How To Move a Full Size Mattress: Step‑by‑Step FAQ Guide

If you’re searching for “How To Move a Full Size Mattress”, you’re likely planning a move and wondering how to get your mattress from one place to another safely, cleanly, and without damage. This FAQ-style guide walks you through everything from measuring and packing to lifting and transport.

What size is a full mattress, and why does it matter when moving?

A full size mattress (also called a double) typically measures about 54 inches wide by 75 inches long. It’s smaller than a queen, but still large enough to be awkward to handle, especially through tight hallways, stairs, and doorways.

Understanding its size helps you:

  • Plan your vehicle space
  • Decide how many people you need to help
  • Choose the right moving supplies

Even though a full mattress is more manageable than larger sizes, it can still bend, sag, or tear if you move it without preparation.

What do I need before I move a full size mattress?

Before you focus on how To Move a Full Size Mattress, gather some basic supplies so the process goes smoothly:

  • Mattress bag or plastic cover – to protect from dirt, moisture, and tears
  • Packing tape – to seal the cover and keep it in place
  • Rope or moving straps – to secure the mattress in the vehicle
  • Furniture sliders or a dolly (optional) – helpful for long hallways or elevators
  • A friend or helper – full mattresses are easier and safer to move with two people

Having these items ready helps prevent damage to the mattress and strain on your body.

How do I prepare my full size mattress for moving?

Proper preparation is one of the most important parts of how To Move a Full Size Mattress.

Step 1: Strip the bed

Remove:

  • Sheets
  • Mattress protectors
  • Toppers and pads

Pack these separately in bags or boxes to keep everything clean and organized.

Step 2: Inspect the mattress

Take a quick look for:

  • Any existing tears or weak seams
  • Areas that seem soft or worn

This helps you notice if any new damage happens during the move.

Step 3: Cover the mattress

Slide the mattress into a mattress bag or thick plastic cover. Seal the open end with tape so dust and moisture can’t get in. A snug cover also makes the mattress easier to grip and move.

Can I fold or bend a full size mattress?

This depends on the type of mattress:

  • Traditional innerspring mattresses

    • Often should not be folded sharply, as it may bend the coils or damage the edge support.
    • A slight flex to navigate corners is usually possible, but avoid forcing it.

  • All-foam or hybrid mattresses

    • These may be more flexible, but sharp folding or rolling can stress the foam layers or internal structure.

If you’re unsure, it’s usually safest to keep the mattress as flat and straight as possible and move slowly around tight corners.

How do I lift and carry a full size mattress safely?

Even a full mattress can feel heavy and floppy. Here’s a simple way to make lifting easier:

  1. Stand the mattress on its side (long edge vertical).
  2. Grip from the bottom corners, one person at each end if possible.
  3. Lift with your legs, not your back, and keep the mattress close to your body.
  4. Move in slow, small steps, communicating with your helper at turns or stairs.

If you’re alone, you can “walk” the mattress by tilting and sliding it along the floor, but be careful to avoid dragging on rough surfaces that could tear the cover.

How should I transport a full size mattress in a car, SUV, or truck?

In a pickup truck or moving truck

  • Lay the mattress flat in the bed or cargo area, if there’s enough room.
  • If it must stand on its side, keep it fully supported and strapped so it doesn’t bow.
  • Use straps or rope to secure it to built‑in tie‑downs.

On the roof of a car or SUV

Many people wonder if this is safe. It can be done, but it needs extra care:

  • Place the mattress centered on the roof, not hanging far over the edges.
  • Run strong ropes or straps through the doors (not just the windows) to hold it in place.
  • Tie the mattress snugly so it can’t lift, shift, or flap.
  • Drive slowly and avoid highways when possible.

Poorly secured mattresses can move in the wind, which is unsafe for both the mattress and other drivers.

What happens after I arrive? Do I need to do anything special?

Once you reach your new place:

  1. Carefully remove the straps and cover.
  2. Check for any new damage, stains, or moisture.
  3. Allow the mattress to air out for a short time before putting bedding on.
  4. Place it on a supportive base or foundation to keep it in good condition.

If the mattress was squeezed, bent, or lightly compressed, giving it some time to settle can help it return to its usual shape.

✅ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points to understand about How To Move a Full Size Mattress

  • Measure first: Know the mattress size and path (doors, stairs, vehicle space) before moving.
  • Protect it: A mattress bag or plastic cover helps avoid dirt, tears, and moisture.
  • Don’t over‑fold: Many full size mattresses should not be sharply bent or folded.
  • Lift with help: Two people make moving safer and reduce the risk of damage.
  • Secure in transit: Use ropes or straps so the mattress doesn’t shift while driving.
  • Check on arrival: Inspect and let the mattress air out before re‑making the bed.

Understanding how To Move a Full Size Mattress means planning your route, protecting the mattress, and lifting carefully. With a bit of preparation and the right supplies, you can move your full mattress efficiently and keep it in good shape for many more nights of use.