Setting Up the Perfect Guest Room with an Air Mattress

Not everyone has the luxury of a dedicated guest bedroom with a permanent bed, but that doesn't mean you can't make visitors feel welcome and comfortable. With thoughtful preparation, an air mattress can provide a hotel-quality sleeping experience that leaves your guests genuinely impressed. This guide shows you how to transform any space into a welcoming guest room using an inflatable bed.

Choosing the Right Air Mattress for Guests

The foundation of a great guest experience is selecting an appropriate mattress. For home guest use, prioritise comfort over portability.

Size Matters

Consider who your typical guests are:

• Solo visitors: A double provides comfortable space without dominating the room
• Couples: Queen is the minimum; king if space allows
• Families with children: Multiple mattresses may work better than one large one
• Elderly guests: Consider accessibility—raised height mattresses are much easier to get in and out of

Height Recommendation

For guest rooms, we strongly recommend raised or double-high air mattresses (40 cm or higher). The benefits include:

• Easier access, especially for older guests
• Feels more like a "real bed"
• Standard bedding fits and drapes properly
• More comfortable psychological experience

Features Worth Having

• Built-in pump: Guests can adjust firmness without asking for help
• Quiet pump: Important if inflating while others are sleeping
• Flocked top: Prevents sheets from sliding and feels softer
• Raised edge/headboard: Keeps pillows in place

Preparing the Space

The room setup is just as important as the mattress itself for creating a welcoming atmosphere.

Floor Preparation

• Clean the floor thoroughly—vacuum carpets, sweep hard floors
• Check for any sharp objects or debris
• On hard floors, place a rug or carpet remnant under the mattress for warmth and comfort
• Ensure adequate space around the mattress for walking and getting up

Room Layout Considerations

• Position the head of the bed against a wall if possible for a more traditional feel
• Leave space on at least one side for getting in and out
• Consider traffic flow—don't block access to bathrooms or exits
• Ensure window coverings provide adequate darkness for sleeping
• Position away from drafty windows or air conditioning vents

Creating Privacy

If the air mattress is in a shared or multi-use space:

• Use folding screens or curtain dividers to create a "bedroom" area
• Bookshelves or storage units can serve as room dividers
• Ensure guests have a private space for changing clothes
• Consider noise—can guests sleep if others are still awake?

Bedding Essentials

Good bedding transforms an air mattress into a comfortable, inviting bed.

The Foundation Layer

Start with protection and comfort:

• Mattress protector: Waterproof options protect your investment and are easy to wash between guests
• Mattress topper (optional): A foam or quilted topper adds significant comfort and masks the "air mattress feel"
• Fitted sheet: Use quality sheets that fit snugly—deep pocket sheets may be needed for raised mattresses

The Bedding Set

Layer for comfort and visual appeal:

• Flat sheet: Essential for hygiene and comfort
• Blanket or quilt: A medium-weight option works for most seasons
• Duvet or comforter: Choose appropriate warmth for the season
• Extra blanket: Keep one visible in case guests get cold

Pillows

Don't underestimate pillow importance:

• Provide at least two pillows per person
• Offer different firmness levels if possible
• Fresh pillowcases are essential
• Consider keeping a few extra pillows available

Guest Amenities

Small touches make guests feel truly welcome and cared for.

Bedside Essentials

Set up a small table or stool beside the bed with:

• Lamp with easy-to-reach switch
• Phone/device charging station
• Glass of water or water bottle
• Small clock (helpful if guests don't wear watches)
• Tissues

Storage Space

Help guests feel settled by providing:

• Empty drawer or shelf space for clothes
• Hangers (6-10 per guest)
• Luggage rack or dedicated suitcase space
• Hook or space for robe/jacket

Bathroom Supplies

Even if guests share a bathroom, provide:

• Fresh towels (bath, hand, and face)
• Basic toiletries (toothpaste, soap, shampoo)
• Hairdryer access
• Makeup mirror (if available)

Thoughtful Extras

Go above and beyond with:

• Fresh flowers or small plant
• WiFi password card
• House guide (bathroom location, thermostat, etc.)
• Small snacks or treats
• Reading material (books, magazines)
• Earplugs and sleep mask

Making It Look Inviting

Presentation matters. A well-made air mattress can look as inviting as a traditional bed.

Making the Bed

1. Ensure the mattress is properly inflated—check firmness
2. Smooth the mattress protector flat
3. Fit the bottom sheet tightly, tucking hospital corners
4. Layer the flat sheet with finished side down (so it's pretty when folded back)
5. Add the duvet or comforter, smoothing flat
6. Fold the top of the flat sheet over the duvet
7. Arrange pillows at the head—standard sleeping pillows behind, decorative pillows in front
8. Fold a throw blanket at the foot of the bed

Visual Tips

• Coordinate colours for a polished look
• Layered textures add visual interest and warmth
• A bed skirt (if possible) hides the air mattress base
• Decorative pillows add a hotel-like touch but remove before sleeping

Before Your Guests Arrive

Last-minute preparation ensures everything is perfect:

Day Before Checklist

• Inflate the mattress and check for leaks
• Ensure the pump is working properly
• Make the bed with fresh linens
• Stock all amenities
• Test lighting and electronics
• Check room temperature control

Just Before Arrival

• Air out the room
• Final check of mattress firmness
• Turn on welcoming lamp
• Set room to comfortable temperature
• Add any last-minute touches (flowers, snacks)

During the Stay

Ongoing attentiveness keeps guests comfortable:

Daily Touches

• Offer to adjust mattress firmness if needed
• Provide fresh towels regularly
• Empty any rubbish bins
• Replenish water and snacks

Addressing Issues

Be proactive about common problems:

• If the mattress seems soft in the morning, explain temperature effects and offer to top up air
• Provide extra blankets if guests mention being cold
• Offer fans or adjust AC if too warm
• Have backup pillows available if theirs aren't right

After Guests Leave

Proper post-guest care extends mattress life:

Cleaning Routine

1. Strip all bedding and wash immediately
2. Wipe down the mattress surface with a damp cloth
3. Allow to fully dry before storage
4. Check for any damage that needs repair
5. Deflate and store properly (see our storage guide)

Storage Tip

If you host guests frequently, consider keeping the mattress inflated in a spare room or closet. This keeps it ready for spontaneous visits and avoids wear from repeated folding.

Common Guest Room Challenges

Limited Space

In small spaces:

• Choose a mattress that can be quickly deflated and stored nearby
• Use a lower-profile mattress if ceiling/furniture clearance is an issue
• Consider a fold-out sofa bed alternative if space doesn't accommodate a floor mattress

Multi-Purpose Rooms

When the guest room is also an office, playroom, or gym:

• Create a clear "bedroom" zone during visits
• Remove or cover work/exercise equipment
• Ensure guests have private space for sleep and changing

Noise Concerns

If the guest area is near living spaces or street noise:

• Provide quality earplugs
• Offer a white noise machine or app recommendation
• Add soft furnishings (rugs, curtains) to absorb sound

Final Thoughts

The goal of any guest accommodation is making visitors feel valued and comfortable. An air mattress, properly set up with quality bedding and thoughtful amenities, can absolutely achieve this. Many guests have reported sleeping better on a well-prepared air mattress than in expensive hotels. The secret isn't the mattress itself—it's the care and attention you put into the entire experience.

Looking for the perfect guest air mattress? Browse our recommendations filtered for home and guest use, or take our quiz to find the right match for your space and budget.