Ever move a mattress by yourself? It’s challenging, but not impossible. Whether you’re moving into a new place or simply rearranging your furniture, moving a mattress by yourself can be done. With help from this guide, learning how to move a mattress by yourself can be pretty straightforward and completely doable! Read on for moving mattress tips and tricks as well as how to move a king size mattress, how to move a mattress on a car, and how to even pack a mattress for moving.
Before Moving a Mattress
Moving a mattress can be tough so it’s important to use the proper techniques to not only protect the mattress from damage, but also to keep yourself safe. Depending on the type of mattress you have, a mattress can range from 45 lbs to as heavy as 100 lbs. Attempting to move a mattress by yourself without the proper tools can cause injuries, strains, or falls.
You should also figure out how to move a mattress on a car. Tying a mattress to a car roof can seem quick and easy, but you might want to reconsider exposing the mattress to the elements if the weather is bad. To avoid damaging your mattress, the best way to move a mattress is to use a protective mattress bag or in the inside of your vehicle.
Other factors to consider include the lifespan of the mattress. Ideally, you should replace a mattress after five to ten years of use. Depending on how well you take care of the mattress, that number can increase or decrease over time. To extend the lifespan of a mattress, handling it carefully when you’re moving a mattress by yourself is essential.
Mattress Moving Equipment
Having the correct supplies on hand is key. For moving a mattress by yourself, you’ll need a few things:
- Protective mattress bag
- Packing tape
- A dolly or hand truck
- Furniture sliders
- Scissors
- Cardboard
- Ratchet tie down strap or nylon rope, for tying mattress to car roof
- Tool set
- Retractable blade
- Sandwich bag, for keeping all the nuts and bolts in one place
How to Move a Mattress by Yourself
1. Wrap Your Mattress
Use a protective mattress bag to keep your mattress clean and safe from damage. Ensure all air is pushed out of the bag. Reinforce it with packing tape or cardboard.
2. If Applicable, Fold Your Mattress
If you have a flexible mattress made with memory foam or latex, you can also fold your mattress up to save space.
3. Carefully, with a Correct Posture, Lift the Mattress
Lift with your legs, not your back! Brace your abdominal core and bend your knees to lift. Load it onto a dolly or hand truck.
Disclaimer: Lifting heavy items may not be suitable for everyone. If you have any concerns or doubts, seeking help or a mattress moving service is strongly encouraged.
4. Place the Mattress on the Roof of Your Car
Lift the mattress and slide it onto the roof of your car. The mattress bag will protect the fabric from the elements.
5. Secure the Mattress
Depending on the type of vehicle you use, secure your mattress by laying it as flat as possible and tying the mattress to the car roof with nylon ropes or ratchet straps.
6. Drive Safely
Drive slowly and carefully to your destination. Use back roads, avoid sudden stops, and make sure to check on your mattress from time to time, especially if it’s attached to the roof of your car.
7. Unpack the Mattress
Remove the mattress from your vehicle as well as all the wrapping and tape. Let it air out in the sun or on its side against the wall. Give your mattress a deep clean if needed. Then you can set up your bed frame and place your mattress on it!
Consider These Tips for Mattress Moving
Make Sure Your Car Is Suited to Move a Mattress
Most mattresses don’t fit inside a car’s trunk, so it’s important to have the right kind of transportation when moving a mattress. Consider using a pickup truck, van, or large SUV that’s big enough to secure a mattress on the roof or inside the vehicle.
Tying Mattress to Car Roof Correctly
If you plan on tying a mattress to the car roof, secure it by tying it directly to the roof racks. Do this in as many places as possible to anchor the mattress to the top of the car roof.
Consider Mattress Movers
If you need an extra pair of hands, consider hiring mattress movers or a mattress moving service to help!
How to Store Mattresses?
There are certain things you’ll need to store a mattress properly. First, clean and dry your mattress before and after putting it in storage. Don’t store the mattress on its side or place anything on top of the mattress, which can ruin its shape and structure.
And finally, have these supplies on hand when you store your mattress:
- Vacuum
- Upholstery cleaner
- Disinfectant spray
- Breathable mattress bag
- Packing tape
Seeking a Mattress Moving Service?
Moving a mattress can be tricky. If you find that your mattress is too heavy, bulky, or hard to grasp, consider hiring a Tasker to help. While it can be tempting to try to drag your mattress across the floor, it’s important to keep in mind that a mattress can be a pricey investment! Luckily, moving your mattress doesn’t have to be difficult or done alone when you use Taskrabbit.
