How to Store a Mattress Properly: Our Top Storage Tips
There are many scenarios in which you might end up with an extra mattress you don't have space for in a bedroom of your home.
Perhaps you're downsizing to a home with fewer bedrooms, inherited a mattress from a family member, or have a spare one for a vacation home you rent. But because mattresses are significant investments, you probably don't want to just get rid of them due to occasional, seasonal, or future needs.
This is why Stop & Stor offers mattress storage and offers tips about how to store a mattress to lengthen its lifespan. Knowing how to store a mattress in a storage unit means keeping it clean, fresh, and damage-free during storage. In this way, you'll protect your investment and avoid the unnecessary expense of buying a new one when you need it again.
Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Your Mattress for Storage
Before discussing the best methods for storing mattresses, it's important to understand how to prepare your mattress before taking it to the unit.
Clean Thoroughly
The first step in cleaning is removing all the bedding and looking for stains. Then, using a mattress-safe cleaning product, spot-treat any stains you discover.
To remove dust from the mattress, use a vacuum with an upholstery attachment. To remove any lingering smells, sprinkle baking soda on the mattress, allow it to sit for an hour, and then vacuum again.
Then, flip the mattress over and repeat the same process on the other side.
Dry Completely
To prevent mold from forming on your mattress, it is crucial to allow it to dry thoroughly after cleaning it. The mattress should be fully aired-out to eliminate any moisture that accumulated during the cleaning process.
Once dry, then you are ready to consider storage covers for mattresses.
Choose the Right Storage Cover
Breathable plastic is the best material for storage covers for mattresses. Choose a thin, polyethylene plastic mattress cover so that it does not trap moisture inside. This material is much better than heavy or thick plastic, which can cause mildew and condensation. To prepare for mattress storage, use duct tape to tape the open ends of the plastic wrap.
An alternative solution for how to wrap a mattress for storage is a mattress bag with a handle for easy transport. Mattress bags come in standard twin, queen, and king sizes for a convenient fit. Before moving it into storage, ensure the bag has no tears or damage that would compromise its protection.
Select the Optimal Storage Location
Typically, the best way to store a mattress is in an offsite storage unit, where it is safely protected but out of your way and does not take up space.
In a Storage Unit
You might wonder, “Do mattresses need to be stored in climate control?" Well, yes, climate-controlled units are best for maintaining consistent temperatures.
When considering options for where to store a mattress, avoid units with extreme temperature fluctuations since excess heat and cold can damage the materials inside mattresses. Storing mattresses may involve hiring a moving truck with professional help to prevent strapping or bending them in a damaging way.
In Your Home
If you store your mattress at home, put it in a cool, dry basement or spare room. Avoid attics and uninsulated garages. In non-climate-controlled areas, run a dehumidifier to reduce moisture accumulation.
Position the Mattress Correctly
There are two primary rules for mattress positioning: lay flat and don't stack.
Lay the Mattress Flat
If you’re wondering how to store a mattress against a wall, don’t do it. Avoid storing a mattress upright or on its side along a wall because this can cause the internal fillings to shift.
If storing a foam or hybrid mattress, lay it flat to preserve its shape and ensure future comfort. A wooden flatform or pallet can help keep the mattress off the floor, with air flowing underneath.
Don’t Stack Anything on Top
Also, don't put anything on the mattress to prevent dents and deformations. If space is limited in your unit, consider shelving around the mattress.
Control the Temperature and Humidity Levels
The ideal temperature for mattress storage is 64 to 66 degrees Fahrenheit. We recommend our climate-controlled units for how to store a mattress in a storage unit. Otherwise, consider an air conditioner or fan in warm months to regulate humidity.
Ensure Proper Air Circulation
Once a month, access your mattress storage to allow fresh air to circulate the mattress. If you have a closed storage unit, a portable dehumidifier or one of Stop & Stor’s climate-controlled units can help maintain air quality.
At home, open a nearby window occasionally to allow fresh air inside around your stored mattress.
Regularly Check on the Mattress Condition
Now that you know how to store a mattress, inspect it every few months for damage or tears to the cover. Also, look for signs of mold, moisture, shifts, or lumps in the filling.
Address any issues immediately by readjusting the storage conditions or cleaning and recovering the mattress better.
Prepping the Mattress for Use Again
When you’re done with mattress storage and ready to use it again, vacuum and spot-clean the mattress to remove accumulated dust. Allow it to air out for a few hours before bringing it to the bedroom so that stale odors dissipate.
Once cleaning products have dried and the mattress is residue-free, put on fresh bedding and enjoy your mattress again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Store a Mattress Rolled Up or Folded?
You can only store rolled memory foam mattresses in these ways. All other mattresses should be laid flat for storage.
How Long Can a Mattress Be Stored?
Mattresses can be stored well for several years in the proper conditions and with regular checks.
What About Mattress Toppers?
Mattress toppers can be stored similarly to actual mattresses. Clean, cover, and store them flat in a cool, dry place to ensure their long-term durability and shape.
Safely Store Your Mattress with Us
We hope you've found these tips helpful about the best way to store a mattress and that you now feel confident about storing mattresses you don't currently need.
We have many facilities throughout New York with climate-controlled units to protect your mattress until you need it again. Browse our size guide to find the suitable unit for your needs, and check out our limited-time hot deals for the best prices on mattress storage options near you.
Stop and Stor has storage units that are perfect for mattresses and any other furnishings or household items you can imagine-with modern, clean and secure storage options in the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island.
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Storage prices our competitors can’t beat. Act fast, these storage deals last for a limited time only. Reserve now and lock in the best storage price for a FULL YEAR – GUARANTEED. Contact Stop & Stor today to learn more about our storage options.