How to Move a Mattress Without Ruining It

Mattresses are awkward, heavy and easy to damage or dirty in a move. A few simple rules keep yours in one piece.

Don't bend or fold a sprung mattress

Folding or heavily bending a traditional pocket-sprung mattress can permanently damage the springs. Keep it flat, or on its edge for short periods only. Rolled/memory-foam mattresses are more forgiving but still shouldn't be folded sharply.

Bag it to keep it clean and dry

Slide the mattress into a purpose-made mattress bag (cheap and widely available) before it leaves the bedroom. It keeps off dirt, damp and scuffs — a mattress that gets wet or filthy in the van is often a write-off.

Carry it safely

Two people, one each end. Mattresses are floppy and catch on door frames and banisters, so go slowly and protect corners. For doorways, turning it on its edge usually helps it round tight bends.

Load it flat if you can

In the van, lay the mattress flat — ideally on top of flat, stable items — so it isn't bent or crushed. If space forces it on its side, stand it against a flat surface and strap it so it can't flop or slide. Avoid stacking heavy boxes on top.

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