If you own a waterbed you may well realise that from time to time you may need to carry out a waterbed repair. To keep your waterbed in good shape and to avoid having to repair the waterbed a little maintenance from time to time can greatly extend the life of your waterbed.
Always keep an eye on the water level in your luxury king size waterbed mattress. Don’t overfill the mattress as when you and or your partner lay on the mattress water will be displaced by your body weight. With this in mind just fill and maintain the water level at the level of the waterbed surround.
After you have checked the water level remove any air out of the mattress because the trapped air can make a waterbed noisy to sleep on. Simply push air bubbles across the mattress to the waterbeds valve or faucet and allow the air to vent through the valve.
If you use a waterbed heater keep an eye on the temperature settings to avoid costly electric bills in warmer months. Aim for a constant 28 degrees in winter to stay warm and cozy but remember to turn down your heater in spring and summer for electric savings and extra comfort on warm nights.
Try to add conditioner to the waterbed at regular six monthly periods. The conditioner will reduce any growth in algae bought into the bed through the water supply whilst also protecting the internal vinyl of the waterbed. To keep the outer layers of vinyl fresh and in good condition wipe over with a cloth damp with warm water when you change the sheets.
Check your waterbed liner for dampness at six monthly intervals as this can often indicate whether you have a leak in the waterbed bladder. If you do find dampness check for leaks to the bladder in the corners of the bed, down the sides or on the top panel. These are the most commonly punctured areas. Should you find a leak don’t be tempted to empty the entire contents of the waterbed.
If you find a leak simply place a pillow under the area of the bed with a leak, this will lift the puncture above the surrounding area of the bed. Once the puncture is raised you can dry off the area and carry out a repair using a waterbed repair kit. These are not unlike a bicycle tyre repair kit, they come with a tube of vinyl glue and a set of various patches. Treat the area with waterbed glue then select a patch that will fully cover the puncture with room to spare. Place the patch and allow the glue to cure for a few minutes. Once the glue has cured check for leaks and refill the mattress if required.
You may be tempted to remove the liner just to keep an eye on the patch if you make a repair. Don’t! The liner may save further damage to your home and furnishings should the repair be poor. The liner will act as a second skin and catch a good deal of spilled water.