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Last Updated September 6, 2024
Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you need to store your mattress temporarily? Maybe you're moving to a new home, downsizing, or just need to store it away for a while. Whatever the reason, one thing's for sure – you want to ensure your precious mattress remains in pristine condition when you need it again.
In this guide, we'll discuss in detail how to store a mattress, addressing various types of mattresses and the factors to consider when storing them. We'll also explore why it's important to store a mattress properly and offer practical solutions to common challenges.
Key Takeaways:
Storing your mattress properly isn't just about keeping it clean; it's about preserving its comfort and longevity. Before delving straight into how to store a mattress, let's learn why proper mattress storage is essential:
Moisture is a mattress's nemesis, as it can lead to the growth of mold, mildew, and unwanted odors. By storing your mattress properly, you create a protective barrier that prevents moisture from infiltrating and compromising its integrity.
Mattresses can unwittingly attract unwelcome guests, like dust mites and bed bugs, if not stored correctly. Utilizing protective covers during storage serves as an effective shield against these pesky intruders, preserving the mattress's hygiene and healthfulness.
Incorrect storage practices, such as bending or folding, can harm the mattress's internal structure. This structural damage can negatively impact its ability to provide the support and comfort you rely on for a good night's sleep.
A well-preserved mattress can continue to deliver quality sleep for many years. Proper storage safeguards its material and construction, helping it maintain its original qualities and extend its lifespan.
By safeguarding your mattress against damage during storage, you can avoid the need for premature replacement. This translates to substantial cost savings over time, making proper storage not just a wise choice for your mattress but also for your wallet.
Here's how to store a mattress the right way:
Before you begin the storage process, thoroughly clean your mattress. Remove any bed linens and vacuum the surface to eliminate dust and debris. If there are any stains or spills, spot-clean them with a mild detergent and allow the mattress to air dry completely. A clean mattress is less likely to develop odors or attract pests during storage.
To store your mattress safely, you'll need the following supplies:
Mattress bag or cover: Invest in a high-quality mattress bag or cover that's designed to protect your mattress from dust, dirt, moisture, and pests. Make sure the cover is breathable and that you do not use a plastic mattress bag.
Mattress protector: For hybrid and innerspring mattresses with coils, consider using a mattress protector to shield the coils from dust and debris.
Straps or rope: You'll need straps or rope to secure the mattress and prevent it from shifting during storage.
If your mattress is part of a bed set, disassemble the bed frame carefully. Remove the headboard, footboard, and side rails. Label and store any hardware or screws in a secure bag to prevent loss.
Slide your clean and dry mattress into the mattress bag or cover. Ensure that it fits snugly without any excess material. Seal the bag or cover securely to keep out dust, pests, and moisture.
Place your mattress on a flat, elevated surface, such as wooden pallets or a sturdy platform. Elevating the mattress prevents it from touching the ground, reducing the risk of moisture absorption.
Use straps or rope to keep the mattress in place. Crisscross the straps or rope over the mattress, making sure it's snug but not overly tight. This prevents shifting during storage.
Select a suitable garage or storage unit that meets the following criteria:
Climate-controlled: Whenever possible, place your mattress in a climate-controlled storage unit to maintain stable temperature and humidity levels.
Clean and dry: Ensure the storage area is clean and free from moisture or leaks, which can damage the mattress.
Well-ventilated: Good ventilation helps prevent mold and mildew growth, so choose a storage space with proper airflow.
While your mattress is in storage, periodically check on it every few months. Inspect for any signs of damage, pests, or moisture. Address any issues promptly to ensure your mattress remains in top condition.
Storing mattresses requires different precautions based on their type. Here's how to store memory foam, hybrid, spring, and latex mattresses the right way.
To store memory foam mattresses effectively, lay them flat to prevent any distortion of their shape. Unlike other mattresses, memory foam cannot bear its weight on its side for an extended period, which can lead to a permanently hunched shape.
Moreover, when it comes to cleaning memory foam mattresses before or after storage, it's important to avoid upholstery cleaners. The porous nature of memory foam allows cleaners to seep through, making it challenging to dry and potentially damaging the mattress. Instead, opt for a gentle cleaning method using baking soda.
Always store hybrid mattresses flat to maintain their structural integrity. Also, just like memory foam mattresses, avoid using an upholstery cleaner.
Additionally, hybrid mattresses have coils that may develop raised spots if pressure is consistently applied to one area. To prevent this, make it a habit to rotate the mattress every few months during storage.
Latex mattresses are notably heavier than other types, making storage considerations even more challenging. Storing a latex mattress on its side can result in significant wear and tear on both its exterior and interior. The mattress's weight can cause the top portion to pull towards the lower half, leading to an uneven distribution of weight.
To counteract this, always store your latex mattress flat. This ensures even weight distribution and prolongs the mattress's lifespan, preserving its supportive and comfortable qualities.
Spring mattresses, while less flexible than other types, come with their own set of storage challenges. Bending them during loading into a storage unit can lead to damage to their foundation and internal structure. These mattresses generally wear out faster than others, so it's essential to clear any items placed on them before storage to prevent unnecessary compression.
Allowing extra room in your storage unit for a spring mattress is advisable. This precaution ensures that the mattress is not subjected to compression or damage due to a lack of space, extending its lifespan and maintaining its supportive qualities.
Your mattress is a significant investment in your comfort and well-being, so it's crucial to store it properly when the need arises. Whether it's a memory foam, latex, hybrid, or innerspring mattress, following the right storage techniques can extend its lifespan and ensure it's in excellent condition when you need it again.
Remember to keep it clean, dry, and protected from pests and direct sunlight. Investing in a high-quality mattress bag or cover is a wise choice. With the right care, your mattress will continue to provide you with restful nights for years to come.
Now, you're well-equipped with all the necessary information you need to know about how to store a mattress the right way and enjoy the benefits of a comfortable and well-preserved sleep surface.
To properly store a mattress not in use, we recommend laying it flat on a clean and dry surface, such as a platform bed, slatted base, or even the floor. Cover it with a breathable mattress bag or a clean, dry sheet to protect it from dust and dirt. Avoid storing it in damp or humid conditions, as this can lead to mold and odors.
Storing a mattress upright is not ideal for long-term storage, as it can cause the mattress to lose its shape and support over time. However, if you must store it vertically temporarily, ensure it's well-supported at both ends and does not lean against anything that could deform it. It's always best to store it flat, if possible.
Stacking mattresses for storage is generally not recommended, as the weight of one mattress can cause damage or deformation to the one below it. If you have to stack them, use a sturdy and even surface to prevent pressure points. It's better to store them side by side if space allows.
Compressed mattresses are designed for short-term storage or shipping, usually for a few months. We recommend unboxing and using your compressed mattress within six months to a year of purchase to ensure it retains its original shape and comfort. Extended storage in a compressed state may affect its performance.
It's generally not advisable to store a mattress folded for an extended period of time, as this can lead to permanent damage or creases that affect its comfort and support. If you need to transport it temporarily, fold it gently, and don't leave it in this state for too long. Always store it flat for extended storage to maintain its integrity.
Related blog posts:
1. How to Clean a Mattress the Right Way?
2. How to Get Pee Out of a Mattress
3. How to Get Pee Smell Out of Mattress?
4. How to Deodorize a Mattress?
5. How to Keep a Mattress from Sliding
Disclaimer: What is said in this article has been referenced from multiple sources and is intended only for educational and informational purposes. Please note that no content in this article is a substitute for professional advice from a qualified doctor or healthcare provider. Always consult an experienced doctor with any concerns you may have regarding a health condition or treatment, and never disregard any medical suggestions or delay in seeking treatment because of something you read here.
