Ever moved house or cleared out a room, then realised you’ve got no clue how to store a mattress properly?
Whether you’re low on space, planning ahead, or just want to keep it in good nick, we’re here to help you store your mattress the right way.
Key Takeaways
- Start with a full clean, use a breathable wrap, and choose a cool, dry space before putting your mattress into storage.
- If you’re working with tight areas like garages or small rooms, there are safe ways to keep your mattress flat or upright without damaging it.
- Knowing how to store a mattress properly helps extend its lifespan, keeps it fresh, and makes sure it’s ready to use whenever you need it.
Considering standing it upright? Parking it in the garage? Let’s sort out the dos and don’ts.
Jump to a section:
- Steps to Prepare Your Mattress for Storage
- How to Store a Mattress Against a Wall
- How to Store a Mattress in a Garage
- How to Store a Mattress in a Small Space
- How to Store a Mattress Long Term
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
Steps to Prepare Your Mattress for Storage
Before you even think about where it’s going, you’ll want to get your mattress ready for its time off. A little prep now saves a lot of regret later.
1. Give it a proper clean
Don’t just strip the bed and call it a day. Use a few different ways to get it fresh and storage-ready:
Vacuum your mattress
1️⃣ Use a handheld vacuum or an upholstery attachment to clean the surface thoroughly.
2️⃣ Focus on seams, corners, and the label area where dust tends to build up.
3️⃣ If your mattress has tufts or textured fabric, slow down and work those spots carefully.
4️⃣ Flip it over and repeat if your mattress allows for it.
Spot-treat stains
1️⃣ Mix a few drops of mild detergent with warm water.
2️⃣ Clean the stained area by dabbing it gently with a clean cloth. Avoid rubbing or soaking.
3️⃣ For stubborn spots, try a little baking soda mixed with water.
4️⃣ Wipe away any residue with a damp cloth, then blot with a towel until dry.
Air dry in a ventilated area
1️⃣ Stand the mattress upright in a room with steady airflow.
2️⃣ Keep it out of direct sunlight and away from heaters.
3️⃣ Use a fan if you need to speed things up.
4️⃣ Make sure every part feels dry before wrapping or storing it.
Once your mattress is clean and dry, it’s ready to be protected and put away.
2. Wrap it in something breathable
Once your mattress is dry, the next step is keeping it that way. Covering it helps protect against dust, dirt, and damp while it’s in storage.
Mattress storage bags
These are made for the job. They come in all sizes and are easy to find at hardware stores or online. Choose one that’s snug but not airtight to prevent moisture from getting trapped.
Plastic wrap
A loose wrap with plastic sheeting works too. Just secure the ends with tape, and never let the tape touch the mattress itself.
Fabric cover
A thick cotton sheet or breathable fabric cover won’t block out water, but it allows airflow and still keeps surface dust away.
3. Choose the right spot
Pick somewhere dry, cool, and well-ventilated. A spare room or inside a large wardrobe usually does the trick. Avoid damp, humid, or stuffy areas like sheds or steamy laundries.
Before moving the mattress, clear the way. Shift any furniture, check for tight corners, and grab a second set of hands if you can. You want to avoid bending or bumping it along the way.
How to Store a Mattress Against a Wall
| Mattress Type | Store Flat | Store Upright |
| Pocket spring | ✅ | ❌ |
| Standard spring | ✅ | ❌ |
| Memory foam | ✅ | ✅ |
| Latex | ✅ | ✅ |
| Hybrid | ✅ | ❌ |
Short on floor space? Standing your mattress upright might seem like the easy fix. And it can work, but only if you do it right.
Here’s how to store it safely:
1. Stand it on the long edge
Place the mattress with the longer side flat against the wall. This spreads out the weight and helps it stay balanced.
2. Keep it supported
If it feels wobbly, wedge a stable piece of furniture next to it or use soft straps to hold it in place. Avoid anything sharp or too tight that could leave marks.
3. Watch for moisture
Walls that feel damp or cold can transfer moisture into the fabric. Use a barrier if needed, or move the mattress away from the wall slightly to allow airflow.
4. Rotate it now and then
If it’s going to stay upright for more than a few weeks, give it a gentle turn every so often to stop pressure points from forming.
Note: Laying it flat is always safer. But if vertical storage is your only option, these steps will help keep it in good shape.
How to Store a Mattress in a Garage
Garages can be a handy option for storage, especially if space inside the house is tight. But they come with a few risks: moisture, pests, and temperature swings can all cause damage if you’re not careful.
Follow these steps to store your mattress safely in a garage:
1. Clean and cover the mattress
Make sure the mattress is dry, wrapped properly, and sealed to keep out dust and pests. Use a mattress bag or breathable plastic wrap, and cover the whole surface.
2. Raise it off the ground
Never place a mattress directly on a concrete floor. Moisture can rise from the ground, even if it feels dry. Use pallets, moving boxes, or any clean platform to lift it a few inches off the ground.
3. Choose the best position
If space allows, lay the mattress flat. If not, store it on its long edge against a clean, dry wall. Keep it supported so it doesn’t sag or tip.
4. Allow for airflow
Leave some space around the mattress to help prevent dampness. Avoid stacking boxes or furniture directly on top of it.
5. Check on it occasionally
Every few months, unwrap the mattress briefly to air it out. This helps avoid musty smells and gives you a chance to check for any issues.
How to Store a Mattress in a Small Space
No spare room? No problem. You can still store a mattress safely in tight spots. It just takes a bit of creativity and the right setup.
1. Slide it under the bed
If the frame allows, under-bed storage is one of the easiest options. Wrap the mattress securely and slide it underneath, flat and fully supported.
2. Store it behind furniture
A clean, flat wall behind a large wardrobe or shelving unit can work. Just make sure the mattress stands on its long edge and has something to hold it steady.
3. Use ceiling or wall brackets
Some people install brackets or wall hooks to store thinner mattresses vertically. This works best for foam or roll-up styles. Avoid it with spring mattresses, which can bend out of shape.
4. Tuck it in a large cupboard
If the cupboard is tall enough, you can store the mattress upright inside. Leave a little space around it and avoid leaning anything heavy against it.
5. Go vertical with support
If it has to go in a corner, place a clean board or something solid behind it. This helps keep the mattress straight and stops it from sagging.
How to Store a Mattress Long Term
Storing a mattress for a few weeks is one thing. Leaving it packed away for months or even years? That takes a bit more planning.
Here’s how to keep it in good condition long term:
1. Go all out in cleaning
This isn’t the time for shortcuts. If you’re storing the mattress long term, it needs to be properly cleaned. Vacuum it, spot-treat any stains, and let it dry completely.
If it’s in rough shape or has had spills, take it to a professional cleaner. A mattress that goes into storage dirty will only come out worse.
2. Use a mattress protector
Even in storage, a mattress protector adds an extra layer of defence. It helps block out dust, moisture, and pests. You can wrap the protector before sliding the mattress into a storage bag for added peace of mind.
3. Avoid pressure points
Don’t stack anything heavy on top. Over time, that pressure can warp the shape or damage the filling. Whether it’s flat or upright, let the mattress breathe on its own.
4. Choose a stable environment
Pick a spot that’s cool, dry, and gets some airflow. Avoid places that are prone to temperature swings or dampness, like old garages or basements.
5. Check in every few months
Unwrap the mattress briefly every so often to let it air out. A quick check can save you from long-term issues like mould or sagging.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with the best intentions, it’s easy to get storage wrong. Here’s what to avoid:
❌ Storing it dirty
Dirt, sweat, and stains will only settle in deeper over time. Always clean it first.
❌ Stacking heavy items on top
Boxes or furniture can press down on the mattress and ruin its shape.
❌ Forgetting to check on it
If it’s in storage long term, check in every few months. Let it air out and look for signs of damage.
❌ Skipping the wrap
Leaving a mattress uncovered invites dust, pests, and moisture. Wrap it properly, every time.
❌ Using tight plastic with no airflow
Sealed plastic can trap moisture. Stick with breathable covers or leave small gaps for air circulation.
❌ Not cleaning it after storage
Even if it looked fine at first glance, give it a quick clean before use. It helps get rid of any dust, stale odours, or unexpected surprises.
Knowing how to store a mattress the right way helps it last longer and stay in good shape. Whether you’re saving space or thinking ahead, a little prep goes a long way.
If your current mattress is past its prime, consider investing in one built to last.
Ecosa mattresses are made for daily life and built with durability in mind. And when it’s time to move on, our mattress recycling program makes it easy to dispose of yours the right way.