the next mattress.
Air mattresses must be cared for and maintained on a regular basis to ensure they last a long time and remain comfortable to sleep on. Here are some pointers on how to care for and maintain your air mattress:
By adhering to these recommendations, you can ensure that your air mattress continues to be in good condition and offers a comfortable night's sleep for as long as possible.
Sleeping on an air mattress can be healthy as long as it is not a cheap air mattress and provides adequate support and comfort. Back pain and poor sleep quality can result from an air mattress that is too soft or does not provide enough support. A too-firm air mattress can also be uncomfortable. Find an air mattress that can be adjusted to your preferred firmness level.
Sleeping on an air mattress every day is not recommended. Though air mattresses provide a cushioning surface for sleepers, they do not provide sufficient support to the spine as a traditional mattress does. Even the best air mattresses are often recommended for temporary use, such as for guests, camping, etc. Choosing the best air mattress can, however, allow you to sleep on it for a few more days than when choosing a cheap air mattress.
An air mattress is typically more compact and portable than an air bed, and it's frequently used for camping or as a temporary sleeping arrangement for visitors. In contrast, an air bed is typically larger and more similar in size to a real mattress. Air beds are intended to be used as an alternative to conventional mattresses and are more long-term sleeping arrangements.
According to studies, air mattresses that can be custom inflated or deflated are effective in preventing bed sores.
No, you should not use a Twin XL latex mattress topper on top of a Twin XL air mattress.
A latex mattress topper is relatively heavy and requires a firm, stable base to provide the support and comfort it is designed for. An air mattress is not sturdy enough to properly support a latex twin xl mattress topper, which can lead to instability, discomfort, and potential damage to the air mattress.
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2. How Much Does a Mattress Cost?
3. When is the Best Time to Buy a Mattress?
4. How to Choose a Mattress?
5. Key Differences Between Gel Mattress and Latex Mattress
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