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Sleeping Pad Storage: Self-Inflating vs Air Pads

REI and Therm-a-Rest distinguish self-inflating foam pads from air-only pads: dry well, then follow the correct valve and storage directions for each type.

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Wikimedia Commons · Photo: Taras r / Wikimedia Commons; CC BY-SA 4.0; original image, unmodified · CC BY-SA 4.0 ↗

Not every camp sleeping pad should stay tightly rolled. Self-inflating foam needs room to recover, while air-only pads need protection from creases, sharp objects and trapped moisture. Your model's maker instructions always take precedence.

Your try-it-at-home checklist

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Identify your pad: a self-inflating foam-core mat, an air-only inflatable pad, or a closed-cell foam mat. The types have different storage needs.
After camping, remove dirt and body oils according to the maker's cleaning instructions. Check valve-care directions before using water and never put the pad in a washing machine.
Dry the exterior and folds completely. If internal moisture is a concern, follow the maker's inflation/ventilation procedure using a pump sack if appropriate; never aim hot air into the valve.
For Therm-a-Rest self-inflating foam pads, unroll, fully inflate and leave the valve open in a dry indoor place. Avoid keeping the foam tightly compressed for months.
For air-only pads, follow model guidance on loose hanging or rolling with the valve open. Therm-a-Rest NeoAir specifically advises rolling it into a sack with its valve open.
Avoid damp basements, hot car trunks and prolonged direct sunlight. Before the next trip, check the valve, fabric, and possible air leaks.

REI Expert AdviceHow to Store a Sleeping Pad ↗Direct REI care guide: external/internal drying, avoiding damp/high-temperature storage, self-inflating foam pads semi-inflated with valve open, air pads hanging or rolled with fewer repeated creases. Model instructions take precedence.Cascade Designs / Therm-a-RestFAQ - Therm-a-Rest Sleeping Pads ↗Manufacturer FAQ explicitly distinguishes storage: self-inflating mats unrolled fully inflated with valve open; NeoAir rolled tight in sack with valve open. Also cautions washing machine use and moisture.

Your try-it-at-home checklist

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