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Photo: Triocean/Getty ImagesYou might have a mattress sitting unused for the time being. Whether it's because your guest room isn't hosting visitors, you're in the middle of a move, or a college student is storing it for the summer, figuring out how to store a large mattress, like a queen or king size, can be tricky.
Discover the best methods to store your mattress safely, keeping it fresh and ready for the next use.
Things to Think About When Storing a Mattress
How long do you need to store it? What size is the mattress? Do you have enough space for it?
Proper Mattress Storage Tips
Storing a mattress goes beyond just moving it out of the bedroom—though that alone might require some serious effort! Follow these tips to make sure your mattress is stored safely.
Clean It Before You Store It
Your mattress might be hiding dust mites, stains, crumbs, or other unwelcome guests that could attract pests or cause damage while it's stored. It's important to give it a good cleaning before you tuck it away.
Start by removing all bedding and covers. Vacuum every side of the mattress, then treat any stains using a stain remover pen, a paste of mild laundry detergent, or another stain-fighting solution. Next, sprinkle baking soda on the mattress, let it sit for about 30 minutes, then vacuum again to help freshen it up.
Avoid using excessive water when cleaning the mattress, and ensure it dries completely before storing it. Leaving it damp could lead to mold growth.
If Possible, Store Your Mattress Flat
While storing your mattress upright against a wall or folding it may seem like a space-saving solution, it can cause long-term damage and make the mattress less comfortable to sleep on. This is especially true for spring mattresses or those with natural fiber fillings. Keeping your mattress on its side for extended periods can compromise its structure and comfort.
Take Temperature and Humidity Into Account When Storing Your Mattress
Excess moisture and extreme temperatures can harm your mattress and create the perfect environment for mold. (In other words, unless you're absolutely confident in your dehumidifying skills, you might want to skip the basement as a storage option.) For memory foam mattresses, especially, heat can cause the foam to break down over time.
If you don't have a suitable spot at home, consider renting a climate-controlled storage unit to help keep your mattress in optimal condition.
Keep Your Mattress Elevated Off the Ground
Ideally, place your mattress a few inches off the floor, whether on a wooden pallet, a bed frame, or another sturdy, elevated surface. This allows air to flow freely around your mattress, helping prevent moisture buildup and making it harder for pests to reach it.
Invest in a Quality Mattress Cover
We're not referring to the standard cover you use to protect your mattress from daily wear. There are special mattress covers designed specifically for storage. For short-term storage, a cardboard box that fits your mattress might suffice. However, for longer storage periods, choose a mattress storage bag. These options will safeguard your mattress and make it easier to move.
The built-in handles will make it much simpler to move your mattress into place when you're ready to use it again.
For memory foam mattresses, vacuum-seal bags can be used to remove the air, compressing the mattress into a more compact shape, much like it was when it first arrived at your door. This method works well for short-term storage, but for extended periods, the mattress may not regain its original form once taken out of the bag.
Keep the Stored Mattress Free of Extra Weight
It might be tempting to use the space on top of your stored mattress for stacking boxes and other storage items, but the constant pressure and weight could damage your mattress—especially if it's unevenly distributed.
The best approach: First, arrange your boxes and other stored items, ensuring an even, stable surface from one pile to the next. Then, carefully place the mattress on top of it, supported by a pallet or another sturdy storage platform.
How to Revive a Mattress After Storage
A mattress that's been tucked away in storage for months will need some refreshing before it's ready for someone to sleep on again.
Allow the Mattress to Breathe
Every few months while your mattress is in storage, unzip the cover and let it air out for a few hours to help release any trapped moisture from the mattress bag. Be sure to do this for several days before you bring it back into your home.
Check the Mattress for Damage
Examine the mattress carefully for any signs of mold, pests, or new stains that may have appeared while it was stored. You should address any of these issues before using the mattress again.
Sprinkle Baking Soda, Then Vacuum
Repeat the same refreshing routine you used before storing it: Sprinkle the mattress with baking soda, let it sit for about 30 minutes, then vacuum it thoroughly. Be sure to treat both sides of the mattress to freshen it up.
Now, you're all set to make the bed invitingly for yourself or a guest to enjoy.
