How to Move a Mattress- DIY and Hiring Professionals

How to Move a Mattress

Rylan Steven
Written by:
Rylan Steven
Published Date: Jun 13th, 2024
how-to-move-a-mattress

Moving a mattress is not just about transporting a bed; it's about ensuring the comfort of dreams arrives safely at its new destination. While the task may seem overwhelming, it doesn't have to be. 

With the right approach, you can make the process manageable and safe. We will walk you through the steps to move your mattress smoothly, whether you are changing homes or just rearranging furniture. 

From gathering supplies to enlisting help, we will cover everything you need to know to ensure your mattress stays in good shape during the move. 

Wondering about the cost of moving a house? Check out “How Much Does It Cost To Move A House?

Preparing the Mattress for the Move

Preparing the Mattress for the MovePreparing the mattress before the move can be quite a task, but it sounds like you are getting organized! Here are some steps you might find helpful:

Step Description
Clean the Mattress Vacuum the mattress thoroughly to remove dust and dirt. Spot clean any stains with gentle detergent.
Protect with Cover Use a mattress bag or cover to shield the mattress from dirt and moisture during transit.
Measure Your Mattress Measure the dimensions of your mattress to ensure it fits through doorways and passages.
Clear the Path Remove obstacles and clutter along the route before moving the mattress.
Get Help Get assistance from friends, family, or movers to safely transport the mattress.
Did You Know?
Did You Know?

A typical queen-size mattress can weigh between 60 to 90 pounds, while a king-size mattress can exceed 100 pounds.

Essential Equipment Needed to Move a Mattress

Moving a mattress safely requires some essential equipment to protect it from damage and make the process easier. Here's a list of what you'll need:

Equipment Use
Mattress Bag Protects mattress from damage, dust, and grime.
Dolly or Hand Truck Makes moving the mattress easier with wheels.
Ratchet Tie Down Strap or Nylon Rope Secures the mattress during transport.
Cardboard Stabilizes flexible mattresses for transport.
Tape Seals the mattress bag to prevent moisture damage.
Retractable Knife Safely opens the mattress bag.
Tool Set Needed for disassembling and reassembling bed frames.
Sandwich Bags Keeps bed frame parts organized and prevents loss.

Curious to know about moving straps and how to use them? Click here.

DIY vs. Hiring Professionals

DIY vs. Hiring ProfessionalsChoosing whether to move your mattress yourself or hire professionals comes down to balancing cost and convenience.

Doing it yourself saves money and offers a hands-on experience, but hiring professionals ensures efficiency, safety, and peace of mind.

Let's compare the two:

Aspect DIY Moving Hiring Professionals
Cost Lower cost as you only pay for materials and fuel Higher cost due to professional service fees
Convenience Requires time and effort for packing and moving Offers convenience with professionals handling the process
Control You have control over the process and timing Professionals handle the process according to their expertise
Risk of Damage Higher risk of damage if not done carefully Lower risk of damage with professionals’ experience and tools
Time May take longer, depending on your resources Faster process as professionals are experienced and equipped
Physical Effort Requires physical labor for lifting and carrying Less physical effort as professionals handle the heavy lifting.
Stress NCan be stressful, especially for inexperienced movers Reduced stress as professionals manage the process efficiently.
Equipment You may need to borrow or rent equipment Professionals come with the necessary tools and equipment.
Did You Know?
Did You Know?

Mattresses come in various sizes, with the largest ones measuring up to 76 inches wide and 80 inches long.

Cost Comparison Between DIY and Hiring Professionals

Here's a simple breakdown comparing the costs of a DIY move versus hiring professionals:

Cost $80 - $300+ $300 - $1000+
Equipment $50 - $200+ (rental fees) Included in service fees
Transportation $20 - $50 (fuel cost) Included in service fees
Labor Your Time & Effort (no direct cost) Included in service fees
Additional Fees $100 - $200 (possible damages) Generally covered under service fees
Total Cost $80 - $300+ $300 - $1000+

Are you confused about how much to tip movers? Click here and remove your confusion.

Steps to Move a Mattress

Every move of a mattress showcases the care people put into their comfort. Let's go through each step thoroughly.

  • Put Your Mattress into the Mattress Bag: Invest in a mattress bag to protect it from dirt, moisture, and damage during the move. Slide the mattress into the bag carefully, ensuring it fits snugly.
  • Clear the Pathway: Before attempting to move the mattress, ensure the pathway from your bedroom to the vehicle is clear of obstacles. Remove any furniture, rugs, or other items that might hinder the movement.
  • Prepare the Transport Vehicle: If you are using a truck or van, make sure it's clean and ready to accommodate the mattress.
  • Lift with Care: When lifting the mattress, bend your knees and use your legs rather than your back to avoid strain. Lift the mattress with the help of another person if possible. 
  • Utilize a Dolly or Hand Truck: If you are moving the mattress over a longer distance, consider using a Dolly or Hand Truck to make the process easier. 
  • Load the Mattress into the Vehicle: Carefully maneuver the mattress into the transport vehicle, ensuring it remains flat and supported. 
  • Secure the Mattress for Transit: Use ratchet straps or bungee cords to secure the mattress to the vehicle, preventing it from shifting or sliding during transit. 
  • Drive Safely: When driving with the mattress, take care to drive slowly and cautiously, especially around corners or over bumps. Avoid sudden stops or sharp turns that could cause the mattress to shift or fall.

Transportation Options

Transportation OptionsSeveral options are available for transporting a mattress, depending on the distance, convenience, and resources available. 

Transportation Option Description
Personal Vehicle If you have a personal vehicle, such as a car, SUV, or truck, you can transport the mattress yourself.
Renting a Truck or Van If you don't have a suitable vehicle, consider renting one from a rental company. Choose a size that accommodates the mattress.
Professional Moving Services Hiring professional movers is advisable for long-distance moves or if you have multiple large items to transport.
Public Transportation Using buses or trains could be an option for smaller mattresses, though it requires careful planning.
Shipping Consider shipping the mattress through a courier or freight service for long-distance transportation.

Storing a Mattress

Storing a MattressProtect your mattress with expert storage methods to prolong its comfort and longevity. These are some of the best ways to store your mattress, whether for the short term or the long term.

Short-Term vs. Long-Term Storage

Short-Term Storage Long-Term Storage
Typically less than three months. Generally more than three months.
Store in a climate-controlled environment. Essential to use a climate-controlled storage unit.
Mattress can be stored flat or upright. Store flat to prevent sagging and structural damage.
Use a mattress cover for protection. Use a high-quality, breathable mattress cover.

Proper Storage Techniques

By following these essential storage tips, you can ensure your mattress remains in excellent condition.

Proper Storage Techniques Description
Clean the Mattress Vacuum and spot-clean the mattress, ensuring it's completely dry before storage.
Use a Mattress Cover Protect the mattress with a breathable cover to guard against dirt, moisture, and pests.
Store Flat When Possible Maintain the mattress's shape by storing it flat and avoid placing heavy items on top.
Elevate the Mattress Keep the mattress off the floor using a pallet or other elevated surface to prevent moisture absorption.
Climate Control Use a climate-controlled storage unit to prevent damage from extreme temperatures and humidity.
Avoid Plastic Wrap for Long-Term Storage Use breathable covers instead of plastic to prevent mold and mildew.
Regularly Check the Mattress Periodically inspect the mattress for any signs of moisture or pests.

Dos and Don’ts of Moving a Mattress

Dos Don’ts
Measure and plan ahead. Don’t bend or fold your mattress.
Protect your mattress with a cover. Don’t rush the process and risk injury.
Use proper lifting techniques. Don’t ignore the importance of securing the mattress during transportation.

Pro Tips for Moving a Mattress

Here are some pro tips for moving a mattress:

  • Recruit Help: Mattresses are bulky and often heavy. Enlist the help of at least one other person to make the process safer and more manageable.
  • Secure the Mattress: Use ratchet straps or rope to secure the mattress during transport, whether it’s on a roof or in a moving truck.
  • Keep the Mattress Upright: Keep the mattress upright whenever possible to maintain its shape and integrity. This also makes it easier to maneuver through doorways and narrow spaces.
  • Use a Furniture Dolly: A furniture dolly can make moving the mattress much easier, especially if you have a long distance to cover. 
  • Protect Your Walls and Floors: When moving the mattress, use moving blankets to protect your walls and floors from scratches or dents.
  • Consider Professional Movers: If the mattress is too large, heavy, or difficult to move, consider hiring professional movers who have the experience and equipment to handle the job safely.
  • Roll, Don’t Fold: Rolling can be a safer option than folding for memory foam or latex mattresses. Always check the manufacturer's guidelines before rolling or folding the mattress.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

You'll need a mattress bag or cover to protect it, ratchet straps or rope to secure it, moving blankets for extra protection, a furniture dolly for easier transport, a measuring tape to ensure it fits through spaces, and helpers or movers for assistance.

Cover the mattress with a bag or cover to shield it from dirt and damage, wrap it in moving blankets for additional protection, and secure it with straps or rope to prevent shifting during transit.

For a car, cover the mattress, place it on the roof, and secure it tightly with straps or rope. In a truck, stand it upright against the truck bed or lay it flat if space allows, securing it with straps to prevent movement.

Memory foam or latex mattresses can usually be folded or rolled without damage by folding them in half and securing them with straps. However, innerspring or hybrid mattresses should not be folded or rolled as this can damage their internal structure.

Clear the path and measure the stairway to ensure the mattress fits. Get help from at least one other person, cover the mattress, stand it on its side, and carefully navigate it around corners and through doorways.


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