An air bed for sleeping is a mobile, universal product for sleeping and relaxing. Does not clutter up the space of the room, can be stored folded. It easily adapts to the position of the human body, while being somewhat rigid, which ensures the correct position of the resting person during sleep. How to choose an air bed with a pump? Features and characteristics of the inflatable product in this article.
What is
To know how to choose an air bed, you need to understand what it is. You also need to have information about its features and study reviews. The product is a structure made of rubber, inflated by a pump. It is made from very durable materials such as polyolefin or reinforced vinyl, which have increased rigidity. Unlike a regular bed, this product does not have a frame or legs; as a rule, most options are produced without a headboard. There are also orthopedic models. That is why an air bed is suitable not only for special occasions, but also for daily use.
A rubber stock comes to the rescue of people in different life situations. For example, quite often the product is used by tourists when traveling as a bed for a car; sometimes students prefer this option. For some, the inflatable model acts as a spare bed for guests.
The thing can quickly fail due to the wrong choice of device that pumps air. An air bed with a built-in pump will ensure ease of use of the product and a long service life even with constant use.
Nuances of use
An inflatable transforming sofa lasts on average 2–5 years, provided that certain operating rules are followed:
- It is not recommended to inflate a PVC product with an automobile or other electric pump with excess pressure;
- when deflating the sofa, do not put too much pressure on the sections - this can damage the seams;
- there is no need to inflate the furniture all the way in the heat - heated air expands, the seams may not withstand the pressure under load;
- a product brought indoors from a cold street should not be inflated immediately - frozen material has low elasticity;
- inflatable furniture should be kept away from sources of open flame;
- Furniture can be protected from the claws and teeth of pets with durable fabric covers and thick blankets;
- you can’t stand and jump on the sofa - this will result in burst seams;
- When using transformable furniture outdoors, you need to make sure that there are no sharp stones or knots underneath it.
Types and dimensions of transformable beds for children and adults
To repair minor damage, find the puncture site and seal it using a repair kit. Before storage, the product must be cleaned with a damp cloth; heavy dirt must be removed with a soap solution. Then the sofa must be dried, carefully deflated and put into a bag or cover.
Inflatable furniture has become an integral part of modern life. Without it, it is impossible to imagine a comfortable holiday in nature. And if guests arrive, it will allow you to organize an additional bed.
Do not inflate furniture all the way in hot weather
Keep away from open flame sources
You can't stand and jump on the sofa
Do not pump the product with excess pressure
Pump
The choice of pump depends on where the bed will be used most often - at home or outdoors.
Built-in or separate?
The built-in pump is suitable for home use. You won’t lose it, and this will save you from searching if you need to quickly organize a sleeping place for guests. Many models with a built-in pump have an additional hole for pumping air. If the pump breaks down, you don’t have to throw away the bed - you can use a spare one.
To use the bed in camping conditions, it is better to purchase a model with a separate pump. Without it, it is lighter, and the mattress can be used for relaxing on the water.
If you purchase several beds, then it will be cheaper to buy models without a built-in pump: with one separate pump you can inflate them all one by one.
Manual or electric?
electric air bed pump
A hand pump is cheaper, but you will have to work hard, spend time and effort to inflate and deflate the bed, especially if it is large.
Electric is suitable for those who value their time. If the bed is planned to be used outdoors, a battery pump is required.
Peculiarities
Distinctive features of inflatable sofa beds are:
- Compactness (folded product takes up minimal space and can be stored in a pantry or any closet);
- Endurance (ability to withstand a load of 200 kg or more);
- Comfort and health benefits (most models have orthopedic properties, the ability to adapt to the contours of the human body);
- Practicality (inflatable sofas are covered with waterproof fabric, are durable and highly resistant to temperature changes, which allows them to be used in camping conditions, during outdoor recreation);
- Aesthetics (the surface of the sofa bed is often velor, giving it an attractive appearance and preventing bedding from slipping);
- Ease of care and operation (various types of dirt can be easily removed with a damp cloth, and the rules for using inflatable products do not cause any difficulties);
- Multifunctionality (transforming sofas can change configuration depending on the current situation and the wishes of the owners);
- Light weight (about 1.2 kg), allowing you to move the product without assistance.
Modern inflatable furniture manufacturers produce inflatable sofa beds in various sizes. Single beds have a width from 60 to 90 cm, one-and-a-half beds - 1 m 120 cm, double beds - from 1.5 m to 190 cm. The products can be used outdoors due to the design features of the lower section - it often has an additional layer of laminated fiberglass.
This type of furniture differs from traditional types of furniture in its availability for any level of income and goes well with various interior styles. Most manufacturers produce inflatable sofa beds in a variety of colors, allowing you to choose a product that fully matches the overall tone of the room.
To extend the service life of inflatable products, it is recommended to cover them with thick fabric covers. This also helps prevent pets from damaging your furniture.
Advantages and disadvantages
An air bed for sleeping and relaxing has a lot of positive characteristics. However, before purchasing it for permanent use, you should take into account not only the advantages, but also the disadvantages of this type of bed.
Positive sides:
- when deflated it is compact and easily transportable;
- does not require much storage space;
- does not cause an allergic reaction;
- provides comfortable sleep;
- durable, reliable design;
- large selection of models, including children's;
- creates a hammock effect while sleeping.
Negative sides:
- the surface can be easily damaged, cut or the seal of the seam can be compromised;
- cheap models are not distinguished by increased quality and reliability, and quickly become unusable;
- not suitable for people suffering from spinal problems;
- There is a problem of night deflation due to heavy load or frequent turning over of the sleeper.
If an air mattress bed is chosen for daily use, preference should be given to more expensive, high-strength models. Budget designs are suitable for short-term use, as they wear out quickly.
Convenient assembly and storage
Quality product
Easy transportation
Comfortable sleep
Reasons for popularity
The product is incredibly popular all over the world. This is not surprising, because a sleeping place of this type has characteristics that the user is not able to get from forged or wooden furniture. Its main advantages:
- The inflatable product in the deflated state is very compact; it practically does not require additional storage space.
- Due to its compactness and ease of use, many families keep this type of bed as a spare bed in case of unforeseen circumstances.
- Due to their low weight and dimensions, such sleeping places are very easy to carry or transport. Also, the product is perfect as a car bed, so it is loved not only by tourists, but also by those who like to travel by car.
- A high-quality sleeping product is very comfortable for sleeping, and good rest, as we know, is an integral component of human health.
- There is a huge selection of different models, there is even an inflatable children's bed.
- The material from which the structure is made is reliable, durable and hypoallergenic. The rubber product is quite easy to clean, which will definitely appeal to lovers of outdoor recreation.
There are also disadvantages to air beds. For example, the standard design is absolutely not suitable for constant use by people with spinal diseases. There is an orthopedic air bed, but it costs much more than regular ones. Another significant drawback is that cheap and low-quality models very quickly deflate or fail due to the use of poor materials in manufacturing, as well as the lack of a built-in pump. That is why it is important to carefully look at the technical specifications when choosing a product.
Sizes and designs of single wooden beds, selection criteria
Reviews of air beds
Here are the reviews left by people who use airbeds.
Kirill: “I bought a bed from Intex, the Ultra Plush Bed model in the spring of 2022. It is single, orthopedic, beige, without backs. Height 46 cm, this is excellent. Width 91 cm, not narrow, comfortable to sleep. A 220 V pump is built inside, it pumps up in 2 minutes. The surface is quite hard. If desired, you can put it in a case. Good for constant sleep, in terms of comfort it is not inferior to a regular wooden one. I bought an orthopedic pillow for it.”
Ivan: “This is the second year I’ve been using the Intex Classic Downy Bed for summer holidays at the dacha. Lightweight, easy to transport. The surface of the mattress is non-slip, the sheet does not slip during sleep. It deflates and inflates quickly. I don't find any shortcomings. At one time I bought it for 800 rubles and a pump for 160 rubles. I’m very pleased, for me this is the best air bed.”
Basic design and coating options
Typically, air beds are made from synthetic materials. There are two types of coating: plastic and flock. The first one is easy to clean, and models with a surface of this type are cheaper. The disadvantage of this type of covering material is that any bedding will simply slide off, so it is unlikely that you will be able to get a good night's sleep on a bed with a plastic coating.
Flock is very similar in texture to velor. Thanks to this feature, this type of material provides good “adhesion” of the laundry to the surface. However, a significant disadvantage of this coating is that the flock strongly absorbs dirt, which will subsequently be difficult to wash off.
At low temperatures, synthetic materials lose their elasticity. If the inflatable product will be stored in a cold room, then before using it indoors, you need to wait a little so that the material has time to heat up and is not damaged.
According to the type of design, inflatable beds are divided into single-chamber and double-chamber. The first is a complete model with partitions inside. The two-chamber, in turn, consists of two parts. When pumping with air, first one part is filled, and then the other. Thanks to this structural feature, the two-chamber berth provides better load distribution and stability of the inflatable furniture during sleep.
Rubber products are also distinguished by the type of internal structures, namely the location of the ribs-partitions. It is much more comfortable to sleep on models with longitudinal slats, but this option is extremely short-lived in use, so very soon you will need to repair an air bed of this type. The transverse arrangement of the ribs will allow the product to be used for many years. Even if some defects appear on it, you can always find out how to seal an air bed on thematic resources.
Flock
Plastic
Single chamber
Two-chamber
With longitudinal bars
With cross bars
Operating rules
Inflatable sofas from Intex and other manufacturers of air furniture require compliance with several conditions during their use:
- You cannot jump on inflatable furniture. Excessive and uneven pressure may cause PVC to burst;
- Polymers lose their strength when exposed to high temperatures. To prevent this, it is advisable to install the products away from heating radiators;
- To inflate the chambers, it is prohibited to use powerful pumps, such as car pumps. They have a high level of pressure, not intended for inflating PVC products;
- Pets are not allowed on inflatable furniture. Dogs and cats have sharp claws; under their influence, holes may appear in the blocks;
- Furniture with air chambers must be properly cared for. The use of aggressive cleaning agents and hard brushes is not allowed;
- If punctures appear, they must be sealed using a repair kit;
- Inflatable furniture is dried before storing. Air is pre-bleeded from the chambers. Store it neatly folded in dry, dark rooms.
Inflatable sofas can be purchased through the online store. Before placing an order, you need to make sure that you have a certificate for the model.
Popular manufacturers, review of models and prices
The following companies operate in the inflatable furniture market:
- Jilong;
- Intex;
- Highlander;
- Greenhouse;
- Ferrino;
- Migliori;
- Bestway;
- Mimiforme and other manufacturers.
The undisputed leaders among them are Intex and Bestway.
Review of some Intex product models
Let's look at popular models of air beds from Intex.
Intex Supreme Air-flow
| Model "Intex Supreme Air-flow" | 64462 | 64464 |
| Dimensions (cm) | 99x191x51 / single | 152x203x51 / double |
| Weight, kg) | 11.8 | 16.5 |
| Max load (kg) | 136 | 237 |
| Built-in pump | Eat | Eat |
| Price, rub) | from 6000 to 7000 | from 7000 to 9000 |
| Notes: |
| |
Intex PremAire
The PremAire bed series is available in four different sizes (WxLxH): 99x191x46, 137x191x46, 152x203x46, 152x203x51 cm, which can withstand loads from 136 to 273 kg.
Equipped with a built-in electric pump powered by a 220V network. You can buy the product at a price from 4,000 to 11,000 rubles.
Intex Pull-Out Sofa 68566NP
The Intex Pull-Out Sofa model is a transformable sofa that, when folded, can be used as a sofa, and if necessary, through a simple transformation, turns into a double bed. Sold without built-in pump.
| Characteristics | Model 68566NP |
| Dimensions (cm) | 193х221х66 |
| Weight, kg) | 9,35 |
| Maximum load (kg) | 200 |
| Built-in pump | No (sold separately) |
| Additionally: |
|
Average price for this product: 4000-5600 rubles.
Review of some Bestway product models
Products from Bestway are represented by a fairly wide range of models. Let's look at three of them.
Bestway 67386N BW
Inflatable chaise lounge bed with adjustable headrest height (from 40 to 81 cm).
| Characteristics | Model 67386N BW |
| Dimensions (cm) | 104x211x40/81 |
| Weight, kg) | 7,65 |
| Maximum load (kg) | 227 |
| Built-in pump | No (sold separately) |
| Notes: |
|
Bestway Alwayzaire Fortech (Article 69035 and 69037)
Air bed of classic rectangular type. Available in two versions: single and double.
| Model "Alwayzaire Fortech" | 69035 BW | 69037 BW |
| Dimensions (cm) | 97x191x51 | 152x203x51 |
| Weight, kg) | 7.88 | 11.17 |
| Max load (kg) | 136 | 273 |
| Built-in pump | Eat | Eat |
| Price, rub) | 7900 | 8900 |
Bestway Essence Fortech (Article 69019)
Double wide model with headrest.
| Characteristics | Model 69019 BW |
| Dimensions (cm) | 152x229x79 |
| Weight, kg) | 11,3 |
| Maximum load (kg) | 295 |
| Built-in pump | Yes (electric pump 220V) |
| Included: |
|
| Price, rub) | 6250 |
External covering and internal structure
There are two main types of coating: flock and plastic. The air bed mattress with flock cover is suitable for sleeping and does not allow slipping. The disadvantage of this type is the difficulty of cleaning. Flock absorbs dirt well and is difficult to wash. Air beds with an inflatable headrest are often additionally covered with velor.
Plastic covering is intended for beach or tourist recreation. It is uncomfortable to sleep on such a structure. In addition, this type of covering is not intended for use with bedding. It will slide off.
Internal structures differ in the location and degree of rigidity of the ribs. Longitudinal ribs provide comfortable use, but are not durable. If even one element breaks, the entire structure becomes unusable. Transverse ribs create a more reliable bed option.
In addition, air beds come in single-chamber and double-chamber types. The difference is that in the first version the design consists of one chamber with partitions inside. The second model consists of two chambers; when pumped, air first fills one, then passes into the other. The double-chamber interior provides greater stability while you sleep.
Double chamber air bed
Longitudinal overlap
Cross overlap
Plastic beach bed
Single-compartment bed with flock covering
Product dimensions
Inflatable specimens are divided by size:
- single beds. Standard size width 80 cm, length 190 cm. Suitable for small apartments, hiking trips, picnics, seaside holidays;
- one and a half. Size 100 cm by 190 cm. Suitable for one large person or two. For example, an adult and a child;
- double bed. The standard size is 140-150 by 190-200 cm. The item is spacious and provides comfortable rest for two people of average build;
- euro size – space, comfort. European dimensions 180-200 cm by 200-220 cm.
What to look for when purchasing
The size, volume and shape of the inflatable bed are of great importance, but in addition to external characteristics, before buying a structure, you should pay attention to some points:
- Company manufacturer. Since the item is quite expensive and is planned to be used for a long time, it is worth giving preference to proven brands.
- Price policy. A quality product cannot be cheap. The most affordable option is a low mattress for one place. If a high double bed is cheap, this is a reason to think about it.
- No pungent or unpleasant odors. This shouldn't happen. The characteristic smell of rubber indicates low-quality material.
- Guarantee period. Such products must be provided with a warranty of at least 1.5 months.
It’s good if the mattress kit comes with instructions that will help you learn how to repair the air bed and additional equipment.
Users often have a question about how to seal a broken air bed. You can't get by with improvised materials here. Repairing an air bed requires special adhesive and patch material, which are sold separately or included in the kit. The use of other materials is unacceptable.
Important nuances
The standard operating period of an inflatable sofa bed is on average from 2 to 5 years. In order for this type of furniture to serve its owners for the required period, the following rules will be required:
- Do not lie on inflatable furniture wearing clothes that have various metal parts - rivets, zippers;
- Do not allow children to jump on the sofa or play on it with objects that can damage the surface of the product (scissors, paper clips, compasses, penknives);
- Do not allow pets or rodents with sharp claws and teeth to be in the immediate vicinity of the sofa;
- Use only a furniture pump (exclude the use of machine or bicycle devices);
- Deflate the sofa gradually, without rushing and without pressing on it;
- Do not inflate a product that has been exposed to frost until it reaches room temperature (otherwise, the risk of rupture of the sofa material increases);
- Avoid smoking near furniture, place it away from heat sources;
- If the furniture was used on the beach, it should be thoroughly washed and dried after returning home. To remove dirt, you will need a soap solution and a soft cloth.
It is equally important to fill the inflatable sofa with air by 80% -90%. This will help prevent excessive pressure inside it and the seams coming apart. If the product is damaged, you will need to find the area with the puncture. To detect a minor defect, it is recommended to treat the suspected area of damage with soap. Bubbles should appear in the area where the integrity of the coating is compromised.
The puncture detection area can be easily eliminated by applying strong glue and using special vinyl patches. For greater user convenience, furniture companies often supplement inflatable products with a repair kit.
When choosing an inflatable sofa bed, it is recommended to pay attention to the products of well-known, trusted manufacturers. Products from popular companies often last longer than products from lesser-known brands.
Recommendations for selection
According to user reviews, cheap, low-quality products quickly become unusable. The coating quickly wears out, holes appear through which air escapes. Inflatable structures are cheaper than stationary wooden and metal ones. Cheap counterfeit goods do not last long. It is recommended to purchase inflatable beds from reputable large manufacturers.
For permanent use, purchase products with a built-in pump. For guest or mobile options, beds are used that are filled with a hand or foot pump.
The car pump is not suitable for filling this product with air. It is necessary to purchase a special pump if it is not included in the kit.
For the purpose of relaxing by the water, models with a plastic bottom coating and made of moisture-resistant materials are preferred.
Air beds can replace stationary furniture for proper rest and sleep. They are compact, multifunctional and ergonomic. Existing models are suitable for various areas of consumer life. Prices for products are available to customers.
Best models
A few examples of the most popular manufacturers of beds and air mattresses:
- Intex Comfort Plush is a model with a built-in pump. Withstands weight up to 273 kilograms. It can be one-and-a-half or double. Cost from 4600 rubles. Has a vinyl covering. Convenient for long-term and short-term use by one person.
- Bestway Royal Round Air Bed is an oval-shaped model with a headrest. Size: 215 x 152 x 22. Convenient for sleeping and relaxing. The bed comfortably accommodates 2-3 people. Cost from 3200 rubles.
- Pillow Rest Classic is a classic option. Easy to store and transport, takes up little space. Maximum load up to 273 kilograms. Size 152 x 203, height 30 centimeters. Cost from 2200 rubles.
When determining for yourself which is better: an air bed or a folding bed , first of all you need to evaluate the scope of use of the product. Air mattresses and beds are useful on vacation, sometimes at home. They are able to provide a comfortable sleep for guests or relatives, and can be used as the main place to sleep.
Intex Comfort Plush
Bestway Royal Round Air Bed
Pillow Rest Classic
BESTWAY Queen Max
Air bed repair
Many damages can be repaired at home on your own. A review of the main faults will help in repairs.
The valve allows air to pass through
To restore the tightness of the valve, it is necessary to remove it, disassemble it, clean it of debris, and wash it. Reassemble, install, test.
Pump hole cracked
This can happen if the pump adapter is screwed in too tightly. The valve cannot be repaired; it needs to be replaced with a new one.
The pump does not function
Broken due to overheating or the connection between the commutator and the brushes is broken. In the first case, a new device is needed. To eliminate the second reason, you need to pat the switched on pump. If this does not help, you need to open the device and turn the collector by hand. You can slightly inflate the bed with another device, and then pump out the air. The commutator will begin to move and contact with the brushes will appear.
Punctures, cuts on the body
Such damage must be repaired with the repair kit included with the bed or purchased separately. It contains instructions, glue, patches. You can carry out repairs using improvised means. Suitable glue is waterproof, polyurethane for rubber and PVC. It is advisable to cut the patches from vinyl, rubberized material.
Operating procedure:
- First you need to find the damage and pump out the air.
- Level the gluing area and clean it from grease and dirt with toluene.
- Cut out the patch.
- Apply glue to both sides to be glued twice, allowing it to dry each time.
- Next, heat the glue with a hairdryer, quickly press the patch into the middle of the hole, smooth it out, and remove the air.
- To endure for a day under oppression.
High-quality repairs will allow you to use inflatable furniture for a long time. Quickly eliminating defects will prevent new ones from appearing.
Main varieties
There are several types of air beds, and each of them has its own characteristics. The disadvantages and advantages of various types of such furniture should definitely be studied before purchasing. Main types of products:
- Transformable bed. The model is a kind of analogue of a folding sofa. With a slight movement of the hand, the rubber sofa turns into a large sleeping place with a backrest, capable of accommodating two people. A transformable air bed is great for use in the country or as a backup option for guests. Unfortunately, this type of furniture deflates very easily; this drawback makes it impossible to use it as a permanent sleeping place.
- Bed with built-in mattress. This option involves a two-chamber design, thanks to which the sleeping place is particularly stable and does not deflate during sleep. Excellent for daily use, and more expensive and high-quality models can last for many years as a permanent recreational product, if necessary.
- Model with headrest. The product is not only very comfortable when traveling (does not require additional pillows), but is also perfect for daily or occasional use. If desired, you can find a wide variety of sizes and models; there is even an air bed for children with a headrest.
- Bed with sides. The design is perfect for children as it prevents falls during sleep. This type of product with sides even has special covers for mattresses. There is only one drawback - such a berth requires a little more time to inflate, since the model contains additional chambers for the sides.
- Sofa bed. This variety is perfect for those for whom it is important to save room space and at the same time maintain its aesthetic appearance. If the room is too small to fit a large bed, a stylish inflatable option is a great solution. A rubber sofa bed with a pump takes up a very modest area and is easy to remove. The only drawback is that this option is unlikely to be a replacement for a full-fledged sleeping place due to the design features.
- An orthopedic air bed with a pump is suitable for people with spinal diseases. This type of product is not only healthier, but also helps relieve back pain. The models use additional materials to ensure rigidity. Because of this, beds are slightly more expensive.
Review of types of single beds from Italy, the best brands
As you can see, orthopedic furniture is best suited for everyday use, and models with a built-in mattress or headrest will also be comfortable. A sofa bed will be an excellent choice if there is a need for additional sleeping space (when guests arrive).
Transformable bed
With built-in mattress
With headrest
With sides
Sofa bed
Orthopedic air bed with pump
FAQ
How to care for inflatable furniture?
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Caring for such things cannot be called difficult. It is enough to periodically wipe the products with a wet soft sponge or rag - you can use a soap solution. It is also permissible to rinse them under running water. Do not use too aggressive detergents, brushes or abrasive sponges. Inflatable furniture should be stored in a deflated state, especially in unheated rooms. Before sending for storage, the product should be cleaned and dried. You need to inflate sofas or chairs by 80-90%, no more.
What is flocking?
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Flock is a chemically treated textile. It is applied to rubber and vinyl products (flocked) - in particular, to inflatable furniture and mattresses. The coating creates a velvety, soft surface. It is pleasant to the touch and does not slip.
How to check that an inflatable product is defective?
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After purchasing, the sofa or chair should be inflated, and if the product inflates by no more than 10%, then it is defective. Air loss of less than 10%, especially in the first two weeks, is normal. If possible, it should be pumped up daily to develop the valve, after which the percentage of air loss will be reduced.
How is an air bed different from a regular mattress?
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As a rule, an air bed has increased dimensions. It can be higher to make it comfortable to get up and lie down. Or have a larger width. Often beds have sides at the edges and a comfortable surface without convex bolsters. Some models are equipped with headrests. In other words, air beds are more comfortable for sleeping and have an anatomically correct shape, which allows you to sleep on them without back pain every day.
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Pump types
The three most common types of pumps are battery, electric and manual. The first type is in greatest demand, as it is quite easy to use, charges from the mains, and is convenient for use in unusual situations. A cheaper option is a hand pump. Such a tool is available to everyone, but is not very convenient to use, since it will take quite a lot of time and effort to inflate an air mattress. An electric pump is the most powerful and expensive option. With its help, you can very quickly both inflate the product and deflate the air. The downside is that such a device cannot be used without access to an electrical outlet.
It is worth remembering that the built-in pump will eliminate the need to purchase an additional accessory, and will also last much longer.
Rechargeable
Electric
Manual
Built-in
