Home Garden

How to Use a Vacuum to Inflate an Air Mattress

Air mattresses are portable bedding units similar to inflatable pool floats but more durable and usually with a fabric covering. Air pumps to inflate the mattresses are available, but you can also inflate an air mattress with a common household appliance, the vacuum.

Things You'll Need

  • Vacuum
  • Hose extender or extension-wand attachment
  • Duct tape
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Remove the cover from the vacuum bag per the manufacturer's instructions and detach the vacuum bag. Detach top motor from canister on a canister vacuum, remove canister and set aside.

    • 2

      Insert the vacuum's hose extender or extension-wand attachment into the opening where the vacuum bag or canister attaches to vacuum. Wrap duct tape around attachment base to secure.

    • 3

      Insert the free end of the attachment into the inflation hole in the air mattress. Seal with duct tape to create a tight fit between the attachment and the mattress opening.

    • 4

      Plug the vacuum's electrical cord into an electrical outlet and turn on the vacuum.

    • 5

      Inflate the mattress to desired firmness. Remove the vacuum attachment and insert the plug into the mattress.

    • 6

      Detach the attachment from the vacuum and replace the vacuum bag or canister.