What Is an Air Mattress?

Components

• Layers of foam surround the vinyl air chambers inside an air mattress. Manufacturers may also use rubber to construct these air chambers. Layers of upholstery encase the foam layers and air chambers to provide protection against damage. Air mattresses may feature pillow-top designs or include a memory foam topper. Certain air mattress brands feature internal air pumps that you control with a remote. Others use a portable external air pump for inflation.

Benefits

• Inflating an air mattress with an air compressor pump takes minutes and is handy for when unexpected guests decide to stay the night. After you deflate an air mattress, you can easily store it out of sight in a closet or transport it when camping. You can inflate or deflate an air mattress to reflect the amount of support you desire. Certain air mattresses contain two air chambers, allowing you to adjust the firmness on one or both sides of the bed.

Considerations

• If you allow your cat or dog to climb on top of an air mattress, you risk your pet tearing the air mattress with its claws. When using an air mattress while camping, don't place it over an area with sharp rocks or sticks. If an air mattress has a tear, apply a patch to the torn area or the mattress will deflate and become unusable. Place a memory foam pad on top of an air mattress to provide extra support and comfort.

Warnings

• The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission warns against letting infants sleep on top of air mattresses. Air mattresses with low air pressure can't properly provide neck and head support for an infant. Improper support can lead to airway constriction and suffocation in infants. Air mattresses with slow leaks despite multiple patch repairs may not provide enough support for your body, which can lead to stiffness and pain in the morning.