Moving a mattress might seem straightforward, but it’s often one of the most challenging items to relocate. Whether you’re upgrading to a new apartment in Austin or relocating to a cozy apartment in Denver, mattresses are bulky, awkward to handle, and prone to damage if not handled properly. In this ApartmentGuide article, we’ll explore step-by-step strategies to move your mattress effectively and in various scenarios, ensuring it arrives at your new home in perfect condition.
Why proper mattress moving matters
Mattresses are a significant investment and directly impact your quality of sleep. Improper handling during a move can lead to:
- Tears or rips in the fabric, exposing internal components
- Permanent deformation or sagging, reducing comfort and support
- Stains or dirt accumulation, which may be difficult to clean
- Voiding your mattress warranty if it’s transported incorrectly
To avoid these issues, follow these step-by-step strategies for a safe and smooth mattress move.
Step 1: Gather your moving supplies
Before lifting your mattress, gather the right tools to protect it and make transportation easier:
- Waterproof mattress bag – Shields against dirt, moisture, and damage
- Heavy-duty packing tape – Seals the mattress bag securely
- Moving straps or handles – Helps with grip, especially for larger mattresses
- Dolly or hand truck – Ideal for moving over long distances or rough surfaces
- Ratchet straps or bungee cords – Prevents shifting during transport
- Protective gloves – Improves grip and prevents slipping
- Helpers – Most mattresses require at least two people to maneuver safely
Step 2: Prep your mattress for the move
Preparing your mattress properly will prevent damage and make the moving process smoother.
- Clean it – Strip the bedding, vacuum the surface, and let it air out for a few hours
- Bag it up – Slide your mattress into a waterproof bag and seal it tightly with tape
- Plan your route – Measure doorways, hallways, and stairwells to ensure the mattress will fit through tight spaces
Tip: If you’re moving in bad weather, double-bagging your mattress can provide extra protection from moisture.
Step 3: Move your mattress safely
Carrying a mattress can be awkward and physically demanding, so using the right lifting techniques will help prevent injuries and damage.
- Coordinate with helpers – Assign roles to maneuver around tight corners
- Lift properly – Bend at your knees (not your back) to avoid strain
- Tilt for stairs – Move the mattress edge-first to fit through narrow spaces
Tip: If your mattress is difficult to grip, adding moving straps can make it easier to carry.
Step 4: Loading and transporting your mattress
Once your mattress is prepped, the next challenge is transportation. Here’s how to load and move it depending on your situation:
Moving locally
For short-distance moves, you may be able to transport your mattress yourself.
- Personal vehicles – Twin and full mattresses often fit in SUVs or minivans with the seats folded down
- Pickup trucks – Lay the mattress flat, secure it with ratchet straps, and cover it with a tarp if there’s rain
Tip: Avoid tying a mattress to the roof of a car—it’s unsafe and could damage both the mattress and your vehicle.
Moving long-distance
If you’re relocating across the country, professional assistance may be the best option.
- Hiring professional movers – Best for high-end or oversized mattresses, as they have the proper equipment
- Using a shipping service – Some carriers, like UPS and FedEx, allow mattress shipping, but it must be boxed for protection.
Tip: If your mattress is old, it may be more cost-effective to replace it rather than pay for shipping.
Moving between apartments
Apartment moves present challenges like stairs, elevators, and narrow hallways.
- Elevators – Measure the elevator dimensions to ensure the mattress will fit. You may need to stand it upright
- Narrow hallways – Angle the mattress while having a second person guide it around tight corners
Tip: Wrap the edges in blankets or use furniture pads to protect walls and door frames from scuffs.
Moving without a vehicle
If you don’t have access to a car, you still have options:
- Rent a dolly – Ideal for short-distance moves
- Use public transit – Wrap the mattress in a protective cover and travel during off-peak hours
- Consider shipping services – UPS and FedEx require mattresses to be boxed for protection
Step 5: Set up your mattress in your new home
Now that you’ve moved your mattress, take a few final steps before using it:
- Unpack immediately – Avoid compression damage
- Inspect for damage – Check for rips, stains, or signs of moisture
- Let it air out – If your mattress was stored in plastic or compressed, let it breathe before adding bedding
- Position it properly – Place it on the bed frame to prevent sagging
Common mattress moving mistakes to avoid
Many people damage their mattresses by making avoidable mistakes during a move:
❌ Skipping a mattress bag – Leaves your mattress exposed to dirt and moisture
❌ Folding a mattress improperly – Can cause permanent damage
❌ Moving alone – Increases the risk of injury
❌ Ignoring weather conditions – Moisture can ruin your mattress
How to store a mattress properly
If you’re not moving your mattress right away or need to store it for a while, taking the right precautions will help keep it in good condition.
- Clean it thoroughly – Vacuum the surface to remove dust and allergens, sprinkle baking soda to absorb odors, and spot clean any stains with a mild detergent. Make sure it’s completely dry before storing to prevent mold or mildew.
- Use a breathable storage bag – Avoid plastic, as it can trap moisture. A fabric or ventilated mattress bag will help protect against dust and pests while allowing airflow.
- Choose a climate-controlled space – Extreme temperatures and humidity can damage a mattress. A climate-controlled storage unit or a cool, dry indoor space is ideal.
- Store it flat – Keeping the mattress flat helps maintain its structure and prevents material shifting. If space is limited and you must store it upright, try to rotate it periodically to prevent warping.
- Avoid heavy stacking – Don’t place heavy furniture or boxes on top of the mattress, as this can cause permanent indentations. If needed, use lightweight bedding or pillows for cushioning.
- Check on it periodically – If storing long-term, inspect your mattress every few months for signs of moisture, pests, or damage. Airing it out occasionally can help keep it fresh.
What if you’re not moving your mattress? Disposal & donation options
If you’re replacing your mattress instead of moving it, consider recycling or donating instead of throwing it away.
- Bulk pickup services – Many cities offer free or low-cost pickup for large items
- Recycling programs – Websites like Earth911 and Bye Bye Mattress can help you find mattress recycling centers
- Donation options – If your mattress is in good condition, organizations like Habitat for Humanity and some Goodwill locations may accept it
If you’re planning a move, make sure to check out our rental calculator to find the perfect budget for your next home.