When you have an extra mattress that is not being used, proper storage is important to keep it clean, dry and in good condition. An unused mattress left exposed can easily become damaged, attract pests, or lose its support and comfort. With some simple preparation and the right storage methods, you can effectively store an extra mattress until you need it again.
Why Proper Mattress Storage Matters
There are several key reasons why properly storing an unused mattress is important:
- Protects against moisture – Mattresses can become moldy, smelly and ruined if moisture seeps in. This is especially true for memory foam and other materials that readily absorb liquids.
- Prevents sagging – Over time, the materials in a mattress can start to sag and lose their structure without proper support. Rotation and full support are needed.
- Deters pests – Bugs, dust mites and other pests are attracted to the warmth and materials they find in a mattress. Keeping it sealed off limits this.
- Maintains warranty – Damage from improper storage may void the mattress warranty. Following the manufacturer’s recommendations helps preserve the terms.
- Saves money – Properly storing a still-usable spare mattress saves the cost of having to replace it prematurely.
Given how much most quality mattresses cost, taking the right steps to store them makes financial and practical sense. A little time invested upfront will extend the usable life of your extra mattress in the long run.
Preparing a Mattress for Storage
Before stashing away your spare mattress, some prep work is advised. This will get it ready for clean, dry and pest-free storage:
- Air it out – Leave your mattress uncovered in a dry, well-ventilated area for 12-24 hours. This allows any moisture to fully evaporate.
- Vacuum – Use a handheld vacuum to remove dirt, debris, hair and other particles from the surface.
- Spot clean – Use an upholstery cleaner or mild soap and water to spot treat any visible stains or soiling.
- Rotate – Flip your mattress over so the bottom is on top before storing. This evens out wear and sagging.
- Cover – Encase your mattress in a breathable mattress protector or cover to keep it clean.
Be sure to check the care instructions from your mattress manufacturer before cleaning. Once prepped, it’s ready to be stored using one of the recommended methods.
Storing a Mattress Vertically
One of the most space-efficient and effective ways to store an unused mattress is standing it upright against a wall or in a closet. Here are some tips for proper vertical mattress storage:
- Place it in a spare bedroom, storage room, closet or other indoor area not prone to moisture.
- Stand the mattress upright, leaning it against a wall for support.
- Use a mattress cover or old sheet to protect the surface that is facing the wall.
- Keep the mattress at least 2-3 inches from the wall to allow air circulation.
- Make sure the mattress is fully supported along its entire height.
- Avoid folding or sharply bending the mattress, which can damage its inner structure.
- Rotate the mattress to the other vertical position every few months to prevent sagging.
Vertical storage utilizes the height of a room for a compact footprint. Just be sure not to set anything heavy against the mattress that could lead to compression damage. Propping it upright in a closet or out-of-the-way corner is an easy, low-cost storage solution.
Using a Mattress Storage Bag
For added protection when storing a mattress vertically, use a mattress storage bag:
- Look for bags made from breathable materials like cotton, nylon or polyester.
- Make sure the bag is large enough to easily fit over the mattress with zipper access.
- Insert the mattress and zip the bag closed, removing excess air.
- Stand the zippered storage bag upright against a wall in the desired location.
- The bag shields the mattress from dust, pests and odors.
Storage bags are an affordable way to keep your spare mattress isolated and safeguarded while not in use. Just be sure to choose a highly breathable bag to prevent moisture buildup.
Storing a Mattress Horizontally
If you have enough spare floor space, horizontal mattress storage can work well. Here are some tips:
- Lay the mattress flat on a solid, raised foundation or platform bed frame.
- Make sure the storage area is dry and well-ventilated.
- Keep the mattress fully supported across its length and width.
- Consider using a waterproof mattress protector for added moisture protection.
- Rotate the mattress from head-to-toe periodically to prevent indentations from developing.
Storing a mattress on its side horizontally is not recommended, as this can deform the edge over time. But laying it down fully flat prevents sagging and maintains its structure. Just be sure to place it somewhere dry and free of dirt or pests.
Using a Mattress Storage Cover
For spare mattresses stored horizontally, a full mattress storage cover is useful:
- Look for covers made from thick, breathable materials that fully encase the mattress.
- Make sure the cover fits snugly and has a zipper for access.
- A breathable cover protects against dust mites but allows air circulation.
- Waterproof covers provide extra protection from moisture on horizontal surfaces.
- Covered mattresses can then be stacked vertically to save floor space if needed.
Mattress storage covers are ideal for keeping flat-stacked mattresses separated and shielded. Just don’t use plastic or non-breathable materials that can lead to mildew.
Storing Multiple Mattresses
When storing more than one extra mattress, you have a few space-efficient options:
- Stack vertically – Stand the covered mattresses upright side-by-side in a closet or room corner.
- Use dividers – Separate stacked mattresses with plywood sheets or spacers to keep their shape.
- Alternate direction – Stand mattresses perpendicular to evenly distribute weight and pressure.
- Stack horizontally – Cover and cleanly stack mattresses flat on their sides up to three high.
The main goal when storing stacked mattresses is preventing compression or bending damage. Use rigid dividers, keep stacks low, and rotate positions periodically.
Storing Mattresses in Self Storage
Climate-controlled self storage units are suitable for mattress storage if space is very limited:
- Look for storage facilities with climate control to prevent mold and pests.
- Reserve a unit with a flat, level surface to fully support the mattresses.
- Keep mattresses enclosed in breathable covers for moisture protection.
- Stand them upright around the unit perimeter to utilize vertical space.
- Use wood boards or spacers if stacking multiple mattresses inside the unit.
The dry, controlled environment of self storage can effectively protect spare mattresses. Just be sure to limit stacking and use dividers to prevent compression damage.
Mattress Storage Tips
Keep these tips in mind for proper mattress storage and care:
- Always store mattresses indoors in a climate-controlled area.
- Keep mattresses protected in a breathable, snug-fitting cover.
- Allow for air circulation around all surfaces.
- Never bend or fold a mattress, which can damage the inner structure.
- Make sure surfaces and foundations fully support the mattress.
- Flip and rotate mattresses every 2-3 months.
- Avoid excess weight or compression from stacked objects.
- Watch for signs of moisture, mold, sagging or pest infestation.
Properly caring for spare mattresses will maximize their usable life. A few minutes periodically to flip and rotate them as the seasons change is time well spent.
What Not to Do When Storing a Mattress
Some common mattress storage mistakes to avoid include:
- Leaning a mattress upright against a wall long-term without protection
- Bending or folding a mattress to fit a tight space
- Storing directly on a cold, damp basement floor
- Using non-breathable plastic covers or tarps
- Stacking too many mattresses vertically without support
- Letting anything heavy rest against the mattress surface
- Exposing to outdoor elements like moisture or extreme temperatures
Ignoring proper mattress care tips can lead to mildew, molds, sagging and premature breakdown of the materials. Taking the time to store them correctly will maximize your investment.
Signs Your Stored Mattress Needs Replacing
Here are some signs that indicate a stored spare mattress may need to be discarded and replaced:
- Pervasive mildew, mold or musty odors
- Visible sagging, distortion or loss of support
- Tears, rips or cracks in the outer cover
- Signs of rodents, insects or pests
- Discoloration or staining
- Lumps or bumps throughout the surface
While proper storage can prolong a mattress’s usable life, they aren’t designed to last forever. Make sure to periodically inspect your spare mattresses for any worsening condition issues.
Protect Your Investment
Taking the right steps to store an unused mattress helps protect your investment in the long run. With some basic preparation and a little periodic maintenance, you can keep a spare mattress clean, dry and ready to use when needed. Proper storage saves money compared to having to replace a damaged mattress prematurely. Follow these mattress storage tips and enjoy the comfort of your spare mattresses for years to come!
