Mattresses are one of those things you’ll want to keep when moving house, whether across town or moving out of state. It may be hard to imagine that moving a mattress becomes such a huge ordeal, but any person who takes their nights of sleep seriously, views their mattress as a worthy investment, or simply doesn’t have the budget for a brand-new bed, understands why. A reason it should be a part of your moving house checklist.
That said, moving a mattress isn’t always simple. If you’re wondering how to move a mattress without damaging it, you’ll quickly see why many people consider hiring professional mattress movers.
Still, if you want to know how to move a mattress by yourself, you can rely on proper packing and preparation to make it happen. From tips on how to pack a mattress for moving to advice on how to fold a mattress (if your type allows it), the goal is to make mattress transport as easy and stress-free as possible.
Regardless of whether you book a mattress mover to transport the mattress or carry it out yourself, protecting it properly ensures that it remains in excellent, sleep-ready condition.
➜ Related: How to Pack Bedding for a Move
How To Move a Mattress: A Step-By-Step Guide
Follow these eight simple steps to learn how to move a mattress safely, quickly, and without hassle. These tips will make mattress transport smooth and successful.
Step 1: Measure Mattress
Take your tape! To successfully move a mattress, it is essential to understand not only the type of mattress (twin, full, queen, or king) but also its actual measurements. Precise sizing will help you select the correct mattress bag, determine the best route for mattress transport, and use the safest method of mattress moving.
Knowing the dimensions makes the whole process smoother and prevents unnecessary hassle.
Step 2: Get All the Essentials Ready
To get started with mattress moving, the proper supplies will be needed. This includes mattress bags, heavy-duty moving tape, scissors, strapping or rope to secure the load, and a heavy-duty mattress dolly. Having these essentials makes mattress transport easier.
Step 3: Create Space Before You Start Moving
When moving a mattress, ensure you leave yourself ample space to manoeuvre. One cunning trick would be to pack it last, as it not only frees up space for other packing tasks but also provides a place to sleep until morning before your move.
➜ Here’s a guide to help you declutter your things for a better move.
Step 4: Get Some Help With the Heavy Lifting
Can you move a mattress by yourself? Technically, yes — but it’s not recommended. Mattresses are heavy, bulky and hard to control, which is why solo mattress moving can become a challenge. If you’re wondering how to move a mattress by yourself, well, to answer this question, even professional mattress movers hardly deal with it alone.
There is less risk involved when turning to a friend, neighbour or family member. Alternatively, you can contract or hire professional mattress movers to assist you with transporting the mattress.
You have to pay for the moving cost, of course, but trust us, it’s your best bet if you want a hassle-free move.
Step 5: Protect Your Mattress
Using a mattress bag is one of the most effective ways to keep your mattress secure and clean during transportation or storage. These bags come in standard bed sizes, but you’ll need the exact depth of your mattress to ensure a proper fit.
Most of these mattress moving bags come in pairs, and this is all you need, as you can pack the box spring in one and the mattress in the other. A sturdy bag is necessary for a secure and hassle-free transport of the mattress.
Step 6: Make a Clear Route
Before moving a mattress, clear the path by removing any fragile items, such as lamps, wall art, or décor, that a bulky, wobbly mattress could knock over. Creating a safe route makes mattress transport smoother and helps you avoid unnecessary accidents.
Having a safe path will ease the mattress transport and save you from avoidable accidents.
Step 7: Turn the Mattress on Its Side
If you’re trying to figure out how to move a mattress in tight spaces — such as low ceilings, narrow doorways, or rough staircases (basically, most moves) — you’ll need a strategy. If it’s hard to manoeuvre around, the best mattress moving method is to turn the mattress horizontally so it’s taller than it is wide.
It’s unusual to be able to transport a mattress while maintaining it flat, because you will always have to tilt it through door frames. This adjustment makes the process much easier.
Step 8: Load the Mattress and Tie It in Place
Use the mattress to fill up any space. One of the notable features of a mattress is its slim profile, which allows it to fit even in narrow spaces during transportation. When loading, leave a little space between the items and the side of the vehicle, and slip the mattress vertically on its side. This helps make mattress moving easier and also allows you to access them first once you arrive at your new home (and perhaps take a power nap).
Important note: Such an approach can only be used when you intend to unload shortly. Leaving a mattress standing for several weeks can make it warp. When storing, always place it on a solid surface to prevent long-term deformities by leaving it flat.
Here’s how to move and store different mattress types safely:
- Traditional Innerspring or Encased-Coil Mattress – Place it on its side lengthwise or flat (like its normal sleeping position), but avoid stacking anything on top.
- Memory Foam or Hybrid Mattress – Always keep it flat, on a sturdy surface, with nothing pressing down on it.
- Box Springs – Can be stored flat or on their side, but only place the mattress itself on top if needed.
Whether you’re figuring out how to move a mattress by yourself or hiring professional mattress movers, following these guidelines will keep your bed in top condition during mattress moving and storage.
How To Move a Mattress: Tools & Materials You’ll Need
That brings us to the main packing materials that we’ll need to make mattress moving flawless and successful. These essentials will help with everything from how to move a mattress by yourself to hiring professional mattress movers for easier mattress transport.
Mattress Bag
A mattress bag is an oversized plastic bag that keeps your mattress clean and dry when moving. Because these bags can sometimes tear in the process, it’s a good idea to double-bag both your mattress and box spring for extra protection. Ensure the right size to fit well, especially in terms of depth.
Measure by laying your mattress on the floor and measuring up to the ground with a tape or a ruler. The average mattress is 20-36 cm thick, but since many mattresses are on the larger side of the spectrum, always opt for a bigger bag.
Moving Tape
Tape is one of those essential supplies you can never leave out when moving the mattress. After your mattress is enclosed with a protective plastic bag, seal it with lots of moving tape. This additional precaution prevents the bag from ripping. It ensures that your bed doesn’t get stained or spoiled during the mattress moving process, whether you are hiring mattress movers or attempting to move a mattress yourself.
Scissors
Some might say that you use a box cutter to remove a mattress from its bag, but it is risky; one wrong step and you could cut the bag, or even worse, your mattress. Scissors are the safer choice.
They will allow you to open the bag smoothly, without jeopardising your mattress, keeping it in top condition for mattress transport or storage. This small decision makes a huge difference.
Rope or Ratchet Straps
After you’ve successfully moved your mattress out of your home, the next step in the mattress transport process is securing it in your moving vehicle. The most suitable tools for this task are ratchet straps (also known as tie-down straps), as they are durable fasteners that can securely hold cargo in place.
When moving a mattress, make sure to carry more straps than you anticipate. This way, in case the bed is bigger than you suspect, you can add extra straps for extra support.
If you prefer using rope, thick, industrial-grade rope that won’t stretch or snap under tension is preferable. Stay off bungee cords, which are too elastic and may leave your mattress unsafe and loosened. Strapping the bed well will help the mattress transport go smoothly and safely.
Furniture Dolly (Optional)
Not everyone has the power (or enough assistants) to carry a heavy bed – so, if you are looking into how to move a mattress without strain, there are effective hacks to make moving a mattress easy. You may try sliding it across the floor, or place it on some large piece of cardboard to lessen friction. However, the most appropriate is to use a dolly.
A standalone mattress dolly is preferable, as it has a safety slot to keep the bed in position; however, these may be difficult to rent. As an alternative, a traditional four-wheel furniture dolly is also effective, and you can use it on other heavy items and boxes afterwards. The right tools can make all the difference in ensuring a safe and stress-free mattress transport experience.
How to Transport a Mattress in Different Ways
When it comes to mattress transport, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. The right method depends on your mattress size, the type of vehicle you have, and whether you’re handling the move yourself or using professional Perth movers. Let’s look at the most common ways to move a mattress.
Cars and SUVs
Now let’s look at how to transport a mattress when you’re dealing with a full-size or smaller twin. These sizes are easier to handle and may even fit inside a passenger van or large SUV once the seats are removed. To ensure a proper fit, measure your vehicle’s cargo space against the exact dimensions of your mattress before attempting to move it.
Another option is to strap the mattress to the roof of a car, although this is the riskiest method of transporting a mattress and is generally not recommended. It’s difficult to secure properly, and you run the risk of damaging both your car and mattress — or worse, causing an accident. If this ends up being your only option, consider using a vehicle with a flat roof and roof racks. Place the mattress on top and secure it to the racks at multiple points to ensure it remains firmly anchored for the trip.
Moving Trucks, Portable Containers, and Cargo Vans (for Moving Only)
When it’s time for mattress transport, load the mattress on its side lengthwise and lean it against the interior wall of your moving truck, van, or container for support. Secure it with rope or ratchet straps — most moving trucks and cargo vans include built-in tie-down handles, making this step much easier.
For added stability during mattress moving, you can place heavy boxes or furniture on the exposed side of the mattress. Just remember: never stack anything on top of the mattress, as this can damage its shape and integrity.
Storage Containers or Units
If you’re planning to store a mattress in a unit or container, always place it flat on a solid surface and avoid stacking anything on top of it. Leaving a mattress on its side for extended periods can compromise its internal structure, resulting in sagging and a shorter lifespan. This simple step will keep your bed in great shape for when you’re ready to use it again.
How To Move a Mattress: Mattress Storage Best Practices
Most of us don’t think much about our mattresses beyond whether they give us a good night’s sleep. However, when it comes to mattress moving and storage, there are specific guidelines on how to store a mattress properly to maintain its great condition.
DO: Always Clean Your Mattress Before and After Storage
So, how do you move a mattress that’s headed straight into storage? The key is preparation. Start by vacuuming all sides to remove dust and debris. Next, use an upholstery cleaner or disinfectant spray to sanitise the surface, and then allow the mattress to air dry completely. Taking these steps before mattress storage ensures your bed stays fresh and protected long after the mattress moving process is done.
DO: Protect Your Mattress with a Storage Bag
When it comes to mattress storage, you don’t need to overcomplicate things — you can simply keep your mattress and box spring inside the same protective plastic mattress bag you used for mattress moving. This saves time while also shielding your bed from dust, dirt, and other potential contaminants. Ensure the mattress is completely dry before sealing it, and then ensure the cover is tightly secured for long-term protection during transportation or storage.
DON’T: Store a Mattress on Its Side
We can’t emphasise this enough: storing a mattress on its side for long periods can damage its internal structure and ruin it — whether it’s spring, foam, gel, or hybrid. I learned this the hard way after leaving a high-quality foam mattress on its side (with items stacked on top) for two years, and it never recovered.
For proper mattress storage and to extend its lifespan, always keep your bed flat on a solid surface. If you absolutely must store it upright, try to rotate its position every 30 days to reduce the risk of permanent damage during mattress moving or storage.
DON’T: Store Your Mattress in Extreme Heat or Moisture
Extreme temperatures and high moisture levels can severely damage a mattress. That’s why proper mattress storage means avoiding places like attics, basements, or garages, where temperatures, humidity, and moisture fluctuate. If you’re using a storage unit, always ask whether it offers climate or humidity control to keep your mattress in optimal condition after moving.
DON’T: Place Items on Top of Your Mattress
Improper mattress storage can cause your bed to lose its shape and damage its internal support system.
On the other hand, if you’re wondering how to move or store a mattress topper, the process is much simpler. Just roll it up tightly, wrap it in plastic, secure it with tape, and place it in a box with your linens or directly into the storage unit. Compared to full mattress moving, toppers are lightweight and easy to transport, making them far less of a hassle.
Take the Hassle Away From a Move!
Moving a mattress might seem like a hassle, but with the right preparation, it can be done smoothly and safely. Remember, when it comes to moving a mattress safely, careful packing and smart transportation are key.
If you’re debating whether to tackle the job on your own or call in professional mattress movers, consider the size of your mattress, the complexity of your move, and the help you have available. DIY can work for short distances or smaller mattresses, but for heavier beds, tight staircases, or long-distance moves, professionals make the process faster, safer, and stress-free.
That’s where The Smooth Movers come in. Our experienced team knows exactly how to move a mattress — from packing and loading to transport and storage — ensuring your bed arrives in perfect, sleep-ready condition.
Ready for a hassle-free move? Contact The Smooth Movers today and let us take the heavy lifting off your hands. Your mattress (and your back) will thank you!
