How To Store a Mattress in a Storage Unit

While you can’t put a price on a good night’s sleep, mattresses aren’t cheap! That’s why storing your mattress in a way that preserves its shape and comfort, while keeping it clean, is so important.

Storing mattresses the wrong way can lead to all sorts of problems, such as lumps and broken springs, holes, bad smells and even mould! Done right however and your mattress can carry on giving you sweet dreams for years to come.

Whether you’re moving home, decorating your bedroom or even travelling the world, knowing how to store a mattress properly will ensure it’s kept in good condition, ready for when you need it again. In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about mattress storage — from preparation to finding the best storage unit.

Why Proper Mattress Storage Is Important

Storing a mattress might seem as easy as finding a big enough space to keep it, but unless you take the time to prepare it for its time in storage properly, you might end up needing to buy a new one anyway. For example, while mattresses are built to provide long-lasting comfort, they can easily lose their shape or develop mould if not stored properly.

Here are some reasons why proper storage and preparation matters:

• Preventing Damage: When a mattress isn’t stored properly, it can sag, bend and warp. This can cause the springs to weaken or the foam to lose shape, leading to a lumpy and uncomfortable mattress.
• Avoiding Mould & Mildew: Mattresses are susceptible to moisture and if they’re stored in damp or humid conditions, they can grow mould or mildew. This not only damages the mattress but can also pose health risks, especially to those with asthma or certain allergies.
• Maintaining Comfort & Structure: The materials inside a mattress, whether they’re made from springs, memory foam or a mixture of the two, need to be kept in good condition. Storing a mattress the right way helps maintain its structure and comfort, so it’s ready to use when you need it.

Proper mattress storage ensures that when the time comes to bring it back into use, it’ll be just as supportive and comfortable as when you first bought it.

Preparing Your Mattress for Storage

Before storing your mattress, there are some essential steps to keeping it in the best possible condition. Proper preparation can help prevent dirt, moisture and other avoidable damage from affecting the mattress while it’s in storage.

Clean Your Mattress

Over time, dust, hair, dead skin cells and allergens can build up, so it’s important to give your mattress a good clean before stowing it away. The better your mattress’s condition going in to storage, the better its condition will be coming out.

1. Vacuum: Start by vacuuming both sides of the mattress, paying special attention to seams and crevices where dust can accumulate.
2. Spot Clean: If there are any stains, use a mild fabric cleaner or a solution of water and baking soda to gently clean the affected areas.
3. Dry It Out: Make sure the mattress is completely dry before wrapping it up. Any lingering moisture could lead to the growth of mould and mildew.

Wrap It for Protection

Once the mattress is clean and dry, it’s time to give it some added protection from dust, dirt, moisture and pests while in storage:

• Use a Mattress Storage Bag: Ideally, you should use a mattress storage bag to cover the entire mattress. These bags are designed to allow the mattress to breathe while still protecting it from dirt and dust.

Pro Tip: If the mattress bag you buy doesn’t have any holes, add some to help allow air circulation.

• Avoid Sealing It Too Tightly: If you don’t have a storage bag, plastic wrap is another option. Just make sure you allow for some room for your mattress to breathe.

By cleaning and wrapping your mattress properly, you’re taking the first step to ensure it stays in good condition while in storage.

The Best Way to Store a Mattress in a Storage Unit

Once your mattress is prepped, it’s important to store it the right way in your storage unit to maintain its structure and prevent long-term damage. How you position your mattress and what you store around it can make all the difference in maintaining its comfort and integrity.

Store It Flat, Not Upright

While it may be tempting to store your mattress on its side to save space, doing so can cause it to bend or warp over time. This is especially true for spring mattresses, which can lose their shape if stored upright for long periods.

• Flat is Best: Always store your mattress flat to help maintain its structure and prevent sagging.
• Avoid Heavy Loads: Don’t place heavy items on top of the mattress. Over time, this could cause pressure points, leading to permanent indentations or damage to the springs or foam.

Create a Safe Space

Make sure the space you store your mattress in is clean, dry and elevated off the floor. This will prevent any dust, dirt or moisture from affecting the mattress.

• Use Pallets or Boards: Consider placing your mattress on wooden pallets or boards to raise it off the ground and improve airflow. This adds another layer of protection against potential water damage or pests.
• Keep It Away from Walls: Position your mattress away from the walls to allow for air circulation around the mattress, which helps prevent moisture buildup.

By storing your mattress flat, elevated and free from heavy loads, you’re ensuring it’ll be just as comfortable and supportive when it’s time to use it again.

How to Prevent Mould and Moisture

One of the biggest threats to a mattress in storage is moisture, which can lead to mould, mildew and unpleasant smells. However, there are simple steps you can take to keep your mattress dry and protected.

Keep the Environment Stable

A stable, dry environment is key to preventing condensation, moisture and mould in your storage unit. Temperature and humidity fluctuations can encourage mould growth, so taking measures to maintain a consistent environment will help safeguard your mattress.

• Choose a Dry Space: Ensure the storage unit is in a dry location and avoid any areas that are prone to flooding.
• Elevate the Mattress: Keep your mattress raised off the ground on wooden pallets. This helps improve airflow and reduces the chances of moisture seeping in from the ground.

Use Moisture Control Tools

You can also protect your mattress by using tools designed to absorb excess moisture and regulate the humidity in your storage unit.

• Dehumidifiers: If possible, use a portable dehumidifier occasionally to reduce moisture in the air, especially during the more humid months.
• Moisture Absorbers: Silica gel packets, activated charcoal and moisture-absorbing tubs can help soak up any excess moisture in the storage unit. Place them near or around the mattress to provide added protection.

By keeping the environment stable and taking measures to control the humidity and moisture inside your unit, you’ll help ensure your mattress is kept mould-free.

Choose the Right Storage Unit

Finding the best storage unit is another key consideration for keeping your mattress in great condition during its time in storage. At Pay Less For Storage, we exclusively offer shipping container storage units, which provide the perfect balance of size, durability, security and water resistance.

Why Shipping Containers Are Ideal for Mattress Storage

Shipping containers are designed to withstand tough weather conditions and keep the elements out. This makes them an excellent option for storing items like mattresses, because they are:

• Robust: Built from heavy-duty steel, shipping containers are sturdy enough to keep your mattress safe from the elements.
• Watertight: These containers are designed to be waterproof, meaning your mattress will stay dry even during rainy or damp weather.
• Spacious: Our units are big enough to store more than just a mattress, so if you plan on storing other furniture and belongings, you’ll have plenty of room.
• Accessible: All our storage units offer drive-up access 24 hours a day, meaning you can park right outside your unit — perfect for loading and unloading big bulky items.

FAQs

How Do You Store a Mattress Not in Use?

To store a mattress you’re not using, ensure it is clean, dry and covered with a breathable mattress storage bag. Then, store it flat in a cool and dry environment to maintain its shape, comfort and cleanliness.

Should a Mattress Be Stored Flat or Upright?

A mattress should always be stored flat to prevent sagging and warping. Storing it upright can damage its structure over time, especially if it’s left in storage for extended periods.

Can You Roll a Mattress for Storage?

Most mattresses, especially spring and hybrid types, should not be rolled as this can damage their internal structure. Only certain foam mattresses can be safely compressed and rolled for short-term storage.

How to Stop a Mattress from Going Moldy in Storage?

To prevent mould, make sure your mattress is completely dry before going into storage, use moisture absorbers in the unit and allow for good airflow by keeping it elevated above the ground.