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The Best Air Mattress With Built-In Pump

Last updated on June 14, 2023

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If you’re going to be a good host, there are two things you need: Coffee or tea for your guest in the morning and a bed for them to sleep on at night. So what’s the solution if you don’t have a guest bedroom, much less a guest bed? An air mattress, of course.

If you buy the right one, an air mattress can be great for more than just house guests. If they’re durable enough, you can use them for a little extra comfort on camping trips. If they’re portable enough, you can bring them along and have your own sleeping spot when you visit relatives. At the basic level though, all air mattresses are the same, made of a reinforced plastic that you can inflate with an air pump.

That plastic material is usually PVC, which isn’t the most comfortable thing to sleep on uncovered. For that reason, all but the cheapest air mattresses have a top layer of velour or some other fabric. That not only keeps your back from sticking to the bed, it helps prevent against accidental punctures. If you need a mattress that can stand up to a little extra punishment (say, from especially bouncy kids) you might try paying a little more for thermoplastic polyurethane.

In terms of comfort, the construction of the mattress will matter a lot more. The earliest air mattresses were just a single piece of plastic. Now, most of them have a system of coils or chambers inside that help distribute the air more evenly. That way, you don’t simply sink into the middle. More deluxe air mattresses have shaped tops that can help with support. One common perk is a raised section at one end that can mimic a pillow. If you’re going to put fitted sheets on, you’ll want one that has slightly elevated edges.

Air mattresses come in two basic thicknesses. Single-high mattresses are cheaper, more portable and inflate more quickly. Double-high mattresses are usually the more comfortable of the two, and much better for extended use.

Size of your mattress will be a factor, both in terms of its ability to sleep one or more people and its ease of storage when deflated. If you plan on taking it on the road, make sure that it comes with a carrying bag or case — and that it folds up easily to fit into it.

Finally, make sure the air pump works well. The whole point of having an air mattress is that it can be up and ready quickly, and a powerful pump can make all the difference here. Keep in mind that air pumps that work on one brand of mattress probably won’t work on another. If you like your sleeping surface a little softer, look for a pump that will let you precisely adjust the amount of inflation. You can also find more expensive mattresses where the air pump can stay attached and regulate the air pressure while you sleep. Taking the mattress off the grid? Keep in mind that you may not be able to find an outlet, so go with a pedal-operated pump.

Our Picks For The Top Air Mattress With Built-In Pumps

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Product Overview
Our Take
 Top Pick

EnerPlex Double Height Air Mattress With Built-In Pump

Don't Waste Your Money Seal of Approval

EnerPlex

Double Height Air Mattress With Built In Pump

All you need is an wall socket to have this inflated in a jiffy. The pump takes air away just as quickly, and the mattress can be ready to stow in just a couple minutes. While in use, it is sturdy enough to keep its shape even after plenty of light bouncing.

Overall Take

Holds Air WellThere are no slow leaks with this sturdy guest bed.

 Runner Up

SoundAsleep Products Dream Series Air Mattress With Built-In Pump

SoundAsleep

Products Dream Series Air Mattress With Built In Pump

Not only can you add air quickly to this mattress, you can pick the level of inflation to suit your needs. The pump operates so easily that you barely need instructions. The waterproof top also protects against puncture and tearing.

Overall Take

Adjustable Comfort LevelEnjoy a good night's rest on this comfortable mattress.

 We Also Like

Intex Pillow Dura-Beam Raised Air Mattress With Built-In Pump

Intex

Pillow Dura-Beam Raised Air Mattress With Built In Pump

The design perks on this mattress include a raised portion at one end. It can be used as a pillow in a pinch, and helps to support any pillows you do use. The durability is first rate and the included bag makes it easy to tote on vacations or camping trips.

Overall Take

Great Travel BedTote this anywhere for on-the-go comfort.

 Strong Contender

iDOO Double High Adjustable Air Mattress With Built-In Pump

iDOO

Double High Adjustable Air Mattress With Built In Pump

The included pump is not only fast but intuitive. You simply twist to lock it in and press a button to add or take away air. The end result is a comfortable sleeping surface that can stay inflated for weeks or more.

Overall Take

Easy to InflateYou can set this up quick when company is on the way.

What to Look For

If you plan on keeping your air mattress long term, a little care goes a long way. When you’re storing it, make sure that you’re folding it up as instructed and keeping it in a dry place. Mold and mildew don’t grow well on the PVC that your mattress is made of, but given enough time and moisture you might see some on the top fabric layer. Also, if you only use your mattress rarely it’s a good idea to inflate it once in awhile to check for leaks. The night of a guest’s stay is the worst time to find out it’s not holding air.

More to Explore

The electric pump that inflates them wasn’t invented until 1991, but air mattresses have been around a lot longer than that. While you can find patents for a type of inflatable bed as early as 1853, an upholsterer named William Dujardin was selling a “wind bed” made from waxed canvas to wealthy French patrons back in the sixteenth century.

More to explore