How To Move a Mattress: Step‑by‑Step Guide for a Safe, Simple Move

If you’re wondering how to move a mattress without damaging it—or hurting yourself—you’re not alone. Mattresses are bulky, heavy, and awkward, and most people move them only a few times in their lives. This FAQ-style guide walks through what to do, what to avoid, and how to protect both your mattress and your body.

Why is moving a mattress tricky?

Mattresses bend, flex, and don’t have solid handles, which makes them harder to control than many pieces of furniture. They can also be surprisingly heavy, especially in larger sizes or with dense foam.

Moving one the wrong way can lead to:

  • Tears in the fabric or broken internal materials
  • Dirt, moisture, or bugs getting into the mattress
  • Strain or injury from lifting incorrectly

Understanding how to move a mattress correctly helps keep it clean, supportive, and comfortable for longer.

What should I do before moving a mattress?

1. Measure and plan your path

Before lifting anything, measure doorways, hallways, and stairwells. Check:

  • Will the mattress fit around corners or through doors upright?
  • Are there low ceilings, light fixtures, or railings in the way?
  • Is there a clear landing spot in the new room?

Planning the route first reduces stress and makes the move smoother.

2. Gather simple moving supplies

You don’t need anything complicated, but some basics help a lot:

  • Mattress bag or plastic cover
  • Packing tape or straps
  • Moving blankets or old sheets
  • Furniture dolly or hand truck (for longer distances)
  • Work gloves

Protective covers are especially helpful for keeping the mattress clean and dry during the move.

How To Move a Mattress safely: main steps

Step 1: Strip and protect the mattress

Remove all bedding, toppers, and accessories. Then:

  • Slip the mattress into a mattress bag or cover
  • Seal openings with tape if needed
  • Add extra blankets on corners if you’re worried about scuffs

This keeps out dust, moisture, and potential stains.

Step 2: Use proper lifting technique

When it’s time to lift:

  • Bend at your knees, not your back
  • Keep the mattress close to your body
  • Lift together and communicate if you have a helper

Mattresses are often easier to handle with two people. If it’s a larger size (queen, king), extra help can make a big difference.

Step 3: Move slowly through doorways and stairs

For tight spaces:

  • Stand the mattress on its side to angle through narrow doors
  • Take corners slowly, pivoting rather than twisting your back
  • On stairs, one person should be above and one below, moving in small steps

If the mattress is heavy, using a dolly under the mattress (on its side) can reduce carrying distance.

Can you fold or bend a mattress to move it?

This depends on the mattress type.

  • Innerspring / hybrid mattresses:
    Often should not be sharply folded; strong bending can damage springs or internal layers. A gentle flex while maneuvering is usually fine, but avoid strapping it into a tight fold.

  • All-foam mattresses:
    Many can flex more easily, and some are originally shipped compressed. Still, extended tight folding can cause creases or affect comfort, so it’s best to avoid keeping them bent for long periods.

If you’re unsure, treat the mattress gently and avoid sharp bends or extreme folding.

Is it okay to tie a mattress to the roof of a car?

It’s common, but there are concerns:

  • Wind can catch the mattress and shift it or loosen straps
  • Poorly secured loads can be unsafe for you and others on the road
  • Exposure to rain or dirt can affect the mattress

If you choose this route, use strong straps, a waterproof cover, and double-check stability. Many people prefer an enclosed vehicle or moving truck, which offers more protection and control.

How do I move a mattress by myself?

Moving a mattress alone is challenging but sometimes necessary. To make it easier:

  • Slide the mattress into a protective bag
  • Stand it on its side to reduce the footprint
  • Use a furniture dolly or glider under one edge
  • Move in short, controlled pushes rather than lifting the full weight

For stairs or very tight spaces, having at least one other person is generally safer.

How should I transport the mattress in a truck or van?

Once the mattress is in the vehicle:

  • Lay it flat whenever possible, especially for innerspring or hybrid models
  • If you must stand it upright, secure it tightly so it doesn’t bend or bow
  • Use straps to prevent sliding during turns or stops
  • Keep it away from sharp edges or heavy objects that could press into it

Avoid stacking heavy furniture on top of the mattress, which can compress or deform the internal structure.

What should I do with the mattress after the move?

When you arrive:

  1. Carry the mattress to the new room before removing the bag.
  2. Let it air out for a short period with the bedding off, especially if it was wrapped tightly.
  3. Inspect for any tears, dirt, or damage.
  4. Put a clean mattress protector on before adding sheets and blankets.

This helps keep the mattress fresh and ready for regular use.

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points consumers should understand about How To Move a Mattress

  • Plan first: Measure doorways, stairs, and hallways before moving.
  • Protect the mattress: Use a mattress bag or cover to keep it clean and dry.
  • Lift smart: Bend at the knees, keep it close to your body, and get help if possible.
  • Avoid sharp bends: Especially with innerspring and hybrid mattresses.
  • Transport securely: Lay flat when you can, and never stack heavy items on top.
  • Check after moving: Let it air briefly and inspect for any damage before regular use.

Handled with a bit of planning and care, learning how to move a mattress can turn a stressful chore into a manageable, straightforward task—and help keep your mattress comfortable for many nights to come.