Gone are the days when we used to buy heavy-duty Christmas decorations to keep in the front yard.
While there are people who still choose to buy big metal sleds and struggle, I prefer inflatable decorations. I cannot possibly carry heavy pieces at my age, which is why I always recommend inflatables. Plus, they are so versatile in terms of aesthetics and also affordable.
When my friend, Peter, came over confused a few months ago about what kind of decorations he should buy, I immediately recommended inflatables. However, he posed a fascinating question. He asked what the best way would be to fill these inflatable decorative pieces, and it got me wondering if more people are confused about this.
Hi! My name is Stacy Smith, and if you’re not a big fan of filling inflatables with your mouth, I have some better ideas. Once I helped Peter and gave him a few options, I decided to compile all that information into a guide that explains how to get more air into Christmas inflatables. Hopefully, this can be of some assistance.
Now, without further ado, let’s get to it!
How To Get More Air Into Christmas Inflatables
Do We Really Need Inflatables?
Inflatable decorations are everywhere - from gas stations to fast food chains. And no matter how many times you look at them and think how obnoxious they look, having them in the front yard seems like a fun idea. This is why the inflatable decor market is on the rise.
This is especially the case during Christmas. Christmas is when people like to relax, decorate their houses with family and be happy. Moving around heavy decorative items to the front yard can be pretty tedious. So instead, there are inflatables that are not only easy to carry but also store post-holiday season. Just deflate, fold and tuck away.
Ways To Pump Air Into Inflatables
The real question is, how do you inflate these inflatables to their maximum capacity? Peter said to me, and I couldn’t agree more, that there is nothing sadder than seeing inflatable décor slowly deflate. In order to prevent that, it is necessary to know of all the ways you can pump air into them.
1. Electric/Battery Operated Pumps
The most common way to blow up inflatables is by using electric or battery-operated pumps. These are the easiest to use since there is no manual effort required in this process. The process is pretty straightforward, and all you need to do is connect them to any power outlet, and they’re ready.
Just remember that most of these pumps come with quite a few nozzles, so you would want to check that the right one is being used.
2. Shop Vac
Now the biggest issue with electric pumps is the price. They can be a bit high in the price range and have low value for money, considering they aren’t needed that often. That’s why, the next best alternative is a shop vac.
If you have one lying around at home, with the correct nozzle, it can pump air just as well as any electric pump but without the added cost. Even if you do not have the right nozzle, the trick is to create a proper seal between the hose and the inlet. This ensures that all the air is pumped directly into the inflatable.
3. Hair Dryer
On the off chance that you do not have a shop vac or an electric pump, a hairdryer can also be used. It may seem to be a bit tedious, but it is pretty effective. Since the nozzles are not compatible with the inlet valves, it is vital to hold everything firmly in place and create a seal.
There have been instances where this has worked, especially in the case of small decorations and inflatable pools. However, I wouldn’t recommend it for more extensive inflatable decorations as it can be time-consuming despite being electric.
4. Manual Pump
Another way of pumping air into inflatables is by using a manual pump, instead of an electric one. They do not cost as much as electric pumps and are more efficient than hairdryers when putting air inside inflatables. Plus, they come in handy when there is no power source around.
The only issue is that they can get quite tiring, especially for bigger inflatables. I suggest buying a manual foot pump instead of a hand pump as the former does not require a considerable amount of effort to operate.
- Giant 14.5 FT Snowman Holiday Centerpiece: Make your home the neighborhood’s winter favorite! This massive 14.5-ft inflatable snowman features a classic three-sphere snowbody, a cheerful smiling face, oversized branch arms, bright red buttons, and a festive scarf. Its bold silhouette and friendly expression create an irresistible holiday centerpiece—perfect for photos, drive-by admiration, and spreading Christmas joy to everyone passing by.
- Brilliant Glow With 7 Dual LEDs: Equipped with 7 high-brightness dual LED modules, the snowman glows evenly from head to base, bringing his face, scarf, and buttons to life with a warm winter shine. The powerful LEDs create a clean, bright glow that stands out beautifully at night—far brighter and more durable than ordinary lighting.
- Built for All-Weather Safety: Designed for dependable outdoor performance all winter long. Our UL-certified blower delivers strong, stable airflow, while the IP68 waterproof motor keeps your giant snowman fully inflated—even through rain, snow, and freezing temperatures. No electrical worries, no deflation—just bright, reliable holiday cheer every night.
- 12ft Giant & Eye-Catching Design - Standing at 12 FT tall, this Christmas inflatable decor is a striking focal point. It instantly amps up the Christmas ambiance in your yard, park, mall, or any festive venue.
- Built-in LED Lights for Magical Nighttime Charm - Featuring built-in LED lights, this Christmas inflatable decor emits a warm, enchanting glow after dark. It transforms into a mesmerizing focal point in your yard, mall, or any outdoor/indoor space
- Quick Inflation with Built-in Blower - Equipped with a built-in blower and an adapter, it inflates within minutes after plugging in. No tedious assembly—just enjoy the festive decor right away.
Deciding Which Method Is Best
First of all, size does matter. Thinking that a manual pump can evenly fill an 8 foot Santa within seconds and keep it that way is futile. So pick a pump that can handle the inflatable, and if you aren’t sure which to choose, then electric/battery operated is the way to go.
Secondly, keep in mind the placement of the inflatable as well. Do not carry around a 10-foot inflated sled; instead, pump it where you intend to keep it. If there is a power outlet, electric pumps can work. If not, you can use an extension cord or a non-electric alternative like a battery-operated pump.
Lastly, all inflatables come with multiple inlet valves and zips. To ensure that maximum air gets in and nothing gets out, double-check all of these. Inflatables are also prone to tears, so have some tools handy to repair them.
Final Words
On that note, I conclude this short guide on Christmas inflatables. I hope these tips prove as beneficial to you as they did to Peter.
I know that it can get a bit worrisome to manage inflatables. But overall, they are an easy solution when it comes to decorating during the holiday season. The important thing to remember is to just have fun with it and, in the process, create an eye-catching landscape. I shall now take your leave, but I will be back soon with many more such guides!
See you next time!