How to Store a Mattress to Make It Last Longer

Mattresses are expensive, and the Sleep Foundation states that most mattresses should last between seven and ten years. A lot can happen in a decade—cross-country moves, new jobs, less roommates, more kids—and you don’t want to have to buy a new mattress for every milestone.

Storing your mattress incorrectly can shorten its lifespan, so if you need to put yours away for a bit, make sure to follow the correct steps.

Materials You’ll Need to Store Your Mattress

• A vacuum
• A mattress cover
• Baking soda
• Spray bottle
• Stain remover
• Laundry detergent

Once you’ve gathered your supplies, you’re ready to pack it up and get to your next checkpoint in life. Read on for everything you need to know on how to store a mattress the right way.

Clean Your Mattress Before Storing It

Just like you would with a winter coat, it’s important to clean your mattress before you put it away in storage. Otherwise, it’ll smell so musty you might not even want it when the time comes to use it again.

Start by removing everything from your mattress and spot cleaning any stains with a stain remover. Then, mix two parts water to one part laundry detergent in a spray bottle, spritz your mattress, and allow it to dry for thirty minutes.

Vacuum the mattress to remove any debris and dust, then sprinkle a coating of baking soda over it. Let the baking powder sit for eight hours to neutralize any odors, then vacuum again.

Wrap It in a Protective Cover

Using a mattress cover can extend the life of any mattress, but it’s especially important to invest in a quality mattress cover if you are putting it in storage. You want to keep moisture, bugs, dirt, and dust from getting in, and a mattress cover with a zipper will make it easier to move in and out of storage.

 

Can You Store a Mattress Upright?

While storing a mattress upright would definitely be the most convenient in terms of saving space, doing this is bad for the inner materials of the mattress. Putting pressure on one side can move and warp its coils, which will destroy the mattress over time. For that same reason, you wouldn’t want to place a piece of furniture over your mattress while in storage.

It’s fine to carry or transport a mattress on its side, but doing this for extended periods of time isn’t recommended by experts.

Can You Store a Mattress in the Garage?

You want to protect your mattress from bugs and moisture, so unless you have a refinished garage with climate control and spotless floors, it’s not a good idea to store your mattress there—even in a hefty mattress cover. You don’t want things to get steamy in there, trust us.

Is It Bad to Keep a Mattress on the Floor?

There are some drawbacks to keeping your mattress on the floor because it exposes it to dust and bugs, particularly dust mites. It also limits airflow through the mattress, which can make you hotter at night and can cause mold and mildew buildup. It will also put pressure on your hips and shoulders if you’re a side sleeper.

Whether storing a spare mattress or keeping your bedroom mattress on the floor, it’s a good idea to lay down synthetic mats or rugs first to prevent moisture problems.

What Is the Best Way to Store a Mattress?

After you clean and place your mattress in a protective cover, lay it on top of a flat surface to mimic its natural positioning. Do not place anything on top of the mattress, or you’ll risk destroying the cushion. If you have the option, opt for climate-controlled storage to help prevent mold and mildew.