How to move a mattress: Expert tips for a hassle-free move

Moving a mattress might seem straightforward, but with its bulky size and delicate material, it can be a challenge. Whether you're dealing with a queen-size mattress or a memory foam bed, it’s important to use the right techniques and tools to ensure a smooth and safe move. Read on for practical tips and proven methods on how to move a mattress safely. It will save you time, minimize stress, and protect both your mattress and your vehicle during the process

How to move a mattress

If you have a truck, lay the mattress flat in the truck bed and secure it with straps. For larger mattresses, fold or roll it (if the manufacturer's guide allows it) to make transportation easier. If you don’t have a truck but an SUV, place the mattress on the roof and secure it with straps. You can also fit it across the back seats. 

For a small car, the best option is to fold or roll the mattress (if allowed). Otherwise, you can lay it flat on the roof (specific instructions on this further below).

In all cases, take care not to damage the mattress or your vehicle during the move.

Best ways to move a mattress

Moving a mattress doesn’t have to be complicated. Here, we’ll explore the best methods for safe and easy transport.

Mattress moving bag

A mattress moving bag is a durable, tear-resistant plastic bag used to keep the mattress safe from dust mites, bed bugs, and allergens during the move. It keeps mattresses dry and safe, and can fit  various sizes, including twin, full, queen, and king.

Here’s how the mattress moving bag method works:

Step 1: Choose the right mattress bag size

Mattress bags come in different sizes, so you should pick one based on the dimensions of your mattress.

Step 2: Lift and position the mattress

Carefully lift and position your mattress on its side or edge. Depending on its size and thickness, you may need some assistance.

Step 3: Pull the bag over the mattress 

Position the bag over the mattress and slowly pull downwards, ensuring the top and bottom of the mattress are aligned with the bag's opening. The bag should fit snugly around the entire mattress and not have wrinkles or air pockets.

Step 4: Seal the bag

If the bag has a zipper, zip it tightly once the mattress is inside. Does it have a flap? Fold it and secure it with tape. If the bag doesn’t have a zipper or flap, use tape or ties to seal the bag’s opening tightly to prevent the mattress from shifting or falling out during the move. The goal is to keep the mattress fully enclosed.

Step 5: Move the mattress

Once the mattress is secured in the bag, safely move it to its new location. Once again, you may need help lifting and carrying the mattress, especially if it's heavy or large.

Step 6: Unwrap the mattress on arrival

When you arrive at the mattress's new location, cut or open the moving bag and remove the mattress. If you’re storing the mattress for a long time, leave it in the bag.

Mattress dolly

A mattress dolly is a cart that helps you move bulky, heavy mattresses with minimal effort. Unlike regular hand trucks or dollies used for boxes or appliances, a mattress dolly has a flat, broader platform to support the mattress. Some mattress dollies even include straps, hooks, or adjustable partition panels to secure the mattress.This is a great option if you're wondering how to move a mattress by yourself, as it provides extra protection and makes handling easier.

Here's how to move a mattress with a mattress dolly:

Step 1: Position the mattress on the dolly

Remove any bedding and pillows from the mattress and clear the area around it to create enough space for moving. If the mattress is on a bed frame, carefully lift it off and place it on the floor or another flat surface.

Then, lift one mattress end slightly off the ground and place it on the dolly. Do the same for the other side till the mattress is centered on the dolly.

If you have a large mattress, for example queen or king size, it’s best to have a second person to assist with this step.

Step 2: Secure the mattress

If the dolly has straps or bungee cords, wrap them around the mattress and dolly and fasten them tightly. This will keep the mattress from shifting as you move it. If the dolly doesn’t have straps, just ensure that the mattress is centered on the platform and unlikely to slide off.

Step 3: Push or pull the dolly

Stand behind the dolly and use the handles to push or pull it toward your destination. If you're moving the mattress through narrow hallways, use both hands to navigate the dolly carefully.

Step 4: Unload the mattress

Once you have reached your destination, carefully lift the mattress off the dolly and place it in its new location.

How to tie a mattress to a car

Moving a mattress by car? Secure it properly to avoid any damage during transit. Whether you place it on the roof or across the back seats, these steps break down how to transport a mattress by car safely.

Step 1: Wrap the mattress in a mattress bag

Wrap the mattress in a protective mattress bag. This will shield the mattress from dirt, moisture, and any damage that could occur during transport.

Step 2: Position the mattress on the car’s roof

Carefully lift the mattress on top of the car, and ensure it’s centered to avoid movement during transit. For memory foam and orthopedic beds, place the mattress on the flat side to prevent the foam from compressing. For spring mattresses, place it either way, but keep the weight evenly distributed to avoid bending or damaging the springs.

Step 3: Secure the mattress

Roll down all your car windows except for the driver’s side. Then, feed a rope through one passenger’s window, across the width of the mattress, and out the opposite passenger-side window. This rope will help stabilize the mattress from side-to-side movement. If the car has a roof rack, thread the rope through the rack’s bars on both sides of the car.

Next, place another rope across the middle of the mattress along its length, from the front to the back of the car. 

Pull both ropes tight to secure the mattress to the roof. Start with the full length rope (front to back), and tighten it by pulling both ends to ensure the mattress doesn’t shift forward or backward. Then tie it off with a secure knot, repeating the process for the rope going widthwise (side to side).

Step 4: Final checks

Test the mattress by gently shaking it or pushing it from side to side. If there is any movement, tighten the ropes or adjust the knots as needed. Make sure the mattress doesn’t obstruct your visibility in the car. You should still be able to see clearly out of your rearview mirror as well. If it’s hindering your view in any way, adjust the mattress position on the roof.

Now, it’s time to hit the road. Start by driving slowly around a parking lot or a short distance to ensure the mattress remains in place. Then, drive towards your destination, avoiding high speeds. You can park and check on the mattress if needed.

Moving via pickup truck

Before loading the mattress into your pickup truck, wrap it in a mattress bag or heavy-duty plastic cover. This will protect it from dirt, moisture, and potential damage during transit. Wrapping is essential for maintaining the shape of memory foam or orthopedic mattresses.

Step 1: Position the mattress in the pickup truck bed

Lift the mattress onto the pickup truck bed. This is easier than dragging it in and will help avoid damaging the mattress or truck bed. If it’s a large or heavy bed, get assistance to make the process easier.

If it's a memory foam or orthopedic mattress, lay it flat on its side to avoid damaging the foam. Depending on the space and your preference, you can place spring mattresses flat or on their sides. Whichever position you choose, ensure your mattress is centered in the truck bed.

Step 2: Secure the mattress to the truck bed

Once the mattress is in place, use 4 to 6 strong ropes or tie-down straps to secure it. This will prevent it from shifting or flying out of the truck during the move.

Secure one strap at the front of the mattress (near the truck's cab) and another at the rear (near the tailgate). Next, run two additional straps or ropes along the sides of the mattress to prevent it from shifting laterally. For extra stability, you can loop a few ropes diagonally over the mattress to form an "X" shape.

Step 3: Check for stability

Give the mattress a few gentle pushes to check if it’s securely held in place. The mattress should not shift or slide around. If you notice any movement, tighten the ropes or add extra straps.

Step 4: Drive carefully

When driving with a mattress in the truck bed, drive at a moderate speed (no more than 55 to 60 mph), especially on highways. Where possible, stop and check the mattress during the drive to ensure the straps are holding securely and the mattress hasn’t shifted.

How to move a king size mattress

Protect the mattress with a bag and get help, as king-size mattresses can be heavy. Stand it up with a tow strap underneath and have one person at each end wrap the strap around their wrists. Use opposite hands to hold the mattress steady while keeping it balanced with your free hand. Then, lift, walk, and angle it through doorways.

Moving a mattress upstairs

Stand on either side of the mattress and lift it. Tilt the mattress at a 45-degree angle to raise one end while the other rests on the stairs. From there, one person should lift and carry the top part of the mattress while the other manages the bottom. Take turns lifting and pushing the mattress up one step at a time.

How to move a memory foam mattress

Check the memory foam manufacturer’s guidelines for packing instructions. If rolling is allowed, gently roll the mattress from one end and secure it with straps or a mattress bag. Keep it upright or flat during transportation and avoid pressure to preserve the foam’s integrity. Upon arrival, unroll it and leave it to expand.

Key takeaways on how to move a mattress

Moving large mattresses can be challenging, but following the steps in this article will make it more manageable. If your mattress gets dirty during transit, use reliable DIY mattress stain removers to clean it up before settling it into its new space. With that in mind, here’s a recap of the essential tips to keep in mind on how to move a mattress:

• Use a mattress bag to protect it during the move.
• Consider using a mattress dolly for easier transport.
• Enlist help for larger mattresses, especially king-size models.
• Take care to secure the mattress properly in your vehicle to prevent damage