Sometimes an electric pump isn’t available when you need to inflate your air mattress. Fortunately, hand pumps are a good alternative. Here’s how to get it done:
Types of Hand Pumps
- Foot Pumps: A pedal-shaped pump you operate with your foot.
- Hand Pumps: Large, vertical pumps that you use in an up-and-down motion.
Steps for Inflating Your Air Mattress
- Locate the Valve: Find the air valve on your mattress. It’s usually a circular opening with a one-way flap.
- Open the Valve: Unscrew the outer cap of the valve (if there is one) and ensure the one-way flap is open to let air in.
- Attach the Pump: Fit the pump’s nozzle securely into the air valve opening.
- Start Pumping:
- Foot Pump: Step on the pedal repeatedly to force air into the mattress.
- Hand Pump Use a firm up-and-down motion to push air into the mattress.
- Check Firmness: Periodically stop pumping to check the mattress’s firmness and avoid overinflation.
- Close the Valve: When satisfied with the firmness, quickly remove the pump nozzle and close the valve tightly.
Helpful Tips
- Larger mattresses may be tiring: Hand pumping larger mattresses can take time and effort. Consider using alternative methods (explained below) if possible.
- Look for pumps with adapters: Many pumps come with multiple nozzle sizes for different valve types.
- Don’t overinflate: Over-inflating your mattress can cause damage.
If You Don’t Have a Hand Pump
- Hairdryer (Cool Setting): If you have a hairdryer with a cool setting, hold it close to the open valve. Do not use hot air, it can damage the mattress.
- Garbage Bag: Fill a garbage bag with air, tightly seal it, then squeeze the air into the mattress through the open valve. This may take several repetitions.
