Air mattresses: selection, rating and operation

Air mattresses are a very necessary and convenient invention. They are actively used in hiking, during outdoor recreation and for swimming in reservoirs. Moreover, there are a number of models that can replace the bed and create a full-fledged sleeping place.

The air mattress is a chamber with several compartments, made of elastic air- and waterproof materials, and equipped with a special valve. The number of internal compartments depends on the size and purpose of the model and affects the usability and cost of the product.

The valve for inflating the mattress is one of the main structural elements, since the service life of the product depends on its tightness and reliability, and in relation to swimming mattresses, human safety. The most budget models of mattresses are usually equipped with valves with one level of protection, although expensive items have two or even three levels.

Stand-alone samples are either electrical or mechanical. They can be sold as a set with a mattress, or separately from it.

• Electric pumps are a compact, but quite powerful device that needs external power and is able to inflate the mattress in just a few minutes. Electric pumps are divided into two types.
  1. network models work from a network of 220 V and require a power source. Their advantages include stable operation, long service life, fast inflation and no need to recharge or purchase batteries. Among the minuses, they note the complete dependence on the source of electrical energy, which causes a number of inconveniences in hiking and on wild holidays.
  2. Battery Models they work from batteries, which, although they help out in the absence of electricity, require constant monitoring of the battery charge level and regular replacement or charging.
• Mechanical pumps have a foot or hand execution, require the application of physical effort. Such models have a very simple design, practically do not break, are not afraid of high humidity and low temperatures, are absolutely independent of power sources and are much cheaper than their electrical counterparts.

Built-in pumps are used in expensive models and can be electrical or mechanical.Such a pump is completely located in the mattress cavity and does not take up a separate place during storage and transportation. The only disadvantage of models with a built-in pump is the fact that if the inflating device breaks down, the mattress becomes unusable and requires contacting a service center.

The high popularity and stable consumer demand for air mattresses are due to a number of their obvious advantages.

• Due to their high functionality, inflatable models can be used in various areas of human life. With their help, you can create a full-fledged sleeping place in apartment and camping conditions, as well as use them as a swimming tool while relaxing on the water. In addition, an inflatable model will help out a company of tourists during a halt and eliminate the need to find a suitable log. Having such a mattress, you do not have to sit on the cold ground or take a camping folding chair for each tourist. This significantly saves space in backpacks and allows you to take many other useful things with you on a hike.

• When deflated, the mattress takes up very little space and is often equipped with a special carrying bag. This greatly facilitates the transportation of the mattress to its destination, as well as its storage at home, in the garage or in the country.
• Thanks to the use of environmentally friendly raw materials, air mattresses can be safely used by people suffering from allergic diseases.All models entering the market have the necessary certificates of conformity to guarantee their safe use.
• Most expensive sleeping models have an orthopedic effect and are able to exactly repeat all the curves of the human body. This contributes to a more comfortable sleep and improves the physical condition of people with spinal problems.
• Air mattresses do not experience the problems inherent in wadded, spring and foam models. They have a very resilient surface and do not sag or crush over time. In addition, linen mites and bedbugs will never start in an air mattress, and care is carried out with a wet rag.

However, along with a large number of obvious advantages, air mattresses still have disadvantages. These include a high risk of surface damage through negligence and the likelihood of seam divergence. In addition, when you stay on a cold floor or ground for a long time, the air inside the mattress cools, the sleeping surface becomes icy.

It should also be noted that constantly sleeping on mattresses that do not have an orthopedic effect is very uncomfortable and you cannot get enough sleep on them. In addition, on models that do not have an anti-slip surface, bed linen constantly slips and gets knocked under a sleeping person.

The classification of air mattresses is made according to a number of criteria, the main of which is the functional accessory of the product. According to this criterion, mattresses are divided into three broad categories.

Such products have a more solid design and are designed for long-term daily use. They, in turn, are divided into beds for adults, sofas and children's models. Products for sleep have a multi-chamber design, in which synthetic fiber is used as partitions between the compartments. This allows you to more evenly distribute the load over the surface of the mattress and does not allow it to "fold" under the weight of the resting person.

Sleeping models, and this applies to both adult and children's products, are often equipped with special sides framing the sleeping place around the perimeter. This design does not allow the sleeping person to fall off the bed, and the bed linen to stray to one side. Another type of sleeping mattresses are functional transforming models, which from high single beds can be folded into double beds, forming two full-fledged beds with a lower height.

Sleeping mattresses are often equipped with heating, which allows you not to worry about cooling the air inside the balloon and hypothermia of the sleeping body. Due to the large size of sleeping models, an automatic pump is often built into them, which allows you to inflate or deflate the mattress in a matter of minutes. Such self-inflating products are very convenient to use: they allow you to independently adjust the rigidity of the bed, releasing or, conversely, pumping air.

Some models have a modular design and consist of two parts stacked one on top of the other. This adds height to the bed and allows you to tuck a sheet between them. More expensive models are often equipped with additional stiffeners and have an orthopedic effect. In addition, they all have anti-slip velvety surface, soft and very pleasant to the touch.

In addition to adult beds, the category of sleeping mattresses includes sofas and models for children. The first are folding structures equipped with a backrest and a headrest. In the daytime, they are able to comfortably accommodate three people, and at night they provide a full-fledged sleeping place for two.

Children's sleeping models in their design are fundamentally different from adults, they are arranged according to the arena principle. They include an inflatable frame, high sides and an air mattress embedded inside the frame. Models are designed for temporary placement of a child from 3 to 6 years. They are very convenient for use on vacation, at a party and in the country. For older children, there are teenage models. They do not have high sides and frame. By their design, they are not much different from adult mattresses.

Inflatable mattresses for outdoor recreation come in several types.

• The most popular are beach mattresses, combining a deck chair and a swimming facility for relaxing on the water. For greater ease of use, such models are often equipped with a cup holder and a contoured body support system. In addition, taking into account the high probability of bottom puncture, heavy-duty materials are used for the manufacture of mattresses, which allow you to fully sunbathe not only on a sandy, but also on a pebble beach.Without exception, all beach options consist of a large number of chambers that do not communicate with each other, which guarantees that the mattress is kept afloat if one of them is accidentally punctured.

• And the third category of camping mattresses - inflatable rugs for tourism. Such models are equipped with automatic inflation, have a built-in cushion and are made of extra-strong PVC types, designed for operation in difficult field conditions. Particular attention is paid to the thermal insulation properties of the material, so that the cold from the bare earth does not penetrate the mattress and does not cool the sleeping person. After a halt, the mat is easily blown away, rolled up, tied with straps, put away in a cover and fastened to a backpack. For ease of use, all mattresses have special devices that allow you to form one large mattress from several separate rugs.

Inflatable mattresses for cars appeared not so long ago, but quickly gained popularity among lovers of long road trips. Such models are available in a wide variety of sizes, which allows you to choose a product for the width of the rear seat of a particular car. Car mattresses often have a built-in electric pump and are inflated from the car's electrical system.

The modern market offers air mattresses in a wide range with a wide variety of sizes and shapes. The most common and popular is the classic rectangular shape, although there are square and even round models. As for the latter, it is not very convenient to use them, especially when the mattress is designed for swimming. And if you can still sleep on a round mattress, then swimming on it is absolutely uncomfortable and unsafe.

As for the sizes, the generally accepted standards apply exclusively to sleeping models.For example, swimming or automobile specimens can have absolutely any dimensions and configuration. So, air mattresses for sleeping are divided into 3 categories.

• Single options have a width of 76 to 99 cm, a length of 191 cm and a height of 22 to 33 cm. However, in sandwich models, consisting of two modules lying one on top of the other, the height of a bed can reach 50 cm or more, which corresponds to the height of a conventional beds.
• One and a half mattresses available in widths from 100 to 127 cm, lengths from 192 to 203 cm and heights from 22 to 48 cm.
• Double models have a width of 152 to 183 cm, a length of up to 213 cm and a height of up to 56 cm.

Teenage beds are usually produced in dimensions of 76x191 cm and have a height of 22 to 33 cm. The thinnest and narrowest are travel mats. Their width barely reaches 60 cm, the length is 180 cm, and the thickness never exceeds 13 cm.

In the manufacture of air mattresses, mainly several materials are used.

• Vinyl its structure is very durable and reliable, it is easy to repair and does not require complex maintenance. A flock is often applied on top of the vinyl surface, which makes it pleasant to the touch and prevents bedding from slipping. In addition, the rough surface does not allow you to slip off the mattress during bathing, which makes it even safer to use. The disadvantage of vinyl is its low frost resistance, due to which, under the influence of low temperatures, it becomes too brittle and hard.
• Nylon also often used for the production of air mattresses, it is characterized by high strength and tear resistance. Nylon models are very easy to clean and easy to clean.The disadvantages of the material include too high a cost, which, however, is fully justified by its high performance properties.
• PVC products are distinguished by wide consumer accessibility, a large number of style and color solutions and a low price. Such models have good resistance to abrasion and deformation. A significant disadvantage of PVC products is not too long service life, which is often limited to 2-4 years. For the most part, this applies to cheap Chinese mattresses, in which, after a few months, scuffs may appear on the surface, and the seams often begin to diverge. However, there are also better models made of PVC, which, with careful use, can be used for 5 years or more.
• Polyolefin has good performance, but is too vulnerable to sharp objects. In this regard, mattresses made of this material must be used very carefully.

Many years ago, rubber was used to make swimming mattresses. Such models had a fabric-based coating and looked very interesting. However, during long-term storage, rubber tends to dry out and crack, so today it is almost impossible to find a real rubber specimen. Modern bathing mattresses are available in a wide variety of colors and are often decorated with interesting prints and patterns.

Often, air mattresses are equipped with various accessories that increase the convenience of their use. Below are the most popular fixtures that can come with a mattress, or can be sold separately.

• Inflatable pillows are a much needed addition to a mattress and are especially popular with hikers. The presence of such an accessory allows the tourist to fully relax and not carry an ordinary pillow.
• Mattress covers used exclusively on sleeping models. They protect the surface from mechanical damage and level it a little. For the manufacture of mattress covers, bamboo filler, fluff, latex, wool and synthetic materials are used.
• Headrests can have a one-piece design with a mattress, or can be made in the form of a fastened element. They significantly increase the quality of rest and allow the neck muscles to fully relax.
• Protective cases and bags carrying are also useful accessories. The former protect the mattress from solid and liquid contaminants, while the latter facilitate the transportation and storage of the mattress.
• repair kit included with any mattress. It consists of glue, patch and instructions for use. Some models are equipped with self-adhesive patches instead of glue.

The list of manufacturers supplying the market with high-quality air mattresses is not too long. It is limited to just a few brands. The products of all these enterprises are characterized by high performance and have proven themselves only on the positive side.

The Chinese company Intex is perhaps the most famous manufacturer of inflatable products in our country. The company produces high-quality samples and is known for a wide range.In addition to air mattresses, air beds, sofas, boats and pools descend from its conveyor. Despite the Chinese origin, the company's products are considered one of the best in their segment and are in high demand.

A characteristic feature of Intex mattresses is a wide price range, which allows you to purchase a model for any wallet. One of the most popular can be called a two-bed model. Intex Classic Downy Bed 68765, made of PVC and weighing only 5.3 kg. The surface of the mattress is quite hard and is optimal for sleeping. The velvety coating is pleasant to the touch, does not allow the sheet to slip on the floor and is perfectly cleaned. The cost of the model is about 2000 rubles.

The European manufacturer of inflatable products for recreation and tourism Outwell is also well known to the Russian consumer. Its production facilities are located in Denmark, and among the most popular models are Outwell Flock Classic Double. This mattress weighs only 3.28 kg and is perfect for both short-term outdoor recreation and long stays in tent cities. The dimensions of the model are 135x190x20 cm, the cost is 2400 rubles.

The young Chinese manufacturer Bestway does not have such popularity as Intex, but it produces quality products and does not want to lag behind the eminent compatriot. All products of this company are distinguished by bright colors and interesting designs. As an example, consider a fairly popular double model Bestway Flocked Air Bed King, made of PVC and weighing only 5.85 kg. The surface of the mattress has a flocked coating, and the reinforced structure prevents it from being squeezed under high weight loads. The cost of the model is 1590 rubles.

The American manufacturer Deluxe is also well known to the Russian consumer. As one of the most successful, one can note the model deluxe single-high, capable of withstanding a weight load of up to 273 kg. The length of the product is 191 cm, width - 137 cm, which allows you to comfortably accommodate two people for the night. The mattress does not have a headrest, but there is a longitudinal frame and reinforced stiffeners. This model is the cheapest in its category of double mattresses and costs only 1454 rubles.

The company from the Netherlands Campingaz has been known in the market of goods for outdoor activities and tourism for almost 70 years. And although part of the production capacity of the enterprise is located in China, the manufacturing process is carefully monitored and controlled.

In addition to air mattresses, the company produces air sofas, armchairs and beds. As an example, consider the single model Campingaz X'tra Quickbed Airbed Single, which weighs only 1.7 kg. The mattress is produced in dimensions 198x74x19 cm, equipped with double valves Double LockTM and covered with artificial velor. The maximum allowable weight load is 200 kg, the cost is 1790 rubles.

When choosing an air mattress, for whatever purpose it is purchased, a number of important aspects must be taken into account.

• First of all, you need to look at the stiffeners, which are an important performance indicator. They affect the durability and usability of the mattress. The best option are models with transverse ribs that evenly support the spine.
• It is necessary to pay attention to the number of sections, this is especially important when choosing a swimming mattress.It is desirable that each of them be isolated from neighboring ones, and also have its own inlet valve. As for the valves themselves, it is better to choose twisting options than plugs.
• If the mattress is purchased for spending the night in nature, it is advisable to choose a model with a reinforced double bottom. Such specimens usually withstand a lot of weight and are not afraid of uneven ground.
• It is advisable to choose travel mattresses with a built-in pump, which eliminates the risk of forgetting it at home and significantly reduces the inflation time.
• If the model is chosen as a permanent bed for the house, then it is better to choose a self-inflating two-level transformer, which can be assembled into a compact single bed during the day and laid out in a spacious bed at night.

To properly inflate or deflate a mattress, you must carefully read the instructions.

• For inflating, only special pumps are needed. Car copies, hair dryers and compressors cannot be used.
• The mattress should be pumped up only until it acquires the correct shape and straightens all the folds. This happens when it is filled with air by about 3/4 of the volume. Do not pump over the product, as it may burst. If you plan to simultaneously accommodate several people at once, you can pump up a little more.
• When the mattress is deflated, open the valve. Without making sudden movements, you should carefully release the air. Pressing and jumping on the surface of the product is prohibited.

In the next video you will find an overview of the Intex 68765 air mattress.