A mattress is an essential physical and financial investment. It helps you sleep comfortably at night. Good sleep brings better health and the energy to be functional at work, home, and school.
However, there will come a time when you need to store your mattress longer than usual as you declutter your space, move to another home, or redesign your room. During these times, your mattress needs a temporary home to make space for new furniture.
In all of these scenarios, proper storage can extend the life of your mattress by many years. You’ll save a lot on unnecessary replacement costs and get the same level of comfort and support when you use the mattress again. Learn the basics of storing a mattress against a wall in this comprehensive guide.
Key Takeaways:
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Proper mattress cleaning is crucial so it won’t smell foul after unpacking.
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If vertical storage isn’t possible, you can rent a climate-controlled storage unit or store the mattress horizontally.
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The entire storage room should be dry and free from dirt so the mattress can still be useful.
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Prioritize protecting not just the mattress but also the wall when it comes to storage.
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Preparing Your Mattress for Storage
Before you set aside your mattress, you need thorough preparation for it to remain useful after a long time. This is how you can prepare:
1. Clean the Mattress Thoroughly
Stains and allergens can get trapped in the mattress if you don’t clean it before storage. Try these three cleaning ways:
Vacuuming
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Vacuum the entire mattress to remove dirt, allergens, and dust from the mattress surface.
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Be careful when vacuuming the seams and crevices of the mattress. That’s where debris usually accumulates.
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Consider deep cleaning the mattress if it’s situated in a high-traffic area in your home, such as the living room.
Using Fabric Cleaner for Stains
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Use a gentle fabric or upholstery cleaner to clean visible stains on your mattress.
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Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. As much as possible, apply the cleaner sparingly.
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Use a soft cloth to blot and clean the stained area.
Completely Drying the Mattress
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Air dry the mattress after cleaning to keep molds and mildew from growing when you store it.
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Place the mattress in a ventilated area. Dry the mattress with a fan for faster drying.
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Make sure there are no damp spots on the mattress before wrapping it.
2. Wrap the Mattress Properly
Choose the Right Cover
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Short-Term Storage: A plastic mattress bag can be a protective barrier, but sealing it too tightly can trap moisture.
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Long-Term Storage: A breathable mattress storage bag lets air circulate in the mattress while protecting it.
Sealing the Cover
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Seal the cover with zip ties or packing tape.
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Double-check the seams and edges of your cover to keep dust and pests from entering.
3. Clear and Prepare the Storage Space
The area where you store the mattress should be clean and orderly. Sweep the floor to get rid of all the dirt and possible breeding grounds for moisture. Check the plumbing for any leaks on the pipes. Make sure the walls and floors aren’t damp before putting the mattress away.
Steps to Store a Mattress Against a Wall
Storing a mattress by leaning it on the wall in your home or basement can be safe and effective when you take proper precautions. Follow these steps:
1. Position the Mattress Upright
The first and most important thing to do is to make the mattress stand without the risk of tipping. Here’s how to do it:
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Pick a flat surface on the wall to keep the mattress in place.
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Lean the mattress at a slight angle instead of making it stand completely upright.
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Put rubber wedges or non-slip pads on the mattress’s base.
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Don’t press the mattress against the wall. The force could compress one side and make uneven wear.
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Turn the mattress around every few weeks so all sides can bear equal weight while it’s not in use.
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Support hybrid or memory foam mattresses evenly to avoid sagging.
2. Secure the Mattress
After positioning the mattress properly, securing it well can reduce the risk of shifting or falling. Keep your mattress in place with these steps:
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Anchor the mattress to a sturdy structure, such as shelving brackets, through bungee cords or adjustable straps.
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Tighten the straps moderately to avoid damaging the mattress’s internal components. This can be done on memory foam or latex mattresses.
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If you can’t find any hooks or brackets, place heavy and stable furniture, such as a sofa bed or dresser, near the base of the mattress.
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Don’t allow anyone to walk near the mattress to prevent accidental tipping or bumping.
3. Protect the Wall and Mattress
When storing a mattress, you need to protect both the mattress and the wall to prevent scratches, moisture damage, and scuffs. Here’s how:
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Add foam pads or cardboard between the wall and the mattress to shield both surfaces.
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If your wall has a delicate finish, use a larger fabric sheet to protect the entire wall.
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Make sure the mattress doesn’t directly touch the painted walls to prevent paint transfer and discoloration.
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Check if the wall is damp. Moisture can transfer from the wall to the mattress and cause mold growth.
Following these simple steps can ensure you’re storing your mattress the right way without compromising its integrity.
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What to Avoid When Storing a Mattress
Proper mattress storage is essential to keep its quality for a long time. Avoid these mistakes to make your mattress last long during storage:
1. Placing the Mattress on the Floor Without Protection
This is one of the biggest mistakes you can make when storing mattresses. Putting the mattress on the floor without a plastic bag can expose it to dirt, dust, and potential pests.
Floors, especially in a storage unit or a basement, are a thriving environment for mold and mildew growth. Dust and debris can make the mattress dirty. When exposed to pests like rodents, the mattress will sustain stains, tears, and contamination.
Avoid irreversible damage to your mattress by:
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Using wooden slats or pallets to elevate the mattress.
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Ensuring proper airflow under the mattress to reduce moisture buildup.
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Laying a plastic sheet on the pallet or slat before putting the mattress on any surface.
2. Using Inappropriate Covers
Plastic covers and non-breathable materials can do more harm to the mattress than good. They trap moisture, which is ideal for mold and mildew to grow. The mattress materials can weaken over time with moisture, reducing their efficiency and comfort. Aside from that, putting a plastic cover on your mattress puts it at risk of foul odors.
To avoid all of these, you should:
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Use breathable plastic storage bags made for long-term storage.
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Put a waterproof covering on the mattress to allow airflow and protect it against spills.
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Put a few silica gel packets inside the bag to absorb the moisture.
3. Leaning the Mattress in a Damp Environment
Some people lean their mattress against a wall in a storage unit or basement without thinking about how it can damage the entire thing.
Damp or humid areas can eventually ruin a mattress, as it absorbs moisture and allows molds to grow. A memory foam or a hybrid mattress can also warp due to humidity. Your mattress may lose shape or sag heavily the longer it leans on the wall.
Put the mattress flat on an even surface in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. Use a dehumidifier to control the humidity of the entire space.
Avoiding these common mistakes can help your mattress stay clean, fresh, and comfortable. You can use it anytime you want without doing a deep cleaning beforehand.
Alternatives to Storing a Mattress Against a Wall
As much as storing a mattress vertically against a wall is convenient, it may lead to distortion, moisture damage, or sagging. These alternatives can keep your mattress in good condition even if it’s not being used:
1. Using a Mattress Stand or Frame
This is a handy option if you want to elevate the mattress from the floor and support it well. The stand or frame distributes weight evenly to ensure the mattress doesn’t fall to the ground.
Follow these tips for using a frame or stand:
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Get a sturdy frame that’s the same size as your mattress.
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Use a breathable mattress cover bag for better protection.
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Seal the bag well to avoid pest infestation.
2. Store the Mattress Horizontally
If you can, store the mattress on a flat surface to maintain its support and shape. This position avoids creasing or bending the mattress and maintains its original structure of foam and springs.
Don’t stack mattresses with heavy items to avoid compression damage. Make sure the mattress’s storage location is free from pests and dirt.
3. Renting a Climate-Controlled Storage Unit
This kind of storage space maintains a consistent temperature, which prevents mold and moisture buildup. A climate-controlled storage unit often requires a monthly payment when storing mattresses for an extended period.
With this unit, your mattress is protected against extreme heat and cold. Look for a facility offering storage units with temperatures between 10°C and 27°C. Ask the staff if the unit is well-ventilated to ensure better airflow. Cover your mattress with a breathable plastic mattress bag for extra protection.
Parting Words
Proper storage keeps your mattress structurally sound and safe to use. Begin by cleaning and drying the mattress to prevent odors and mold from destroying it. Wrap the mattress with a breathable cover for dust and pest protection. Keep the mattress off the floor and strap it against a wall for stability.
Following these cleaning and storage techniques can ensure your mattress is in good condition after being hidden away for some time. It can still provide you a restful sleep anytime. Protecting the mattress means enjoying its benefits for years.
