Enwild Q&AAnswer
Aug 18, 2023 - 09:21 AM
It is quite common for self-inflating mattresses to need additional assistance in reaching full inflation on the first several uses. This is usually due to the fact that they have been stored exclusively in a compressed state since production. After a lifetime of being compressed, the foam essentially has to "learn" how to expand. A little help with manual inflation will help them get to their fully inflated state, and inflation times will become faster with following uses.
For first time use, allow the mat to partially self-inflate by opening the inflation valve and inserting the small rubber toggle into the gasket, and leave the mat for several hours. Then inflate completely by using a pump, pump sack, or breath, and then close the inflation valve. Leave the mat for at least 24 hours in a warm environment to allow the inner foam layer to recover to its full volume. This process may need repeated the first several times, to give the foam time to maintain its new shape. When not in use, Exped recommend storing self-inflating pads with the valve open, for this exact reason.
It is also important to note the nature of "self-inflating" mattresses. A self-inflating mattress will typically only fill to about 75% on its own (once it has been broken in), and will need to be topped off manually. This is because the foam acts a sponge, but can only draw in enough air to reach a relaxed state. It cannot, however, pressurize itself. So, a reasonable expectation of self-inflation is approximately 75-80%, followed be some manual top-off to reach the desired firmness.
