Whether you’re downsizing, repurposing an unused bedroom, or simply need to store extra furniture, you may need to know how to store a mattress. Proper mattress storage helps you avoid damage or unnecessary wear and tear while also keeping your mattress clean and sanitary. Check out our guide below for tips on how to prepare a mattress for storage and how to safely store it!
How to Store a Mattress in a Storage Unit
Storing a mattress requires more than simply moving it from your bed frame to a storage unit. Taking the proper steps helps preserve its longevity and keeps it ready for future use.
Measure Your Mattress for Storage
Begin preparing to store a mattress by measuring it to determine what size mattress storage unit you may need. Take note of the mattress’ length, width, and height—as well as whether you’re planning to store it flat or on its side—so you can be sure it will fit comfortably in your storage space. Best practice is to store your mattress flat with at least one square foot of space on each side.
Clean the Mattress
Mattresses absorb a lot of dust, dirt, and sweat, so it’s important to thoroughly clean yours before putting it into storage. Check the manufacturer’s cleaning recommendations first, as the mattress type can affect how it should be cleaned—some materials may require moisture to be used sparingly. Generally, follow these steps to properly clean your mattress:
- Strip off the bedding
- Vacuum the top, bottom, and sides of your mattress
- Apply upholstery cleaner for heavy-duty cleaning and leave ample time for the mattress to dry
- Spray a rag with mattress stain remover and spot-clean stains by blotting; avoid rubbing or soaking them
- Let the mattress air-dry completely
- Sprinkle the mattress with baking soda, let it sit for several hours, then vacuum it again to deodorize
- Flip the mattress and repeat these steps
Put It in a Mattress Bag
Keep your mattress clean and safe from pests by placing it inside a mattress bag before storing it, and secure the bag in place with duct tape if needed. Mattress bags are designed to shield against dust and debris while allowing some airflow, which helps reduce the risk of bacterial growth that can occur with thick, airtight plastic wraps. If you’re storing a mattress long term, plan to air it out every few months before resealing it. Many mattress storage bags also include built-in handles to make moving a mattress easier!
Keep Your Mattress Off the Ground
Storing a mattress directly on the floor will make it difficult for it to “breathe,” and make it more likely to be exposed to dirt, dust, and pests. Allow airflow from all angles by instead placing the mattress on wooden pallets. Additionally, if any moisture gets into your mattress bag, storing it off the ground will help it dry out more quickly.
Store Your Mattress Flat
Storing a mattress on its side or in a bent position will damage its internal structure over time, so the best way to store a mattress is to keep it flat and level. The condition of your mattress is extremely important to the quality of sleep you get and can impact your health, and internal structure damage can negatively impact these things.
Don’t Place Anything on Top When You Store Your Mattress
Putting things on top of your mattress in storage can lead to permanent dents or damage. If you need extra storage space, consider raising the pallets your mattress is stored on or keeping the mattress on its frame so other items can be stored beneath it. The last thing you want when you get it out of storage is a mattress that sinks in the middle .
Choose the Right Mattress Storage Option
While you can store a mattress at home, a storage unit is the ideal environment for storing mattresses since it keeps them out of sunlight, heat, and moisture. The steps for storing a mattress in a storage unit are the same as at home, with added benefits like increased security, decluttering your space, and long-term protection—particularly if you opt for climate control or dehumidified storage. You can also choose a storage unit with drive-up access to make moving mattresses and other large items easier.
Air It Out Afterward
Even with proper storage, your mattress may still be slightly musty after an extended period of time. To be on the safe side, let it air out in an open, well-ventilated space for at least a few hours before using it again. It’s also a good idea to air out your mattress occasionally while storing it long term. If it still has any odor after airing it out, try cleaning it or deodorizing it once more before use.
How to Store Different Kinds of Mattresses
The best way to store a mattress will vary depending on what kind of mattress it is. Consider these additional storage tips for different types of mattresses.
Storing a Spring Mattress
Spring mattresses are more prone to damage than many other mattress types, so it’s especially important to not put any extra items on top of them while they’re in storage. However, unlike other mattress types, you can store spring mattresses on their side for brief periods due to the reinforced internal structure. If you do this, be sure to turn the mattress every few weeks so the springs experience even wear over time.
Storing a Memory Foam Mattress
Memory foam mattresses are extremely flexible and should never be stored on their side, as this can cause the mattress to remain permanently bent. Plan to store a memory foam mattress horizontally on pallets or on top of heavier furniture. Another important consideration when storing memory foam mattresses is to avoid upholstery cleaner, which won’t come out of the foam the way it would from a standard fabric. Do not oversaturate the foam with too much moisture when cleaning, and make sure to completely dry the mattress before putting on bedding.
Storing a Hybrid Mattress
Hybrid mattresses contain both coils and foam and will need to be rotated periodically even while in storage so as not to wear out the coils. Every few months should suffice. Also, like memory foam mattresses, you should avoid using upholstery cleaner on a hybrid mattress.
Storing a Latex Mattress
Latex mattresses are able to be stored rolled up in a box, but only in short-term storage of 30 days or less. If they are kept rolled for longer than this, you risk damaging the latex with permanent indentations, or being unable to completely unroll and expand the mattress when you take it out of your mattress storage unit. Otherwise, store latex mattresses above the ground, and consider adding silica packets to your mattress bag to eliminate moisture that can damage the latex.
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Rent Cheap Storage Units Near You!
Looking for somewhere to store a mattress? Extra Space Storage has convenient storage facilities throughout the U.S. that can help you with your mattress storage needs.
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