Air Mattress

If you and your partner find that you have different preferences when it comes to the firmness of your mattress then an air mattress could be the ideal solution. Recent improvements in air mattress technology have brought them into the luxury bed market where they are now a popular option alongside memory foam mattresses and the more traditional sprung mattresses. The most innovative of these improvements, currently found on the high-end air mattresses, is the addition of independent air chambers that can be adjusted separately, allowing both sides of the bed to be set up to different personal preferences; perfect if you like a firm, supportive mattress and your partner prefers a soft and cosy one.

Air mattresses have traditionally been seen as an item for temporary use, whether providing extra comfort and luxury on camping trips or as a guest bed for use in the home; they provide an ideal solution if space is an issue; rather than taking up valuable space like a regular bed an air mattress can be easily stored away until it is needed. Recently larger, more innovative air mattresses have become available. Designed to be used in place of a conventional mattress and bed frame, these 'air beds' are intended for permanent use and can last for many years.

An air mattress provides support with air chambers instead of springs or other fillings; they are hollow and can be inflated to the desired level of comfort. One of the reasons they are proving so popular is the comfort provided by the cushion of air; it moulds itself to the contours of the body, relieving pressure points and alleviating discomfort. Many modern air mattresses also feature a top layer of foam to increase the comfort level even more; many top of the range air beds use memory foam. Some have an electric pump and a firmness controller for self-inflation and pressure regulation.

Another advantage of an air mattress is that it doesn't need to be turned like a regular mattress, plus they are considerably lighter which makes them easier to move.

Air mattresses generally come in three different variations depending on purpose: the regular air mattress, raised air mattress and outdoor air mattress.

Regular air mattress

A regular air mattress has the thickness and dimensions of a traditional mattress. They are lightweight, pack away easily and are ideal for use as a guest bed for spontaneous visits; they can be put out and put away with a minimum of time and fuss and can even be used to provide extra padding for an existing sofa bed. Alternatively they can accompany you on your travels, giving you the reassurance of a comfortable nights sleep if the bedding at your destination is not adequate. This type of inflatable mattress is ideal for occasional use but wouldn't be an ideal solution if permanent use is intended.

Raised air mattresses (air beds)

Raised air mattresses (air beds) rise up off the ground and resemble a traditional divan bed. They are sturdy and offer much more comfort and support then a regular air mattress; in fact they are more like a proper bed and can be used permanently. Due to this they tend to be at the luxury end of the inflatable mattress spectrum and feature many innovative features like the aforementioned individually adjustable air chambers and memory foam top layer.

Outdoor air mattress (camping mattress)

An outdoor air mattress, or camping mattress, makes an ideal camping companion, providing a touch of luxury and comfort to your trip. Similar in design to a regular air mattress an outdoor mattress tends to be made from more durable, puncture resistant material and will often have a waterproof outer layer.

They come in all the standard mattress sizes.