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How To Prepare & Store A Mattress Properly

Mattress without sheets

A quality mattress is a significant investment, and with proper care, it can provide years of comfort and support. Whether you're moving, renovating, downsizing, or simply need extra space, storing your mattress correctly helps protect it from moisture, dust, pests, and permanent damage.

Improper storage can shorten your mattress's lifespan, leading to mold, odors, sagging, or damage to its internal support system. By following a few simple steps and choosing the right storage environment, you can keep your mattress in excellent condition until you're ready to use it again.

At Elite Self Storage, we offer a variety of drive-up and climate-controlled storage units in South Edmonton and St. Albert, making it easy to safely store mattresses and other household furniture.

Clean Your Mattress Thoroughly

Always clean your mattress before placing it into storage.

Even mattresses that appear clean can contain:

  • Dust

  • Dust mites

  • Dead skin cells

  • Pet hair

  • Allergens

  • Odours

Start by vacuuming both sides of the mattress, paying close attention to seams and edges where debris collects.

To help eliminate odours naturally, sprinkle baking soda over the surface and allow it to sit for several hours before vacuuming it thoroughly.

If your mattress requires spot cleaning, always follow the manufacturer's care instructions and allow it to dry completely before storage.

Don't forget to clean your box spring as well if it will be stored alongside your mattress.

Use a Mattress Storage Bag

Once your mattress is clean and completely dry, place it inside a quality mattress storage bag.

A mattress bag helps protect against:

  • Dust

  • Dirt

  • Moisture

  • Insects

  • Tears during moving

Seal the bag securely with packing tape, taking care not to tape directly to the mattress fabric.

For long-term storage, it's a good idea to inspect the mattress periodically and allow it to air out if necessary.

Store Your Mattress Flat

Mattresses should always be stored flat whenever possible.

Standing a mattress on its side for an extended period can place stress on the internal coils or foam layers and may cause permanent deformation.

If floor space is limited, choose a storage unit large enough to allow the mattress to lie flat without bending or folding.

Keep It Off the Floor

Although your mattress is protected by a storage bag, it's still a good idea to keep it off the concrete floor.

Use:

  • Wooden pallets

  • Plastic pallets

  • Furniture risers

  • A clean platform

This improves airflow while providing an extra barrier against moisture.

Never Store Heavy Items on Top

Avoid placing boxes, furniture, or other heavy items on your mattress.

Continuous pressure can:

  • Damage internal springs

  • Compress foam layers

  • Cause permanent indentations

  • Reduce the mattress's lifespan

Instead, position your mattress where it won't be supporting the weight of other stored items.

Choose Climate-Controlled Storage

While many mattresses can be stored safely in a clean, dry environment, climate-controlled storage provides additional protection during Alberta's hot summers and cold winters.

Climate-controlled storage is especially recommended for:

  • Memory foam mattresses

  • Latex mattresses

  • Pillow-top mattresses

  • Premium hybrid mattresses

  • Adjustable mattress systems

A stable environment helps reduce the effects of temperature fluctuations and humidity, helping preserve the materials inside your mattress.

Refresh Your Mattress After Storage

When you're ready to use your mattress again:

  • Remove the storage bag.

  • Vacuum both sides.

  • Sprinkle baking soda over the surface.

  • Let it sit for several hours.

  • Vacuum thoroughly.

  • Allow the mattress to air out before making the bed.

This helps freshen the mattress after storage and removes any lingering odours.

Store Your Mattress with Elite Self Storage

Whether you're storing a mattress for a few months or several years, Elite Self Storage offers secure storage solutions to help protect your investment.

We offer a variety of storage unit sizes, including drive-up storage units and climate-controlled storage units, so you can choose the right space for your needs. Our South Edmonton and St. Albert locations feature modern security, convenient access, and flexible month-to-month rentals.

Reserve your storage unit online today or contact our team at 780-347-0433 to find the perfect storage solution for your mattress and household belongings.

Visit Our Storage Locations

Elite Self Storage provides secure storage solutions with flexible month-to-month rentals, a variety of unit sizes, and convenient access at both of our Alberta locations.

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