Moving a mattress upstairs can be a challenging task, especially if you’re dealing with a king-size or a particularly bulky mattress. To summarize briefly, the best method typically involves wrapping the mattress in protective plastic, bending and folding it if possible, enlisting the help of a friend or moving partner, and carefully maneuvering it up the stairway while being mindful of any tight corners or low ceilings. Ensuring that the path is clear and using proper lifting techniques will also help prevent injury and damage to the mattress or house.
Preparation: Protecting Your Mattress
Before you begin the move, you need to prepare. Protecting your mattress should be the first step. This involves wrapping the mattress in a specialized mattress bag or, at the very least, some protective plastic sheeting. This protects it from dirt, dust, and any potential scuffs or tears that might occur as you navigate through the house and up the stairs. Secure the wrapping with tape, making sure no part of the mattress is exposed.
Gather the Necessary Equipment
Once your mattress is suitably protected, gather the tools and equipment that can aid you in this move. Here are a few suggestions:
- Mattress Bag: A quality mattress bag will provide the first layer of protection against dirt and damage.
- Dolly or Hand Truck: If you have a particularly heavy mattress, a dolly or hand truck can help move it to the base of the stairs.
- Moving Straps: Straps can help you hold on to the mattress more securely, especially when navigating tight spaces or corners.
Clear the Pathway
Make sure that the path from your current mattress location to the upstairs is clear. Remove any tripping hazards, such as loose rugs, toys, or other household items. Additionally, measure any spaces through which the mattress needs to pass to ensure it will fit. This includes doorways, the stairway, and any hallways. Be aware of any low-hanging lights or ceiling fixtures as well.
Our Top 5 Mattress Picks
Updated September 2026EGOHOME 8-Inch Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress, Full, Medium Firm
Best for most bedrooms. A medium-firm green tea memory foam mattress with a cooling gel layer, delivered rolled in a box.
- Full size, 8 in
- Medium firm
- Cooling green tea gel
- CertiPUR-US, fiberglass free
OhGeni Queen Air Mattress with Built-in Pump, 18-Inch Raised
Best for guests and camping. Inflates in about three minutes with the built-in pump and sits 18 inches off the floor, so it feels like a real bed.
- Queen, 18 in raised
- Built-in pump
- 800 lb capacity
- Waterproof PVC
Novilla 6-Inch Gel Memory Foam Mattress, Twin
Best budget twin. A slim gel memory foam twin that suits kids' rooms, bunk beds and trundles where a thick mattress won't fit.
- Twin, 6 in
- Gel memory foam
- Cooling
- CertiPUR-US
Zinus 8-Inch Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress, Twin
Best-known brand. Zinus's long-running green tea foam design in twin size, with both CertiPUR-US and OEKO-TEX certified materials.
- Twin, 8 in
- Green tea memory foam
- CertiPUR-US & OEKO-TEX
GAESTE 8-Inch Cooling Gel Memory Foam Mattress, Full, Medium Feel
Best for hot sleepers. Cooling gel memory foam with a medium feel, plus a machine-washable, anti-slip cover you can actually clean.
- Full size, 8 in
- Medium feel
- Cooling gel foam
- Washable cover
- Fiberglass free
Techniques for Moving the Mattress
When it’s time to actually move the mattress upstairs, you have several techniques at your disposal.
Bending & Folding
Some mattresses, such as those made from memory foam or latex, can be bent and folded to make them easier to manage. However, don’t fold spring mattresses as this can damage the internal springs. When bending a foam mattress, do so gently and gradually to avoid causing any internal damage.
Using a Dolly or Hand Truck
If you’re using a dolly or hand truck, secure the mattress to the dolly with straps or rope. Tilt the dolly back and roll it towards the stairs. At the base of the stairs, it’s time for manual lifting.
Lifting Techniques
Lifting a mattress the right way is crucial to prevent injury:
- Bend Your Knees: Keep your back straight and bend at the knees, not the waist.
- Use Your Leg Muscles: As you lift, focus on using the strength in your legs to do the heavy work, not your back.
- Keep the Mattress Close: The closer the mattress is to your body, the less strain on your back.
- Move Slowly: Fast, jerky movements can cause you to lose your balance or pull a muscle.
Maneuvering Up the Stairs
Moving a mattress upstairs requires coordinated teamwork. If you’re moving a larger mattress, having a helper is almost essential—ideally one who can communicate clearly and move at the same pace.
Communication is Key
It’s important to maintain open communication with your helper. Decide on simple commands like “stop,” “lift,” and “tilt,” and use them consistently to avoid misunderstandings that can lead to injury or damage.
Step-by-Step Movement
When moving up each step, both movers should lift in unison, one step at a time. This careful, gradual approach is important for maintaining balance and control.
Turning Corners
If you encounter a turn on the stairs or a tight corner, this is typically the trickiest part of moving a mattress upstairs. If necessary, position the mattress vertically, bend it around the corner, and then continue up the stairs. A rotating motion can also help the mattress to pivot around challenging corners.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
Several common mistakes can turn the simple action of moving a mattress upstairs into a disaster.
Not Measuring in Advance
Failing to measure doorways and staircases can lead to being stuck and struggling to force a mattress through an opening that is too small. Measure ahead to avoid this pitfall.
Poor Lifting Form
As mentioned earlier, always lift with your legs, not your back, and avoid twisting your torso while lifting heavy objects.
Moving Too Quickly
Rushing can lead to accidents, injuries, or damage to the mattress and your house. Take your time and move with deliberate, controlled motions.
Not Securing the Mattress
Failing to properly secure the mattress to a dolly, or neglecting to use mattress bags or plastic, can lead to an unwieldy move or damage your mattress.
What if You Can’t Do It Yourself?
Sometimes a mattress is too heavy, too bulky, or there simply isn’t a passable way to get it upstairs. In that case, you might need to consider other options.
Hiring Professional Movers
Professional movers have the experience, equipment, and know-how to move heavy items like mattresses up and downstairs safely. If you’re worried about moving the mattress on your own, hiring professionals could be a wise investment.
Alternative Sleeping Solutions
Consider using a different type of mattress or bed that can be disassembled easily, such as a futon, air mattress, or a bed-in-a-box that you can carry upstairs more simply and then assemble in the chosen room.
Finishing Thoughts
Moving a mattress upstairs is not a straightforward task; it requires preparation, the right techniques, and often a helping hand. Remember to protect your mattress with a cover, clear the moving path, and lift with care using proper techniques. If you encounter difficulties, don’t push yourself too hard—consider professional help or alternative sleeping arrangements. With patience and attentiveness, you’ll get your mattress in place without injury or damage, ready for a good night’s sleep in its new home.
