Inflate the mattress as much as possible with an air pump if you can't immediately locate the hole. Press down on the mattress and listen for the sound of air escaping to find the spot. If the mattress is vinyl, check the seams, which is where holes often develop. Mark the spot where the hole is located.
Deflate the air mattress completely.
Apply a self-adhesive vinyl patch over the pinhole and press firmly to prevent air from leaking out. Allow it to sit for a minimum of 10 minutes.
Use tent-seam sealer or another seam sealer with polyurethane and a piece of cloth to make your own patch if you don't have one available. If using polyurethane, note that it can take up to 24 hours to dry.
Apply rubber cement over a pinhole. Allow to dry overnight before inflating.