What’s the point in decorating your home for Christmas if you’re not going to fragrance it with festive scents? With help from our best Christmas candles guide, you can find the perfect aroma for flooding your home all December long. Whether that be a warm scent, a festively spicy fragrance or a sweet-smelling candle is your choice…
We’ve been trying and testing a whole load of Christmas candles for a good few months now. Our verdict is below as we’ve popped the ones that we love into a list.
Whether you’d like your home to smell like there’s gingerbread baking in the oven, mulled wine bubbling away on the hob or you want to give the impression that there’s a fresh Christmas tree sitting in your lounge, these buys ought to impress even the fussiest of nostrils. Plus, they’ll get you right in the spirit.
See our best candles guide for more top scents for a fragranced home
Believe it or not, it’s not just what the candle smells like, but we also considered looks, too. From painted glass jars to classic iconic vessels, these candles will want to be displayed pride of place atop your fireplace mantlepiece, in the middle of your dining table or on your coffee table this Christmas.
The best Christmas candles 2021
1. The White Company Winter Signature Candle
The best Christmas candle you can buy
Image credit: The White Company
The White Company’s Winter candle has become one of their best selling seasonal scents – and for good reason. With spicy yet warm notes of cinnamon, clove and orange, this candle’s scent is powerful enough to fill an entire room. It’s definitely one for lighting in the lead up to Christmas, to ensure that your home smells as festive as it looks. Plus, it comes in a range of sizes from a small votive to a large, decorative table centrepiece. This Christmas treat is an all-around crowd-pleaser, and we even had guests comment on its scent whilst lighting it in our home.
Burn time: 135 hours max (for largest size)
2. Interlude White Christmas Soy Wax Candle
The best luxury Christmas candle
Image credit: Interlude
This beautiful Christmas candle screams luxury since it’s poured inside a white glass vessel – plus it’s handmade. Using soy wax to provide a clean, soot-free burn, this candle both looks the part and plays the part. It’s scented with herbal notes of pine and clove which is balanced with sweet raspberry, green leaf & orange. Its base notes are caramel and wood. The perfect sophisticated concoction, we think. It also looks lovely on display.
Burn time: 45 hours
3. Yankee Candle Holiday Hearth
The best Yankee Christmas candle
If you are looking for a Christmas candle from Yankee, then Holiday Hearth is the one for you. You’ll almost be able to hear Nat King Cole crooning ‘Chestnuts roasting on an open fire…’ when you light it. This candle’s scent is inspired by a garland-adorned fireplace, with notes of cinnamon, clove and cedarwood. It’s definitely a cosy scent, that’s perfect for burning in the living room on a winter’s evening watching A Christmas Carol. This candle is available in three sizes and tealights. However, if you are looking for a candle to see you through this Christmas and possibly even next we’d suggest opting for the large.
Burn time: 150 hours (large jar)
4. Skandinavisk Jul Scented Candle
The best eco Christmas candle
Image credit: Skandinavisk
If you are searching for a Christmas candle but want to keep it eco-friendly, then this one from Scandinavisk is your best bet. Not only is it fragranced with spicy notes similar to that of mulled wine and baked gingerbread. It’s warming and with a double wick, it’ll flood your rooms with fragrance. We’re currently lighting it in our hallway, to great guests with a festive aroma. How is it eco-friendly? It’s made using Swedish non-GMO rapeseed oil wax, which is traceable and sustainably farmed. This wax is poured into a painted glass vessel, made from 30% recycled materials. The candle itself is 100% vegan and cruelty free, and it’s adorned with a wooden lid to prevent dusting. This wooden lid is made from FSC-certified European forest wood. Even its packaging is FSC-certified and dyed using natural colours.
Burn time: up to 20 hours
5. Mors Snow Gardenia candle
The best sophisticated Christmas candle
Fill your home with the scent of winter blooms as Mor’s Emporium Classics Snow Gardenia range combines rich musk, sandalwood and vanilla with sharp bergamot for a sophisticated spin on the classic Christmas candle. This Christmas candle is made out of black soy wax and it’s housed in a lovely gold embellished black jar – to add a little drama to your Christmas celebrations. The range includes a candle and room spray for boosting the scent all day long, too.
Burn time: 60 hours
6. Yankee Candle Merry Berry
The best sweet Christmas candle
Image credit: Yankee
This Yankee candle smells like Christmas baking, bottled into a large jar and red in colour (it looks much darker than the picture in real life). Named after Mary Berry but with a festive twist, it has base notes of butter cookies, vanilla and tonka bean. These aromas are balanced well with sugar plum, red raspberry and gooseberry. Top notes include orange, lemon and dried apricots. We say to light it in a large room as it can be very sweet if lit in small spaces, and it’s large enough to burn all December long!
Burn time: up to 150 hours
7. Heather Evelyn Holly and the Ivy hand-illustrated set of two Christmas candles
The best tapered Christmas candles
Image credit: Heather Evelyn
For decorating your table or to nestle atop a mantlepiece amongst an impressive garland, these handmade tapered candles are gorgeous. They read “the holly and the ivy” and they are hand illustrated in Balham, South London. Though they’re not one to give off any smell, what they lack in fragrance they make up for in their design. Measuring 24cm in length, they are 100% wax and they come in a set of two.
What makes a Christmas scent?
Certain fragrances will always conjure up Christmas – though some may be more obvious than others. Cinnamon is a biggie, reminding us of festive fare and tasty drinks like egg nog and hot chocolate.
Pine or fir is another key scent that of course brings to mind Christmas trees and wreaths. If you tend to stick to artificial decorations, it may well be worth bringing in pine-scented candles for that ‘real tree smell’.
Orange zests also tend to be a feature of Christmas candles – look out for mandarin or clementine.
What are the best quality candles?
There are two key ingredients to a good candle – the wax and the wick. The wax should be blended so that it gives off the right amount of scent and offers an even burn, without leaving any wax residue or giving off any black soot.
Look for cotton wicks that have been dipped into distilled water to allow them to burn evenly with no soot. The wicks should burn with the candle, so there should be no need to trim them. Ideally, look for candles with multiple wicks as they will give a more even burn and release more scent.
As the hub of the home, smart kitchen storage ideas are number one in ensuring this busy room of the house works successfully, for you and your family.
No longer just a place for cooking, we now need our kitchens to be a place for dining, socialising, unwinding and even working. So it’s essential the space works as hard as possible to deliver all these things and more.
With so many demands on this versatile space, the key to keeping a kitchen clutter free and easy to use, regardless of size, is well-considered storage solutions.
Vicky Silverthorn, professional organiser at You Need A Vicky, advises, ‘Start by pulling everything out of your kitchen cupboards, getting right to the back and uncovering tins and jars that probably haven’t seen the light of day for years! It’s going to take some time, but really look at the contents of your drawers and cupboards like you’ve never done before, thinking about location, positioning and shelf heights as you go. Always have the word ‘practicality’ in your head, it’s not just about making your kitchen look pristine, but it has to work too.’
With a plethora of things all jostling for a place, the kitchen requires particularly careful consideration. Luckily, modern kitchen designers have upped the ante with space-saving, super-strong drawers that can bear the weight of stacks of china or heavy pans. Pull-out larders, magic corners and adjustable baskets also ensure space is utilised down to the very last inch.
‘It’s all about convenience’, says designer Dominic Ash. ‘Think hard about exactly where to create storage to make your kitchen user-friendly. For example, pans should be near the cooker, and crockery near the dishwasher so you can unload straight into the cupboard.’
Kitchen storage ideas
Image credit: Future PLC/ Jonathan Jones
From counter-top storage and built-in cabinets to freestanding dressers and open shelving, there are plenty of smart ideas for practical and effective storage in a small kitchen space and open-plan kitchens alike. With the kitchen coming under increasing pressure to perform a variety of crucial roles such as family dining, relaxing, working and entertaining, a good layout and adequate storage are more important than ever for a successful kitchen idea.
Keeping everything neatly behind closed doors is much easier if the interiors are designed with specific contents in mind. Smaller items will benefit from a shallow drawer with numerous compartments to keep items separated and easy to locate. Consider whether any cupboards will benefit from integral electric sockets, allowing you to charge gadgets out of view.
Condiments and spice jars tend to come in standard sizes so kitchen shelving can be fitted at precise heights to get more in, which can slot into racks on the back of an easily accessible cupboard door. Many kitchen furniture ranges are now designed to morph into dining and living room furniture, enabling full coordination throughout.
1. Add a kitchen island
Image credit: Future Plc
If your kitchen has space for it, a kitchen island could be the perfect solution to adding in some extra storage, as well as creating more prep space too. Free up cupboard and drawer space that pots and pans were taking up and store these within the island, pop every day essentials on top with in reach.
2. Hang a shelf from the ceiling
Image credit: Future Plc/ Anna Stathaki
Take advantage of high ceilings in your kitchen and hang a shelf above your worktop to keep cookbooks and other kitchen essentials. It could just be a simple length of wood hung from a chain, or something more glam like marble, just ensure its not at eye level but a bit higher!
3. Utilise baskets in the kitchen
Image credit: Future Plc/Simon Whitmore
Baskets are fantastic are curbing the clutter and can be just as handy in the kitchen as elsewhere in the house too. Use to keep kitchen textiles such as tea towels, aprons or oven gloves, or have on hand to quickly sweep the kids homework or after-school doodles away once it’s time to eat.
4. Opt for an utensils rail
Image credit: Future Plc/David Giles
To save on precious drawer space, hang a rail along the top of your splashback for utensils to live. A simple length of copper piping would serve perfectly for this, so attach to the wall and then use S hooks to hang each utensil. Even boards, jugs and mugs could be hung here, so anything with a handle, get it hung up!
5. Make your storage a stylish display
Image credit: Future Plc/Colin Poole
Rather than try and hide things away in cupboards, embrace all your bits and bobs and make a display of keeping them out on shelves. Cook books, chopping boards, mugs, teapots- they can all be left out on display, especially if they match your colour scheme. Incorporating a rail with open wooden shelves, just doubles up on the display possibilities.
6. Try a clever hack
Image credit: Future Plc/Jo Henderson
This wall rack is actually a set of webbing-mounted bed slats hung from a couple of wall hooks. Just add S-hooks for hanging bits and bobs. It could also be handy in a bathroom, kids room, utility, office…
7. Kit out cupboards with storage solutions
Image credit: Ikea
Dedicate a kitchen cupboard to store all your household cleaning chore essentials out of sight. Utilise every inch in a tall kitchen cabinet or an under-stairs cupboard by kitting out the interior with hooks and racks so you can stash bulky items securely. Slide-out interior storage like this example at IKEA will give easy access to cleaning essentials, within the existing layout of your kitchen.
Make family life run more smoothly with a strategically placed storage unit at the hub of your kitchen. Use Billy bookcases (£45 each, Ikea) arranged in a configuration that suits your space. Allocate different compartments for stowing kitchenware, paperwork, school kit and other daily essentials and then add a chalkboard panel on one side as a family memo board. Use chalkboard paint or buy self-adhesive panels.
9. Run a shelf above your splash back
Image credit: Homesense
Gain extra storage and display space in a kitchen by fixing up a length or two of shelving above the worktop. Paint shelves to match the wall colour for a sleek look and to give a contrast backdrop for displays of crockery and kitchenware. Add a row of cup hooks underneath shelves to hang tools and utensils.
10. Showcase everyday essentials
Image credit: The White Company
While there’s a lot to be said for hiding clutter away behind closed doors, having favourite things on show gives heart to a home. Tableware looks good displayed en masse – whether its all-white china, decorative glass or rustic earthenware – and behind glass will keep it safe and dust-free. Arrange collections artfully so that shelves don’t look overly cluttered. Stack plates, dishes and bowls together and cluster glasses, jugs and pitchers in groups with the tallest items at the back so that everything is easily accessible.
Make use of an empty alcove or recess in a kitchen by creating a built-in larder cupboard. Shallow shelves are great for storing jars and packets, just add a couple of crates or baskets at the bottom for storing loose items.
12. Build in shallow cabinets
Image credit: Future PLC/ David Giles
If your tableware collection is a combination of hand-me-downs, charity shop finds and new buys, it might look a little messy out on display. Instead, store it in a tall cupboard with solid-fronted doors. Dedicate a shelf to each style to ensure order.
13. Make a display of jars
Image credit: Future PLC/ Colin Poole
Free up cupboard space at the same time as making a stylish countertop display by popping dried food into glass storage jars. Arrange in height and size order. Create fun labels that say which pasta is your kids favourite or your family nickname for each shape.
14. Choose a multi-functional freestanding unit
Image credit: Future PLC/ Lizzie Orme
Here’s a neat kitchen storage idea – turn a kitchen trolley into a moveable work bench or cooking aid. Whether it’s used to house glasses, bottles and decanters for cocktails or herb planters, oils, spices and a pestle and mortar, this is a great way to store special kit that you use a lot in your kitchen space.
15. Opt for open-shelving
Image credit: Future PLC
In a shabby chic kitchen, storage doubles as a design feature. White painted open shelving – which mimics the look of traditional country dressers – suits the relaxed style of this kitchen, while providing a neutral home for the mix-and-match china and storage jars that add character to this room. Below the worktop and butler sink, panelled cabinets hide away bulkier kitchen items so that the space still feels tidy.
16. Hang pans from a rail
Image credit: Future PLC/ Paul Raeside
If your built-in kitchen storage is limited, free up space in cabinets by hanging colourful or patterned mugs and tea cups on a wall-fixed rustic wooden rack. Not only is this a practical way to utilise space – and always have a mug on hand for a cuppa – but it also makes an interesting decorative feature in a neutral kitchen space.
17. Consider a pantry or larder
Image credit: Future PLC/ Carolyn Barber
A pantry or larder should be close to your fridge and freezer for instance, making it quick and easy to unload groceries. Likewise, in a dream kitchen scenario, china and cutlery should be stored near the dishwasher. It is usually a good idea to keep storage for glasses and frequently accessed items away from the main cooking area so as not to interrupt the cook while they’re creating a culinary masterpiece!
18. Mix freestanding with fixed storage
Image credit: Future PLC/ Simon Bevan
Use more glass fronted cabinets or open-shelving in non-cooking areas to create a distinction between spaces and prevent the whole room looking like one giant kitchen. Mixing up freestanding and fitted furniture will also help define roles. Stick to one colour palette for a considered look.
19. Use a room divider as storage
Image credit: Montse Garriga Grau
The right storage system can double up as a room divider in an open-plan space. Solid, freestanding shelves, that reach almost to the ceiling and are open on both sides can be used to house pots and pans and more attractive serving ware plus dining table essentials.
20. Build storage into your furniture
Image credit: Future PLC/ Colin Poole
Use your kitchen cabinetry to introduce a smart alternative storage solution. In this open-plan kitchen idea the back of the kitchen cabinet provides the perfect shell for open shelving, to offer the living room area display shelves.
21. Utilise wasted space
Image credit: Future PLC/ Jonathan Jones
If you need small kitchen storage ideas, explore every inch of your room for hidden storage opportunities. Ceiling racks can be used to hang pans and utensils, while plinth-line drawers are perfect for stashing away baking trays and outsized cookware. There’s no excuse for wasted space in corner cupboards any more – a carousel or swing-out Le Mans shelving create storage in the spaces your arms will never reach.
22. Reclaim your kitchen storage
Image credit: Future PLC/ David Parmiter
The temptation to pack a kitchen with floor-to-ceiling storage can be really strong but, if you have a sizeable space or a streamlined selection of cookware and serve-ware, consider restricting your cabinetry to base units alone. This creates an airy, spacious feel.
23. Add a rack
Image credit: Future PLC/ Colin Poole
Drawers might seem like a great place to store kitchen utensils, but it can be hard to find what you need in them. Instead hand a slim rail along the wall above the hob or by the sink, and use S-hooks to hang utensils.
24. Add in slide down storage
Image credit: Magnet
Getting to things at the back of the cupboard always runs the risk of the flour and oil clattering to the floor in a big mess. Make the most of your cupboard space by adding in secret storage such as this motorised shelving unit from Cabinet Plus, Magnet. All you do is touch a button and the unit will reveal itself, saving your rummaging in the cupboard for the balsamic vinegar or sugar.
25. Hide a charging station away in a drawer
Image credit: Magnet
A busy family kitchen design can quickly become a clutter of chargers, phones and iPads. Keep all electrical safe and out the was with a built in USB charging tray like this one from Magnet. It fits neatly inside a drawer, so come dinner time you have a perfect excuse to make sure all the family have put there phones away (to charge of course).
26. Integrate kitchen storage into your splashback
Image credit: Bulthaup
‘The biggest trend at the minute is people wanting storage integrated into a splashback’, says Mark Dyson of Enclosure Architects. ‘This idea comes from the fabulous b3 kitchen by Bulthaup. You only have to add about 15cm to the back of the worktop to make space for spice racks, chopping boards and cleaning materials.
‘If there’s space in a partition wall use it to create a place for your toaster or radio. Conceal behind stainless-steel sliding doors for a really smart finish.’
27. Under-cupboard drawers
Image credit: Ikea
Eke out another few inches from your kitchen with under-cupboard drawers. Perfect for tea towels, trays, trivets or those utensils you only use once a year, these shallow drawers fit under the units where there is usually a plinth, making use of this otherwise redundant space. Try Ikea for clever devices like Exceptionell push to open drawers.
28. Make use of ceiling height
Image credit: Richard Gadsby
In period houses a kitchen ceiling can often be 2.7 to 3m high, so standard units fall short. Get a builder to create made-to-measure storage all the way up to the ceiling. ‘You can then store lots of stuff in a space where you would normally only leave things to gather dust,’ says Mark. ‘It finishes the back wall of a kitchen off perfectly, too.’
How do you maximise storage in a small kitchen?
Think about what you actually need to store in your kitchen and try to relocate the items you rarely use to somewhere else (or get rid entirely!)
Vicky Silverthorn, professional organiser at You Need A Vicky, says, ‘It’s incredible how many gadgets and unnecessary items we own but can most definitely live without. An apple corer or an egg slicer’s job can be done with a knife. Is the avocado storer used? The lemon squeezer a necessity? Does the popcorn maker actually get used more than once a year? Think hard about space versus how much you use these items and make some decisions. Don’t forget many electrical items can be recycled or donated via certain charity shops and schemes so it doesn’t need to go straight to the tip!’
You could also look at investing in free-standing storage such a dresser for plates and serveware, or a kitchen island to keep prep essentials in. Also think about what could be kept ‘on display’ and doesn’t need to kept inside drawers and cupboards, such as pans hung on a rail or utensils kept in a jar on the worktop.
How can I increase my kitchen cupboard storage?
It’s all about making smarter choices when it comes to storing your food and crockery.
Vicky advises, ‘Look at adding extra shelving to the insides of cupboards, spice racks to the insides of doors and opting for stackable tupperware and pans that fit perfectly into each other. Plate shelves (in cupboards) are a great top tip and wire racks on walls have saved me lots of cupboard space too!’
Using a lazy susan style rotating tray will help you store tins and jars that you can then actually see easily and not forget about at the back of the cupboard.
Searching for the best air bed? You’ve come to the right place: you might be quick to dismiss air beds as being synonymous with a terrible night’s sleep, however, we’re here to tell you that there are some innovative air beds available that offer true comfort. We’ve rounded up our top favourites, with everything from an air bed for toddlers to a luxury option for you to consider. The best part? Air beds are portable and storable – just fold them down, ready for next use.
The best mattress – replace yours now, with help from us
Why buy an air bed? Air beds are undeniably great when it comes to sleeping extra guests – and if your lovely new sofa is not an option. You’ll get good use out of an air bed around the festive season, or when the kids have sleepovers. Failing that, if the in-laws or older relatives are coming to stay, you will want to be able to offer a sturdy – and comfortable – sleeping solution. You can also take air beds with you on staycations, camping or to a family members’ house. Versatile? We think so.
Depending on what you’ll be using your new air bed for, we have got something for everyone. If you’re a serious camper your air mattress criteria will differ seeing as you will want something that is easy to carry, light and quick to inflate without the need for a power source. For kids sleepovers, you could probably make do with a basic single air mattress or mat. For use by adults and indoors, you’ll want to opt for something self-inflatable and super comfortable so as to avoid any sore backs in the morning. Look out for air beds that come with extra bedding, pillows built-in, or even sleeping bags.
The best air beds
1. Active Era Premium King Size Air Bed
The best air bed you can buy
Image credit: Active Era
Rated highly by more than 8,000 Amazon reviewers, this premium air bed takes just 3 minutes to inflate – thanks to its built-in electric pump, that is. Designed with a raised pillow for the ultimate neck and back support, this air bed actually featured 35 structured air-coils for maximum support, all night long. In other words: it’s the best of the best if you want an air bed that’s almost as comfortable as your bed at home.
Available in a range of sizes from single to super king, it’s even made with 5-gauge puncture-resistant material, plus it’s waterproof. It might not bee the most stylish looking air bed around, but rest assured that with some luxury sheets on top you should sleep like a baby.
This air bed ticks all our boxes, whether for sitting in your loft as a just-in-case or for monthly use in your spare bedroom. It can sleep anyone from grandparents to children.
2. Coleman Airbed Comfort Bed
The best double air bed for couples
Image credit: Coleman
Prefer a softer or firmer mattress to your partner? This air mattress may be for you, because of its dual chambers. Using the dual-controls you can inflate or deflate your own side of the bed to suit your needs. This means no more compromising on comfort – or rolling into the middle of the bed and waking each other up. Made from strong PVC this air mattress is robust and virtually puncture resistant.
It also features an airtight double lock valve system that locks in air two ways. This means it is almost leak-proof. You will need a separate pump to inflate it but Coleman offer a good range depending on your usage. Choose from battery-powered, rechargeable, mains operated or one you can connect to your car cigarette lighter socket. That will also come in handy for pumping up beach toys and other inflatables if you take it camping.
This is an extremely comfortable air bed for two and the velvety finish means you can lie straight on it – no sheets required.
3. Fineway Deluxe Inflatable High Raised Air Bed
The best luxury air bed
Image credit: Fineway
You might be thinking that the words luxury and air bed don’t belong in a sentence together, but boy: you are wrong! As proven by this Fineway Air Bed that looks the part and plays the part. It’s self-inflating with 35 coils for your comfort, plus it sits at a normal bed height, unlike other air beds that are usually low down to the ground. It has a double layer base and a bulged outer frame, to prevent you from rolling off onto the floor. The best part? A built-in raised pillow adds neck support and the top of the air bed is wrapped in a soft-touch waterproof cover. Just throw your fitted sheet on top and you’re all set for a good night’s sleep.
Not only can you inflate this mattress using its electric pump, but this can be used for deflating it, too – there’s not a lot of work for you to do with this one, clearly. It comes with a storage carry bag whether it’ll be used for weekend camping trips or when the parents come to stay.
4. The Shrunks Toddler Travel Bed
The best air bed for children
Image credit: Shrunks
If you are buying an air bed for a child – perhaps for sleepovers or occasional staycation use – then this one is your best bet. It’ll allow you to sleep peacefully thanks to its inflatable guard rails that will ensure your little one won’t roll out of bed. It’s also award-winning – and for good reason. It won’t squeak and wake them up when they roll over, plus it’s designed to be lower to the ground for added safety. There’s also the added sheet-tuck feature that lets you tuck their bedsheets into the inner air mattress, to keep them cocooned and cosy all night long.
A small yet powerful pump comes included and will get this bed inflated in 30 seconds. Also included comes a carry bag and a repair kit. Did we mention that this air bed is phthalates, BPA and lead-free? It also looks the part, too, with a white finish that shouldn’t stick out like an eyesore in their bedroom. Inflated, this air bed measures L152cm x W94cm x D23cm.
5. Outwell Dreamcatcher Sleeping Mat
The best air bed for camping
Image credit: Outwell
Start saving now as this is one of the most advanced self-inflating mats we could find. It is super light, weighing only 3kg, and is extremely supportive and comfortable thanks to its 12cm depth. Made from ultra-touch stretch polyester, these mats are built to last. They are also slip-resistant, guaranteeing a secure night’s sleep on uneven ground. To inflate the mat, you simply open the two flat valves at one end and roll out the mat, then sit back and watch. The foam will expand within two to five minutes, depending on how long it had been rolled up.
Another plus side is the fast-fit bags they come in. Forget about having to wrestle with your air mattress to squeeze it back into a drawstring bag. The Outwell bags have a simple split down one side so you can open it up wide, pop in the rolled-up mat then wrap the bag around to fit. We were really impressed with this, and thought it would come in useful if we were trying to pack up a tent in the rain.
Overall this is a very impressive self-inflating mat and definitely worth the investment if you’re a keen camper. Its deep profile with ergonomic shaping is second to none. Indeed, once you’ve spent a night on it you may not want to try anything else. Just don’t let your fellow campers know how comfortable it is!
6. Bestway Dreamair Premium Airbed
The best air bed for everyday use
With an integrated pump, this luxurious air mattress inflates in only 200 seconds – it’s quite a spectacle to watch! The pump is mains-operated so you just need to be within easy reach of a power socket. It also has a deflation option making it super easy and quick to pack away in a drawstring bag. And if you want to take it camping there is a separate valve which you can hook a battery-operated pump into.
Once inflated, this air mattress is huge, standing almost half a metre off the ground. If you top this with a 13.5 goose down duvet and fluffy pillows it will look and feel like a proper single bed. The sleeping surface is velvety soft and the unique rib design is there to prevent roll offs. Sewn onto the side of the mattress is a mesh storage pocket; we found this useful for storing our bedtime read, eye mask and smartphone.
How much do I need to spend on an air bed?
Depending on size and usage the prices of air beds can vary hugely. For an expedition-quality self-inflating mat, £60-£200 would get you a top-of-the-range single. If you’re after a straightforward air mattress for kids’ sleepovers, prices start around £10 for something fairly basic.
If you want to offer your guests something close to a real bed experience, look to air mattress experts Aerobed. A coil construction mattress starts at £130 for a double, going up to £330 for a raised king size. It may sound expensive but it’s still cheaper than your average sofa bed!
How to buy the best air bed for you?
What is the difference between an air bed and a self-inflating mat?
A self-inflating mat or SIM is a popular choice for campers and festival-goers. It is a thin air mattress with a layer of foam padding inside. They range from 2cm–12cm in thickness but check the width too, as they can be a bit narrow so you might want to upsize. To inflate, you simply open the valve to allow air to be automatically sucked in.
They roll up small, similar to your average yoga mat and are extremely light. Some people might find them too thin and firm. however, note that they can also be used with a camp bed base for an off-the-ground set up. Air beds follow the same sizing rules as regular mattresses but they can feel a bit smaller based on their level of inflation.
These air mattresses are a better option if you’re planning to share them with someone else. There are plenty available in a double or king size. The best mattresses come with long, tubular air chambers. This means the level of firmness or softness can be adjusted using the pump, which is either built-in or external. Some come with a special flocked velvet-like coating that eliminates the need for sheets as they are super soft to the touch.
How easy is it to inflate and deflate an air mattress?
This depends on how much your budget will stretch. There are three main types of pumps: a foot pump, an integrated pump or an electric pump. The majority of the top of the range airbeds come with a rechargeable or mains-operated integrated pump. They will also have a remote control that can inflate and deflate the mattress within a matter of seconds.
Self-inflating mats are a doddle as they come with a valve that, once opened, allows to the mat to self-inflate. You can then top it up with a few breaths, so no need for any extra equipment. Your average air bed comes with a separate pump that is either rechargeable or can be plugged into the mains for home use or into a car cigarette lighter socket. The latter is handy if you’re camping and can take up to 3 minutes to inflate.
Do air beds lose air?
Like anything filled with pressurised air, these mattresses are susceptible to springing a leak. Air beds do tend to lose air naturally and gradually anyway. If you notice a rapid loss, there could be a hole somewhere. But where? Follow these steps to help detect the source of the problem:
1. Blow up the air bed fully and then examine the entire sleeping surface and listen out for a thin hissing sound. An inflated mattress makes it easier to identify defects.
2. If the leak is too small, it might be hard to hear so another popular method is to gently wipe over the mattress with a soapy sponge and look out for small bubbles. Washing up liquid is good for this.
3. Once you find the hole, circle it gently with a permanent marker so you don’t lose it and then deflate it.
4. Most good air beds come with their own fixing kit. Each kit’s instructions may vary so be sure to read them carefully.
5. If your air mattress doesn’t come with a repair kit, there are many available online, or you can repair the hole in the same way as you would with a bike puncture.
Common reasons why air bed repairs fail
There are two things to look out for here. The first is that you shouldn’t patch up your air mattress while there is still air in it. Secondly, you need to make sure the surface is clean and free from any oil or dirt – you need a good surface for the adhesive to stick to. Sand down the surface lightly to ensure good adhesion.
Making great images is often about being in the right place at the right time. But that’s not always possible depending upon where you live, where you’re going, and the degree to which Mother Nature cooperates.
