Last updated on 13 Oct, 2023

Can You Wash An Air Mattress? How To Do That?(2023)

– By Eric Smith

Curious if your air mattress can get a good wash? Is it okay to freshen it up? These are common questions. This guide will address the query: ‘can you wash an air mattress?’

Let’s simplify things. Your air mattress, a loyal friend during travels and gatherings, needs a bit of pampering. We’re here to demystify whether a wash is on the table and explain how you can spruce it up.

Quick Overview

Can You Wash An Air Mattress? How To Do That?(2023)

Can You Wash An Air Mattress?

Yes, you can wash an air mattress but with some considerations.

Just like other accessories like bedsheets, air mattresses can benefit from a good cleaning every now and then. It’s just like giving your trusty air mattress a refreshing shower but with proper care.

However, it’s worth mentioning that not all air mattresses are designed to be submerged in water or for wash like your laundry.

You know, before putting some clothes into the washing machine, you make sure about their compatibility. The same happens with the air mattress and washing.

For most air mattresses in the market, a deep wash that involves soaking or putting it in a washing machine isn’t the best idea. Nevertheless, the good news is that there are alternative cleaning methods.

So yes, you can give your air mattress a good wash, just with a different approach than your regular laundry routine.

Can You Put an Air Mattress In The Washing Machine?

Putting or washing an air mattress in the washing machine is a terrible idea, and we don’t suggest you do that.

Most air mattresses have fragile internal components like air chambers and pumps that can get damaged by the rage and force inside a washing machine.

The washing machine can tear or puncture the mattress and make it a complete waste in no time. And, if you are thinking of washing your air mattress with a built-in pump in the machine, just drop the idea. You’ll be thankful you got that suggestion.

Also, the washing machine can’t clean the mattress thoroughly and might not be able to wash out the leftover residues or moisture, which can lead to mold or mildew growth.

However, some air mattresses have removable, machine-washable covers or mattress toppers. In such cases, you can remove the cover and wash it in the machine, but you want to make sure you follow the instructions provided by the manufacturers.

If you need to clean the main part of the mattress, spot cleaning with a mild detergent or using a damp cloth is a safer and more suitable option.

How To Wash An Air Mattress - 5 Simple Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Air Mattress

The first step in washing your air mattress is to make sure it is totally ready for cleaning.

So, first of all, deflate your air mattress completely. Find the valve(usually located near the edge of the bed) and open it to let all the air out. Take the manual’s help in case you don’t know how to open it.

This step is crucial as you don’t want any air trapped inside during the cleaning process. Once the mattress is fully deflated, spread it out on a clean and flat surface, ready for the next steps.

Step 2: Pick The Right Cleaning Agents

Choosing suitable cleaning agents is vital to confirm that the cleaning process is effective and gentle on your air mattress. For this task, you’ll need mild and gentle cleaning agents that won’t harm the material of the mattress.

Go for a mild detergent or soap that is suitable for delicate fabrics. Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach, as they can damage the mattress material and induce discomfort during your sleep. Keep a soft sponge or a clean cloth ready with you. You’ll use it to apply the cleaning solution to your dirty air mattress.

Step 3: Wash and Rinse

Now that your air mattress is completely ready for the washing process and the right washing agents are picked, it’s time to dive into the washing.

First things first, mix a small amount of the mild detergent or soap with water to create a cleaning solution. Soak the sponge or cloth in this solution. However, remember the cloth or sponge shouldn’t be too wet. Otherwise, it won’t work that effectively.

Now, gently and slowly scrub the air mattress’s felt surface and focus on spots or stains, such as urine stains, if any.

You can use circular motions to lift the dirt without being too harsh on the bed. Take your time to cover the entire surface and pay extra attention to any soiled areas.

After properly scrubbing the air mattress entirely, wash the sponge with clean water to wipe away the detergent residue. However, you want to make sure that you remove all traces of the cleaning solution to stop any potential skin irritation or discomfort.

Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe over the mattress and thoroughly rinse it. You can also use a hose to wash the solution out of the air mattress, but make sure the water doesn’t go inside of your bed as it can cause serious problems later, such as mold or bed bug infestation.

Step 4: Let It Dry

After proper washing, leaving the air mattress to dry completely is equally important. Air drying is the best option to guarantee no moisture is trapped inside, which could lead to mold or unpleasant odors.

All you have to do is just place the airbed in a well-ventilated area such as outdoors or in a room that has good airflow. You can also leave the air mattress in your backyard in the sunlight.

Let it dry thoroughly. This process may take 30-40 minutes if left in extreme sunlight or even several hours to a day, depending on the humidity and ventilation in your location

Step 5: Time To Store It

Carefully fold or roll it up for storage once the inflatable mattress is 100% dry. Store it in a clean and dry area, away from direct sunlight and potential sources of moisture.

Avoid storing it in a damp basement or attic, as water can damage the material over time. If you have a mattress bag or cover, placing the mattress in it is a good idea for added protection.

Factors that Determine If Air Mattress Washing is Possible

#1. Material Type

The material an air mattress is made of is the deciding factor whether you can wash it or not. Air mattresses come in various materials, including PVC, vinyl, fabric, or sometimes, a combination of both. The ability to wash the airbed largely depends on the material.

Some materials can handle water and cleaning agents, while others may get damaged or lose their build quality when exposed to water or detergents.

For instance, fabric-covered air mattresses are more likely to damage if soaked in water, whereas PVC or vinyl mattresses may handle it better.

#2. Manufacturer Guidelines

Each manufacturer provides specific instructions regarding the care and maintenance of their air mattresses. These guidelines often include suggestions on how to clean the air mattress without damaging it.

These air mattress makers might identify specific cleaning agents or methods that are safe to use. They may also mention if the airbed has a removable cover that can be machine washed.

In simple words, it’s essential to follow these guidelines properly to make sure that you’re cleaning the sleeping buddy in a way that won’t compromise its durability or void any warranty.

#3. Air Mattress Components

The internal structure and components of the air mattress equally play an important role in deciding whether you can wash an air mattress or not.

Air mattresses have different chambers, pumps, and other mechanisms that help them inflate and hold air. If you submerge your air mattress fully into the water or in any cleaning solution, you can damage the components.

Washing might cause the inflatable bed to lose its ability to hold air or disrupt the internal mechanisms and make it unusable. Therefore, you need to consider the structure of the mattress and whether washing could harm these components.

#4. Seams and Sealing

The air mattress seams and sealing are critical areas to consider when considering washing. Water exposure and strong washing could weaken the seams and break the airtight seals, which can lead to air leaks and a broken mattress.

If you are 100% sure that your washing won’t affect seams and sealings or the seams and sealing can bear the washing, go ahead and wash it up. Otherwise, simply quit washing and go for another cleaning method.

In The End:

Now that you know whether you can wash an air mattress or not, you can be your own expert on this topic. Washing an air mattress isn’t as simple as throwing it in a laundry machine. But, with the tips mentioned in this guide, you’ll be able to do so.

Still, it would be best if you remembered that don’t wash your air mattress in the washing machine. It will likely ruin it, and I’m saying this with my personal experience.

Just like you change your bed sheets, a clean air mattress makes sure you’re sleeping in a healthy and pleasant environment. Treat your air mattress with care, and it will treat you to nights of peaceful sleep.

About Eric Smith

With 4+ years of experience dealing with air mattresses, Eric has gotten really good at making useful and interesting stuff for you to read. He loves helping people find the right air mattresses and fix any air mattress-related issues.

Can You Wash An Air Mattress? How To Do That?(2023)

Can You Wash An Air Mattress?

Can You Put an Air Mattress In The Washing Machine?