How to Protect a Mattress When Moving Home or in Storage

One of the most important items to pack correctly when moving home is your mattress. Mattresses are not only valuable, but they play a significant role in your comfort and overall sleep quality. Having a good night’s sleep in your new home after a stressful day of moving can help you feel more at ease and relaxed in your new, unfamiliar environment. It is, therefore, important to make sure it arrives at its new destination unscathed. Within this guide we will offer you some of the best methods for packing and moving your mattress/s.

What should you do with your mattress while you move home?

When you are moving home you have a few options to consider when it comes to your mattress/s.

Move Your Mattress to Your New Home

If your mattress is new or in very good condition, it is best to move it to your new property, as buying another can cost in the hundreds.

Place Your Mattress in Storage

If you are moving to a property which is smaller, temporary, or furnished, you may have to place your mattress into storage. To do so follow these steps:

1. Use a vacuum and upholstery cleaner to clean your mattress. Ensuring your mattress is clean will allow it to maintain its quality throughout storage and prevent any mould from occurring during short term or long term storage.
2. Once the mattress is clean and dry place it in a plastic mattress cover bag. Plastic mattress covers provide a much more reliable level of protection from dust and pests finding their way into your mattress. It is always advisable to place some silica packets into the mattress bag to absorb any moisture that may inadvertently find its way in. These can be purchased online through various retailers for a small price.
3. If you are storing a mattress for longer than twelve hours make sure you place it flat onto the ground, as whilst standing it upright may save floor space but over time the internal springs will be at risk of damage.
4. When you collect your mattress from storage, remember to remove the plastic mattress cover bag and allow your mattress to breathe for at least twelve hours before making your bed. This will allow any odour associated with the plastic to dissipate.

Sell or Give Away Your Mattress

If your mattress is in good condition but no longer required, it is worth considering selling or giving it away.

Dispose of Your Mattress

If your mattress is no longer in good condition and you are considering getting a new one, it is time to dispose of it properly. This can either be done by yourself at a local recycling centre (make sure you check they take mattresses first), through your local council, or through a registered waste carrier.

Preparing Your Mattress For The Move

If you decide to take your mattress to your new home, follow these steps to ensure it is adequately protected:

1. Remove Bedding

Remove all bedding, including protectors, sheets, blankets, pillows, and comforters. These items should be packed separately and should be washed thoroughly before packing to ensure cleanliness in your new home.

2. Inspect and Clean

Inspect your mattress for any signs of infestations or damage. Moving companies will not move mattresses which have signs of bed bugs and will not continue with your move due to health and safety standards. If you notice any issues, it is essential to address them before packing. If you clean your mattress before transportation, ensure that it is completely dry by placing it in direct sunlight for at least 6 hours.

3. Use a Mattress Cover

To protect your mattress during the move it is best to invest in a high-quality mattress cover or storage bag. Your movers may provide these but if not, they are easily purchased through a majority of retailers online. Look for a cover made of thick polyethylene that fits your mattress snugly. By doing so, the cover will shield your mattress from dirt, dust, moisture, and pests.

4. Secure the Mattress

Place the mattress into the storage bag or cover, ensuring that all parts are protected. Make sure your secure the mattress with either the zip or high-quality tape to prevent any accidental openings.

Final Word

By following these steps, you can ensure your mattress arrives at your new home in the same condition. If you are feeling daunted by this task enlist the help of professional movers who can take the hassle out of transporting mattresses.