Folding a mattress can be tricky, but it’s necessary if you’re moving and want to maneuver it through doorways and other tight spaces.
This article will remove the guesswork from how to fold a mattress, each mattress type’s foldability, the correct lifting techniques, and how to protect your mattress during transit. We’ll also discuss the correct weight distribution during transportation and the right packaging materials.
Types of Mattresses and Their Folding Capabilities
Different mattress types can be folded with varying levels of ease, from the most pliable to those which shouldn’t be bent:
Memory Foam Mattresses: Flexible but Time-Sensitive
Can you fold memory foam mattress? They are pliable and can adjust to your body’s contours, making them easier to fold than other mattresses. However, don’t keep a memory foam mattress folded for an extended period, which may cause permanent damage.
If you were wondering “can memory foam mattress be folded?”, they can! Just make sure they're laid flat again within 72 hours.
Latex Mattresses: Temporary Folding Allowed
Latex mattresses offer a certain degree of flexibility that allows them to be folded temporarily. Although they can withstand short-term folding better than memory foam models due to their natural resilience, don’t store them in a compressed state for long periods to avoid permanent damage.
Innerspring (Pocket Spring) and Hybrid Mattresses: Don’t Fold
Innerspring (or pocket spring) mattresses contain metal coils that provide support and structure; therefore, folding this type of mattress isn’t recommended. Bending it can cause the coils to become misaligned or damaged, affecting overall support and comfort.
Hybrid mattresses combine elements from both memory foam/latex and innerspring models. Due to their complex construction, folding a hybrid mattress is generally discouraged as it could damage the internal components and compromise performance.
King-Size Mattresses
Wondering how to move a king-size mattress? Before folding this kind of mattress, determine whether or not folding is safe for the mattress type.
Consult the manufacturer's guidelines on folding or reach out directly if you're unsure about your particular model.
Preparing Your Memory Foam or Latex Mattress for Moving
How to fold a mattress if it’s made from memory foam or latex can be done safely and efficiently if you follow the right steps:
Remove the Bedding and Vacuum Pack the Mattress
Remove all bed linens from the mattress, and place your mattress inside a heavy-duty plastic bag designed for vacuum-packing mattresses.
This type of bag helps protect your investment during transportation by keeping dirt, dust, and moisture away.
How To Fold a Mattress By Yourself
Once the mattress is in its protective bag, carefully roll up the entire length as tightly as possible without causing damage to its structure:
- Lay out your vacuum-packed mattress on a clean flat surface with enough space around it.
- Carefully fold one end towards the center while maintaining even pressure along both sides until reaching the halfway point between edges (this might require assistance).
- Maintain tightness throughout the rolling procedure by applying constant tension across the top edge where the initial fold was made, ensuring no slack.
Secure the Rolled-Up Mattress with Straps
After rolling up your mattress, secure it using straps or ropes. This will prevent the mattress from unrolling during transportation and make moving easier.
Wrap the straps around the rolled-up mattress at least twice, ensuring they’re tight enough to hold everything together but not so tight that they cause damage.
Proper Weight Distribution When Transporting
Ensuring that you have the correct weight distribution and strapping your mattress securely during the transportation is important because it helps prevent it from tipping:
If you decide to move your mattress with other items, place heavier objects nearer to the driver so they don’t strain the suspension system too much.
How To Move a Mattress Safely
Here’s how to transport your folded mattress safely by yourself:
Vacuum and Clean Your Mattress Before Moving
- Vacuum: Use a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment to remove any debris or allergens on the mattress.
- Cleaning: If there are visible stains, use a mild detergent and water or specially-formulated products made for mattress care.
- Drying: Allow ample time for your mattress to dry completely before placing it inside a plastic bag; prolonged folding without proper drying may lead to mold or mildew.
Use Ropes/Straps for Safe Handling
To move a mattress without handles, use ropes or straps for secure handling, as these will help you maintain control of the mattress while carrying it.
When attaching ropes or straps around your folded mattress:
- Make sure they’re tightly fastened but not too tight so that they damage the material.
- Cross them over in an "X" pattern for added stability.
- Avoid placing knots directly on the folds, which may cause indentations or damage.
Protect It with Tarp/Painter's Plastic or Plastic Bags
Place a tarp or painter's plastic underneath the mattress before moving. This extra protection helps prevent scratches and scuffs caused by dragging across rough surfaces. You can find affordable tarps or painter’s plastic at most hardware stores.
A plastic mattress bag will shield your memory foam or latex mattresses from dirt, dust, and moisture during transportation. These bags can fit various mattress sizes snugly and also protect them.
Choose a heavy-duty option with reinforced seams for added durability.
Vehicle Options for Transportation
Your mattress’s size and weight will determine which type of vehicle is suitable. Here are some options:
- Rental vans: A rental van is a great option, providing ample space and protection from the elements.
- Pickup trucks: If you own or can borrow a pickup truck, it’s also suitable for transporting mattresses. However, secure your mattress with ropes or straps and cover it with a tarp or plastic sheeting to protect it during transit.
- SUVs: For smaller mattresses, an SUV may suffice if you fold the rear seats. Use protective materials and secure the mattress before driving off.
Proper Lifting Techniques and Safety Measures During Transit
The last thing you need when moving is to injure yourself. With that in mind, use the correct lifting techniques and safety measures, such as bending your knees instead of your waist.
Bending your knees helps distribute the weight evenly across your legs and prevents strain on your back muscles.
You should also keep your back straight and have a firm grip on the mattress to protect your spine. Use both hands to grip the mattress edges (or the straps) to give you great control and stability.
If you’re struggling to move the mattress by yourself, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Friends or family could help you if you’re unsure about folding or moving the mattress alone.
That said, you might need to use professional movers if you have a king-size mattress. Moving companies are well-versed in transporting large items, like king-size mattresses, and it could be worth the money.
You might also consider renting specialized equipment like furniture dollies or straps to make the process easier.
Conclusion
Knowing how to fold a mattress correctly is important to maneuver it through tight spaces and transport it efficiently.
Memory foam and latex mattresses are flexible enough to be rolled up, but you shouldn’t roll or fold traditional mattresses like innerspring (pocket spring) or hybrid mattresses. Proper preparation, lifting techniques, and protection during transport are also essential.
