To find the best air beds we recruited a 40-strong panel of people and purchased 11 popular air beds ranging in price from £22 to £160.
We tested double air beds and king size air beds with built-in pumps from brands such Argos, Dreamcatcher, Outwell, Vango, Yawn and more. We also tested a few manually blown-up beds to investigate whether these are just as good or better than inflatable beds with built-in pumps.
Our tests prove that you don't have to spend big. Two of the three Best Buys we found can be bought for under £100.
Prices correct as of 10 October 2022.
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The best air beds from our test
Only logged-in Which? members can view the inflatable bed test results below. If you're not yet a member, you'll see an alphabetically ordered list of the double air beds we tested.
Join Which? now to get instant access to our test results and Best Buy recommendations below.
Active Era Premium King Size Air Bed
Other sizes available: £72.99 for a single at Active Era
Max user weight: 250kg
How do you inflate it? Built-in pump, but it can also be inflated with a manual pump, so it's suitable as a camping air bed
Dimensions when inflated (H x W x D): 42cm x 148cm x 197cm
Dimensions when folded (H x W x D): 17cm x 41cm x 38cm
Cover material: Soft touch waterproof flock
Additional features: It has an in-built raised pillow
This is a top pick according to the Independent, but our tests uncovered a compelling reason why this air bed shouldn't be on your shortlist.
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Bestway Comfort Quest Soft Back Double Air Bed
Other sizes available: None
Max user weight: 300kg
How do you inflate it?Built-in pump
Dimensions when inflated (H x W x D): 45cm x 130cm x 187cm
Dimensions when folded (H x W x D): 21cm x 46cm x 41cm
Cover material: Soft-top flocked
Additional features: Carry bag, headboard
The headboard on this air bed takes up some of the sleeping space. This means it ended up being one of the smaller doubles we tested, so much so that a double sheet ends up being a bit baggy on it.
Did its smaller sleeping space let it down? Log in now or join Which? to find out.
Bestway Fortech Air Bed King Size
Other sizes available:£79.95 for a Queen at All Round Fun (out of stock)
Max user weight: 350kg
How do you inflate it?Built-in pump
Dimensions when inflated (H x W x D): 43cm x 148cm x 198cm
Dimensions when folded (H x W x D): 19cm x 41cm x 46cm
Cover material: Flocked top
Additional features: Carry bag
This air bed takes twice as long to inflate as the fastest in our test, but is it comfortable? Does the rubber have a strange odour? And does it make a lot of noise when you or your partner turns?
Log in now or join Which? to get the answers to all these questions and more in our full review.
Dreamcatcher Deluxe Air Bed Double
Other sizes available: £80 for a King size at Amazon
Max user weight: not stated
How do you inflate it?Built-in pump, but can also be inflated with a manual pump so it's suitable as a camping air bed
Dimensions when inflated (H x W x D): 49cm x 139cm x 190cm
Dimensions when folded (H x W x D): 22cm x 42cm x 34cm
Cover material: Soft flocking
Additional features: Carry bag
It takes a little longer for the built-in pump to blow this bed up than the fastest in our test. But that can be forgiven if this bed is super comfy, doesn't deflate and is quiet to move around on.
Log in now or join Which? to find out if we'd recommend this bed for a great night's sleep.
Outwell Flock Superior Double Airbed with Built in Pump
Other sizes available: None
Max user weight: Not stated
How do you inflate it?Built-in pump, but can also be inflated with a manual pump so it's suitable as a camping air bed
Dimensions when inflated (H x W x D): 40cm x 150cm x 193cm
Dimensions when folded (H x W x D): 17cm x 41cm x 43cm
Cover material: Flocked top
Additional features: Carry bag
This air bed was the best fit of those we tested for a standard double fitted sheet, but was it durable enough to pass our tough deflation and rough treatment tests?
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Pro Action Double Flocked Air Bed
Other sizes available: £15 for a single at Argos (out of stock), £32 for a King size at Argos
Max user weight: 295kg
How do you inflate it?It's manual inflation only, there's no in-built pump.
Dimensions when inflated (H x W x D): 15cm x 128cm x 182cm
Dimensions when folded (H x W x D): 12cm x 30cm x 30cm
Cover material: Flocked top
Additional features: None
This air bed inflates to a lesser height than some others we tested, so it was no surprise to us that it ended up as the joint-lowest scorer for getting on and off of.
But is it a decent choice if you're not looking to break the bank? Will it stay inflated overnight? Plus, is it easy to pack up and put away?
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Quechua double air mattress
Other sizes available: £14.99 for a single at Decathlon
Max user weight: 220kg
How do you inflate it?It's manual inflation only, there's no in-built pump.
Dimensions when inflated (H x W x D):14cm x 138cm x 188cm
Dimensions when folded (H x W x D): 21cm x 18cm x 37cm
Cover material: Velvety finish
Additional features: None
There's no in-built pump with this air bed, but it was still the quickest to inflate in our tests.
But does the low ground clearance impact on comfort? And how did it fare in our tough durability tests?
Log in now or join Which? to see if it's a bargain or not.
Silentnight Deluxe Double Air Bed
Other sizes available: None
Max user weight: Not stated
How do you inflate it?Built-in pump, also has a built-in foot pump for if you want to take it camping
Dimensions when inflated (H x W x D): 16cm x 126cm x 190cm
Dimensions when folded (H x W x D): 12cm x 34cm x 36cm
Cover material: Flocked
Additional features: Built-in pillow
The built-in foot pump is a nice feature, which works well for inflating the bed if you don't have a battery powered pump. But can this type of lower lying air bed compete with built-in pump air beds?
To find out, log in now or join Which?.
Tuomico Inflatable Double Air Bed
Other sizes available: None
Max user weight: 300kg
How do you inflate it?Built-in pump, can also be inflated with a manual pump so it's a suitable camping air bed
Dimensions when inflated (H x W x D): 44cm x 149cm x 199cm
Dimensions when folded (H x W x D): 34cm x 22cm x 42cm
Cover material: Flocked
Additional features: Raised edges around the side to stop you rolling off
It's one of the longer air beds we tested, and our panel found it one of the easier beds to get on and off of. But how well did it stay inflated overnight, and is it an air bed with an unpleasant rubbery aroma?
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Vango Blissful Double Air Bed
Other sizes available:None
Max user weight: 227kg
How do you inflate it?Built-in pump, Constant Comfort pump auto inflates when the bed loses firmness
Dimensions when inflated (H x W x D): 45cm x 135cm x 186cm
Dimensions when folded (H x W x D): 36cm x 18cm x 54cm
Cover material: Flocked
Additional features: Carry bag, Constant Comfort pump auto inflates when the bed loses firmness, in-built pump auto cuts off so you can't over inflate the bed.
It's pricier than much of the competition but comes packed with tempting extras, including an auto-inflate feature that promises to top-up the air should this air bed start to deflate.
Is it worth paying more though for this Vango air bed? Log in now or join Which?, to find out.
Yawn Air Bed
, also available at
VeryOther sizes available: £79.99 for a single at Very, £89.99 for a king size at Home Essentials
Max user weight: 200kg
How do you inflate it?Built-in pump but it can also be inflated with a manual pump (e.g. if camping)
Dimensions when inflated (H x W x D): 45cm x 133cm x 192cm
Dimensions when folded (H x W x D): 36cm x 21cm x 42cm
Cover material: Flocked
Additional features:Carry bag, built in headboard, raised edges around the side to stop you rolling off.
Its unique design and the promise of a luxurious night's sleep has seen this Yawn air bed flying off the shelves and rising to the top of 'best of' lists from various review sites. But what did our 40-strong panel make of it for a comfortable night's sleep?
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After a mattress you don't need to inflate? Compare our mattress reviews
How we tested air beds
The best air beds should be comfortable, durable and able to stay inflated overnight.
But more than that, if you invest in a decent air bed, you'd expect it to be easy to set up and tidy away, for it not to make an irritating squeaking noise when someone turns on it and not to have an unpleasant odour.
We recruited a 40 strong panel to assess comfort and designed a test to find the best air beds from popular manufacturers and retailers.
Comfort
Our volunteers spent time lying on each bed and rated each one on how easy it was to get on and off, how comfortable it was when lying on your back, your front and each volunteer's preferred side.
We found a reassuring degree of consensus from this test and three beds, our Best Buys, stood out as the safe bet for a comfortable nights sleep.
Deflation
Each bed was inflated to its firmest setting, weighted down with heavy benches and left for 18 hours overnight. In the morning, we noted which beds had stayed firm and which ones were noticeably spongier than the night before.
Durability
Each of the beds was jumped on 10 times and poked by a sharp point with 50 Newtons of force to assess its long-term durability, and how well it would stand up to general wear and tear or a bit of rough treatment.
Ease of use
We tested how long it took to inflate each bed, and how long it took to deflate and tidy the bed away. We also assessed how easy it is to achieve the desired firmness setting and how easy it is to fit a standard fitted sheet to the bed.
Smell
An unpleasant rubbery smell can really upset a good night's sleep. So our researchers sniffed each bed and marked air beds down if they had a strong whiff of rubber. The best don't have any odour at all.
Noise
We rated each bed on how noisy it was with a researcher turning and shifting their body weight on it. Some beds make a terrible racket, but the best can handle the wriggliest of sleepers with barely a squeak.
Heat distribution
We used a hot water bottle and a thermocouple to assess how well each air bed dissipated the heat. This test didn't reveal any marked difference in the capability of each air bed to evenly distribute the heat and/or provide a cool surface for a good night's sleep.
FAQs
What is better than an air bed? ›
Air mattress alternatives for the home include rollaway beds, futons, memory foam pads, Murphy beds or sofa beds. While some air mattress alternatives for camping include camping cots, hammocks, self-inflating sleep pads, padded sleeping bags, or foam sleep pads.
How long does an air bed last if used everyday? ›How Long Will My Air Mattress Last if I Use It Every Day? A good-quality air mattress should last for several years of occasional use. But, with continuous use, it may not last more than three or four months.
What is the difference between an air bed and an air mattress? ›Also, an air mattress features an alternating pressure mattress system that prevents bedsores and pressure ulcers. While an air bed is ideal for its versatility, it is undeniable that an air mattress is much needed for bedridden patients or people who need long hours of bed rest.
Which is the best type of bed? ›Spring and slat beds are the best type of beds for back support. And always remember, a good bed should respect the size, shape and specific needs of the sleeper. If for instance your back often troubles you when you are lying down, then choose an adjustable bed and sleep in a position that is comfortable for you.
Are there any good air beds? ›The Best Air Mattress
After researching dozens of air mattresses and testing seven, we think the SoundAsleep Dream Series Air Mattress won't let you down. Its robust built-in pump, bed-like sleep surface, and reliable warranty make it the one to choose for guests.
Health- You fight moisture and dust mites by airing your sheets and mattress daily. Sleep - A fresh dry surface free of dust-mites will help you and your family sleep through the night.
Can you sleep on an air bed every night? ›Air mattresses are ideal for camping or last-minute overnight guests, but a good air mattress can also work well to sleep on every night. These inflatable beds are ideal in tight places and communal living situations. They can be a cost-effective way to a great night's sleep, too.
What are the disadvantages of air bed? ›An inflatable mattress is not known for the support it provides. While it might be okay to sleep on once in a while, long-term use could lead to back pain and stiffness. Without adequate support, your spine will be out of alignment, and so you won't have a restorative sleep.
How do I stop my air mattress from losing air? ›To keep an air mattress from deflating overnight ensure that the room temperature stays close to the air temperature within the air mattress. Avoid putting stress on the air mattress caused by sitting on the edge, exceeding the weight capacity of the mattress, and over inflating the mattress.
Can air mattress get bed bugs? ›Bedbugs can get on an air mattress. The tiny creatures can get on any type of mattress. However, with an air mattress, bed bugs can only get on the surface mainly because of how these types of mattresses are constructed. Air mattresses are mostly constructed with polyvinyl chloride (PVC).
Are taller air mattress better? ›
Height: A taller air mattress that's at least 18-inches high is typically more comfortable, but a lower profile one is easier to roll up and carry. It comes down to personal preference and whether you're using it at home or on-the-go.
Are thicker air mattresses better? ›Thicker air mattresses provide more comfort than the thin ones. Even if there is a scenario where the mattress deflates a bit, you can still be assured of comfort with the thicker air mattresses than the thin ones. Some air mattresses come with thick pads or memory foam.
Is foam or air mattress better? ›Comfort: A full-size air mattress or inflatable sleeping pad is more comfortable as the air provides more cushioning and keeps your body higher off the cold ground. Foam sleeping mats give you some cushion and insulation but may fail to provide enough support for light sleepers or side sleepers.
Which mattress is used in 5 star hotels? ›Sealy is the most preferred mattress for five star hotels around the world, therefore, Sealy is proud to present our special edition HOTEL DELUXE. It brings luxury into your home combining comfort layer with our unique PostureTech coil to deliver an exceptional good night's sleep.
Which beds are good for back pain? ›Memory foam and latex mattresses are often considered the best options for back pain, as they conform to your body, cradling pressure points while supporting your spine and keeping it aligned.
Which beds last the longest? ›Latex mattresses tend to last the longest, followed by beds made using high-density memory foams or polyfoams. Lower-density foam beds wear out a bit quicker, as do hybrid models. Traditional innerspring beds generally have the shortest expected lifespan, at approximately five and a half to six and a half years.
Who makes the most reliable air mattress? ›Best Overall: King Koil Luxury Air Mattress
87% of 27,400+ Amazon reviewers rated this product 4 stars or above. After testing it among 10 models in our Lab, the popular King Koil Air Mattress is our best overall air mattress.
Reason 4: Holes That Leak
Your air mattress is not the sturdiest product you'll ever purchase. Often, these beds are made from a thin material that is susceptible to puncturing, stretching and rupturing eventually after continual use throughout its lifetime; you can avoid this fact.
Sleeping Naked Is Healthier
In addition to the metabolic effects of sleeping in the buff, removing your clothes improves blood circulation, which is good for your heart and muscles. The quality sleep you'll enjoy also increases the release of growth hormone and melatonin, both of which have anti-aging benefits.
By not making the bed immediately you'll give your bedding a chance to air out, making it harder for dust mites to thrive. "We know that mites can only survive by taking in water from the atmosphere using small glands on the outside of their body.
Why you shouldn't make your bed right away in the morning? ›
Here's the thing, we sweat when we sleep. If you make your bed right when you wake up, you trap that moisture in the sheets allowing dust mites to thrive. Researchers found a simple solution. Leaving the bed unmade allowed the moisture to dry up reducing the dust mites in the bed.
How long will an air bed last? ›Air beds last for two to eight years when used occasionally and cared for properly. To maximize the life of an air bed, deflate fully and store in a carry bag when the air bed is not in use. Keep the air bed in a cool, dry place that is free of sharp objects to ensure it isn't punctured.
Is it better to sleep on an air mattress or a couch? ›"The sleeper sofa is the best option, especially for smaller places," explains Nora Mitchell, editor in chief of Household Advice. "You can keep it in your living room and use it as your couch. It is also a lot sturdier than an air mattress and can easily be vacuumed to clean it up."
Is air foam better than memory foam? ›Memory foam mattresses offer good support for back alignment, while air mattresses offer good to excellent support (depending on firmness). Visco foam is better at conforming to sleepers' shapes, though the air chambers do still allow for a good degree of conformability compared to alternative spring beds.
Why is my air mattress losing air but no hole? ›The “no-hole-deflation” can be caused by overloading
Do not over-exceed the maximum weight capacity of your bed. Also, it does not matter whether people are sleeping or sitting on the mattress, the air mattress will not develop a slow leak if the weight requirement is followed to the later.
All pressurized containers that are made out of polymers will lose air over time – including car tires, balloons, and air mattresses. Even if your air mattress is apparently airtight, gas molecules can still creep out through the wall material itself.
Is there such thing as an air mattress that doesn't leak? ›While air mattresses are amazing sleeping alternatives and growing in popularity as permanent air beds there is not such a leak proof air mattress in existence. Unfortunately, air mattresses will always leak air and there's not too much we can do about it.
Can an air mattress be washed? ›It is not recommended to put an air mattress in the washing machine. Aside from the physical damage that the machine may inflict on the mattress, you would run the risk of water getting inside the mattress, which will take a very long time to dry.
Can bed bugs lay eggs on air mattress? ›They can't form a colony inside it.
An air mattress is basically a layer of air wrapped in film, so even if bed bugs manage to get inside, they won't settle down and lay eggs in it.
Steam – Bed bugs and their eggs die at 122°F (50°C). The high temperature of steam 212°F (100°C) immediately kills bed bugs. Apply steam slowly to the folds and tufts of mattresses, along with sofa seams, bed frames, and corners or edges where bed bugs may be hiding.
What height of mattress is best? ›
Ideally, the top of your mattress should be 25 inches from the floor. This way your feet can reach the floor when seated at the edge of the bed, making it convenient to get in and out of bed.
Can you put sheets on an air mattress? ›Fitted sheets should not be used over low air loss mattresses because they compress the air cells and restrict air flow. Thin knit or jersey material flat sheets should be used instead. Low air loss mattress covers are specially designed to allow air flow to pass through and prevent moisture buildup.
What material is best for air mattress? ›Thermos Plastic Urethane
This material is by far the best material used to make air mattresses. For starters being as it does not contain phthalates, there are no odors being let out making at a much healthier choice.
Generally speaking, heavier people prefer firmer mattresses. Soft foams may sink in too much for comfort and adequate support. Conversely, lighter sleepers may sink in less and find firm beds to be uncomfortably hard, so they generally prefer soft to medium firm options.
What is better than memory foam? ›Latex is firmer than memory foam because of its structure. If you want a bed that resists sagging, choose natural latex. With care, a natural latex mattress can last up to 15 years. If you want to sink into your mattress, choose memory foam.
Why do people love air mattresses? ›Because air mattresses are portable and easy to set up, they're ideal for camping. Since they come in various sizes, they can fit inside many types of tents, and make camping considerably more comfortable, as opposed to sleeping on the ground.
Do you need a sleeping bag if you have an air mattress? ›Sleeping bags and inflatable mattresses are both excellent sleeping options for camping and other outdoor activities… Ideally, you want both – a sleeping bag to keep you warm, and an air mattress to lie on and protect you from the ground – although some people prefer an air mattress with traditional bedding.
Which brand is best for bed in India? ›- 10 best branded mattress in India. ...
- SleepX APT by Sleepwell 6-inch king PU foam mattress. ...
- SleepyCat orthopaedic gel memory foam queen size mattress. ...
- Sleepyhead 3 layered orthopaedic memory foam mattress. ...
- Springtek 8-inch orthopaedic king size memory foam mattress.
Best Overall: King Koil Luxury Air Mattress
87% of 27,400+ Amazon reviewers rated this product 4 stars or above. After testing it among 10 models in our Lab, the popular King Koil Air Mattress is our best overall air mattress.
Thermos Plastic Urethane
This material is by far the best material used to make air mattresses. For starters being as it does not contain phthalates, there are no odors being let out making at a much healthier choice.
Which bed is best for hostel? ›
The standard in many hotels and hostels alike, spring mattresses are cheaper than foam but the coils lose their bounce, can become squeaky, and only have about a 5-year lifespan. Foam mattresses have the chops to endure 7-10 years (and even up to 20) depending on type and thickness of the foam.
Which beds do 5 star hotels use? ›Upscale hotels usually use luxury mattresses that are either hybrid , traditional innerspring , or memory foam mattresses. Hybrid mattresses are becoming particularly commonplace, as they strike the balance between supportive innerspring coals and body-cradling memory foam.
Which bed is most durable? ›Latex mattresses are the most durable ones, memory foam can serve for around 10 years, and hybrid and innerspring mattresses typically serve for around 6-7 years.
What type of bed is used in hotels? ›Innerspring. Another most common type of mattress found in hotels is the innerspring mattress. The mattresses with springs enable sleepers to achieve utmost support due to the series of coils under the foam pad, latex or pillow. These mattresses are available in various ranges in terms of firmness and prices.
Is there an air mattress that feels like a bed? ›In addition to providing the most comfortable night's sleep during testing, the King Koil Luxury Air Mattress uses a built-in pump for quick and convenient inflation, and features a raised pillow that helps mimic the feel of a real bed.
Are thicker air mattresses better? ›Thicker air mattresses provide more comfort than the thin ones. Even if there is a scenario where the mattress deflates a bit, you can still be assured of comfort with the thicker air mattresses than the thin ones. Some air mattresses come with thick pads or memory foam.
How long should air mattress last? ›A good quality air mattress that is looked after properly can last as long as ten to fifteen years. However, most air mattresses will start to leak as they age. Air bed manufacturers recommend replacing an air mattress every 8 years, approximately.
Is air foam better than memory foam? ›Memory foam mattresses offer good support for back alignment, while air mattresses offer good to excellent support (depending on firmness). Visco foam is better at conforming to sleepers' shapes, though the air chambers do still allow for a good degree of conformability compared to alternative spring beds.
Can you sleep on air mattress every night? ›Air mattresses are ideal for camping or last-minute overnight guests, but a good air mattress can also work well to sleep on every night.
How can I make my air bed last longer? ›- Don't over-inflate it. ...
- Keep it inflated when in use, and deflate it for storage. ...
- Avoid sitting on your mattress. ...
- Remember how large a role the ambient temperature plays. ...
- Buy the mattress you really need. ...
- Blow it up, but don't use it for the first 48 hours.
Which mattress are used in Taj hotels? ›
Taj uses the posturepedic mattresses designed to provide maximum support and comfort. Rao says, “We use mattresses from Hush. These are highly durable fitted with a Bonnell spring structure and ideal for those looking for some 'bounce'.
Which bed is best wood or iron? ›There's no question metal is more strong and durable in comparison to wood, which could make it last longer. In addition, it could handles more weight than a wood bed frame.
Can couples sleep together in hostels? ›Any tips for staying in a hostel as a couple? Private rooms are always the best option for a smooth night. If the hostel doesn't have that option, search for the possibility of staying in a double bed in a shared room. If the room is shared with your friends, that's even better.