Patching an air mattress can save you from the inconvenience of having to replace it entirely, and it’s a straightforward process that you can do at home. Here are the steps to patch an air mattress:
- Locate the hole: Inflate the air mattress and listen for the hissing sound of the air escaping. If you can’t hear the hole, apply soapy water to the surface of the mattress and look for bubbles where the air is leaking.
- Clean the area: Once you’ve located the hole, clean the area around it with rubbing alcohol. This will help the patch adhere better.
- Cut the patch: Cut a circular or oval-shaped patch from a vinyl patch kit. The patch should be slightly larger than the hole.
- Apply the patch: Peel off the backing from the patch and place it over the hole. Press down on the patch firmly to ensure that it sticks.
- Wait: Allow the patch to dry completely before deflating the mattress and using it again. This may take several hours, depending on the type of patch you’re using.
- Inflate the mattress: Once the patch is dry, inflate the air mattress and listen for any hissing sounds. If you don’t hear any, the patch was successful!
It’s important to note that if your air mattress has multiple holes or large tears, it may be time to replace it entirely. Patching works best for small, isolated holes. Additionally, make sure to follow the instructions included with your vinyl patch kit for best results.