How to Empty a Waterbed Mattress Safely

Emptying a waterbed mattress requires careful preparation to avoid damage, spills, or injury. This guide details proven techniques using pumps or gravity siphons, addressing free-flow and waveless models with internal baffles.

Why Drain Your Waterbed?

Waterbeds, popular in the 1980s and 1990s, hold 100-200 gallons of water, weighing up to 2,000 pounds when full. Draining becomes necessary for relocation, deep cleaning, conditioners replacement, or switching to a different sleep setup. Proper draining prevents mold growth during storage and eases frame disassembly.

Gathering Essential Tools and Materials

Before starting, assemble these items to streamline the process:

• Heavy-duty garden hose (3/4-inch diameter, 25-50 feet long)
• Waterbed drain pump (submersible or external, if available)
• Towels, buckets, and absorbent mats for spills
• Waterproof tape or valve adapters for secure hose connections
• Screwdriver or pliers for valve access
• Extension ladder if draining to a lower level like outdoors
• Protective gloves and old clothing

For waveless waterbeds with fiber baffles, add a flashlight to inspect the valve area. Pumps speed up draining to 30-60 minutes; siphons take 2-4 hours depending on height differential.

Safety Measures Before You Begin

Prioritize safety to prevent electrical shocks or slips:

• Unplug the heater and any conditioners immediately to eliminate hazards.
• Turn off the home water supply if filling the hose for priming.
• Clear the room of obstacles; wear non-slip shoes.
• Position the drain hose away from electrical outlets and carpets.
• Work with a partner for heavy lifting, especially on stairs.

Waterbed water may contain algaecides or conditioners; dispose responsibly per local regulations, avoiding storm drains.

Removing Air from the Mattress

All waterbeds trap air at the valves, which must be expelled (“burping”) for efficient draining. Here’s how:

1. Remove sheets, pads, and baffles.
2. Locate the corner valve (usually head-end corner).
3. Unscrew the cap slowly; press firmly on the mattress center to push air out with a hissing sound.
4. Repeat 3-5 times until no bubbles emerge.
5. Replace the cap tightly to block re-entry air.

This step takes 5-10 minutes and prevents siphon failures.

Method 1: Draining with a Pump

Pumps are the fastest, cleanest option for most users.

Submersible Pump Setup

1. Insert the pump hose into the valve, securing with tape for an airtight fit.
2. Place the pump inside the mattress if designed for it, or attach externally.
3. Run the discharge hose to a floor drain, bathtub, or outside.
4. Plug in and activate; monitor for clogs.

Expect full drainage in under an hour. Videos from manufacturers demonstrate exact placements.

Troubleshooting Pump Issues

Method 2: Gravity Siphon Without a Pump

Ideal for pump-less scenarios; relies on physics for water flow.

Preparing Waveless Mattresses with Fiber

Fiber baffles absorb water, blocking valves. Create a clear path:

• Position fists beside the valve.
• Push fiber toward the foot-end repeatedly (5-10 times).
• Shine a light to confirm a fiber-free well around the valve.

Starting the Siphon

1. Tape the hose end to match valve diameter exactly.
2. Twist hose into valve for airtight seal.
3. Carry the free hose end to a water faucet below bed level.
4. Fill hose via faucet until water reaches the valve (primes without sucking).
5. Disconnect faucet; drop hose end lower than mattress (e.g., down stairs or out window).
6. Water flows via vacuum; flow rate peaks at 5-10 gallons/minute with good height.

Monitor connections; adjust hose to avoid kinks. For upstairs beds, route out a window safely.

Handling the Final Stages of Drainage

As water level drops, fiber retains 20-50 gallons.

• Fold and squeeze: Lift head-end, accordion-fold toward valve, then jump or press to expel water.
• Twist ends like a towel for last drops.
• Quickly cap the valve to prevent fiber shift or mold.

The deflated mattress weighs 50-100 pounds; fold carefully to preserve baffles.

Cleaning and Conditioner Management

Post-drain, refresh the mattress:

• Vacuum baffles with a shop vac.
• Wipe interior with mild soap; rinse thoroughly.
• Add fresh conditioner (1 ounce per 100 gallons) before refilling to prevent algae.
• Air dry 24-48 hours if storing.

Transporting and Storing the Empty Mattress

Folding technique: Fold in thirds lengthwise, then roll loosely. Avoid creasing sharply to prevent leaks.

Store flat in a cool, dry place; elevate off floors. Use breathable covers. For moves, secure in a truck bed away from direct sun.

Refilling Your Waterbed

Reverse the process safely:

1. Unfold in frame; connect heater.
2. Attach fill hose to valve and faucet.
3. Fill slowly to avoid wrinkles; burp air frequently.
4. Top off over 24 hours as it settles; add conditioner.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Rushing burping, causing air locks.
• Poor hose seals leading to leaks.
• Ignoring fiber in waveless models.
• Disposing water improperly.
• Moving without full drainage, risking tears.

FAQ

How long does draining take without a pump?

2-4 hours, faster with greater height difference.

Can I drink the waterbed water?

No; it contains conditioners. Dispose safely.

What if my valve won’t unscrew?

Apply hot water or lubricant; use pliers gently.

Is siphoning safe for all waterbeds?

Best for free-flow; waveless needs fiber prep.

How do I know if my mattress has fiber?

Check for minimal wave motion when full.