Moving a mattress can be a cumbersome task, but with the right approach, it can be done effectively and without damage. The process usually involves wrapping the mattress to protect it, clearing a path, recruiting some help, and using a suitable vehicle for transportation.
Preparing for the Move
Gathering Supplies
Before embarking on moving your mattress, you should gather all the necessary supplies to ensure the move goes smoothly. These supplies include:
- Plastic mattress bag: to protect the mattress from dirt, water, and any potential damage.
- Duct tape: to securely seal the plastic bag.
- Scissors or a utility knife: to cut the tape or open the mattress bag if needed.
- Rope or straps: to help secure the mattress to a moving dolly or in the moving vehicle.
- Moving dolly or handcart: to aid in transporting the mattress, especially if it’s particularly heavy or requires movement over a long distance.
- Gloves: to improve grip and protect your hands during the move.
Once your supplies are in order, proceed to wrap the mattress. Slide the mattress into the plastic bag and seal the open end with duct tape. This mitigates the risk of any stains, spills, or exposure to elements during the move.
Enlisting Help and Clearing a Path
A mattress is cumbersome and challenging to maneuver, hence it is advisable to have at least one other person to help with moving it. Coordinating with someone reduces the risk of injury and helps in guiding the mattress through narrow spaces, such as doorways and hallways. Before lifting the mattress, ensure that the path to the moving vehicle is clear of obstacles to ensure a safe and smooth passage.
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
Lifting and Carrying the Mattress
Correct Lifting Techniques
To avoid any potential strain or injury, practicing proper lifting techniques is crucial. Here’s what you need to know:
- Stand close to the mattress: Long-reaching lifts can lead to back strain. Keep the mattress close to your body.
- Bend at the knees: Use your legs to power the lift, not your back. This protects your spine.
- Keep your back straight: Instead of hunching, maintain a straight posture to distribute the weight evenly.
- Use your core: Engage your abdominal muscles for extra support during the lift and when carrying the mattress.
- Move slowly: Rushed movements can lead to trips, drops, or strains. Take your time and maintain coordination with your partner.
Carrying the Mattress
Depending on the type of mattress, you may be able to fold it, making it easier to handle. Memory foam and other flexible materials can often safely bend without causing damage, whereas innerspring mattresses must remain flat due to the coil structure.
If using a dolly, place the mattress flat against the base, secure it with straps or rope, and tilt the dolly back to take the weight off your body. When moving up or down stairs, communicate clearly with your partner about movement and pace.
Navigating Through Stairs and Doorways
Stairs
Moving a mattress through stairs can be tricky. Always keep the mattress in the upright position and move upwards or downwards in sync with your partner. One person should be at the lower end to carry the weight of the mattress, while the person at the top guides the movement.
Doorways
When moving through doorways, be mindful of the mattress size and the door width. Sometimes, rotating the mattress can help it fit through narrow spaces. When turning the mattress, do it slowly and cautiously to avoid damage to the mattress or the doorway.
Transporting the Mattress
Choosing the Right Vehicle
For transportation, a pickup truck, van, or a large SUV with foldable seats is ideal. The vehicle should provide enough space to lay the mattress flat or stand it on its side without bending it at sharp angles.
Securing the Mattress in the Vehicle
Within the vehicle, secure the mattress using ropes or straps to prevent it from shifting during transit. If you use a pickup truck with an open bed, additionally secure a waterproof tarp over the mattress to protect it from the elements.
Unloading and Setup at the New Location
Upon arrival at your new destination, follow the reverse process for unloading. Remove the straps, maintain careful handling while lifting, and clear the path to the new resting place. Once in the desired room, carefully remove the plastic mattress bag and position your mattress onto the bed frame or foundation.
Considerations for Difficult Circumstances
In specific scenarios, you may face challenges such as tight corners or a high-rise apartment move without an elevator. In such cases, you might consider hiring professional movers who are experienced in handling such situations. Additionally, some companies specialize in mattress disposal or recycling if you decide not to take your old mattress with you.
Alternative Options
For those unable or unwilling to move a mattress manually, consider the services of specialized moving companies or on-demand moving services like TaskRabbit or Dolly. These service providers can offer an easy and stress-free solution to transporting your bedding.
Finishing Thoughts
The task of moving a mattress is certainly not the highlight of a moving experience, but by following these steps and tips, it can be managed with minimal stress and without injury. Protect the mattress properly, employ good lifting techniques, secure safe transportation, and consider reaching out to professionals if the situation becomes unmanageable. Remember that proper preparation and having a clear plan is key to a successful mattress move. Remember, your safety and the mattress’s condition are paramount, so take your time and ensure everything is done correctly. Whether you’re a moving novice or a seasoned pro, this guide will help ensure that your mattress arrives at its new home in the same condition as it left the old one.
