The most straightforward technique to repair an air mattress is to use a patch kit on the leaking spot.
Some airbeds include a patch kit when you buy them, but what if yours didn’t come with one?
Here are six ways on how to fix a punctured air mattress without the repair patch kit.
DIY Patch Kit
A repair patch kit is the best solution to fix the hole in your mattress.
If you don’t have it with you, worry not!
You can try making one.
Step 1:
Trim the material.
It could be any kind of plastic material as long as it’s robust enough to seal a hole.
Your DIY patch should completely cover the leak and extend at least an inch on each side to ensure a good seal.
Step 2:
Ensure that surfaces are degreased.
You can use nail polish remover or rubbing alcohol for this.
Degreasing eliminates lipid residue that could prevent the patch from effectively sticking to the mattress.
Step 3:
Apply adhesive as directed.
Some adhesives must be applied to both touching surfaces, whereas others can be applied to the mattress or the patch.
Make sure the seal is tight by using a substantial amount of adhesive.
Step 4:
Apply pressure.
After applying the glue and positioning the patch, push it with your palm or something heavy for at least a few minutes.
To be safe, leave the mattress to dry overnight.
When you’re done, inflate the air mattress when the glue has dried, and check your work.
Gel Nail Polish
If you have nail polish and a UV light source, you’re welcome to try this method.
Nail polish is pretty effective in patching tiny holes in the air bed.
Step 1:
Carefully sand the area around the hole or holes.
Step 2:
Degrease the area with rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover and allow it to dry.
Step 3:
Apply a drop of nail paint to the area above the hole.
Step 4:
To cure the nail polish, turn on the UV light and place it 10-15 seconds above the nail polish drop.
Repeat the steps as necessary.
Hot Glue Gun
Although it may appear to be controversial, a hot glue gun can help you in patching your mattress.
Unfortunately, this seal will only last around a week, so consider this a temporary fix.
You can attempt this method if you don’t have a repair kit handy and a hot glue gun is the only accessible tool around.
As the saying goes, “Desperate times call for desperate measures.”
Step 1:
Mark the location of the hole in your mattress using a permanent marker.
Step 2:
Turn on the glue gun and insert the glue stick to allow it to heat up.
Step 3:
Squeeze the glue gun’s trigger and dab a small drop of hot glue over the hole to seal it completely.
Step 4:
Allow the glue to cool before inflating your mattress to test the seal’s quality.
This procedure works best for minor holes that don’t need to be patched.
Also, use caution when applying hot glue to the mattress to avoid accidentally creating another hole.
You may end up with a hot mess.
Related Article: Why Won’t My Air Mattress Stay Inflated?
Superglue
When you’re camping, and your air mattress has a leak, but you don’t have a repair kit, superglue is a convenient option for patching an airbed.
How to fix a punctured air mattress with super glue?
There are two ways:
Use it as an adhesive for a previous DIY-patch approach, or simply squeeze it over the puncture without any patches.
Apply the bond to the hole using stitch-like patterns.
When the first coat is dry, apply another layer until the entire spot and at least 0.5″ surrounding it are covered.
After that, blow up the mattress and look for leaks.
Marine Goop
Marine Goop is one of the most potent adhesives on the market today.
It’s waterproof, UV-resistant, and can be used as a sealant, making it an excellent choice for patching a leaky airbed if you intend to use it outdoors.
Step 1:
Degrease and sand the affected area because goop works best on slightly rough surfaces.
But don’t overdo it to the point of rubbing through the airbed.
Step 2:
Apply a thin layer of Goop over the leak.
Make an even seal over the puncture, leaving about a half-inch border around it.
Use an old toothbrush or an art brush for this, and wear rubber gloves to protect your hands.
Step 3:
The sealant needs time to cure.
The manufacturer recommends allowing the adhesive to dry for at least 24 hours.
However, this may vary based on your home’s temperature or climate.
Duct Tape
Duct tape is probably one of the first solutions that come to mind on how to fix a punctured air mattress.
After all, it’s easy and convenient.
Apply a portion large enough to fill the puncture and some space around it to the degreased surface.
The glue on the duct tape tends to lose its hold with time, so if you intend to use this remedy, you may need to repatch the hole frequently.
However, it may be a temporary remedy until you can obtain a patch kit or a strong glue to close the gap properly.
How to Fix a Tiny Hole in an Air Mattress – Conclusion
Finding holes in your air mattress could be stressful, especially when you don’t have a repair kit.
Luckily, there are a handful of ways you can remedy this problem without even going to the store for special tools.
As long as you know how to find an air leak in an inflatable mattress, choose one of the ways this article provides.
You’ll soon find yourself sleeping on a comfy air bed instead of stressing about a small hole.
- Ready to buy a new air mattress? Check out our buyers guides
