Whether you’re cleaning for moving homes, keeping an extra mattress for a guest, or going away on an extended vacation, there are some reasons why you may want to store your mattress, but it’s important to do this properly. There are a few benefits to this such as preventing moisture, foul odors, mold, and mildew from forming over time, avoiding unwanted pest infestations, maintaining the shape and structure of your mattress, as well as prolonging its lifespan.
It may sound overcomplicated and difficult, but it doesn’t have to be. Here’s how to properly store your mattress, as well as a few simple and easy tips to preserve its quality!
How to Properly Store a Mattress
Step 1: Clean the Mattress
Before you put it up in storage, you’re going to want to clean your mattress to ensure that there are no remnants of dust or dirt left behind as this can be detrimental to your mattress over time. After removing all the bed linens and fabrics, use a vacuum cleaner to remove any debris and impurities from the surface.
If there are any stains on the mattress, use a mild detergent or a stain remover that’s specifically formulated to deal with mattress stains, making sure to take the time and read the instructions printed on the manufacturer’s label. Alternatively, you can also sprinkle some baking soda over the stained area to absorb any excess moisture and leave this for an hour before vacuuming everything off. Once you’ve removed all the stains, leave the mattress to dry completely.
Step 2: Invest in Proper Mattress Storage Supplies
There are a few things that you can get to preserve your mattress while it’s in storage. A high-quality mattress bag or cover, one that’s preferably made of breathable fabrics or light plastic, will keep your mattress free of dust, dirt, and moisture, while also preventing pests from infiltrating the fibers. It’s important to get a clean mattress cover that also encourages air circulation as this will keep your mattress fresh.
You may also need some straps or ropes to keep the mattress in place while in storage. When using these to tie around your mattress, make sure that they’re perfectly snug without being too tight as this will prevent the mattress from shifting too much.
Step 3: Find the Right Storage Space
Where you keep your mattress is just as important as how you prepare and package it. It’s important to find a location that has stable temperatures and humidity levels, such as facilities that have climate control capabilities. Should this not be available for you, you can always opt for a room with a dehumidifier installed.
The storage place also has to be clean and dry, free of any dust, dirt, or leaks that could unknowingly damage your mattress in the long run, as well as proper ventilation that could lessen the risks of mold or mildew forming.
Step 4: Regular Inspections
Even after you’ve successfully stored your mattress, it’s still important to check up on it once every few months to see if there are any signs of damage, pest infestations, or water damage. Should you find any of these, it’s best to address them immediately before returning the mattress back to storage.
Common Questions About Storing a Mattress
Should a Mattress Be Stored Flat?
A mattress should be stored flat, especially when it’ll be kept away for long periods of time. This will ensure that the mattress retains its quality and support even when it’s been left unused for so long.
Is It Better to Store a Mattress On Its Side or Flat?
When putting a mattress up in storage, it should always be kept flat to prevent any shifting and unevenness, which can build up over time. Keeping a mattress on its side, especially for extended periods, will increase the chances of it becoming disfigured and lopsided. However, it’s worth noting that this is fine for the short term, such as in moving or transportation.
Can You Store a Mattress Rolled Up or Folded in Half?
Similarly to storing a mattress on its side, keeping it rolled up or folded in half will encourage unevenness in your mattress and promote sagging. There’s also the fact that keeping it rolled up or folded can also cause permanent creases and folds in your mattress, which can be uncomfortable to lay on.
How Long Is It Safe to Keep a Mattress?
There is no definitive limit to how long you can safely keep a mattress in storage as long as you perform these regular inspections to ensure that it’s still in good condition. Thoroughly looking at it from time to time will help you determine any new damages, as well as how to adjust its storage situation to prevent it from happening again.
Can You Stack Mattresses On Top of One Another?
No, you shouldn’t stack mattresses on top of one another, or place any objects over your mattress when in storage, as this will cause damage, unevenness, and deformation. For storing multiple mattresses, it’s always a good idea to keep them side by side instead.
Final Thoughts
It’s perfectly normal to want to store your mattress away, but it’s important to do this properly to preserve your mattress’ structural integrity, quality, and comfort. Aside from taking the time to prepare your mattress for storage with thorough cleaning and adequate protection, it’s also crucial to store it in the right conditions, while also checking up on it from time to time and observing some good mattress storing practices.
