Best Practices for Moving Beds and Mattresses

Posted on 27/06/2025

Moving can be a daunting experience, especially when it comes to transporting large items like beds and mattresses. Properly moving beds and mattresses ensures they remain in excellent condition and saves you from headaches during your relocation. In this detailed article, we'll explore best practices for moving beds and mattresses, offering tips, step-by-step guidance, and expert insights to make your move as smooth as possible.

Why Proper Mattress and Bed Moving Matters

Beds and mattresses are investments in your comfort and health. Improper moving can cause damage to bed frames, warping of mattresses, stains, tears, and other costly problems. Following top mattress and bed moving tips helps you:

• Protect your investment by preventing unnecessary damage.
• Ensure hygiene by avoiding exposure to dirt and moisture.
• Save money by minimizing the risk of accidental damage.
• Improve moving efficiency with fewer complications.

Preparing for the Move: Essential Steps

The first step in moving your bed and mattress safely is proper preparation. Here are crucial things to address before the big day:

1. Gather the Required Materials

You'll need the right tools and packing materials to transport beds and mattresses. These include:

• Mattress bags or covers (for protection against dirt, moisture, and tears)
• Furniture pads or moving blankets
• Bubble wrap and packing tape
• Basic tool set (screwdriver, Allen wrench, pliers)
• Disassembly instructions (if available, check manufacturer's guide)
• Moving straps or ropes
• Furniture dolly (especially for heavy frames and bases)
• Ziplock bags (for screws and small hardware)
• Marker or labels to organize parts

2. Clean Beds and Mattresses Before Moving

It's advisable to clean mattresses and beds before moving to avoid transferring dust and allergens to your new home.

• Vacuum both sides of your mattress thoroughly.
• Spot clean stains using manufacturer-approved solutions.
• Allow both bed and mattress to fully dry to prevent mold and mildew.

3. Measure Doorways and Hallways

Before moving beds and mattresses, measure all doorways, hallways, and staircases in both your old and new residence. This helps you plan the best route for moving mattresses and bed frames and prevents last-minute surprises.

How to Move Mattresses Without Damage

The mattress is often the most challenging part of a bed to move due to its size, flexibility, and weight. Follow these best practices:

1. Use a Mattress Bag or Cover

Mattress bags are designed to shield your mattress from dust, moisture, and rips during a move. Some important tips:

• Buy a high-quality, tear-resistant mattress cover for moving in the appropriate size (twin, queen, king, etc.).
• Double seal with packing tape if needed for extra protection.
• Ensure all sides of the mattress are securely enclosed.

2. Enlist Help

Mattresses are bulky and difficult to maneuver alone. Always have at least one or two helpers to safely lift and move the mattress. Communicate clearly to coordinate movement, especially around corners or on stairs.

3. Carry Mattresses on Their Side

For standard spring or foam mattresses, the safest way is to carry them upright on the edge. This makes movement easier in tight spaces, prevents excessive bending, and helps maintain the mattress's structure.

4. Transport Mattress Flat if Possible

Whenever possible, transport the mattress flat in the moving truck. Excessive bending or folding can cause permanent damage to the internal springs or foam.

• Do not strap mattresses to vehicle roofs as this can lead to wind damage or even road hazards.
• If the moving truck is tall, lay the mattress flat atop other furniture or boxes, ensuring proper support underneath.
• Secure mattress in place to prevent shifting during transport.

5. Special Considerations for Specialty Mattresses

• Memory foam and latex mattresses: Avoid folding or rolling excessively, as this can cause cracks or damage to foam cells.
• Hybrid mattresses: Move with care to prevent damage to both coils and foam layers.
• Adjustable mattresses: Consult manufacturer's instructions and disconnect electrical components.

Moving Bed Frames: Disassembly and Packing

Bed frames come in various types, including platform beds, slatted bases, metal frames, storage beds, and those with headboards and footboards. The following process applies to most types:

1. Read the Manufacturer's Instructions

_If you still have the original assembly brochure, review it for disassembly steps and safety warnings. This will prevent broken parts and help with reassembly at your new location._

2. Remove Bedding and Accessories

• Strip all linens, pillows, comforters, and mattress toppers prior to disassembly.
• Wash and pack bedding in clearly labelled boxes or vacuum storage bags for efficiency.

3. Disassemble Bed Frame Components

• Start with the headboard and footboard: Unscrew or detach these first (most beds have visible bolts or brackets).
• Remove side rails, slats, or support beams: Keep hardware and small pieces together in a labelled bag.
• Take photos as you disassemble for reference during reassembly.
• Bundle similar parts with moving blankets and secure using packing tape or rope.

4. Wrap & Secure Bed Frame Components

• Use furniture pads or moving blankets to wrap wood or metal components. This helps to prevent scratches and dents.
• For particularly expensive or antique bed frames, consider extra bubble wrap for additional protection.
• Keep all loose hardware (nuts, bolts, screws) in a clear labeled bag and tape it securely to the frame or store in your "essentials" moving kit.

Best Practices for Loading and Transporting Beds and Mattresses

1. Use a Furniture Dolly and Straps

A dolly makes moving bulky mattress and bed parts much safer and easier, especially for heavy components like wooden frames or adjustable bases. Always secure items tightly with straps to prevent slipping.

2. Load Mattresses After Heavy Furniture

In your moving vehicle, load heavy furniture (dressers, couches) first, then place the mattress
flat on top or upright at the end, ensuring it's properly supported.

3. Keep Bed Frame Pieces Together

Grouping all parts of your bed frame in one section of the truck prevents loss and simplifies reassembly at your destination.

4. Avoid Overexposure to the Elements

Whether you're using a moving truck or a van, limit the mattress's exposure to moisture, direct sunlight, or excessive cold for extended periods.

Reassembling and Setting up Your Bed at the New Location

After arrival, efficient setup ensures you'll be sleeping comfortably in your new home as soon as possible. Here are step-by-step guidelines for reassembling beds and mattresses after a move:

• Clean floors and areas where you will set up the bed before reassembly.
• Lay out all bed frame components and check for missing hardware.
• Refer to your disassembly photos (if taken) or instructions.
• Reattach headboard, footboard, and rails, ensuring all bolts are tight, but avoid over-tightening.
• Install slats or supports stably before placing the mattress on top.
• Inspect mattress for damage or dirt before removing the protective cover and setting it in place.
• Allow the mattress to air out for an hour or two (especially if wrapped in plastic) before making the bed.

Tips for Moving Beds and Mattresses Without Professional Movers

While hiring professionals is helpful, many people prefer to move beds and mattresses themselves. If you go the DIY route, remember these pointers:

• Never drag mattresses or bed parts on floors. Always carry them, even for short distances.
• Use gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges or splinters.
• Ask friends or family to help with heavy lifting to prevent injury.
• Rent the appropriately sized vehicle. Mattresses often don't bend easily and can require a large cargo van or moving truck.
• Plan ahead: Do a walk-through before you start to anticipate tight turns or obstacles.

Common Mistakes When Moving Beds and Mattresses

Avoiding these pitfalls can save time, money, and hassle:

• Skipping mattress protection: Moving a bare mattress leads to stains and tears.
• Attempting to move large beds solo: This increases the risk of injury and damage.
• Forgetting to keep hardware organized: Losing bolts or brackets can make reassembly frustrating or impossible.
• Improper loading in the moving truck: Placing heavy items on top of mattresses can misshape or ruin them.
• Strapping mattresses on car roofs: This is unsafe, may be illegal, and often ruins the mattress.

Frequently Asked Questions About Moving Beds and Mattresses

How can I move a large mattress up or down stairs?

Enlist at least two helpers as mattresses are difficult to control on stairs. Move cautiously, carry the mattress on its side, and communicate with your helpers throughout. If your stairs have awkward turns, consider folding memory foam mattresses (following manufacturer guidelines), but never bend spring mattresses.

Can I keep my old mattress after moving, or should I buy a new one?

If your current mattress is in good condition and free from structural issues or contamination, moving it is practical. If your mattress is over 8-10 years old, consider taking the opportunity to upgrade after your move.

Do I need a special mattress bag?

Professional-grade mattress bags are highly recommended. They provide better protection against rips, moisture, mites, and dirt during transport. Regular plastic wrap is not a substitute as it may tear easily or trap moisture.

How can I best move an adjustable bed?

Unplug the bed and wrap all electronic components securely. Disassemble according to the manufacturer's recommendations and move both the base and mattress with extra care. Some adjustable beds are quite heavy and may require professional movers.

Is it OK to store a mattress standing upright?

For short periods (a day or two), an upright position is fine. However, for longer-term storage, always store the mattress flat to prevent uneven settling or distortion.

Conclusion: Ensuring a Successful Bed & Mattress Move

Moving beds and mattresses doesn't have to be an ordeal. With thoughtful preparation, the right materials, and attention to detail, you can protect your valuable sleep investment and enjoy a stress-free furniture moving experience. By following these best practices for moving beds and mattresses, you'll arrive at your new home ready to rest easy and enjoy your new space.

• Did you find these bed and mattress moving tips helpful?
• Have you implemented your own strategies for moving large furniture?

Share your experience or questions in the comments below! And remember: A carefully moved bed ensures a great night's sleep in your new home.