Ah, inflatable couches. The epitome of class, style, and comfort. I mean, why settle for a real couch when you can get one that looks like a giant pool toy?
But let’s face it, inflatable sofas have many benefits. They’re cheap, easy to transport, and are perfect for people who want to furnish their entire home in 15 minutes or less. But the question remains, how long do these air-filled wonders last?
In short, inflatable couches, chairs and other furniture can last a few months to many years. The key is to treat them kindly and use a patch kit when necessary.
How to Find an Inflatable Sofa that’s Durable:
Well, that depends on a few things. First, let’s talk about what to look for in a durable inflatable couch. You want to make sure that it’s made of thick, high-quality PVC material.
In addition, you want to choose furniture that has a higher weight capacity. In other words, adults can use it as well as kids. (The higher weight limit also tells you that the material is stronger and more durable and that the seams are reinforced.)
Note: The weight capacity of inflatable sofas can vary depending on the specific model and materials used, but most can support anywhere from 250 to 600 pounds. And the Intex inflatable sectional can hold 880 lbs.
Also, some inflatable sofas are designed for outdoor use and are made from durable materials that can withstand exposure to sunlight, water and other outdoor elements. Therefore, they tend to be more durable and long-lasting.
Furthermore, i suggest choosing a reputable brand, like Intex or Coleman. These companies have been making inflatable products for many years, not to mention, many of them are designed to be more rugged for outdoor use.
In addition, Aerogogo makes higher-end air sofas that are ultra-durable. And BOTE makes virtually indestructible inflatable sofas and chairs out of paddleboard material.
Can You Repair Inflatable Furniture if it Gets Punctured?
But even with the best of intentions, accidents happen. Maybe your cat decides to use your blow-up sofa as a scratching post, or your kid thinks it’s a fun trampoline.
That’s where the patch kit comes in. Yes, that’s right, you too can be a DIY master and patch up your inflatable couch like a pro.
1. How to Find a Leak:
First, locate the hole. This may involve inflating the couch and listening for the sound of escaping air. Alternatively, you can spray soapy water on the vinyl surface and look for bubbles.
Once you’ve located the hole, it’s time to break out the patch kit. Now, I know what you’re thinking, “Do inflatable sofa repair kits really work?” Well, it’s true – these patch kits really do work, as I’ve learned from years of experience.
2. How to Patch the Hole:
Next, clean the area around the hole with rubbing alcohol to ensure a good bond. Then, cut a patch from the included patch material that is about an inch larger than the hole.
Apply a generous amount of the included adhesive to the patch and place it over the hole, smoothing out any wrinkles or air bubbles. Let it dry for at least 24 hours, and voila! Your inflatable couch is as good as new (until the next inevitable hole).
How to Help Your Inflatable Couch Last Longer:
Now, let’s talk about how to make your inflatable couch last longer. First and foremost, you want to avoid any sharp objects. This may seem like common sense, but let’s face it, if you’re the type of person who buys an inflatable couch, common sense may not be your strong suit. So, keep it away from any sharp edges, including your cat’s claws and your child’s toys.
You also want to make sure that you don’t over-inflate it. Yes, I know it’s tempting to see how much air it can hold, but over-inflating can cause the material to stretch and weaken, making it more prone to punctures and leaks.
Note: When you first inflate your sofa, the vinyl will stretch because it is new. As a result, it may seem like it’s losing air during the next 24 hours. Don’t worry, this is normal. You just want to let the material stretch out a little and then add a little more air to fully inflate it.
In addition, I suggest keeping inflatables out of direct sun. The UV rays can weaken the PVC, and the heat can cause the air inside the furniture to expand. Thus, you can end up with stretched out and sometimes deformed sofas and chairs. Very strange looking.
Finally, if you choose to deflate and store your couch, keep it in a cool, dry place where it won’t receive any unnecessary wear and tear.