How To Deflate a Blow Up Mattress: Step‑by‑Step Guide and Common Questions

If you’re searching for “How To Deflate a Blow Up Mattress”, you’re likely packing up after guests, preparing for a trip, or putting your air bed into storage. This guide walks you through the process step by step, explains different valve types, and answers common questions so you can deflate your mattress quickly and without damage.

What’s the Best Way to Deflate a Blow Up Mattress?

The exact method depends on your mattress design, but most follow a similar pattern.

Basic step‑by‑step process:

  1. Clear the mattress surface
    Remove sheets, blankets, pillows, and any sharp or heavy objects.

  2. Find and open the valve
    Locate the air valve. This may be:

    • A simple plug-style valve
    • A screw cap
    • A built‑in electric pump with a deflate setting

  3. Switch the pump to “deflate” (if built‑in)
    If your mattress has an integrated pump:

    • Plug it in, if required.
    • Turn the dial or switch to “deflate”.
    • Let it run until the mattress looks flat and soft.

  4. For manual valves, release the air

    • Open the cap or remove the plug.
    • Gently press down on the mattress to push air out.
    • Start from the opposite end of the valve and work your way toward it.

  5. Fold in stages to force out remaining air

    • Once mostly flat, fold the mattress in thirds or halves toward the valve.
    • Press or kneel gently (not aggressively) to squeeze out trapped air.

  6. Seal and store

    • Close the valve once the mattress is flat.
    • Fold or roll it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
    • Store in a cool, dry place away from sharp objects and extreme temperatures.

How To Deflate a Blow Up Mattress With Different Valve Types

Built‑In Electric Pump

How it works:

  1. Ensure the pump is connected to power if needed.
  2. Turn the control to “deflate”.
  3. Wait until the mattress collapses and becomes limp.
  4. Turn off the pump and continue by folding to remove any remaining air.

Electric pumps are usually the fastest and easiest way to deflate, but it’s still helpful to fold and press out residual air so the mattress packs smaller.

Manual Valve (No Built‑In Pump)

If your mattress uses an external pump or no pump at all:

  1. Open the main valve fully.
  2. Let the air escape on its own for a few minutes.
  3. Apply even pressure with your hands, forearms, or body weight.
  4. Fold the mattress in sections toward the valve to steadily push the air out.

For mattresses with multiple valves, open them all to speed things up.

Can I Speed Up the Deflation Process?

Yes, you can make deflation quicker and more efficient by using a few simple techniques:

  • Start early: Open the valve and let the mattress begin to deflate while you tidy up the room.
  • Use an external pump with a reverse/deflate setting: Some pumps can pull air out as well as push it in.
  • Fold rather than roll at first: Folding in flat sections pushes air more evenly than rolling right away.
  • Avoid sharp bends in areas with built‑in pumps or wiring.

⚠️ Avoid using vacuum cleaners or improvised tools that create strong suction, as they can stress seams or valves.

How Do I Know When It’s Fully Deflated?

A blow up mattress is fully or nearly fully deflated when:

  • It lies flat on the floor with no raised or puffy sections.
  • You can fold it without resistance or spring‑back.
  • Pressing with your hand doesn’t reveal large pockets of trapped air.

A small amount of residual air is normal and usually disappears as you roll or fold it more tightly.

How Should I Fold and Store My Air Mattress After Deflating?

Proper folding and storage help your mattress last longer and reduce the risk of leaks.

Basic folding approach:

  • Make sure the mattress is clean and dry first.
  • Fold lengthwise into long strips (usually halves or thirds).
  • Fold or roll from the end furthest from the valve, toward the valve.
  • Keep the folds smooth to avoid sharp creases, especially near the pump housing.

Then place it in its storage bag or a clean, breathable container.

Common Mistakes When Deflating a Blow Up Mattress

When learning How To Deflate a Blow Up Mattress, avoiding a few common errors can save you frustration:

  • Rushing and forcing folds: This can stress seams or push air into awkward pockets.
  • Leaving air inside before storage: Extra air can cause bulkier storage and stress seams.
  • Storing damp or dirty: Moisture and dirt can lead to odors or material breakdown over time.
  • Pulling on the valve instead of supporting it with your fingers during opening/closing.

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points consumers should understand about How To Deflate a Blow Up Mattress

  • Open the valve fully first, then let gravity and time start the deflation before applying pressure.
  • Work from the far end toward the valve to steadily push air out.
  • Built‑in pumps on “deflate” do most of the work, but folding and pressing help remove residual air.
  • Fold or roll gently, avoiding sharp creases, especially near any integrated pump or wiring.
  • Store clean, dry, and fully deflated to help maintain the mattress’s shape and prevent damage over time.

Knowing How To Deflate a Blow Up Mattress properly turns what can feel like a chore into a simple, routine task. With a bit of patience and the right folding technique, you can pack your mattress down neatly and keep it ready for the next night of use.