To measure if a mattress will fit up stairs, you need to take several key measurements: the width and height of the staircase itself, any landings or turns in the staircase, doorways you may need to pass through, and the ceiling height above the stairs. Compare these dimensions to the size of the mattress, accounting for a bit of wiggle room to maneuver. Once you’ve determined the physical space constraints, you can decide if your mattress can be safely carried up the stairs.
Understanding the Basics of Stairway Measurements
Measuring your stairway correctly is essential to ensure your mattress will fit through without issues. You will need a measuring tape and possibly an extra set of hands to take accurate measurements.
Staircase Width and Height
Begin by measuring the width of your stairs from wall to wall at the narrowest point. This gives you the maximum width available for moving the mattress. Next, measure the height from each stair tread to the ceiling, also referred to as the head clearance. This will help you understand if there is ample vertical space, especially when flipping or angling the mattress.
Staircase Landings and Turns
If your stairway has a landing or turn, measure the dimensions of these areas too. You will need to know the length and width of the landing, as well as the head clearance here. These spots are often the trickiest parts when maneuvering large items upstairs.
Consider Doorway Dimensions
Check any doorways that lead to the stairs. Measure the height and width of the door frame, as you’ll need to move the mattress through these openings before even reaching the staircase.
Detailed Measurement Tactics
To ensure your mattress will fit, you’ll have to go beyond simple length and width measurements. Here are step-by-step tactics to consider for different types of mattresses and staircases:
Standard Mattresses
For innerspring or foam mattresses that cannot be bent or rolled, measure their length, width, and height. You’ll need to ensure that at every point of the stairs, the mattress can remain in a vertical position (on its side might be an option) without hitting the ceiling or walls.
Top Mattresses Recommended By GoodSleepHub.com
- [Plush & Supportive Hybrid Mattress] Upgrade your sleep with this queen size mattress. Multiple layers of supportive memory foam combined with responsive innersprings provide balanced comfort and...
- Sink into Comfort after an Exhausting Day - Our 12-inch queen mattress features adaptive memory foam and responsive pocket springs that work in harmony to cradle your shoulders, hips, and back. This...
- PAIN RELIEF & MOTION ISOLATION – Combining the supportive benefits of coils with the softness of premium foam, Sleepmax Mist helps align the spine, evenly distributes body weight, and relieves...
- General Note: Please allow 24 - 72 hours for your Mattress to regain its full shape. Any memory foam will expand faster in a warmer room. In cold temperature, at delivery, your mattress may take a bit...
Flexible Foam or Rolled Mattresses
These types of mattresses offer more flexibility. They can be bent around corners or even temporarily rolled to fit through tighter spaces. Still, measure as you would for a standard mattress, but take into account that you can potentially bend it around turns or landings.
Split or Two-Piece Mattresses
If you have a king or California king-sized bed that comes in two pieces, you may only need to worry about the dimensions of each separate piece, which can greatly simplify moving it up a staircase.
Measuring Spiral Staircases
Spiral staircases can be particularly challenging when moving a mattress. Measure the width at its narrowest point and the distance between steps vertically. Remember that twisting a mattress up a spiral staircase might be more arduous due to the curvature of the design.
Considering Mattress Flexibility
Assess your mattress’s flexibility. A traditional innerspring mattress has less leeway than a memory foam mattress, which can somewhat bend to fit through tight spaces. Note that bending an innerspring mattress might damage its structure, so it’s important to be aware of the mattress type you’re dealing with.
Preparation and Planning for the Move
After taking careful measurements, plan your move. Consider these helpful tips for a smoother process:
Clear the Path
Make sure the path to and from the staircase is clear of any obstructions. Remove pictures, wall decorations, and anything else that might be in your way or could be damaged during the move.
Use Mattress Bags for Protection
Protect your mattress from dirt, dust, and damage by enclosing it in a mattress bag. This will also help you grip it better as you move it up the stairs.
Secure Loose Bedding
Before moving the mattress, strip it of any loose bedding, including sheets, covers, and mattress protectors. This ensures that nothing will get caught or trip you up while carrying the mattress.
Enlist Help
Don’t attempt to move a mattress up stairs alone. Always have at least one other person to help with the lifting and maneuvering. More people might be necessary for larger mattresses or tighter spaces.
Potential Challenges and Solutions
Even with precise measurements and careful planning, challenges can arise. Here’s how to tackle them:
Navigating Tight Corners
For tight corners, you may need to stand the mattress vertically and pivot it around the corner. The “L” method involves tilting the mattress into a horizontal position and hooking the corner that leads around the bend of the turn.
If the Mattress Simply Won’t Fit
Should you find that the mattress doesn’t fit, evaluate alternative options like using another entryway, hoisting it through a window, or disassembling parts of the stairway (like removing the banister) temporarily. Another solution could be to opt for a “bed in a box” that comes compressed and rolled up, making transport much easier.
Advanced Techniques for Professionals
For especially difficult moves, professional movers use specialized techniques:
Shoulder Dolly or Lifting Straps
Professionals might employ lifting straps or a shoulder dolly. These tools help distribute the weight of the mattress and reduce the strain on the movers, allowing for easier maneuvering.
Using Mattress Slings
A mattress sling can facilitate moving up very tight staircases. The mattress is placed within the sling, and the straps are used to help guide it through challenging spots.
Finishing Thoughts
Measuring whether a mattress will fit up stairs is a critical step in ensuring a successful move. By taking comprehensive dimensions and planning, you can save yourself time, frustration, and importantly, avoid damaging the mattress or your home. Remember to be patient and methodical during the process and consider enlisting professional helpers if the job seems too daunting to handle on your own. Proper preparation makes all the difference when it comes to relocating your mattress to its new home above ground level.
