How To Take Apart a Sleep Number Bed: Step‑by‑Step FAQ Guide

If you’re searching for “How To Take Apart a Sleep Number Bed”, you’re likely moving, rearranging a room, or storing your bed. This guide walks through the process in clear, simple steps so you can take it apart safely and put it back together with confidence.

What should I do before I start taking apart a Sleep Number–style bed?

Before you begin, a bit of preparation makes the process smoother and safer.

Basic preparation:

  • Clear all bedding, pillows, and mattress protectors
  • Have a clean space nearby to lay out parts
  • Take photos of each step as you go (helpful for reassembly)
  • Keep small parts in labeled bags or containers

You’ll usually need:

  • A screwdriver or Allen wrench (depending on your frame)
  • A soft cloth or towel (to protect surfaces)
  • The original pump remote or controls, if available

Taking a few minutes to organize tools and space can help you avoid losing hardware and reduce the risk of damage.

How do I disconnect and deflate the air chambers?

The adjustable air system is what makes this type of bed unique, so people often have the most questions about this part of How To Take Apart a Sleep Number Bed.

1. Power down the system

  • Unplug the pump or control unit from the wall.
  • If your bed has a separate power cord for a base, unplug that as well.

This reduces the risk of accidental activation while you’re working.

2. Deflate the air chambers

Most systems allow you to release air using the remote or controls. Common approaches:

  • Use the “inflate/deflate” buttons to lower firmness until the chamber is mostly flat.
  • If the system has a “factory setting” or “reset” option, it may fully deflate as part of that process.

The goal is to remove most of the air so the mattress topper and foam layers sit flat and can be safely removed.

3. Detach the air hoses

  • Locate the hoses where they connect to the mattress or chambers.
  • Gently twist or press the release mechanism, if present, rather than pulling forcefully.
  • Keep track of which hose went to which side (photos or labels help).

Avoid bending or kinking hoses sharply, as this can cause damage over time.

How do I remove the mattress cover, foam, and inner components?

Once the air system is deflated and disconnected, you can focus on the mattress itself.

1. Unzip or open the top cover

  • Many designs have a zippered top panel or outer cover.
  • Carefully unzip and fold the cover back, keeping the zipper straight to avoid damage.

2. Remove comfort layers

Inside, you’ll typically find:

  • Foam comfort layers
  • Edge foam or border pieces
  • The air chambers themselves

Remove the layers in order, placing them flat on the floor or another bed to avoid bending or tearing. Keep left and right components separated if they are different.

3. Lift out the air chambers

  • With foam removed, gently lift each air chamber from the frame or base.
  • Support the entire chamber to avoid stretching seams.
  • Coil attached hoses loosely; do not wrap them tightly.

At this point, your mattress should be fully taken apart into clear sections: cover, foam, air chambers, and hoses.

How do I disassemble the frame or modular base?

The frame or modular base can vary, but the general approach is similar.

1. Remove the mattress deck or panels

If your bed has a modular base:

  • Lift off the top panels or decking pieces.
  • Stack them flat to prevent warping.

If it has a traditional frame:

  • Remove slats or center supports one by one.
  • Note where each part fits for reassembly.

2. Take apart side rails and corner connectors

  • Most modular bases use plastic or metal connectors at the corners.
  • Gently release clips or unscrew bolts, depending on the design.
  • Work one corner at a time to keep the structure stable as you go.

3. Disassemble the legs or support posts

  • Unscrew legs or detach them from the base sections.
  • Keep screws or bolts in labeled bags (for example, “legs,” “center rail,” “corners”).

When thinking about How To Take Apart a Sleep Number Bed completely, including the base ensures easier transport through doorways and stairwells.

How should I store or move the parts once it’s disassembled?

Proper handling during moving or storage helps preserve the bed’s lifespan.

  • Air chambers: Keep them flat or gently rolled, not sharply folded.
  • Foam layers: Lay flat if possible; avoid long-term compression that isn’t part of the design.
  • Cover and soft parts: Place in clean bags or containers to protect from dust and moisture.
  • Hardware and connectors: Store in clearly labeled bags and keep them with the frame pieces.

If you’re moving, packing delicate components in soft materials or towels can help prevent scratches or tears.

✅ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points consumers should understand about How To Take Apart a Sleep Number Bed

  • Unplug everything first to safely work on the pump, base, and controls.
  • Deflate air chambers using the system controls before you remove any internal layers.
  • Remove components in layers: cover → foam → air chambers → base or frame.
  • Label and photograph each step to make reassembly much easier.
  • Avoid sharp folds in air chambers, hoses, and foam when moving or storing.
  • Keep hardware organized in labeled bags so you don’t lose essential parts.

Taking the time to follow these organized steps for How To Take Apart a Sleep Number Bed can make moving or storing your adjustable air bed much simpler. With careful disassembly and labeling, you’ll be better prepared to set it up again with minimal stress and fewer surprises.