How to Store a Mattress Without Damaging It
How to store a mattress without damaging it isn't complicated, but it does require the right approach. Do it wrong, and you'll open the door to mold, sagging, pests, and permanent damage that can cost you hundreds of dollars. Do it right, and your mattress stays in like-new condition for months or even years.
In this guide, I'll walk you through the exact steps to store a mattress safely, what to avoid, and why each step matters.
The Quick Answer
Properly storing a mattress comes down to four key steps: clean and fully air-dry it first, wrap it in a breathable cover (not plastic), lay it flat in your storage unit, and never stack heavy items on top. This protects against moisture damage, mold, sagging, and pest infestations.
Why Proper Mattress Storage Matters
Before you store that mattress, let's talk about what can go wrong if you skip the right steps.
Mold and mildew thrive in damp environments. If moisture gets trapped inside your mattress during storage, you're creating the perfect breeding ground. Once mold takes hold, it's nearly impossible to get out, and your mattress becomes a health hazard.
Sagging and permanent indentations happen when mattresses sit under pressure or moisture. Memory foam mattresses are especially vulnerable. Even a few weeks of improper storage can leave compression marks that never fully bounce back.
Broken springs and internal structural damage occur when mattresses are folded, creased, or twisted. The internal coils and foam layers aren't designed to bend, and forcing them can snap springs or tear padding permanently.
Your warranty goes out the window if you store a mattress improperly. Most manufacturers have specific storage requirements in their warranty terms. Ignore them, and you'll lose coverage when you need it most.
Pest infestations are a real risk. Bedbugs, dust mites, and other pests love a dark, undisturbed mattress. Improper storage and damp conditions make your mattress a magnet for these invaders.
Now that you understand what's at stake, let's go through the right way to do this.
Step 1: Clean and Dry Your Mattress
This is the most critical step, and it takes patience.
Strip all bedding and wash it. Remove sheets, blankets, mattress pads, and pillows. Wash everything in hot water (if fabric allows) and dry completely. This removes dust, dead skin cells, and any bacteria living in your bedding.
Vacuum both sides thoroughly. Use an upholstery attachment on your vacuum cleaner. Go slowly over every inch of both the top and bottom of the mattress. This removes dust, pet hair, and debris that could attract pests or trap moisture.
Spot-clean any stains. Mix mild detergent with cool water and gently dab stains. Don't saturate the mattress, and don't use harsh chemicals. Let stains dry completely before moving to the next step.
Sprinkle baking soda over the entire surface. Let it sit for 24 hours to absorb odors and any remaining moisture. Vacuum it up thoroughly. This step is your defense against musty smells during storage.
Air dry completely. This is non-negotiable. Let your mattress sit in a well-ventilated area (ideally outdoors in sunlight) for at least 24 to 48 hours. Sunlight naturally kills bacteria and helps evaporate any remaining moisture. Moisture trapped inside your mattress during storage is the number one cause of mold and mildew. Don't skip this step.
Step 2: Choose the Right Cover
Your mattress needs protection during the move to storage and while it sits in your unit.
Plastic mattress bags might seem like a good idea, but they're actually a trap. Plastic doesn't breathe, so any moisture inside the mattress gets sealed in. Over weeks or months, this moisture turns into mold and mildew. If you must use plastic for a short move, remove the plastic bag the moment your mattress enters the storage unit.
Breathable cotton covers are your best friend. These allow air to circulate while protecting against dust and pests. They're worth the investment for long-term storage. Look for mattress covers made of thick cotton or a cotton blend.
Fabric storage bags work well, too. These are designed specifically for furniture storage and let your mattress breathe while keeping it clean.
How to Transport Your Mattress Without Damaging It
Getting your mattress to storage without damage takes care.
Keep it flat whenever possible. Lay the mattress flat on the truck bed or van floor. This is the safest position for your mattress during transport. For tips on protecting other items while moving, check out our guide on how to pack your moving truck like a pro.
Never fold a mattress. This is a cardinal rule. Folding damages the internal coils and foam, especially with innerspring or memory foam mattresses. If it doesn't fit in your vehicle flat, wait and make two trips or rent a larger vehicle. It's worth it.
Secure it so it doesn't slide. Use soft straps or ratchet straps (but never tighten them excessively). Make sure the mattress stays in place during the drive.
Don't tie ropes directly across the surface. Ropes can dig into the mattress and create pressure points. Use straps instead, and keep them loose enough that you could slide your hand underneath.
Step 4: Position the Mattress in Your Storage Unit
Where you place your mattress in the unit matters just as much as how you treat it before storage.
Lay it flat if at all possible. This is the ideal position. A flat mattress doesn't shift, sag, or compress unevenly.
If space is tight, you can store it on its side, but here's the catch. Storing on its side long-term can shift internal components and cause sagging, especially for innerspring and hybrid mattresses. If you must store it on its side, rotate it every few weeks so the pressure doesn't concentrate in one spot.
Keep it away from the walls. Leave a few inches of space around the mattress so air can circulate. This helps prevent moisture buildup.
Place it in a dry area of the unit. Avoid spots near windows, vents, or areas where water could seep in during rain. The drier your storage environment, the safer your mattress stays.
Step 5: Don't Stack Heavy Items on Top
This is one of the most common mistakes people make.
Your mattress should be the top item in your storage unit, or at least have nothing heavy resting on it. Even folded blankets are fine, but boxes, furniture, tools, or other heavy items will create permanent compressions and damage the internal structure.
If you need to stack items, place your mattress on top of boxes rather than underneath them. This simple choice makes all the difference.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Storing a damp mattress is a recipe for disaster. Even if it seems just slightly moist, wait longer. True dryness is critical.
Wrapping it in plastic for long-term storage traps moisture and invites mold. Breathable covers only.
Folding or bending the mattress puts pressure on the internal structure that it can't handle. Keep it flat or on its side, period.
Stacking heavy items on top creates permanent dents that ruin the mattress's comfort and support. Put the mattress on top instead.
Skipping cleaning beforehand means dust, debris, and bacteria live inside your mattress during storage, attracting pests and creating odors. Spend the time upfront to clean it properly.
What You'll Need
To store a mattress properly, have these items on hand:
- Upholstery vacuum attachment
- Mild detergent and clean cloths
- Baking soda
- A breathable cotton mattress cover or fabric storage bag
- Soft straps for securing during transport
- A storage unit with good ventilation (at least 6'x10' for a queen mattress)
Storing Your Mattress at 619 Storage
If you're in Odessa, TX, and need a place to store your mattress safely, 619 Storage has exactly what you need. Our storage units in Odessa come in multiple sizes, from 6'x10' all the way up to 10'x30', so whether you're storing a twin or a California king, you'll find a unit that fits. We offer flexible month-to-month leases, gated access for security, and convenient access hours (daily 6 AM to 8 PM) so you can check on your mattress whenever you need to.
Call us at (432) 803-5391 or visit us at 620 Dale St, Odessa, TX 79761 to get started today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you store a mattress standing up on its side?
You technically can, but it's not ideal. Storing the mattress on its side long-term puts uneven pressure on the mattress and can cause the internal components to shift, leading to sagging and permanent damage. If space forces you to do this, rotate the mattress every few weeks to distribute the pressure.
How long can you safely store a mattress?
A properly cleaned, dried, and covered mattress can be safely stored for months or even years. The key is proper preparation and the right environment. Moisture is your enemy, not time.
Will my mattress smell bad after storage?
Not if you follow the steps in this guide. Clean, air-dry baking soda and a breathable cover prevent odors. When you retrieve your mattress, let it air out again for a few hours before putting it back on your bed.
What temperature should I store a mattress at?
Mattresses don't have strict temperature requirements, but they do need a dry environment. Avoid extreme heat or cold, and always prioritize keeping the mattress dry over temperature control. A standard, dry storage unit works perfectly.
