3 Important Tips to Help Keep Your Waterbed in Top Shape

15 August 2018
 Categories: Home & Garden, Blog

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Waterbeds are usually made of vinyl bladders or tubes which are filled with water. These may then be encased in foam bolsters to make the soft-sided waterbed (similar to regular mattresses on the outside) or left as is (called hard-side waterbeds). You can even install a waterbed heater which helps you control the water temperature, creating a cooling effect in the summer or warming it up in the winter or when you have back pain.

This article highlights three tips all waterbed owners should know to extend the lifespan of their waterbeds. Read on for more details.

1. Keep the waterbed clean

You should clean your waterbed at least monthly to prevent accumulation of dust and other disease-causing pathogens. Once you have removed your bed linens (clean them separately as you normally do), get a vinyl surface-cleaner or other product recommended by the waterbed manufacturer. Use a wet towel and the cleaner, and then follow up with a dry towel to ensure the surface is completely dry.

Remember that vinyl cleaner contains conditioning agents; if you use other types of cleaners, be sure to find something to condition the vinyl to prevent premature wear. Leave the mattress open for a few hours to ensure it is completely dry before replacing clean linens. If moisture is trapped underneath your bedding, mould and mildew may result.

2. Fix any leaks

Small leaks may occur from time to time, particularly when you have an older waterbed mattress. You should fix them immediately to prevent water damage in your room and also ensure you rest comfortably when you sleep. Invest in a vinyl repair kit so that you have it at the ready in the house when you need it. The kit contains a repair patch and liquid cement. It should be cut in the shape of the leak but large enough to completely cover the area around the leak.

3. Remove air promptly

Problems during filling, temperature fluctuations and bacterial growth are three reasons why air may find its way into your waterbed mattress. The bubbles interfere with the waterbed system's pressure, which could make the surface uncomfortable over time.

To remove air, start by removing all bedding. Find the nozzle and hold firmly in your hand and then pull out from the mattress (do not open the cap). Get a second person to place a long, round stick (the width of the mattress) on the edge opposite the nozzle. Then, they should roll gently pressing down on the surface, moving towards the nozzle. They should then push down so as to force any air to move towards the nozzle and then hold the stick in place. Once done, open the nozzle's cap to release the air and replace when the water level rises to the cap. You can repeat until all the air is removed. Finally, wipe any water spilled before replacing the bedding.