How To Deflate An Inflatable Mattress: Simple Steps and Common Questions

If you’re wondering how to deflate an inflatable mattress quickly and without damaging it, you’re not alone. Whether you’re packing up after guests or breaking down a camping setup, knowing the right technique helps your mattress last longer and store more compactly.

This FAQ-style guide walks through step-by-step deflation methods, how to handle built‑in pumps, and what to avoid so you don’t accidentally damage the mattress.

What’s the Best Way To Deflate an Inflatable Mattress?

The best way to deflate an inflatable mattress depends on whether it has a built‑in pump or a separate valve.

In most cases, the basic steps are:

  1. Clear the mattress
    Remove all sheets, blankets, and pillows so nothing gets trapped or punctures the material.

  2. Turn off and unplug any pump
    If your mattress has a built‑in pump, make sure it’s switched off and unplugged before you start.

  3. Open the air valve

    • For mattresses with a built‑in pump, set the switch to “deflate” or “air out,” if available.
    • For mattresses with a separate valve, unscrew or pull open the cap.

  4. Let gravity do most of the work
    Leave the mattress flat and allow the majority of air to escape on its own for a few minutes.

  5. Gently push air out
    Starting at the end farthest from the valve, lightly press or kneel on the mattress and work your way toward the valve. Avoid sharp folds or sudden force.

  6. Fold for final deflation
    Fold the mattress in halves or thirds toward the valve, pressing out remaining air as you go.

  7. Close the valve and store
    Once the mattress is fairly flat and compact, close the valve to keep it that way during storage.

How To Deflate an Inflatable Mattress With a Built‑In Pump

Many air mattresses come with a pump already attached. This usually makes deflation easier.

Step-by-step with a built‑in pump

  1. Check the settings
    Locate the control dial or switch and set it to “deflate” if that setting exists.

  2. Unplug after deflation
    Let the pump run until the mattress looks flat. Once it stops removing air (or the mattress feels limp), unplug it.

  3. Finish by hand if needed
    Even with a pump, some air often lingers in corners and seams. Gently roll or fold the mattress toward the pump area to push out the last bit.

  4. Avoid over‑running the motor
    If the pump sounds strained or has been running for several minutes, pause and let it rest. This helps reduce wear on the motor.

How To Deflate an Inflatable Mattress Without a Pump

If your mattress doesn’t have a built‑in pump—or the pump isn’t working—you can still fully deflate it manually.

Manual deflation tips

  • Open the largest available valve
    Some mattresses have a two-part valve: a small opening for inflating and a larger opening for quick deflation. Use the larger one if possible.

  • Flatten and roll instead of crushing
    Start at the end opposite the valve and roll slowly toward it, pushing air ahead of you. Rolling tends to be more effective and gentler than random folding or jumping on the mattress.

  • Use your body weight carefully
    Kneeling or pressing with your hands is usually enough. Avoid standing with shoes or placing sharp or heavy objects on it, which can cause damage.

How Do You Fold and Store an Inflatable Mattress After Deflating?

Once you’ve handled how to deflate an inflatable mattress, proper folding and storage help keep it in good shape.

Simple folding method

  • Lay the mattress flat and fully deflated.
  • Fold it in halves or thirds lengthwise, keeping edges straight.
  • Roll it tightly from the end furthest from the valve toward the valve so any remaining air has a way out.
  • Secure it with straps or place it in its storage bag, if provided.

👍 Tip: Store the mattress in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and sharp edges. Avoid placing heavy items directly on top of it.

Common Mistakes When Deflating an Inflatable Mattress

Here are a few things that often cause problems:

  • Rushing the process – Forcing folds while there’s still a lot of air inside can stress seams.
  • Using excessive pressure – Jumping or stomping can stretch the material or cause hidden weakness.
  • Leaving the valve partly open in storage – This can let dust or moisture in and make the mattress less ready to use next time.
  • Storing when slightly inflated – Takes up more space and may encourage creasing or warping over time.

Why Does My Inflatable Mattress Still Have Air After Deflating?

It’s normal for a deflated mattress to retain a small amount of trapped air, especially in corners and channels.

To get closer to a completely flat result:

  • Open the valve fully.
  • Gently smooth the surface with your hands toward the valve.
  • Roll the mattress slowly, pausing to push air pockets out.

If air seems to keep returning, it may just be trapped in folds, not a leak. Persistent re‑inflation or hissing when the valve is closed, though, may indicate a puncture.

✅ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points consumers should understand about How To Deflate An Inflatable Mattress

  • Open the valve fully first, then let gravity and time release most of the air before you press or roll.
  • For mattresses with built‑in pumps, use the “deflate” setting, then finish by gently rolling to remove trapped air.
  • For manual deflation, start pressing from the end furthest from the valve and roll or fold toward it.
  • Avoid jumping or crushing the mattress; firm but controlled pressure is usually enough.
  • Fold or roll the mattress in a consistent direction toward the valve so remaining air escapes easily.
  • Store the deflated mattress clean, dry, and protected from sharp objects to help it last longer.

Understanding how to deflate an inflatable mattress correctly makes setup and cleanup smoother, protects the mattress material, and helps you keep your space organized between uses.