Best Air Mattress For Everyday Use in 2024: 5 Top Choices

Air mattresses are not like the spring or foam beds many sleep on at home. They need to be inflated, have a waterproof lining, and come with an electric pump. Air mattresses are designed to be used outdoors for camping or indoors if you want to have a guest over.

An air mattress is also a great temporary solution for those who want to do some home improvement, renovations, or for camping. However, there are so many different types and brands of air mattresses available on the market that it can be difficult to find the best one for your needs.

There are also many things that you should consider before purchasing an air mattress. These include size, shape and material. There is no telling how you will use your new air mattress, so these considerations will help you find the perfect match.

Best Air Mattresses For Everyday Use in 2024

The King Koil Luxury Raised Air Mattress is a luxury air mattress that will provide you with an experience of sleeping in a hotel. This mattress will provide you with the comforts of a high-quality sleep while still being affordable at everyday prices.

SEE ALSO: Best Mattress for Heavy People

The Intex Comfort Plush Elevated Dura-Beam Airbed is a four-sided, elevated airbed with a built-in electric pump. The secret to this mattress’s plush comfort is its beam design which provides even weight distribution and reduces the risk of sinking into the center area.

SEE ALSO: Best Hotel Beds

The SoundAsleep Dream Series Air Mattress is a mattress that can fit in anyone’s bedroom. The product is made from two layers of coils and has a soft-to-the-touch cover.

It also comes with an air pump so the mattress can be inflated in no time, with just a few puffs of air needed to inflate it all the way until it reaches full size.

SEE ALSO: Best Mattress for Neck Pain

Active Era Air Mattress is a lightweight inflatable air mattress that you can use with a pump to inflate in minutes. It comes with a carrying bag and is durable too. This mattress is great for camping trips, short-term house guests, or just in case of emergencies. It weighs only around 5 pounds and inflates in minutes using the included pump.

SEE ALSO: Best Mattress for Tall People

The Englander Microfiber Queen Air Mattress is the perfect balance between comfort and portability. The Englander Microfiber Queen Air Mattress is especially convenient for campers and backpackers since it can be compressed to fit inside backpacks or tents.

SEE ALSO: Most Durable Mattresses

Choosing the Best Air Mattress for Everyday Use

If you’re the social type, you’ll likely have guests stay over often, or you’ll be up and about camping. Either way, it’s an excellent idea to have a simple air bed around to serve as a mattress for guests.

Why Air Mattresses?

An air mattress is a type of mattress that inflate and deflate quickly, making them convenient for use in guests bedrooms, camping, or other situations where a bed is needed. They work by having an air pump that is connected to the air mattress.

They are a good choice because they are inexpensive, can be rolled up and stored, and can be used as a spare bed. Plus, air mattresses are a bed that allows for comfortable sleep without the need for a frame, mattress foundation or box spring.

Many air mattresses are quite affordable and act as budget mattresses. Technology has helped air mattresses to evolve in height, size, comfort, and quality, to even match a traditional mattress.

When choosing the best air mattress for everyday use, there are some factors to consider, such as what you need the air mattress for, what your individual needs are, or what your budget is. 

Related: Best Mattresses in 2024

Does an Air Mattress Hold Air?

An air mattress owes the majority of its quality assessment score to how reliably it holds air. It is the focus of most customer reviews. Most beds come with disclaimers on how the mattresses stretch with inflation. It is so you do not assume they are leaking when they lose their initial level of firmness.

That said, many air mattresses leak without stretching. It is hard to determine how airtight an air mattress is. Many come with a one-year manufacturer guarantee or warranty. Some are even two years. Others offer 90 days and give a few vinyl patches to cover up a puncture wound.

SEE ALSO: How to Find and Patch a Hole in an Air Mattress

When You May Need an Air Mattress

Air mattresses have created a pop-up sleeping mechanism that is appropriate for several different situations. Consider a situation where you’re hosting guests, and your house is only a few bedrooms strong. An air mattress provides an option that offers good memories of sleep to your guests.

The outdoors offer great excitement, and more people are taking the time to enjoy the outdoors and the benefits it provides. These trips require campers to arrange for a place to lay their heads at night. Some can spring for a camper with an RV mattress, but others may want a bed that’s more affordable and convenient.

Comfort is increasingly essential in the outdoors. Sleeping bags used to be the norm, but that is changing today with the growing use of air beds or mattresses. You may even want to forgo the tent or camping trailer entirely, and just have a truck bed mattress you can set up at night and deflate in the morning, making it easy to quickly get on the road.

Air mattresses can also provide extra support for anyone battling an aging body. It also caters to a physical make-up that does not permit sleeping on hard surfaces. However, sleepers who are looking for the best mattresses for seniors or are looking to relieve chronic pain may also want to consider softer memory foam mattresses that can conform quickly and relieve pain points.

Alternatively, they can consider a waterbed for a similarly weightless feel, though water beds do have their own set of advantages and drawbacks.

As we mentioned earlier, air mattresses can be found in all shapes and sizes, from standard mattress sizes to sizes that are specifically meant to fit in a truck bed. So, what do you look out for in an air mattress?

SEE ALSO: Best Purple Mattress Alternatives

How to Find the Best Air Mattress for Your Needs

The best air mattress for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.

We should also stress that sometimes, an air mattress just isn’t the bed for you. Some people think that they are not comfortable because of their thinner profile. Others think that the air mattresses are comfortable because they do not make noise when you move and are bouncy.

Here are a few things to consider when choosing the best air mattress:

• The best models for the outdoors are those constructed from PVC (Polyvinyl chloride) materials. PVC models last longer and withstand elements like rain or heat exposure.
• They are often raised higher off the ground and contain additional measures for back and body support.
• If instead, you’ll be using the mattress for household purposes, say for when guests are around. Then laminated vinyl options will work just fine. Additional threads, so they are safe.
• The vinyl models may contain the internal pump or hand pump measure due to the connectivity element present in the home setting. They attempt to replicate the effects of a mattress and can offer benefits that no couch could.
• These models sit close to the ground, most only inflating to around 15 inches above the ground. It would be less of a bother for children than adults since they weigh less and can create an even weight distribution with less effort. The size allows two bodies or more to sleep comfortably, and the cost is less than that of a sleeping bag.
• Some people prefer air mattresses that are heavier, offer more support, and are more durable. These air mattresses are usually more expensive. Other people prefer air mattresses that are lightweight, easy to store, and inexpensive. These air mattresses can be punctured easily and don’t offer much support.

Air Mattress Price Ranges and Materials

The prices of air mattresses vary depending on the size and brand of the mattress. The prices of air mattresses can range from $40 to $600.

The most pricey air mattresses can cost as much as hundreds of dollars. A higher price does not always mean a superior airbed, better air pressure, more comfort, and so forth. The reason for the fluctuating price range in air mattresses is the materials that go into producing them.

Laminated vinyl is the preferred choice for most air mattress companies. Lamination helps to delay the material from stretching out or wearing down over multiple uses. Laminated vinyl is durable and protects against the elements while reducing puncture capability.

You might have heard the myth that air mattresses often pop holes and become unusable. Yes, they aren’t resistant to sharp blades. They will, however, withstand pressures from rough and rocky terrain.

Another sturdy and resistant material is PVC. This material is a joint agent in home plumbing. Air mattress models that feature PVC in their make-up will be a bit more expensive than laminated vinyl options. However, if you want a model that stands the test of time, go for one with PVC.

Air Mattress Sizes and Dimensions

Air mattresses come in many different mattress sizes and dimensions but they generally range from 4 inches or 6 inches and up to 8 to 10 inches. Height or mattress thickness is variable and is often a key selling point by manufacturers.

For example, some air mattresses are specifically designed as mattresses for children who require smaller sleeping areas while others can support up to 300 pounds of weight. Most queen-sized air mattresses are approximately 60 inches wide and 80 inches long.

For older or physically-challenged people having issues rising from a bed that’s too low to the ground, this is more important than price. The right bed height can minimize the risk of hurting yourself when getting out of bed in the morning.

Power Sources For Pumping Air Mattresses

How you blow up your air mattress can vary, and some methods are easier than others.

• Built-in electric pump: Many air mattresses get power from a built-in electric pump that plugs into a main socket.
• Battery-powered external pump: Others have a battery-powered external pump, running on four D-cells. Those powered by D-cells are lighter and do not require a wall socket or unsightly cables. They are often not able to fully inflate a mattress.
• Manual hand pump: Few come with a manual hand pump. The plug-in air pumps are the most powerful but are loud and heavy. Manual pumps can deliver a surprising degree of firmness unmatched by the former two described. Yet, they require a significant amount of physical labor to operate.

Some air mattresses include an air pump, while others do not and may need to be purchased separately.

Other Alternatives to Air Mattresses

People who want to keep a second bed on hand for guests have other options besides an air mattress to consider. Some options create a more comfortable mattress for sleepers, helpful for any hosts who prioritize a guest’s enjoyment.

• Daybeds are an alternative to the traditional sofa bed mattress. Instead of folding out from the couch, the daybed uses a typical mattress as a place to sleep and sit (Read more about best mattresses for daybeds here).
• Trundle beds slide out from under a bed frame, perfect for children’s sleepovers and those who are willing to share their bedroom with a guest.
• Murphy Bed mattresses are standard mattresses that can be folded up into
• Futons are excellent for hosts who want a mattress they can easily hide away, without the specialty cabinet of a Murphy Bed.

Often the draw of an air mattress is its inexpensive nature, and while it’s difficult to find a bed that’s just as cheap as an air mattress, shoppers can find highly affordable mattresses:

• Best Twin Size Mattress For Adults
• Best Twin XL Size Mattress
• Best Mattress Under $500

To further maximize savings, we suggest shopping during the big mattress sales of the year:

• Best Presidents Day Mattress Sales
• Best Memorial Day Mattress Sales
• Best 4th of July Mattress Sales
• Best Labor Day Mattress Sales
• Best Columbus Day Mattress Sales
• Best Black Friday Mattress Sales
• Best Cyber Monday Mattress Sales

What Bedding Can I Use With An Air Mattress?

While some air mattresses can be used with a full sheet set, it’s best to use only a flat sheet if you’re unsure if the mattress’s air pressure will be affected by a fitted sheet. Some air mattresses have a deliberately soft surface so you can skip the sheets entirely and just wrap yourself up in a nice blanket.

If you find your air mattress feels significantly uncomfortable, you may be able to dress it up with a mattress topper. However, take care that the topper isn’t too heavy as it can increase wear and tear on your air mattress.

Having the best pillow is important regardless of what air mattress you choose, though some options might have a built-in pillow. Particularly if you’re out camping, you’ll want the right head and neck support to avoid waking up stiff, taking away from your enjoyment of the outdoors.

Sleepers who really want to capture the feeling of camping out, even when they’re indoors, can pair their air mattress with a bed tent. This is excellent for children’s sleepovers and such, as it gives the kids an added sense of adventure while keeping them close and indoors under a parent’s watchful.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can an air mattress last?

An air mattress can have an uncertain lifespan, depending on how often it is used and how it is stored when not in use, along with how sturdy its plastic covering is. An air mattress that’s an occasional use guest bed can last several years if it’s properly stored. Using the mattress more often increases the likelihood of wear and tear causing a leak.

Can an air mattress cause back pain?

Yes, an air mattress can cause or worsen back pain, particularly if it’s an older model that’s grown lumpy or unsupportive with use. Generally, the clearest sign that it’s time to replace your mattress is that you’re consistently waking up with back pain and other aches.

If you don’t want to replace your mattress with another air mattress, you could consider another material type like a memory foam mattress for back pain.

Can you sleep on air mattress every night?

Yes, it’s possible to sleep on an air mattress every night, but it may not be the best mattress to do so. Many air mattresses are designed with temporary use in mind and can cause discomfort after extended use. Others may wear out quicker than you expect, leaving a shopper to look for a replacement mattress.

Still, an air mattress can suffice for a while if you’re looking to save up for a higher-priced foam or spring mattress.

Are thicker air mattresses better?

Yes, a general rule of thumb is that a thicker air mattress is likely to feel better and more supportive. A taller air mattress may also have added foam cushion and such to further boost its comfort.

However, these thicker mattresses are typically more expensive. A budget shopper looking for an occasional use bed may want to try a thinner model.

What are the disadvantages of air mattresses?

One disadvantage is that your basic air mattress is meant for temporary events, like a camping trip or guests staying over. The average air mattress isn’t necessarily meant to accommodate a sleeper night after night for an indefinite period of time and typically doesn’t provide the same comfort you would expect from a foam or spring mattress.

Air mattresses can also wear down faster than standard mattresses. Once they spring a leak it can be difficult to patch it up and fully restore the mattress’s comfort.

Conclusion

Choosing the best air mattress for everyday use is quite easy if you know what to consider. As an outdoors person or someone who’ll be spending time away from home for a while, an air mattress could be more of a necessity than a luxury.

Identify the factors that matter to you. Such factors include price, comfort, manufacturer pedigree, mattress thickness, overall design, comfort, and air leaks.

You must buy an air mattress you will enjoy using. Compromising on something that matters to you merely because of the price will hurt you more than you know. Take a look at these air mattresses again and choose the best one you can use every day.

Dr. Burns tests each mattress at eachnight’s facility to make sure the recommendations are based on real, expert reviews.