Air mattresses are handy for guests or camping, but waking up sore kind of defeats the purpose. Here’s why it happens and what you can do:
1. Not Enough Support
- Air mattresses can lack the even support your spine needs for healthy alignment.
- This creates pressure points on your hips, shoulders, and back, causing those morning aches.
The Fix:
- Choose a thicker model: More depth often means better support.
- Add a mattress topper: A layer of memory foam or even a thick comforter helps even out the surface.
2. Wrong Air Pressure
- Too squishy? You’ll sink in, throwing your spine out of whack.
- Too firm? It’ll feel like you slept on a rock.
The Fix:
- Play with the firmness: Find that sweet spot where you feel supported, but not like you’re on a board.
- Invest in a pump: Many air mattresses now come with pumps that monitor and adjust the pressure overnight.
3. The Cold Factor
- Air holds temperature poorly. During the night, that air cools down, which can lead to stiff and achy muscles.
The Fix:
- Lots of layers: Put blankets or sleeping bags BOTH under and over you for insulation.
- Heater: If you’re indoors, a space heater can take the chill out of the room.
Other Factors to Consider
- Your Sleep Position: Side sleepers may suffer more on an unstable air mattress.
- Air Leaks: A slow leak means you’re sleeping on the floor by morning – ouch!
- The Mattress Age: Even good-quality air mattresses lose their integrity over time.
When to Toss the Air Mattress
If you’re getting aches and pains consistently, even after trying all the fixes, it may be time to invest in a traditional guest bed or a high-quality, durable air mattress for long-term use.
