Finding that Pesky Air Mattress Leak
We’ve all been there – you’ve got your air mattress set up for guests or a camping trip, and it slowly starts to deflate throughout the night. Don’t worry, finding that leak can be easier than you think!
Tools You Might Need:
- Dish soap
- Water
- Spray bottle (optional, but helpful)
- Marker or pen
Tried and True Methods
1. The Soapy Water Search
- Inflate the mattress as much as possible.
- Mix dish soap and water in a bowl or spray bottle.
- Spray or sponge the soapy water onto the mattress, starting with the seams and areas around the valve.
- Look for bubbles! Where there are bubbles, there’s a leak.
- Circle the leak(s) with a marker for easier patching.
2. The Listening Method
- Inflate the mattress fully.
- In a quiet room, slowly move your ear along the surface of the mattress.
- Listen for a hissing sound – that’s the air escaping!
3. The Wet Hand Trick
- Inflate the mattress.
- Wet the back of your hand.
- Move your hand slowly along the mattress surface.
- Feel for cool air blowing on your wet hand – you’ve found the leak!
Additional Tips:
- Don’t forget the valve! Check for leaks around it as this is a common problem spot.
- If you can’t find the leak right away, try deflating the mattress partially and then re-inflating it. This can make a small leak easier to hear or spot.
- Large areas? If you suspect a big leak, try submerging sections of the mattress in a pool or bathtub and look for bubbles.
You’ve found the leak – now what?
Most air mattresses come with patch kits. Follow the instructions on the kit to fix the hole and your mattress should be as good as new!
