Evie Summers
Sleeping pads are essential for camping and backpacking trips, providing comfort and insulation from the ground. They come in various types, including self-inflating and air-filled pads, each with unique features and benefits. Self-inflating sleeping pads combine the advantages of foam and air pads, offering a comfortable and warm sleeping surface. These pads are easy to use and can be inflated by opening the valve, allowing air to enter, and then closing the valve to maintain inflation. Additionally, they can be stored by keeping them unrolled with the valve open or upright with the valve at the bottom. Air-filled pads, on the other hand, require manual inflation using breath, a pump bag, or a lightweight air pump. Understanding the functionality and care of these sleeping pads ensures a good night's sleep during outdoor adventures.
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What You'll Learn
Self-inflating pads: how to inflate
Self-inflating sleeping pads are a great option for camping, providing a stable surface to sleep on. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to inflate a self-inflating sleeping pad:
Step 1: Open the Valve
Locate the valve on your sleeping pad and make sure it is fully open. This will allow air to enter and inflate the pad.
Step 2: Unroll and Unfold the Pad
Starting from the end furthest from the valve, slowly unroll and unfold the pad. This allows the pad to inflate evenly.
Step 3: Allow Inflation
Wait for the pad to self-inflate. Self-inflating pads are designed to slowly draw in air and expand on their own, so give it some time to inflate. You can assist this process by gently smoothing out any wrinkles or creases on the pad to create an even surface.
Step 4: Adjust Air Level
Depending on your preference, you can adjust the firmness of the pad by adding or releasing air. If you prefer a firmer surface, you can blow a few breaths of air into the valve. If you want a softer surface, slowly open the valve to release some air.
Storing Your Self-Inflating Pad:
To maintain the shape and longevity of your self-inflating pad, it is recommended to store it fully inflated. If you need to store it deflated for an extended period, open the valve and ensure it is not folded to prevent the foam inside from losing its shape.
Self-inflating sleeping pads are a convenient option for camping, providing a comfortable and stable sleeping surface with minimal effort. Remember to follow the steps above to ensure proper inflation and care for your sleeping pad.
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Using a pump to inflate
Manually inflated air sleeping pads can be a hassle to set up, requiring extra lung power. This is where air pumps come in handy. Air pumps are a great alternative to using your breath to inflate your sleeping pad, especially in cold weather environments where your breath may condense into frost or ice inside the mattress. They also prevent the buildup of moisture, which can lead to bacterial or mould issues.
Some sleeping pad brands offer air pumps or built-in foot pumps to make inflating a breeze. You can also purchase a separate pump sack or bag-style hand pump that connects to the valve of the pad. These pump sacks are lightweight and can double as storage for your clothes or sleeping bag inside your backpack. To use a pump sack, simply fill it with air, connect it to the valve of your sleeping pad, and then roll the sack to push air into the pad.
If you're feeling creative, you can even make your own makeshift pump using a small garbage bag. This DIY method involves grabbing a bag of air, twisting the opening, and then using your thumb to press a hole into the twisted opening. Finally, push the valve into the hole and crunch the bag to force air into the pad.
For those seeking convenience, an electric air pump like the Exped Widget Pump can be a worthwhile investment. These pumps are lightweight and work much faster than using a pump bag or your breath. However, some pumps may only be compatible with specific pad brands, so it's important to check before purchasing.
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Rolling up a self-inflating pad
Once the pad is inflated, you can start to deflate it by pushing the air out through the open valve. To do this, sit on the pad and use your body weight to squeeze the air out. Then, roll the pad up towards the valve to force out the remaining air. If you are preparing the pad for travel, you should roll it up tightly and secure it with a compression band. Finally, close the valve by turning it clockwise.
It is important to note that self-inflating pads should not be stored for long periods in a deflated and rolled-up state. The foam inside the pad can lose its shape, affecting its ability to self-inflate. For long-term storage, it is recommended to keep the pad fully inflated with the valve open. If you need to store it in a rolled-up state, make sure to unroll and inflate the pad periodically to maintain its shape.
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Repairing a puncture
The first step in repairing a puncture in your air sleeping pad is to locate the hole. Inflate the pad and listen for the leak. If you can't find it right away, you can either pour soapy water on the sleeping pad or submerge the pad in water. Look for bubbles to indicate where the air is escaping. If you don't have soap, you can use a damp rag and slowly rub it around your pad. You can also try compressing the pad underwater and looking for bubbles being released around the leak site.
Once you've found the hole, mark it with a pen or marker. If it's a puncture hole, check the other side of the pad to see if the puncture went all the way through. After you've marked the hole, clean and dry the area to be repaired. Isopropyl alcohol works well for cleaning the repair area and removing any dirt or body oils that may prevent a good bond.
Now you're ready to start the repair. If you're using a patch kit, follow the instructions included with the kit. Most kits include alcohol wipes, glue dots, and self-adhesive patches. Make sure the patch you use is larger than the puncture hole and extends at least 0.5" beyond the hole in all directions. Press the repair patch firmly onto the sleeping pad, and make sure it adheres directly to the fabric.
If you're using glue, apply a thin layer of a product like Aquaseal FD or Seam Grip WP over the hole, extending at least 0.5" beyond the puncture in all directions. Allow the adhesive to dry for at least 8 hours or overnight. You can place something heavy on the repaired area to ensure it sets properly.
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Storage
To store an air sleeping pad, it is important to follow the correct steps to ensure the pad's longevity and performance. Here are some detailed instructions for storing your air sleeping pad:
Cleaning and Drying:
Before storing your air sleeping pad, it is essential to clean and dry it properly. Start by rinsing the pad with water and drying it thoroughly. You can use a semi-wet cloth to brush away any dirt or grime. Ensure that no water gets into the valve—it is recommended to keep the valve open during this process. After cleaning, inflate the pad and let it air dry completely. Avoid direct sunlight as UV rays can degrade the material.
At home, choose a storage location that is temperature- and humidity-controlled. Avoid damp basements or unheated areas that may experience extreme temperature fluctuations. The ideal position for storing your air sleeping pad is to hang it in a closet, laid out as flat as possible, or folded gently. Avoid always folding it along the same crease lines. Alternatively, you can roll it up loosely and store it in a designated storage space, such as a closet or shelf. Keep the valve open during storage to allow air circulation and prevent moisture buildup.
It is recommended to clean and dry your air sleeping pad after each trip. If you use an insulated quilt or sleep directly on the pad, washing it after each use is advisable. You can use a mild detergent or a specialised odour eliminator like Gear Aid MiraZyme. Additionally, remember to lower the moisture level in the pad by inflating and deflating it a few times after a trip. This will help prevent mould or mildew growth.
Long-Term Storage:
For long-term storage, such as during the winter season, it is crucial to follow the manufacturer's instructions for your specific air sleeping pad. Some pads, like the Thermarest Neo Air X-lite, can be stored rolled up, while others, like the Sea to Summit insulated mat, are recommended to be stored unrolled and flat with the valve open. Properly storing your air sleeping pad during the off-season will ensure maximum performance for future use.
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Frequently asked questions
Many sleeping pads have to be inflated with your breath, with a pump bag, or with a lightweight air pump. Self-inflating sleeping pads are also available, which use the properties of open-cell foam and a regulated pathway for air to enter.
It is recommended to store the sleeping pad in a dry place with the valve open. It should be unrolled and placed leaning against a wall, in a closet, or behind a door. If space is an issue, it can be stored in a rolled position.
Most manufacturers include a repair kit with their sleeping pads. If a repair kit is not available, glue and patches can be purchased online. To fix the puncture, find the leak, mark it, and clean it before applying the patch.
