5 Best Inflatable Air Mattress Consumer Reports 2019 – Top Rated

With that in mind, this buying guide has come to the rescue. We have put together the following information to help you make a smart decision on your inflatable mattress purchase. You will find information about ratings, along with some specific product recommendations. In the end, we hope that this page includes all of the information you will need to buy the right model for a fair price.

How to Choose An Inflatable Mattress

• Types

One of the first things to consider related to this purchase is what type you are going to buy. Blow up mattresses have come a long way since they were all just a thin layer of air which kept your body (barely) off of the ground. Today, there are numerous models on the market, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. Deciding which type to purchase comes down to the intended use of the product, and the budget you have available for the purchase.

Many people are going to be looking for a raised mattress, as these are easier to get in and out of that one which sits low to the ground. Raised ones look quite similar to traditional mattresses once they are inflated, and they tend to be rather comfortable as well. Another option is a convertible air bed, which is one that can serve as a piece of furniture as well. This is great if you want somewhere comfortable to sit when you aren’t laying down to sleep. Self-inflatable ones have the pump built right into the product, which is a distinct advantage from a convenience standpoint. Finally, we have one with the frame and rails included that will act more like a permanent solution to your sleeping needs.

• Comfort Level / Thickness

Generally speaking, the comfort level offered by a good air mattress is going to be directly related to the thickness. A thicker one will usually be more comfortable than a thinner option, as you are going to have more air underneath you throughout the night. It is common to lose some of their inflation overnight – especially if the night is cool – so starting out with a thick pad of air beneath your body is the best bet. With a thin mattress, it is possible to start the night somewhat comfortable, only to wake up with your body at least partially on the ground as it has deflated.

• Size

Just like regular ones, inflatable beds are available in different sizes, generally ranging from Twin to King. Choosing the right size is an important consideration and one that largely depends on your needs. Twin and Full sized beds tend to be an excellent choice for outdoor users. Unless you have a family, there’s no reason you’re going to want a big bed when it’s going under in a tent.

The most common is the Queen size. It’s big enough to sleep two full adults but smaller than a King; it won’t take up your entire living room, or spare bedroom. Manufacturers make Queen sized more than any other, which gives the consumer many options to choose from. Don’t worry as our top picks are listed in this buyer’s guide.

• Pump / Ease of Use

Inflating can be a difficult chore – or it can be quick and easy. A pump is incredibly convenient to have for these situations. Surprisingly, some models still require the use of a hand or foot pump, which demands that you put in some sweat and effort before you can lay down for the night.

On the other hand, other mattresses come with inflating units that run electrically. Either through the use of batteries or by plugging the unit in, these make inflating your bed no problem at all.

• Air Holding Ability

Naturally, this is a critical point (read more about the study). You don’t have to think about how well your spring mattress is going to hold up over the night, but you do need to concern yourself with this feature when it is only air between you and the ground.

While there isn’t much that you can do about cool temperatures, you can pick out one that is going to hold on to as much air as possible. If it has a leak or two, and you combine that problem with weather conditions, you will suddenly find yourself laying on the ground. Shop for quality products which have been well-built and designed to prevent leaks whenever possible.

• Warranty / Customer Service

It is a nice bonus to buy one that comes with warranty protection of some kind. Or, at least, you should consider buying from a company which has a good reputation for reliable customer services. If something goes wrong, you don’t want to be all on your own to get it fixed and back to working order.

• Price

It should go without saying that you are going to want to consider price along with all of the other points carefully. You are going to have to pay around a couple of hundred dollars to purchase one of the more quality options. Or, you can opt for the inexpensive route, which will keep your cost way down but will also limit the comfort and features that you enjoy.