Your mattress is a field of dreams where you spend around a third of your life. But during a move or renovation, how can you store it so that it will still appear new when you set it up again?

We have garnered some practical tips we’d like to share on how to store a mattress so that when it’s ready for use again, it’ll once again be the field of dreams you remember!

How To Store a Mattress: A Step-by-Step Guide

The challenge is that your mattress is bigger than you. The good news is you’re smarter, and we have a plan.

Step 1: Clean the Mattress Thoroughly

This first step can be divided into three straightforward sub-steps.

First, remove the bedclothes and vacuum the mattress to get rid of all the dust and dirt [1]. Next, spot clean any noticeable stains, such as any spilled matcha or green tea, or coffee from your bedtime drink.

Third, sprinkle some baking soda on the mattress to get rid of any odors. Lastly, air the mattress for a short time.

Step 2: Protect the Mattress With a Cover

There are two basic ways to wrap your mattress for storage. You can use either mattress bags or plastic sheeting.

Using a bag is easy. Simply measure your mattress and buy the appropriately sized bag online or at a home supply store. Make sure the bag is made of a breathable material to prevent any moisture buildup [2].

Plastic sheeting will have to be cut to the right size so that you can carefully wrap the mattress like a big Christmas present. Choose a breathable plastic to combat moisture buildup, and seal it with packing tape.

Step 3: Choose the Right Storage Location

Of all the steps involved in how to store a mattress, finding the right storage location is key. Whether you’re putting the mattress in your basement or attic, or you’re paying for self-storage units, moisture is your biggest enemy. Find a well-ventilated space, and if possible, place a dehumidifier in the area in case it rains or gets damp.

If you’re figuring out how to store a mattress in a storage unit, keep in mind some unique considerations. For example, make sure to double-check that the facility is secure and has temperature-controlled storage for each season.

Step 4: Store the Mattress in the Right Position

Your mattress should always be stored lying flat on a clean and dry surface. If possible, elevate it slightly so that some air can get underneath it.

Step 5: Ensure Regular Maintenance During Storage

It’s a good idea to periodically check on your mattress during the time you’re storing it. See for yourself that it remains tightly sealed, with no signs of moisture buildup or pest incursions.

If you’re wondering how long to keep a mattress, it usually lasts between 7 to 10 years. Of course, how well you store it and take care of it will influence how long its actual lifespan will be.

Storing Different Types of Mattresses

How to store a mattress is not a one-size-fits-all affair. For instance, there are various things to consider if you’re planning to learn how to store a memory foam mattress as opposed to another type, such as the hybrid mattress model.

Memory Foam vs. Innerspring vs. Hybrid Storage Tips

  • Memory Foam: This mattress should always be stored flat. Avoid using commercial cleaning mattress solutions or upholstery cleaners; instead, clean it with baking soda both before and after storage.

  • Innerspring: Aside from storing it flat, rotate the mattress every couple of months to prevent the coils from sagging.

  • Hybrid: A hybrid mattress should always be stored flat and rotated occasionally to maintain even pressure on the coils so that they won’t sag.

Special Considerations for Latex and Air Mattresses

  • Latex: This type of mattress must always be stored flat. Because of its weight, storing a latex mattress on its side for an extended time may cause warping and damage.

  • Air Mattresses: The best way to store an air mattress is to deflate it, fold it up neatly, and put it back in its original box or provided storage bag. Always keep it in a cool, dry place.

If you want to learn more storage tips from real users, Reddit subreddits like r/Mattresses often feature interesting discussions about mattress care.

Common Mistakes To Avoid When Storing a Mattress

We’ve shown you a lot of things to do when it comes to how to store a mattress. No matter what kind of mattress you use, let’s talk about what you should not do:

  • Storing It on Its Side: Never store a mattress on its side for an extended period. This can cause interior parts like box springs to shift. Plus, it may create creases or bends in the overall shape.

  • Storing in a Humid Environment: Keeping your mattress in a cool and dry environment is extremely important. Moisture or dampness can cause mold and mildew to form, which will breed dust mites and allow allergens to form.

  • Placing Items on Top: Putting weight on your mattress for an extended period can put uneven stress on the springs and foam while creating dips and warps on the surface.

  • Using a Non-breathable Wrapping: A dense, non-breathable plastic wrapping will allow moisture to accumulate and contaminate your mattress. Instead, use a light, breathable plastic wrapping.

  • Rolling up a Mattress-in-a-Box: Rerolling a mattress in a box is a big mistake. Leaving it rolled up for an extended time after it has been unrolled and used can cause damage and warp the overall shape of the bed.

How To Prepare a Mattress for Use After Storage

We’ve discussed how to store a mattress long-term. Yet, when you’re ready to start using it again, then what?

Remove All the Protective Covering

First, carefully remove your mattress from the mattress bag or plastic covering. If you’ve taped and wrapped it, be careful not to slice the mattress if you’re using a knife to slit the seals.

Check for Any Damage

Look the mattress over to confirm there are no signs of mold, mildew, or any damage caused by pests. If you find anything, take care of it before reusing the mattress.

Clean the Mattress

Even if you don’t find any mold, mildew, or pest markings, it’s still a great idea to clean your mattress again before putting it back in the bed frame and using it.

Let It Breathe

Allow your mattress to air out at room temperature for a couple of hours. Give it a chance to breathe and allow any cleanser odors to dissipate.

Put On Fresh Bedding

Once your mattress is adequately clean and aired out, put on a protective mattress cover, fresh sheets, and a mattress topper. That way, you’ll be ready for a good night’s rest.

FAQs on How To Store a Mattress

Here are a few questions that others have been asking about how to store a mattress. Check out our answers below!

How Do You Store a Mattress Not in Use?

The proper way to store a mattress when you’re not using it is to clean and dry it, cover it with a mattress bag, store it flat on an elevated surface in a cool, well-ventilated area, and check on it regularly.

Should a Mattress Be Stored Flat or Upright?

When it comes to how to store a mattress, it should always be laid out on a flat surface that is slightly elevated. There should be nothing on top of it that might create any pressure on the springs or foam.

Is It Okay To Store a Mattress Vertically?

Thinking of how to store a mattress against a wall? While it may seem like a good space-saving idea, storing a mattress vertically is a big no-no. If a mattress is in a vertical position for a long time, it can become warped and trigger permanent damage to the springs and memory foam.

How Do You Keep a Mattress From Molding in Storage?

The answer to how to store a mattress in the garage, attic, basement, or a storage unit to keep it from molding is to do the following:

  • Clean and dry it. Then, wrap it in a breathable bag or cover.

  • Store it in a cool, dry place with proper ventilation.

  • It would be preferable if you kept your mattress in a climate-controlled storage space.

Final Thoughts on How To Store a Mattress

Hopefully, the advice we’ve just shared on how to store a mattress will make it as easy as lying on that same mattress and counting sheep. If you follow our tips, there’s a good chance you’ll stretch out on your well-maintained mattress again in the place where dreams begin!

References

  1. How To Clean Your Bedroom Mattress, Savage, Ken. Kindle Edition (2014, January 8) https://www.amazon.com/How-Clean-Your-Bedroom-Mattress-ebook/dp/B00AIF3LDU/

  2. 12 tips For Storing A Mattress, Extra Space Storage SpaceWise column (2025, January 23) https://www.extraspace.com/blog/self-storage/how-to-store-a-mattress/