How To Deflate Blow Up Mattress: Simple Steps and Common Questions

If you’re searching for “How To Deflate Blow Up Mattress”, you’re likely packing up after guests, getting ready for camping, or trying to store your air bed without damaging it. This guide walks through easy, step-by-step deflation methods, explains why full deflation matters, and answers the most common questions about valves, pumps, and storage.

How do I deflate a blow up mattress the right way?

The safest method depends on whether your mattress has a built-in pump or separate valve.

For mattresses with a built-in electric or manual pump

  1. Clear the surface
    Remove bedding, pillows, and anything sharp or heavy.

  2. Open the pump panel
    Locate the built-in pump and find the deflate setting (often labeled “Deflate” or marked with an arrow going out).

  3. Turn the dial to Deflate
    Plug in (for electric) or prepare to use the manual pump. Switch it on or start pumping.

    • You’ll hear air rushing out.
    • The mattress will slowly collapse.

  4. Smooth out remaining air
    Once mostly flat, press or gently kneel on the mattress from the far end toward the pump to push out trapped air.

  5. Turn off and close the valve
    Once fully deflated, turn off the pump and close the cap or door to keep dust out during storage.

For mattresses with a separate valve (no built-in pump)

  1. Locate the main air valve
    This is usually on the side or foot of the mattress and may have a one-way flap inside.

  2. Open the valve completely
    Unscrew or pull the cap so air can escape freely. If there’s an inner plug, remove that too.

  3. Let gravity do the work
    Leave the mattress flat for a few minutes while the bulk of the air escapes.

  4. Gently roll or fold toward the valve
    Starting at the end opposite the valve, roll or fold slowly, pushing air out as you go.
    Avoid twisting or yanking; that can stress seams.

  5. Open the mattress again if needed
    Unroll, smooth it out, then roll a second time if you want it extra compact.

How can I deflate a blow up mattress faster?

If you’re focused on how to deflate blow up mattress quickly, these tips help speed things up:

  • Use the pump in reverse (if it has a deflate mode) to actively pull air out.
  • Press down in sections while it’s deflating to help air move toward the valve.
  • Fold in halves or thirds before rolling, but always fold toward the valve side.
  • Avoid blocking the valve opening with fabric as you roll; keep that area clear.

⛔ Avoid using vacuum cleaners directly on the valve. Strong suction can deform the valve or damage thin mattress materials.

Do I need to remove every bit of air?

You don’t need perfection, but removing as much air as practical is important:

  • Prevents over-tight folding that strains seams.
  • Reduces bulk, so the mattress is easier to store and carry.
  • Helps the mattress inflate more evenly next time.

If a little air remains, that’s fine as long as the mattress folds or rolls without bulging or forcing the material.

Can I fold or roll my air mattress, and which is better?

Most blow up mattresses can be either folded or rolled, as long as you’re gentle.

General guidelines

  • Rolling toward the valve is usually safest and helps push out air.
  • Folding is useful for large mattresses, but:
    • Avoid very sharp, small folds.
    • Try to follow any natural seams instead of creating new crease lines.

📌 Simple approach:

  • Fold the mattress in half (lengthwise or widthwise),
  • Then roll it firmly but not tightly,
  • Always rolling toward the valve.

How should I store my blow up mattress after deflating it?

Once you’ve mastered how to deflate blow up mattress, good storage keeps it in better shape for longer.

Basic storage tips:

  • Keep it dry and clean
    Make sure the mattress is fully dry before packing it away to avoid odors or mildew.

  • Use a protective bag
    Store it in its original bag if you have it, or a breathable fabric bag to protect from dust and sharp objects.

  • Avoid extreme temperatures
    Very hot or very cold spaces can affect the material over time. A cool, dry closet or under-bed storage space is usually suitable.

  • Don’t stack heavy items on top
    Long-term pressure can create permanent creases or stress points.

Is it bad to sit or walk on the mattress while deflating?

Lightly pressing, kneeling, or sitting to push out air is generally fine. However:

  • Avoid walking on it with shoes or putting all your weight on one small area.
  • Don’t jump or bounce on the mattress while air is escaping; this can stress seams or valves.

Gentle, even pressure is the goal.

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points to understand about How To Deflate Blow Up Mattress

  • Start with the valve or pump: Always locate and fully open the main air valve or set the built-in pump to “Deflate” first.
  • Let air escape on its own: Give the mattress a few minutes to flatten before adding pressure.
  • Use gentle pressure: Smooth, even pressing or rolling toward the valve helps remove trapped air.
  • Roll, don’t crush: Fold once or twice if needed, then roll toward the valve without forcing sharp creases.
  • Protect it in storage: Store your deflated mattress clean, dry, lightly rolled or folded, and away from sharp objects and heavy weights.
  • Don’t rush with extreme methods: Avoid strong vacuum suction or rough handling that could damage seams or valves.

Understanding how to deflate blow up mattress properly makes setup and pack-up easier, helps protect the materials, and keeps your air bed ready for the next guest, trip, or night of use.