The difference between the inflatable air mattress and a flocked-top air bed is not large — but the situations in which you use the different air mattresses might be. Both mattresses need inflation before it is possible to use them, through a manually controlled foot pump along with a powered pump that fills the mattress with air. Price differences vary based on the air bed size, flocking, profile, and whether the mattress comes with a pump and repair kit.
Flocked Air Beds
Most flocked beds are meant to be used when you’re camping or traveling. The mattress typically has a bottom made from a heavy or additional durable vinyl for exterior conditions, such as on the floor or within a tent. The mattress top is constructed from a special flocked velvet-like coat that eliminates the need for sheets, though many people use this air bed with sleeping bags anyway. It is always a fantastic idea to set a tarp on the floor to place the bed upon, to avoid punctures from sharp stones or twigs.
Inflatable Air Mattress
Not a lot different in the flocked air bed, an inflatable air mattress is largely intended for indoor use. Even though it can include a flocked top, based on the model you purchase, an air mattress for indoor use usually is sized so standard sheets match the mattress, which makes the flocked top unnecessary. It also typically does not contain a thicker vinyl on the bottom, since it’s designed to sit directly on the floor. These beds may be taller than many flocked air mattresses, to mimic the height of a true bed, but it is dependent upon the model.
Manufacturing Differences
Because flock air mattresses and inflatable mattresses come from a variety of producers, the ways the beds are made also differ from manufacturer. Both of these inflatable mattresses might include long tubular chambers or could use patented vinyl coils within the mattress. Some flock air beds are a single mattress layer thick or very low profile, as are many inflatable mattresses, but others have two layers, making the bed sit higher off the Landscaping ideas Boise, ID.
Built-In Pumps
Some of these air mattresses, without flocked tops, come with pumps that are built-in. These pumps require a power supply, usually standard household electricity. But the mattresses made for camping or traveling usually have a pump that runs off 12-volt power. For inflatable mattresses meant to be used inside, some of those built-in pump mattresses also have a comfortable level setting to adjust the firmness of the mattress. Some beds have also a built-in pillow or raised head so you don’t have to pull pillows along.
