Storing a mattress correctly takes a bit more thought than simply putting it in a spare room or garage. If you want your mattress to be in great shape when you take it out of storage, you need to follow some simple steps. Doing this will keep your mattress in good condition, prevent damage, and make sure it’s still comfortable for sleeping later. It’s not just about finding extra space-it’s about making sure the mattress is stored in a safe, dry, and clean environment the right way.
If you skip these steps, you might end up with a mattress that’s no longer usable-problems like sagging, mold, or bugs can make it very unpleasant. This guide will walk you through how to get your mattress ready for storage, where to put it, and how to take care of it while it’s stored. We’ll also answer some common questions at the end.
Why Storing a Mattress Correctly Is Important
Your mattress is something you use for comfort and restful sleep. Taking care of it even when you aren&rsquot using it helps it last longer. If you store your mattress in a damp basement or lean it against a dusty wall, you could end up ruining it. Taking a little time to store it right will help you avoid expensive problems later.
When you store your mattress the right way, you keep it safe from things like moisture, bugs, and dust. You’re protecting your investment and keeping your bed ready for the next time you need it.
What Can Go Wrong With Bad Mattress Storage?
- Moisture: Wet or damp places can cause mold and mildew, which ruin the mattress and can make you sick.
- Pests: Without a good cover, insects or even bed bugs can get inside. Once they’re in, they’re very tough and costly to get rid of.
- Physical Damage: Storing a mattress on its side for a long time, piling things on top, or folding it can mess up its shape and support, making it uncomfortable to use later.
How Storage Affects Mattress Lifespan and Comfort
The way you store your mattress strongly affects how long it will last and how good it will feel when you use it again. A mattress kept in a dry, climate-controlled, and clean place will keep its shape and support. But a mattress left somewhere damp or hot-or stored the wrong way-might wear out much faster, making it uncomfortable when you take it back out.
Why Health and Cleanliness Matter
Dirty, moldy, or bug-filled mattresses can cause allergies and other health problems. Mattresses that collect dust or mold in storage are not safe to sleep on. Keeping your mattress clean, dry, and sealed helps prevent these issues.
Getting a Mattress Ready for Storage
Before putting your mattress into storage, a few easy steps can make all the difference. This includes cleaning it, making sure it’s dry, and wrapping it well. This will help you avoid any issues with dirt, smells, or bugs when you take it out again.
Clean the Mattress
- Take off all sheets and covers and wash them separately.
- Vacuum the mattress well, using the upholstery tool around seams and corners to get rid of dust and debris.
- For stains, use a small amount of water with mild soap. Dab gently-don’t use too much liquid. Avoid strong chemical cleaners that can harm the material.
Remove Odors and Moisture
- Sprinkle baking soda on the surface and let it sit for at least an hour to absorb any odors, then vacuum it up.
- Make sure everything is completely dry. Even a little bit of moisture can lead to mold. Let the mattress air out in a ventilated spot and use a fan if needed.
Pick the Right Mattress Bag or Cover
| Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Thin plastic or mattress-specific bag | Protects from moisture, dirt, pests | If sealed too tightly, can trap moisture |
| Breathable storage bag | Allows airflow; prevents mold | May not be as waterproof |
Don’t use thick plastic that doesn’t breathe, especially for long-term storage. A breathable cover is best.
Seal the Mattress
Once it’s covered, use packing tape to seal any openings. This keeps out dust and bugs. You can also add a few silica gel packets inside the cover to help absorb any extra moisture.
Choosing Where to Store Your Mattress
The place you choose to store your mattress matters a lot. A stable environment is best to keep it from getting ruined, especially when it comes to temperature and humidity.
Home vs. Storage Unit
| Option | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| At Home | No extra cost, convenient | May not have a clean, dry space |
| Storage Unit | Can get climate control, more space | Monthly fee, travel to unit |
Climate-Controlled or Regular Storage?
- Climate-Controlled: Keeps temperature and humidity steady. Best for mattresses you’ll store for a long time or expensive beds. Costs more, but keeps your mattress safer.
- Regular Storage: No temperature or humidity control. Mattresses may get too hot, cold, or damp; this can lead to mold or breakdown.
Garages and Basements?
Only use these spaces if they’re clean and dry. If the area is damp or gets very hot or cold, your mattress could get moldy, attract pests, or fall apart. Using a dehumidifier can help a damp basement. Always make sure the floor is dry and there are no leaks.
Transporting a Mattress Safely
How you move the mattress is just as important as where you put it. Bending, folding, or dragging a mattress can break down the inside structure and ruin the bed.
Carrying and Supporting the Mattress
- Always keep the mattress flat if you can while moving it (like in a moving truck).
- Don’t fold or bend the mattress unless it’s a foam type made to be rolled for transport.
- Use a cover or plastic bag during the move to keep it from getting dirty or torn.
- If possible, get someone to help you carry it to avoid dropping or folding it by accident.
Preventing Damage
- Never strap the mattress to the roof of a car-it’s unsafe and can damage the frame.
- Avoid dragging the mattress on the ground or against rough walls.
- Consider hiring movers for large mattresses if you’re worried about doing it yourself.
How to Store the Mattress in the Storage Space
Once the mattress is safely in its new spot, it’s important to put it down the right way so it doesn’t lose its shape or get damaged.
Flat or Upright?
- Flat: The best way to store almost all mattresses. Keeps materials from shifting or sagging.
- Upright (on side): Only short-term (no more than a month), and with something soft in between the mattress and the wall to prevent pressure spots.
Vertical Storage Tips
- If vertical storage is necessary, lean the mattress at a slight angle instead of straight up.
- Place pads or cardboard between the mattress and the wall.
- Rotate the mattress every few weeks so one side isn’t always at the bottom.
Should Mattresses Be Stacked?
Stacking is not a good idea. The mattresses on the bottom can get squished and bent, and trapped moisture can cause mold. Store each one flat and alone if possible.
Keep Off the Floor
- Don’t put a mattress directly on the floor-moisture and dirt can get in from below.
- Use wooden pallets, a bed frame, or something else to lift the mattress off the ground and let air flow around it.
How to Store Different Mattress Types
What kind of mattress you have makes a difference. Here’s how to handle common types:
- Memory foam, latex, hybrid: Always store flat. These can lose shape or get damaged on their side or if rolled too long. Only keep rolled up if the label says it’s OK, and only for a short time.
- Innerspring/traditional: More sturdy, but still best to store flat. Keeping them upright too long can make the springs bend or go out of shape. Don’t stack things on top-this can squish springs and leave marks.
- Never fold a mattress unless the manufacturer says you can. Most mattresses aren’t built for this and it will damage them.
Checking Your Mattress While in Storage
If you’re storing the mattress for a long time, check on it now and then. This helps catch problems before they get worse.
Protect Against Pests and Mold
- Keep the mattress in a sealed bag to keep out bugs and dust mites.
- Use a dehumidifier if moisture is a problem.
Regular Inspections
- Every few months, look for holes, tears, wet spots, or insects.
- Airing out the mattress by opening the bag for a short time helps, but seal it securely when done.
Should You Rotate or Move the Mattress?
If standing upright, rotate every few weeks. If flat, this isn’t usually needed unless you see it sagging on one side.
What to Do When You Need the Mattress Again
When you take your mattress out of storage, do the following before sleeping on it:
Inspect
- Look for any new stains, tears, sagging, or pests.
- If there’s a lot of mold or bugs, it’s best to replace the mattress.
Clean and Air Out
- Vacuum the mattress.
- Spot clean any new stains and let everything dry completely.
- Let the mattress air out in a ventilated room for at least several hours-overnight is ideal.
Common Mattress Storage Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| How long can I store a mattress? | With the right prep and storage, a mattress can stay stored for years. Check on it now and then to make sure it stays ok. |
| Can storage void a warranty? | Yes. Storing the mattress on its side, in damp places, or keeping a rolled mattress boxed up too long often voids the warranty. Check your warranty details. |
| Are bed bugs a risk? | Yes. A mattress bag is necessary to keep pests out. Check for bugs during regular inspections. |
| Store on its side? | Only for a very short time-and with support. Flat is better for long-term storage. |
Storing a mattress the right way helps it last longer, keeps it comfortable, and protects your health. Clean it, dry it, cover it, and keep it in a secure, dry place. Check in on it if you’re storing it long-term, and give it a refresher before using it again. With these steps, your mattress will be in good shape whenever you need it.