If you’ve ever used an air mattress, you may notice that it sometimes bulges on one side. This can be a bit disconcerting, especially if you’re trying to get a good night’s sleep. So what causes this, and is there anything that can be done about it? This blog post will discuss the possible causes of air mattress bulging and what you can do to fix it! Let’s get started, shall we?
How Does a Bulge Happen?
If you’ve ever had an air mattress bulge on you in the middle of the night, you know it’s not a pleasant experience. But have you ever wondered how a bulge on an air mattress happens? It all has to do with the laws of physics. When you lie down on an inflated mattress, your weight creates a small dent in the surface.
This dent causes the air inside the mattress to be compressed slightly. Now, the air inside the mattress is trying to expand to equalize the pressure. But the mattress’s fabric is stretchy, preventing the bulge from forming immediately. So instead, the bulge forms slowly over time as the air continues to try to expand. So next time you find yourself lying on a bulging air mattress, remember that is how it happens.
What Are the Common Causes of Mattress Bulging?
Now that you know how a mattress bulge forms, let’s discuss some common causes. Several things could lead to this strange behavior. These are;
- Sleeping on one side for an extended period
This is probably the most common cause of mattress bulging. When you sleep on your side, all your weight is focused on a small area. Over time, this causes the air inside the mattress to be compressed, which leads to a bulge.
- A hole in the mattress
If there’s a hole in your mattress, likely, the air is slowly leaking out. This will eventually lead to a bulge on the side of the hole.
- The wrong type of inflation
If you don’t inflate your mattress correctly, it can lead to bulging. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when inflating your mattress. If you’re unsure how much air to put in, start with less and add more as needed.
- Sleeping on an uneven surface
Suppose you sleep on an air mattress that’s placed on an uneven surface. In that case, the mattress will likely bulge on one side higher than the other. This is due to gravity and the fact that air wants to flow to the lowest point.
- Inferior factory bonding
In some cases, the bulge may be due to a manufacturing defect. For example, if the fabric and air chambers are not appropriately bonded at the factory, it can cause the mattress to bulge on one side over time.
- Leaving the mattress inflated for too long
If you leave your mattress inflated for an extended period, the fabric will stretch slightly. Over time, this can lead to a bulge on one side of the mattress. Therefore, it’s best only to inflate your mattress when you’re ready to use it and to deflate it when you’re done.
How to Fix a Bulging Mattress?
Now let’s talk about how to fix a bulging air mattress on one side. Here are a few things to do.
Remove All the Beddings From the Mattress
This is the initial step of fixing a mattress bulge. First, you must remove all the bedding, including the sheets, blankets, and pillows. This will give you easy access to the mattress to work on it.
Deflate a Little Bit
After removing all the bedding, you must let some air out of the mattress. This will help relieve the bulging side’s pressure and allow you to access it easily.
Apply Pressure to the Bubble
Now that you have easy access to the bulging side, it’s time to work on it. Start by applying pressure to the bubble with your hand. You need to press down firmly and hold for a few seconds. Do this a few times until the bulge starts to flatten out. It’s advisable to keep deflating slowly as you apply pressure to the area of concern. When the bubble disappears, that should be the sufficient amount of air you need to use on your mattress.
Replace the Beddings
Once it inflates the mattress, you can put all the bedding back on. Make sure everything is in its proper place before using the mattress again.
How To Avoid Bulging in the First Place
It’s always better to avoid a problem than to fix it. So here are a few tips on how you can avoid mattress bulging in the first place.
Don’t Sleep on One Side for Too Long
If you find yourself sleeping on one side most of the time, try to change positions often. This will help distribute your weight evenly and prevent bulging.
Inflate Your Mattress Properly
This is probably the easiest way to fix a bulging mattress. But, first, ensure you inflate the mattress according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This will help ensure enough air in the mattress, so it doesn’t start to bulge.
Don’t Leave Your Mattress Inflated for Too Long
Once you’ve inflated your mattress, use it right away. Don’t leave it inflated for too long, as this can cause the fabric to stretch and eventually lead to a bulge. When you’re not using your mattress, make sure to deflate it. This will help reduce the chance of a bulge forming over time.
FAQs
Can a mattress bulge be repaired?
Yes, a mattress bulge can be repaired. However, it’s always best to avoid the problem first.
Can exceeding the weight limit cause the air mattress to bulge?
Yes, exceeding the weight limit can cause the air mattress to bulge. This is because there’s too much pressure on one side of the mattress, and it can’t hold up under the weight.
Do I have to replace my air mattress when bulging starts happening?
No, you don’t have to replace your air mattress when bulging starts. However, if the problem persists, it’s best to contact the manufacturer or a professional to see if there’s anything that can be done.
Bottom Line
A bulging mattress is a common problem that can be easily fixed. However, it’s always best to avoid the problem first. Ensure to inflate your mattress correctly, and don’t leave it inflated for too long. When not using your mattress, deflate it and store it in a cool, dry place. Suppose you’re already battling the bulging; use the steps above to fix it. It’s all easy, and with a little effort, your mattress will be as good as new.