How To Make An Outdoor Mattress? Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Helen Skeates
Helen Skeates
27 min read

Making a mattress for use in the great outdoors. It’s a fantastic plan to reuse the bed you already have.

It would be ideal if it could be shown in an outside setting.

It’s too familiar to see a bed, couch, or other household items within the house. Creating something new that is also a part of your outside would be exciting.

The majority of us head into the visitor center for a little downtime. I realized that there are days when lounging inside is just too dull.

So, I have planned for fresh air to enter, a soft place to lie down, and a stunning panorama of the outdoors to enjoy while doing so.

Steps To Make An Outdoor Mattress

A homemade outdoor mattress is a serious undertaking.

There are a lot of obstacles to overcome, but every once in a while, you should attempt something new.

Have you ever considered sleeping in a tent so that you can take in the scenery, enjoy some sunshine, and feel one with nature?

Well, hopefully this article will persuade you otherwise.

This is something that could be of use and would be beneficial to pursue.

If you already have a high-quality mattress and decide to upgrade, you shouldn’t just toss the previous one in the trash if it’s in good enough condition to be used.

20 DIY Outdoor Bed Projects & Ideas! | Balcony Garden Web

If you could come up with some fresh ideas, that would be great.

Just how does one go about constructing a mattress for use in the great outdoors?

If you want to sleep outside, you can easily construct a mattress.

If you follow these instructions, I promise you won’t regret it.

Step #1. Prep the materials

You’ll need a wide variety of cheap materials to construct the bed’s frame.

You might use boards that are 2 by 4 by 80 inches in size in the middle.

Finally, we have two sections that are half a yard and a half an inch in length for bracing.

Another alternative is a 4×4 post for the base.

Cut it so that each leg is 12 inches long; you’ll need a lot of 3-inch wood screws.

There are 12 total screws, all with round heads and measuring 4 inches in length.

All you need is wood glue, a drill, a Phillips screwdriver, and some wrenches.

Step #2. Making the center frame

Get things rolling with some basic cutting. You need to have a 76-inch chest and a height of 8 inches.

You’ll need 2 feet, 6 inches, and 76 inches for the headboard.

The headboard’s backboard is roughly 26 by 17 inches.

All you need to do to assemble a bed frame is some glue and screws. Starting from the inside, fasten it to the side.

Another piece of wood will need to be cut to fit inside the dimensions of the board frame.

Place it dead center in the picture. That’s a solid piece of evidence to back up my claim.

Step #3. Attach the legs

Once you’ve found a comfortable position, the next step is to plan for it.

That’s the part where you secure the bed’s legs. It can be inverted for use.

That’s the more practical approach.

The mattress plug must be on the bottom. Insert the legs into the board and ensure a secure fit.

You can double-check by drilling through both sides of each leg, but be cautious not to damage the opposite side while inserting the screws.

Step #4. Add a headboard

You can add a headboard wherever you choose.

Position the 26 17 vertically and drill it into the end of your bed frame.

Put these two pieces of wood together so that the joints are in the middle of each side.

It would bring harmony and balance to the design.

The length of the extended headboard will be used for the base of the frame.

Using three wooden blocks as a foundation, construct a horizontal wood plank.

It can be damaged or incomplete.

When adding a new horizontal board, you can leave a space of 1 inch between them.

Make sure it’s flush with the underside of the end piece of wood and that it sticks securely.

Put some adhesive on it, then screw it together. Then the longer plank of wood is what you need.

The headboard needs to be fastened to the foundation.

Make a mark on the underside of one of the bases to indicate where the other will be glued or screwed on. Absolutely no space for error.

Step #5. Paint

The final step in making the bed is to give the frame a fresh coat of paint. A wide range of colors are available for your selection.

Instead, I suggest going with a dark shade like brown or black.

Step #6. Throw in mattress

Your old mattress would be the very last thing to go in.

Put some lovely sheets and pillows on top to make it look more presentable.

Repurposing a used mattress is a great example of ingenuity.

However, before you throw it away, consider this.

Best Picks For Outdoor Mattress 2022

Our top recommendations for comfortable outdoor sleeping:

Hazli Outdoor Waterproof Mattress

Not only is this mattress comfortable, but it’s also portable, lasting for a long time, and measuring in at 75 by 36 by 3 inches.

Ideal When:

  • Thin individuals
  • Kids
  • Travelers

The cotton-encased Hazli twin memory foam roll-up mattress is convenient both at home and on the go. This Hazli mattress, with its memory foam layer, is great for people of any age and may be kept either indoors or outside.

This Hazli twin outdoor mattress comes with a removable, washable, and waterproof cotton cover. You can throw the cover in the washing machine and forget about having to hand wash it. The Hazli outdoor mattress is great for both camping and parties because the bottom is constructed of non-slip material and doesn’t slide around on the floor or tiles. The Hazli mattress works great as an outdoor futon.

The Hazli outdoor mattress is ideal for use as a sleeping pad when camping due to its compact size and light weight. If you’re the kind of person who likes to get out and about, then this portable mattress is made for you. The Hazli outdoor foam mattress is handy to transport because it collapses when folded. Although, it won’t squeeze into a tote very easily.

The Hazli twin memory foam roll up mattress is an excellent investment for $144.96, whether your children spend their time playing indoors or out. Twin size outdoor mattresses are not designed to support much weight, thus anyone weighing more than 140 pounds should look elsewhere.

PROS

  • Comfortable
  • Waterproof
  • Portable
  • Non-slip

CONS

  • It’s a little more diminutive in size.
  • Cannot be conveniently carried in a purse or backpack.
  • Adults only please!

Better Habitat Twin Outdoor Mattress

Some highlights include a 75 x 36 x 3 inch memory foam mattress that may be easily packed away in a carry-on.

Ideal When:

  • Adventurers
  • Those up to a weight of 230 pounds
  • Treating pain and soothing irritated skin

Better Habitat’s outdoor mattress is a memory foam pad wrapped in a cotton terrycloth cover that is both watertight and breathable. Since it is free of toxic metals and chemicals like lead and mercury, this organic mattress is ideal for those with sensitive skin.

The water-resistant and non-slip bottom of this twin-size outdoor mattress means it can be placed directly on the floor or tiles without worrying about water damage. There is no need to worry about ruining your twin-sized Better Habitat outdoor mattress in the elements.

This mattress is more portable than the Hazli outdoor mattress because it can be rolled up and put into a bag. The breathable cotton terry texture makes this outdoor mattress one of the most comfortable you’ll ever sleep on.

If you’re a camper, this will come in handy because it eases joint pain and gives you more energy. It’s ideal for anyone up to 230 pounds in weight and will alleviate any aches and pains you may have after a day of adventuring. You should be careful not to use your Better Habitat outdoor mattress like a camping mat, as doing so could damage the stitching. It is available for the somewhat steep price of $159.95.

PROS

  • Comfortable
  • Waterproof
  • Simple folding instructions
  • In a nutshell, it’s a perfect fit.

CONS

  • The quality of the stitching is subpar.
  • Pricey

Willpo Outdoor Memory Foam Mattress

Features: a compact, multi-use, and lightweight memory foam outdoor mattress measuring 75 by 38 by 2.75 inches.

Ideal When:

  • Adventurers
  • Guests
  • The need for restorative sleep balance

Memory foam and high-density supporting foam are the two main components of this Willpo outdoor memory foam mattress. The gray waterproof cover is easily removed and may be washed. Comfortable and one-of-a-kind Velboa is used.

The high-density foam used supports your body while you sleep so you do not get the “sinking” feeling. It provides optimal back support by evenly distributing your weight across your body. It’s great for campers who like to explore new places but still value a good night’s rest when the day is done.

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High-density foam is employed so that you don’t feel like your body is “sinking” into the mattress. There will be no more back pain because your weight is evenly distributed and supported. It’s ideal for adventuresome campers who desire a restful night’s sleep after a long day.

PROS

  • Lightweight
  • Portable
  • Excellent help
  • Prevents falling down

CONS

  • It’s not like the zippers are of outstanding quality or anything.
  • Unusual odor

Milliard Outdoor Folding Mattress

A low-cost, tri-folding, outdoor mattress measuring 75 by 31 by 4 inches.

Ideal When:

  • Positions where tightness is required
  • In a variety of contexts
  • Ache sufferers in the back

The Milliard foldable outdoor mattress is versatile and widely used. It has a white finish and a foam body for durability. This outdoor mattress serves many purposes thanks to its tri-fold design, which allows it to function as a bed, a seat, and a play mat for children.

This outdoor folding mattress features a bamboo cover that can be machine washed and dried. In order to keep the fabric from fraying, however, washing instructions must be followed with care. The four-inch thick, high-end foam that it uses to cushion and support your body is not only comfortable but also very long-lasting.

Because of its compact size, this mattress is ideal for those with limited floor space. It’s perfect for guests inside, but also great for camping, backyard fun, and more. Its compact design makes it ideal for occasional overnight trips where a bed is required.

An outdoor mattress that can be folded up and transported with no effort. It’s the most comfortable floor mattress you can buy and it will help keep your back and neck in line. However, if you sleep on your back, you may notice a strange sour odor. This outdoor futon mattress has sufficient padding but a relatively high level of firmness. This is a great deal at only $118.

PROS

  • Useful in a variety of contexts
  • Conveniently simple to disinfect
  • Effective in reducing discomfort
  • Use of only the finest materials

CONS

  • Unusual odor

ZOOOBELIVES Outdoor Mattress

Featuring a size of 80 x 28 x 4 inches, this outdoor mattress is suitable for a single adult.

Ideal When:

  • Adults
  • In case you sleep on your side,
  • Cargo transport

This blue pad is a self-inflating variety of thermoplastic polyurethane. You can just use the bag it came in to inflate it, no pumps or mouth inflation required. Its frosted touch surface, which dampens sound, is meant to let you get some shut-eye.

It is a multipurpose outdoor mattress that prevents excessive heat or cold from penetrating to keep your body at the ideal temperature. There are no dangerous chemicals in the ZOOOBELIVES single outdoor mattress. This outdoor mattress is great since it is composed of TPU material, which is non-toxic and has no chemical odor.

The single outdoor mattress has the issue of being too bulky and heavy to be easily transported in a backpack. However, it is transportable in a vehicle. It’s wonderful for those who prefer to sleep on their side, as it offers just the right amount of firmness. But it’s a little tricky to deflate.

The ZOOOBELIVES single mattress is spacious enough for one adult to sleep comfortably. This guest bed rolls up into a compact size and can be easily transported. It weighs close to 7.5 pounds, making it unsuitable for all but the longest trips. It’s available for $119. It is reasonable to pay the asking amount for this one-person outdoor mattress.

PROS

  • Mechanical separation of heat and cold
  • Extremely relaxing
  • It includes a packaging bag.
  • Has no artificial ingredients

CONS

  • Not anything that can be put in a purse
  • Short-distance travel is not recommended.

Outdoor Double Air Mattress by Coleman

Coleman makes the greatest outdoor air mattress with measurements of 11.74 x 6 x 15.5.

Ideal When:

  • Camping
  • For the aficionados of luxurious mattresses
  • Supple people who need something to lean on as they sleep

Air mattresses are not only very simple to set up, but also quite inexpensive. Polyvinyl chloride material and a queen size make up the Coleman outdoor double air mattress. The coil structure prevents you from sinking too far into the water. This outdoor mattress has a medium amount of firmness, making it ideal for all varieties of sleepers.

This outdoor mattress is taller than the majority of its competitors. Because of this, entering and exiting the bed is much less of a hassle. This is the greatest outdoor air mattress because of its plush top, making it ideal for people who prefer a softer surface on which to sleep.

The Coleman air mattress for outdoor use is double-sealed to prevent air loss under any circumstance. This air mattress can support up to 600 pounds before it starts leaking and deforming beyond repair, so use caution if you’re among the heavy set. Repeat inflation is possible with the help of Coleman air bed pumps (sold separately).

You can effortlessly fold it up, roll it up, and stow it away in the included carry case, making it convenient to bring along wherever you go. While there are better solutions available, it can also serve as a camping mattress. In comparison to other air mattresses, this one is cheap at only $65.

PROS

  • Affordable
  • Excellent help
  • Simple folding instructions
  • Portable

CONS

  • Possible leakage with increased pressure.

Lightspeed Outdoors Air Mattress

Lightspeed Outdoors’ single PVC-free air mattress is 78.5 x 32 x 6.5 inches and weighs only 10.5 pounds.

Ideal When:

  • Guests
  • For the aficionados of luxurious mattresses
  • Traveling

The FlexForm material is what makes up the Lightspeed outdoor air mattress. It’s a terrific air mattress since it has two air chambers, one at the top and one at the bottom, each with its own air valve, so you can simply customize it to your preferences. The bottom chamber traps air where you need it most to keep you comfortable as you sleep.

Comfortable sleep may be had on this ultra-light air mattress due to its soft surface. This air mattress is ideal for people who prefer a softer surface than a traditional mattress offers. Air mattresses often require a dedicated inflation bag that is sold separately from the mattress itself.

The Lightspeed outside single air mattress is PVC-free, so it may be used anywhere—inside, in the vehicle, or for overnight guests. The innovative FlexForm molds to your body’s shape while you sleep. It’s a terrific sleeping mat and works well on uneven ground.

However, because there is no protruding neck to pump air into, blowing up this lightspeed outdoor air mattress can be a bit of a hassle. You’ll need a mattress-specific pump because it’s so shallow. If you’re interested, I’m selling it for $75.

PROS

  • Allows for a more restful and airy night’s sleep
  • Lightweight
  • Comfortable

CONS

  • Inflation is a challenging process.

Double Size Nifusu Outdoor Mattress

Features a 7.1-pound lightweight outdoor bed measuring 12.56 by 11.26 by 7.17 inches ideal for automobile trips.

Ideal When:

  • Driving around in a car
  • Camping
  • Day trips that include picnicking and hiking

The Nifusu SUV air mattress, being portable and built out of PVC, may be stowed away in the backseat or trunk of an SUV. The lightweight design makes it ideal for travel, camping, or simply keeping the kids entertained in the garden.

The plush flocking finish will help you relax and drift off to sleep. To avoid overheating during the night, the PVC fabric utilized is both lightweight and permeable. With its electric air pump and convenient inflation funnels, this air mattress is ideal for use in the great outdoors. You can inflate it according to the mattress firm levels you require.

The plush flocking on the surface ensures a peaceful night’s sleep. There is no need to worry about getting too hot while you sleep because to the PVC material used. This air mattress for use in the great outdoors comes with a convenient electric air pump and a set of appropriate inflation funnels, making it simple to set up and take down. Inflate it to the level of firmness you prefer for your mattress.

Cleaning the mattress only requires a damp washcloth. As an added bonus, setting up the system is easy. Some people, however, have complained that the air mattress is too small for their space. Nifusu, a portable air mattress, may be purchased for $70.

PROS

  • Very simple to inflate and deflate
  • Temperature-friendly
  • Conveniently simple to disinfect
  • portable

CONS

  • Difficulties with Scale
  • Not something you can just throw in a bag and take with you.

The DTower Inflatable Mattress for Use Outside

Features an extremely firm 73.6 x 45.3 x 4.7 inch SUV air mattress that only takes a few minutes to inflate with a hand pump.

Ideal When:

  • Definition: a family of three or four
  • Driving around in a car
  • Camping

The DTower inflatable outdoor mattress compresses down small enough to fit in the back of a minivan or the trunk of a large sedan. Due to its compact foldability, it can serve as a convenient travel bed. A good night’s sleep is guaranteed because to the flocking surface. Since the PVC material is both soft and impervious to water, an outdoor mattress can be used without fear of being harmed by wet weather.

Wide enough to accommodate three individuals, this air mattress can be used outside. It is equally at home in the great outdoors or in the comfort of your own home. It has a great visual impact and stands the test of time with no wobbling. To put it simply, it can support as much weight as you can throw at it (660 pounds).

Inflation is a pretty straightforward process. The mattress may be inflated to the desired firmness in about 5 minutes. The standard household plug means that it can be used with a wide variety of different types of nozzle air pumps.

But the air mattress emits a foul odor, and its dimensions are inadequate, in the opinion of some. Having difficulties inflating this outdoor mattress is another common complaint. This mattress can be purchased for $56 and is ideal for use in the great outdoors.

PROS

  • Waterproof
  • Comfortable
  • Inflation is a breeze to set up.

CONS

  • Dimensions fall short of expectations.
  • Perhaps shed some light on the heaviness

Replacement Mattress for a QDH Patio Lounger

One of its many selling points is that it can comfortably accommodate two adults because to its generous dimensions of 16.38 x 13.73 x 6.77 inches when used outdoors.

Ideal When:

  • Couples
  • Camping
  • Furniture consisting of a couch, a chair, and a mattress

This QDH outdoor lounge chair mattress is the last but not the least all-purpose outdoor mattress available. Both sides of the fabric are a laminated pongee, making it very durable. You may relax knowing that the air mattress won’t be ruined if it gets wet because the fabric is watertight.

Most people sleep on it at night and use it as a sofa chair during the day because it is so versatile. It has four sections so you can customize the firmness of the mattress to your preference. Its wave shape provides ample cushioning, making for a restful night’s sleep. The one-of-a-kind structure effectively eases pain in the back, shoulders, and neck.

Two individuals can comfortably rest on the QDH outdoor daybed mattress. This outdoor mattress is perfect for couples who want to spend quality time together reading, watching movies, or cuddling. You can use it as a regular bed for guests if you choose. No harmful chemicals were used in the production of this mattress, and it can be simply disinfected thanks to its eco-friendly raw material construction.

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The air mattress may be inflated using the included electric air pump, and there are two different types of power cords (one for a car and one for a regular outlet). When you’re on the go, just deflate the outdoor air mattress and stow it away in the tote bag that comes with the set. However, depending on the loads applied, it may not always hold. You can get a decent mattress for a chaise lounge chair for around $70.

PROS

  • Waterproof
  • In a variety of contexts
  • Incorporates a tote bag

CONS

  • May not hold up for very long if loaded.

How To Buy The Best Outdoor Mattress

There are a few things to think about before purchasing an outdoor mattress, including:

Know exactly what kind of outdoor mattress you need before you start shopping. You can choose between an air mattress and a memory foam mattress, but the ideal option will depend on your personal preferences.

The goal here is to help anyone looking for an outdoor mattress for camping zero in on the best option. It should be sturdy and supportive enough, light enough to transport easily, and equipped to alleviate pain as an added bonus. When your camping mattress satisfies these conditions, you can hit the trail.

Some outdoor mattresses are cumbersome to store, so it’s important to find one that folds up neatly and compactly. For instance, a tote, a bag, the trunk of a car, or the backseat of a car.

Knowing the sort of pump needed to inflate an outdoor air mattress begins with researching the different nozzle types or inflation apertures each air mattress has. If the aperture is too small, you may have trouble locating a suitable pump.

Cost is something to consider while looking for an outdoor mattress. The cost of an air mattress for use outside is typically lower than that of a memory foam mattress used outside. It’s important to choose an outdoor mattress that fits your needs and your budget. Similarly, a high-quality outdoor mattress is a worthwhile investment.

Size and weight of the mattress are not priorities when camping. Mattresses designed for children or for use when traveling, for instance, can be lightweight without sacrificing comfort. A compact, lightweight camping mat is ideal for families on the go and for kids. The mattress’s dimensions should also suit your needs.

How To Take Care Of Your Outdoor Mattress

Many people make mistakes by not reading the description that comes with the outdoor mattress they buy. Do not machine-wash if care instructions specifically state to avoid doing so. Carelessness like this can shorten the lifespan of your outdoor mattress or cause it to tear.

Many people make mistakes by not reading the description that comes with the outdoor mattress they buy. Do not machine-wash if care instructions specifically state to avoid doing so. Carelessness like this can shorten the lifespan of your outdoor mattress or cause it to tear.

It’s common for consumers to make a costly error when shopping for an outdoor mattress by failing to read the product description carefully. Please do not machine-wash this item if the label specifically states not to. Such sloppiness might shorten the life of your outdoor mattress or perhaps cause it to tear.

It’s not a good idea to roll up your mattress too often, as this might damage the seams and leave your mattress with unsightly spots on the sides. To help you maintain a clean outdoor mattress, consider the following advice.

How To Waterproof A Mattress For Outdoors

There are several situations in which having a mattress that is both comfortable and watertight might come in very handy. Not only does it keep you dry when it rains, but it also comes in handy should you accidentally spill something.

A mattress can be made weatherproof for use outside in a few different ways:

  • Protect your mattress with a waterproof cover.
  • Waterproofing sprays can be used.
  • Waterproof bedding should be used.
  • Make a mattress cover that will keep your outdoor mattress dry by purchasing the necessary fabric and cutting it to fit your mattress.

How To Make An Outdoor Mattress

It is recommended that you purchase an outdoor mattress, but making one on your own is possible. Inexpensive materials and some effort will yield the desired results.

What To Use For Outdoor Mattress:

  • Protective sheathing for a bed
  • Cushions
  • Kit for doing repairs with needle and thread
  • Fabric made from cotton (lots and lots)

Process:

In the first place, you’ll need to measure the size of the finished mattress and grab two mattress coverings of the same dimensions. It could be a double, single, twin, full, or even a queen size outdoor mattress. It really is dependent on your specific needs.

Using your needle and thread, stitch together the three open ends of the two covers. Fill the do-it-yourself outdoor mattress with cotton or other soft garments. Depending on your preference for a softer or firmer mattress, you can customize your bed by adding as much or as little filler as you like. A thicker layer of padding can be added to an outdoor mattress to make it more comfortable to sleep on.

The quantity and size of cotton you insert into the mattress covers can further modify the mattress’s overall thickness for use in the great outdoors.

When you’re done stuffing it, you can either sew up the remaining opening or attach a zipper so it can’t be opened accidentally. While you could simply sew that side, a zipper would be much more convenient.

Ta-da! DIY outdoor mattress, you’re now ready to use. You may finally put it wherever you like in your yard or lawn. Relax, take a snooze, or spend quality time with your loved ones on our outdoor mattress. Have fun!

Conclusion!

If your old mattress is in decent shape, you can always put it to another use.

Fabricating an outdoor mattress is a good illustration.

We hope this article has helped answer your question, “How to create an outdoor mattress?”

I pray you have the resources to successfully implement your outdoor mattress.

Helen Skeates

Helen Skeates

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