Easy Fix: Sleeping Pad Has a Leak

Article by NEMO

Easy Fix: Sleeping Pad Has a Leak

All NEMO products are covered by our Lifetime Warranty and we’re happy to help repair your gear, but when the fresh air’s calling, sometimes you just can’t wait — that’s where this easy DIY fix comes in.

Holes can be patched! But first, they must be found. To do this, either submerge the inflated pad under water, section by section, or wipe it down with soapy water. When you gently apply pressure to the pad, you should see bubbles form where the leak is — mark the location. 

Submerge the pad in a bathtub to locate a leak.

A leak can also be found using a sponge and soapy water if you don't have access to a bathtub.

 

Tools & Materials Needed: 

  • Bathtub or large storage container to hold water 
  • Soap (optional)
  • Rubbing alcohol and clean rag 
  • Repair patch (We recommend Gear Aid Tenacious Tape) 
  • Scissors
  • Repair adhesive (We recommend Gear Aid Seam Grip)
  • Spoon or other hard, smooth tool  

The Fix: 

  1. Allow the pad to dry completely before repairing; this may take overnight.

  2. Wipe the pad clean with rubbing alcohol and allow it to dry once more.

  3. Using a thin piece of cardboard, spread adhesive onto the pad surrounding the hole (at least one inch on all sides).

  4. Cut a rounded patch (no sharp corners) large enough to cover the hole completely, as well as one inch of fabric on all sides.

  5. Stick the patch over the hole and smooth down into place using the back of a spoon, applying pressure across from edge to edge.

  6. Allow the patch to cure for at least two hours before using.

  7. Test your patch and confirm that all leaks are fixed. A good way to doublecheck is by inflating the pad, placing a heavy weight (like your packed bag) on top of it, and leaving overnight to see how the pressure holds over time.
Wipe pad clean with rubbing alcohol and let it dry before applying patch.

 

Apply adhesive.

 

Spread glue using cardboard.

 

Cover glue with a patch.

 

Smooth patch firmly with the back of a spoon or another hard object. Let cure for at least two hours and test overnight with a heavy object.

 

If you still need help, don't hesitate to contact our Customer Service team for further assistance! For more DIY repairs, check out the list our Warranty Manager and repair expert, Andrew Baxley, put together here.