Although water beds have fallen out of favor a bit in recent years, they were all the rage just a few decades ago. At the height of their popularity in the 1970s, practically every household in America contained at least one water bed. They boast an astounding level of comfort, but some maintenance is required. Newer beds tend to feature pump systems that make the task of filling or draining a bed remarkably simple.

When filling a water bed, take special care to wrap any potential leakage areas with towels and other linens. You’ll probably find it easiest to attach a garden hose to the pump. It’s then time to add some conditioner to mix with the warm water. Before you know it, you’ll be topping things off with a fetching set of waterbed sheets. Then lean back and enjoy your little piece of history.