Dr. Barry Jarvis
Having a quality air mattress on hand makes accommodating overnight guests easy and comfortable. This detailed guide reviews the top 10 air mattresses for guests based on ease of use, comfort and durability.
Benefits of an Air Mattress for Guests
Air mattresses designed for home use provide many advantages for guest sleeping:
- More comfortable than a sofa or cramped share of a bed
- Self-contained – built in inflation so no pumps required
- Available in all standard mattress sizes from twin to king
- Affordable compared to buying a regular guest mattress
- Compact storage when not in use
- Many elevated styles at regular bed height
- Easy to clean and maintain between uses
With the right pick, air mattresses allow welcoming guests into your home with a sleep space that feels like the real thing.
What to Look for in an Air Mattress for Guests
Key factors to consider when choosing an air mattress for home and guest use:
1. Size Options
Available in twin, queen, king and more to accommodate guests’ needs. Understand sizing.
2. Inflation Method
Self-inflating with built-in electric pump offers the most convenience.
3. Raised Height
Elevated styles around 18” high provide easier on/off than floor level mattresses.
4. Comfort Features
Cushy, quilted tops and inner air coils add plushness closer to real mattresses.
5. Durability
Reinforced materials like puncture-resistant PVC vinyl prevent leaks better.
6. Ease of Use
Models with storage bags, fitted sheets, repair kits and warranties simplify use.
Using these criteria, below are the top air mattresses recommended for overnight guests.
1. King Koil Queen Air Mattress with Built-in Pump
Features:
- Thick quilted top for comfort
- 120 volt built-in pump
- Durable laminated PVC
- Raised air bed design
- Queen and king sizes available
- Waterproof carrying case included
With the convenience of a built-in pump, the King Koil Luxury Loft is ready anytime for comfortable guests.
Price: $$$
Buy the King Koil Queen Air Mattress with Built-in Pump on Amazon
2. SoundAsleep Dream Series Air Mattress
Features:
- Proprietary ComfortCoilTM technology
- Dual chamber construction for firmness options
- Integrated pumpinflates bed in 4 minutes
- Sturdy, waterproof flocked top
- Twin to king sizes available
- Carry bag included
This SoundAsleep Dream air bed combines coils, dual-chamber adjustability and a handy pump for the ideal guest sleep setup.
Price: $$
Buy the SoundAsleep Dream Series Air Mattress on Amazon
3. Etekcity Camping Air Mattress
Features:
- Built-in rechargeable battery pump
- Durable waterproof PVC
- Wave beam interior support
- Plush flocked top
- Queen size perfect for guests
- Storage bag included
- 2 year warranty
This Etekcity air mattress has a soft velvety top and rechargeable pump for quick inflation when guests visit.
Price: $
Buy the Etekcity Camping Air Mattress on Amazon
4. Insta-Bed Raised Air Mattress
Features:
- 18 inch raised height
- Primary pump auto-inflates bed
- Secondary neverFLAT pump maintains pressure
- Durable flocked PVC surface
- Queen and king sizes
- Convenient carry bag
- 1 year warranty
Never run out of air overnight with this Insta-Bed that auto-inflates and keeps your guests sleeping soundly.
Price: $$
Buy the Insta-Bed Raised Air Mattress on Amazon
5. EnerPlex Air Mattress
Features:
- Soft, velvety quilted flocking
- Built-in pump auto-inflates in 90 seconds
- EnerPlex Never-leak technology
- Durable PVC
- Twin to California King
- Rolls up compactly
- 2 year warranty
This EnerPlex air mattress uses innovative NeverLeak technology to stay fully inflated for guests and autoinflates lightning fast when they visit.
Price: $$
Buy the EnerPlex Air Mattress on Amazon
6. Intex Comfort Plush Elevated Dura-Beam Airbed
Features:
- Built-in 120V electric pump
- Durable laminated vinyl
- Raised height with plush pillow top
- Twin, queen and king sizes
- Can fit existing sheets
- Carry bag included
- 1 year warranty
This elevated Intex air mattress has a layered plus top and powerful pump to comfortably accommodate overnight guests.
Price: $$
Buy the Intex Comfort Plush Elevated Dura-Beam Airbed on Amazon
7. Fox Air Beds Plush High Rise Air Mattress
Features:
- Quilted pillow-top design
- Integrated electric pump
- Raised platform provides proper bed height
- Reinforced vinyl build prevents stretching
- Twin, queen and king sizes
- Waterproof storage bag included
- 1 year manufacturer warranty
This plush, quilted air mattress inflates in seconds like a real bed for comfortable guest sleeping courtesy of Fox Air Beds.
Price: $$$
Buy the Fox Air Beds High Rise Mattress on Amazon
8. HomComfort Elevated Inflatable Air Mattress
Features:
- Integrated electric pump
- Quilted waterproof flocked top
- Reinforced vinyl sides and bottom
- Raised platform height
- Twin, full and queen sizes
- Fitted sheets work with mattress
- Inflation remote control
The HomComfort inflatable offers an easy-to-control raised air bed with quilt top to pamper your overnight guests.
Price: $$
Buy the HomComfort Elevated Inflatable Air Mattress on Amazon
9. AirMattress.com Guest Choice Air Bed
Features:
- Supportive coil beam construction
- Airtight polyvinyl build
- Built-in electric pump
- Zippered mattress cover included
- Twin, queen, king and California king
- Rolls compactly for storage
- 1 year warranty
This durable PVC air bed from AirMattress.com inflates easily and includes a cover to accommodate overnight guests.
Price: $
Buy the AirMattress.com Guest Choice Air Bed on AirMattress.com
10. WonderSleep Classic Air Mattress
Features:
- Supportive honeycomb layering
- Waterproof flocked top for comfort
- Built-in pump for quick inflation
- Carry bag for storage and travel
- Available in all standard sizes
- 1 year warranty
The WonderSleep Classic offers a budget-friendly air mattress with integrated pump and soft plus top to comfortably accommodate guests.
Price: $
Buy the WonderSleep Classic Air Mattress on Amazon
Choosing the Right Size Air Mattress for Guests
Select the air mattress size that fits your intended guest room space as well as the number of sleepers:
- Twin: Good for singles and kids. Fits in small spaces.
- Queen: Ideal for couples. Provides more room to spread out.
- King: Extra room for families or tall people. Harder to inflate fully.
- California King: Longest mattress – perfect for very tall guests. Rare size for sheets.
Measure your available bedroom or floor space when choosing. Understand air mattress sizes can vary slightly between manufacturers.
Raised vs. Floor Level Air Mattress for Guests
Raised/Elevated:
- Height of 18-22 inches closer to a real bed
- Easier to get on and off
- More insulation from cold floor
- Require deep fitted sheets
- Harder to store and transport
- Can feel unstable for some
Floor-Level:
- Lay directly on the floor
- No need for sheets or bed frame
- Quicker to inflate and easier to roll up
- Provide less insulation and height
- Require padding for comfort
- More stable overall
Consider guest mobility, room decor, and storage constraints when choosing raised versus floor level.
Manual vs. Electric Pumps for Inflation
Electric Pumps
- Fast inflation at the push of a button
- Required access to a wall outlet
- Can be loud due to high pressure
- More expensive models
- Auto-inflation convenient for guests
Manual Pumps
- Don’t require a power source
- Quieter and more eco-friendly
- Require physical effort to pump
- Take more time to inflate
- Cannot self-inflate for guests
Electric pumps offer the most convenient inflation for casual guest use. But manual works well for limited outlet access.
Air Mattress Materials Guide
PVC Vinyl
Most common. Very durable but potential odor over time. Heavy. Not eco-friendly.
TPU Vinyl
More durable than PVC. Minimal odor. Eco-friendly. Added cost.
Fiber Padding
Provides plushness and insulation. Machine washable. Quilted layer improves comfort.
Consider intended frequency of use, carrying weight andVOC off-gassing when selecting materials.
Special Features
- Auto-inflation – self-inflating at the push of a button
- Secondary pump – maintains pressure and prevents deflation
- Coil beam design – interior coils prevent sagging and sinking
- Adjustable firmness – customize softness level for guests
- Fitted sheets – included sheets provide a “real bed” feel
- Patch kit – allows fixing leaks and holes as needed
Tips for Improving Air Mattress Comfort for Guests
- Add a soft mattress topper or pad for extra cushioning
- Use deep pocket fitted sheets to secure bedding in place
- Add a non-slip bed rail or pad to prevent sliding
- Place on a rug or carpet rather than cold, hard floors
- Inflate to 90% capacity to allow for air expansion overnight
- Elevate off the ground for insulation and easier on/off
Using a few key accessories makes for a better guest experience and more restful sleep.
Caring for an Air Mattress Long-Term
- Fully air dry after use before packing away
- Roll loosely or store flat rather than folding tightly
- Use bed skirts or pads to protect from pets and damage
- Spot clean stains immediately with mild soap and water
- Check for leaks and tears and patch promptly
- Keep inflated when not in use to prevent creases
- Use repair kit for small holes and tape for temporary fixes
Proper care extends the lifespan of air mattresses between guest visits.
Troubleshooting Common Air Mattress Problems
Not inflating/deflating:
- Ensure pump is properly connected and powered
- Check for clogs, obstructions, leaks in valve or hose
- Clean valve and retry
Air leaks:
- Fill mattress and submerge in tub to check for bubbles
- Use soapy water on seams to detect small leaks
- Patch holes from inside using repair kit
Pump issues:
- Charge battery/connect to power if electric
- Contact manufacturer about replacement
Following basic troubleshooting helps resolve most air mattress issues that may arise.
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Mattresses for Guests
How long do air mattresses last?
With occasional use and proper care, air mattresses typically last 1-2 years on average. Higher quality materials and avoiding overinflation extend lifespan to up to 4 years.
Why does my air mattress deflate overnight?
Air loss naturally occurs through porous fabrics overnight. Many air mattresses also stretch over time, resulting in loosening and air leaks. Maintaining inflation and patching holes helps.
Do air mattresses need sheets?
While not required, using sheets makes air mattresses warmer, more comfortable and feel more like a real bed. Deep pocket fitted sheets work best to stay secured.
How much weight can an air mattress hold?
Air bed weight limits average 300-600 lbs for double size, with some newer supportive models rated over 800 lbs. Check manufacturer specs to ensure it meets your needs.
Can you repair an air mattress?
Small holes, seams splits or leaks can be patched from the inside using the included repair kit. Larger rips may require professional resealing. Preventing damage and punctures extends lifespan.
Closing Summary
Having the right air mattress on hand makes accommodating overnight guests comfortable and convenient. Match the size and features to your guest room space and needs. With compact storage and easy inflation, air mattresses deliver a night’s sleep customizable for any guest.
Originally posted on September 18, 2023 @ 7:59 pm
Author
Dr. Barry Jarvis
Dr. Barry Jarvis is a renowned sleep specialist, dedicating their illustrious career to the intricate world of sleep medicine. Holding a medical degree from a prestigious institution, Dr. Jarvis has cultivated a deep understanding of the complex mechanisms that govern sleep and its pivotal role in overall health and well-being. With a compassionate approach and a meticulous eye for detail, Dr. Jarvis has helped countless individuals reclaim restful nights and vibrant days. Beyond their clinical expertise, they have contributed to groundbreaking research in sleep medicine, unraveling the mysteries of sleep disorders and pioneering innovative treatments that stand at the forefront of the field.
