Air Mattress Or Foam Mattress?

Couple embracing on air mattress

When it comes to choosing your next replacement mattress, there are different styles and materials available for almost any taste. We’ve already put together a detailed description of the disadvantages of a spring mattress compared to one made out of foam; but there are some other considerations to factor in when comparing air versus foam mattress types. You’ll sleep better knowing that you knew all the facts about each mattress before making a choice.


While an air mattress may feel like you’re floating as you sleep, a foam mattress provides better support. Both types of mattresses conform to your body, (especially if the foam mattress is topped off with some memory foam,) allowing you to relax into a deep sleep every night. Also, both the air mattress and the foam mattress keep pressure points from being irritated, however, a foam mattress is superior when it comes to offering the support your lumbar area (or back) needs.



An air mattress can be destroyed after only a few minutes of use if it gets punctured. Also, over-inflation is often a cause of air mattresses damage, especially in the harsh marine or RV environment, due to very large temperature swings. On the other hand, you never need to worry about popping or breaking a foam mattress, as a mattress masse from high density foam stands the test of time with daily use.  It’s definitely the better choice for a sofa bed mattress, camper mattress or marine mattress.


Firm or Soft?

Although you can let air in and out of an air mattress to adjust the firmness, it’s often difficult to maintain the desired firmness night after night.  Every 3 days or so you will have to re-inflate the mattress to the level you’re most comfortable with. (Have you ever seen a balloon wither away to nothing after a few days?) With a foam mattress, you choose your foam boat mattress firmness when you purchase it, and it really never changes.  As long as high quality foam is used in the mattress, you can enjoy the same plush and comfortable feel every night, for years and years.


Comfort Factor

Foam mattresses have a very uniform material feel and shape. With most air mattresses, they usually have a compartmentalized structure to keep the pockets of air in place, and the mattress in shape. You’ll feel these compartments as uncomfortable seams and irregularities of the sleeping surface as you rest. For most people, this comfort factor alone is the reason to stay with a foam mattress; whether it’s for a sofa mattress, camper mattress, or for your boat.

Allergy Concerns

When it comes to seasonal allergies, both foam and air mattresses are superior to traditional spring models. Allergens find it difficult to accumulate in the dense foam mattress or on the vinyl air mattress, making breathing easier for allergy sufferers while sleeping.


Transport Ease

Foam mattresses can be rolled up, depending on the density, but air mattresses are the best when it comes to storage and transport. As they were designed to be temporary beds, you can deflate and store them until they’re needed for guests.


Pumping Issues

Foam mattresses need very little maintenance compared to their air counterparts, as the latter require pumping from an internal or external pump. These machines can malfunction over time and are relatively loud. Choose foam for an uninterrupted night of rest without noisy pumping issues.


Romantic Endeavors

If you are in a romantic relationship, and thinking of buying an air mattress, keep in mind that air mattresses feel like you are laying on a water bed.  You’ll find that a foam mattress is well-suited for romantic endeavors.


When it comes to selecting between air and foam mattresses you need to take into consideration your sleep needs. Foam is by far the superior choice when it comes to daily rest and durability. Save the air mattress for when there are more guests than sofas in the house.