Inflating an Air MattressAn air mattress is a convenience around any home. It makes a perfect bed for visiting guests, a comfortable place to sleep while going out camping or a great daybed for naps with young children. Understanding the methods of inflating the air mattress is necessary to make it as comfortable as possible.Start the process of inflating the mattress by laying it out on the floor. The mattress should not be rolled up or folded while filling it with air. Instead, unfold or unroll it until it lays flat. The mattress top should face upward while the bottom faces down. Usually, the valve for air is on the bottom or one side of the mattress.Pull the cap off the air valve. Most air mattresses will require twisting the cap off. Once the cap is off, attach the pump. Depending on the pump, the method will vary. Some slip inside the valve while others cover the valve on the outside. Flip the on switch to start pumping air into the mattress. If the pump is manual, it will require hand or foot pumping instead of having an electric switch to turn it on.Allow the mattress to fill completely with air. Feel the firmness and let out some air until it is a comfortable softness or firmness for personal preferences. Twist the cap back onto the mattress valve to prevent air from escaping. The mattress is ready for blankets, pillows and sleeping on once the cap is back in place.