9 Simple Tips to Move Your Mattress Solo (With , , , and Tags Intact)

When it comes to moving a mattress solo, it's important to note that it's best handled by groups or pairs. However, circumstances can arise where you find yourself without any help. While the option to hire professional movers is available, it can be quite expensive if your mattress is the only item that needs to be moved.

If you find yourself alone and in need of assistance, don't worry; we have some tips and tricks for you on how to move a mattress by yourself. Whether you have an innerspring mattress or one from a bed-in-a-box, these tips should guide you through the process.

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Is Moving Your Mattress Necessary?

Before you proceed to move your mattress on your own, ask yourself if it's necessary. Most mattresses have a lifespan of about 10 years, so if yours has any sagging, indentations, or tears, or you're not getting quality sleep, you might consider getting a new mattress delivered to your new home. Although it might be more expensive, it's less of a hassle, and you could use a new mattress anyway. Thanks to their affordability and long trial periods, online bed-in-a-box mattresses have become increasingly popular in the mattress market. They eliminate the middleman retailer, making them more affordable, and they ship directly to your doorstep, reducing the stress of hauling them around.

If you decide not to bring your old mattress with you, what do you do with it? We have guides that can help you decide what to do with it, including suggestions on how to donate it.

General Tips on Moving Mattresses

Although you might come up with creative ways to move your mattress, here are some efficient suggestions to make moving your mattress alone easier:

• Equipment That Can Help You Move Your Mattress

   In learning how to move a mattress by yourself, there are several essential items to make the process easier, including:

Straps or ropeTapeScissorsBubble wrapMattress cover or bagDolly or cartMoving blankets

1. Cover It

Even though you use sheets over your mattress, it's important to keep it clean during the moving process. When moving, your mattress's tops and sides will probably come into contact with stairs, the floor, the outside ground, or the inside of your van or truck. Before you start, remove all sheets, pillows, and toppers from your bed, then cover your mattress with plastic wrap or a mattress bag. This will protect it during transportation.

If you're unfamiliar with wrapping a mattress, here's a quick process overview:

Remove all the sheets, toppers, and pads from your mattress. If you use a mattress bag, lean your mattress against the wall, with the long side standing up. Start at the top, slide the bag over the mattress, pull it onto the ground, and securely tape the opening shut. If you use plastic wrap, bubble wrap, or moving blankets, position your mattress vertically, making it easy to cover tightly with as little air as possible between the material and your mattress. Wrap it tightly, and once you're done, wrap the entire bundle with tape for extra coverage, keeping the bag or material from slipping off.

2. Fold It Up

For easier movement for one person, consider folding your mattress, especially if it's a larger size, such as queen-size, king-size, or California king-size. Folding reduces the height and width, making it less flimsy and significantly easing your movement.

To fold your mattress, you'll need an all-foam mattress that's no more than 8-11 inches thick. A thicker or coiled mattress is not suitable for folding and may void the warranty, as it can easily get damaged. Here's how to fold your mattress: bend it width-wise, ensuring that the side you sleep on faces the inside to avoid dirt. The top and bottom of the mattress base should meet. Use straps or ratchet tie-downs to secure it once it's folded to prevent it from opening up.

If you can't fold your mattress, consider reinforcing it with a piece of cardboard. Attach the cardboard to the mattress using straps or ratchet tie-downs to keep the mattress from flopping as you move it.

When lifting the mattress, be sure to use your knees, not your back, to avoid straining yourself. Always spread your feet shoulder-width apart, keep the object close to your body, and avoid twisting your back while lifting or carrying it. If possible, get help from another person or use a dolly to move the mattress.

To move your memory foam mattress, put it in a special cardboard box exclusively formulated for mattresses. Transport it flat without stacking anything on top of it, and strap it to a steady surface if possible to prevent sliding.

When moving a mattress by yourself, be sure to use a truck or a moving van. Avoid securing your mattress to the top of a regular car, as it may get damaged or cause accidents. Most mattresses should also be loaded and transported on their sides, preferably leaned up against a wall. If you don't own a truck, consider renting one from moving companies or home improvement stores.

Mattress Shipping

Are you planning to move your mattress across the country but lack the transportation or funds to rent a moving van? Well, worry not! You can always ship your mattress. Remember to cover it adequately, as we mentioned earlier. Next, browse for a reliable shipping company like uShip.com, which offers various quotes determined by your mattress's dimensions and distance. If their prices are beyond your budget, don't fret, negotiate with the shipping companies until you're satisfied with the cost.

Dolly or Cart Option

When moving your mattress, it can be strenuous, especially if you have to carry it alone, but a dolly or cart can ease the process. Use wheels to move your mattress effortlessly from your room to the vehicle.

Clear the Path before Moving

Before carrying the mattress, ensure that your path is clear of any obstacles. This way, you won't bump into anything or trip while carrying the mattress, which could cause damage to your mattress and injure you in the process. While moving your mattress to the front door, you can adjust the angle by carrying it sideways or at an angle to fit through the door.

Dragging your Mattress with Two Blankets

You can use blankets to drag your mattress to its appropriate location. Place your mattress between two blankets, tie them together at the top and bottom, and drag your mattress on the floor. Make sure to only use old blankets that you won't mind parting with since they might be ruined in the process. However, this should be the last resort if all other options have failed.

If you can't seem to move your mattress, you could seek your neighbor's help or wait for a friend or relative to lend a hand, keeping in mind that you might need to persuade them with some food or drinks.

Unpacking and Setting Up Your Mattress

Once your mattress arrives at the new place, ensure to unwrap it as soon as possible. Trapped moisture could cause damage and mold to your mattress. With that done, prop your mattress up against the wall on its side and let it breathe. If you have limited space, you can temporarily store it in another room as you set up your bed frame or other bedroom furniture. It's also essential to deep clean your mattress before use, vacuum or clean it according to its type. Once done, you can set up your bed frame or foundation and then put your mattress on it. It's advisable to leave your sheets off for a while to let your mattress air out.