How To Use Gear Doctors Self-Inflating Camping Pad

How to Use Gear Doctors Self-Inflating Camping Pad

This self-inflating camping pad uses open-cell foam that expands when the valve is opened. Let the pad inflate on its own first, then add a few breaths if you want extra firmness.

Video Guide

How to Inflate the Pad

1. Take the pad out of the pouch and unroll it on a clean, flat surface.
2. Open the valve and let the sleeping pad self-inflate. This usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes.

3. Add a few breaths by mouth if you want the pad to feel firmer.
4. Close the valve tightly.

5. Your sleeping pad is set and ready to use.

Pad Reference

How to Deflate and Store the Pad

1. After you are done using the pad, open the valve to let the air out.

2. After the pad is fully deflated, fold it in half vertically.

3. With the valve open, roll toward the valve while applying steady pressure to release extra air. When you reach the valve, apply extra pressure before closing it.
4. Use the compression straps to keep the sleeping pad rolled.

5. Store the pad in the carry pouch with the valve open to help protect the foam.

How to Clean the Pad

Periodic cleaning is recommended to prevent food, oils, or other materials from degrading the pad.

1. Fully inflate the mattress and close the valve.
2. Use a soft bristle brush with a mild household degreasing cleaner or detergent.
3. Rinse the pad and leave it unrolled to dry.

Never store your mattress wet.

How to Repair a Punctured Pad

1. Locate the leak by submerging the inflated pad in a bathtub and looking for bubbles.
2. If you do not have access to a bathtub, rub the pad with a sponge using soap and water, then look for small bubbles.
3. Clean the leaking area, mark it, and let the pad dry completely.
4. Press the repair patch firmly over the puncture.
5. Do not inflate the pad for at least 4 hours so the repair can set.

How to Replace the Valve Core O-Ring

1. Twist the valve open until it does not move any further.
2. Pull the valve cap out. You will be able to see the O-ring valve core.
3. Gently pick out the old O-ring valve core using a hairpin or toothpick.
4. Place the new O-ring valve core and press it into position.
5. Press the valve cap to close the valve.

Extra Tips

• Always check for puncture hazards under the sleeping pad area, including thorns, sharp rocks, and rough surfaces.
• Use a ground cloth beneath the sleeping pad unless you are sleeping inside a tent.
• Do not pressurize the sleeping pad with high-pressure pumps.
• Do not leave the sleeping pad inflated with the valve closed in a car or tent on a hot day.
• Do not contaminate the sleeping pad with DEET-based insect repellent, sunscreen, or chlorine.
• Do not expose the sleeping pad to long periods of direct sunlight.
• Keep the sleeping pad away from pets.

First Use and Storage Recommendations

• On first use, inflate the pad, add a few breaths, close the valve, and store it inflated overnight. This helps the foam expand to its full potential and lets you check the pad before a trip.
• For long-term storage, keep the pad unrolled, filled with air, in a dry place, and with the valve open.
• Good storage locations include under a bed, under a couch, on a shelf, or in the back of a closet.
• The foam can remember the shape it holds most often, so storing the pad unrolled helps it self-inflate faster later.
• If the sleeping pad is left damp for a long time, mildew can damage the cover. This is not covered by warranty.
• Always test the sleeping pad before your trip by inflating it overnight with the valve closed.

Warranty and Support

If anything goes wrong, contact Gear Doctors support and we will help you troubleshoot the issue.

support@geardoctors.com

Product Reference