Storing a Mattress Against a Wall – Should You Do It?

08/19/2024

Ben Trapskin

I have carefully studied and evaluated many mattresses, sheets, pillows, duvet inserts, comforters, sleep gadgets, and adjustable beds for over a deca... Full Bio

Introduction

How to store a mattress against a wall might seem simple, but doing it right is crucial to maintain the condition of your mattress. If you’re short on time, here’s a quick tip: make sure the mattress is clean, dry, and stored in a breathable cover on a flat surface to avoid damage.

Storing your mattress properly can save you money and extend its lifespan. When done right, it keeps the mattress free from mold, dust, and unwanted sagging.

If you have an extra mattress in good condition and want to keep it that way, you must take the right steps for storage. This guide will show you how to store a mattress against a wall without causing any harm.

My name is Ben Trapskin, and I’ve spent years studying sleep solutions and navigating the challenges of mattress storage. Let me guide you through this process to ensure your mattress stays in top shape.

Why Proper Mattress Storage Matters

Storing a mattress might seem simple, but doing it improperly can cause serious damage. Here’s why proper mattress storage is essential:

Mattress Care

Mattresses are designed to support your body while you sleep. Improper storage can compromise this support. For instance, leaning a mattress against a wall without adequate support can cause the inner workings to shift. This can lead to lumps and uneven surfaces, making the mattress uncomfortable and reducing its effectiveness.

Lifespan Extension

A well-maintained mattress can last up to 10-15 years. However, improper storage can significantly shorten this lifespan. Keeping a mattress in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area is crucial. Moisture and humidity can lead to mold and mildew, which not only damage the mattress but also pose health risks.

Cost-Saving

Mattresses are a significant investment, often costing hundreds or even thousands of dollars. By taking the time to store your mattress properly, you avoid the need for premature replacement. This can save you a lot of money in the long run.

Real-Life Example

Consider the story of Jamie Pantano from Yawnder, who manages returns and donations. They have a 95% success rate in donating returned mattresses due to their stringent care guidelines. This shows that even with second-hand mattresses, proper storage can maintain quality and extend usability.

How to Store a Mattress Against a Wall

When space is limited, storing a mattress against a wall can be a practical solution. However, doing it wrong can damage your mattress. Let’s walk through the steps to ensure your mattress stays in great shape.

Preparing Your Mattress for Storage

Before you store your mattress, it’s crucial to prepare it properly.

Clean Thoroughly: Start by vacuuming the entire surface to remove dust and debris. Sprinkle baking soda over the mattress, let it sit for a few hours, and then vacuum again. This helps eliminate odors.
Use a Mattress Bag: Place your mattress in a protective mattress bag. This shields it from dust, dirt, and moisture. Make sure the bag is breathable to prevent mold buildup.

Choosing the Right Storage Location

Where you store your mattress is just as important as how you store it.

Temperature Control: Choose a location with a consistent, moderate temperature. Extreme temperatures can damage the mattress materials.
Humidity Control: Avoid damp areas like basements. High humidity can lead to mold and mildew. Use a dehumidifier if necessary.
Ventilation: Ensure the storage area is well-ventilated. Good airflow helps prevent moisture buildup.

Positioning the Mattress Against the Wall

Proper positioning is key to maintaining the mattress’s shape and support.

Flat Surface: While it’s generally okay to store a mattress on its side, placing it flat on the floor is ideal. This avoids pressure points and keeps the fillings evenly distributed.
Avoiding Pressure Points: If you must store it on its side, ensure the mattress is evenly supported. Avoid leaning it against sharp edges or objects that could cause indentations.
Support Cores: For mattresses with pocket springs or natural fillings, it’s especially important to store them flat. Storing these mattresses on their side can affect the internal structure and comfort.

By following these steps, you can store your mattress against a wall without compromising its quality.

Next, we’ll explore some common mistakes to avoid when storing a mattress.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Storing a mattress against a wall might seem straightforward, but there are several common mistakes that can lead to damage. Here’s what you need to avoid:

Storing Vertically

One of the biggest mistakes is storing a mattress vertically. While it might seem like a space-saving solution, it can cause serious issues:

Inner Workings Shift: Mattresses, especially those with pocket springs or natural fillings, can have their internal components shift when stored on their side. This can lead to a lopsided mattress that’s uncomfortable to sleep on.
Indentations: Leaning a mattress against a wall without proper support can cause indentations. Ensure the mattress is evenly supported to avoid this.

Placing Items on Top

Another common mistake is placing items on top of the mattress. This can cause:

Pressure Points: Items on top of the mattress can create pressure points, leading to permanent indentations or damage.
Mold and Mildew: Stacking items can also trap moisture, increasing the risk of mold and mildew growth, especially in humid environments.

Improper Wrapping

Improper wrapping can also be detrimental. Here’s what to avoid:

Non-Breathable Covers: Using plastic covers might seem like a good idea, but they can trap moisture and lead to mold. Instead, use a breathable mattress storage cover that protects from dust and dirt while allowing air circulation.
Loose Wrapping: Wrapping the mattress too loosely can allow dust and pests to get in. Ensure the cover is snug and sealed properly.

Tips for Long-Term Storage

Storing a mattress for an extended period requires extra care to ensure it stays in top shape. Here are some essential tips for long-term storage:

Climate Control

Maintaining the right climate is crucial for preserving your mattress. Extreme temperatures and high humidity can damage the materials and lead to mold growth. Aim to store your mattress in a room with climate control.

Ideal Temperature: Keep the room between 18°C and 19°C for optimal conditions.
Humidity Levels: Use a dehumidifier to maintain humidity levels between 30-50%.

Regular Checks

Even with the best preparation, you should check on your stored mattress regularly. This helps catch any issues early before they become significant problems.

Monthly Inspections: Look for signs of mold, pests, or tears in the plastic wrapping.
Air Circulation: Open the seal on the mattress bag once a week to let the mattress breathe. This prevents moisture build-up.

Dehumidifiers

Using a dehumidifier in your storage space can be a game-changer. It helps maintain the ideal humidity level, preventing dampness and mold.

Portable Dehumidifiers: These are easy to move and can be placed directly in the storage area.
Continuous Drain Option: For long-term storage, consider a dehumidifier with a continuous drain option to avoid emptying the water tank frequently.

By following these tips, you can ensure your mattress stays in excellent condition throughout its time in storage. Up next, we’ll answer some frequently asked questions about storing a mattress against a wall.

Frequently Asked Questions about Storing a Mattress Against a Wall

Can you store a mattress vertically?

Storing a mattress vertically might seem like a good idea to save space, but it’s generally not recommended. When you store a mattress on its side, the inner workings of the mattress can shift. This can lead to a lopsided mattress, which may affect its comfort and support when you use it again.

According to experts, storing a mattress vertically can bend the internal structure, causing permanent damage to the support cores. This is particularly true for innerspring and hybrid mattresses, which rely on a precise arrangement of coils and layers to provide proper support.

What is the best position to store a mattress?

The best position to store a mattress is flat. Keeping the mattress flat ensures that the internal structure remains intact and the mattress maintains its shape. This is especially important for innerspring and hybrid mattresses, which can be damaged if stored on their side or folded.

However, there are some exceptions for foam and latex mattresses. These materials are more flexible and can sometimes be stored rolled up for short periods. But even with these exceptions, it’s best to store them flat if possible to avoid any potential damage.

How to keep a mattress from sliding off the wall?

Keeping a mattress from sliding off the wall can be a challenge, but there are a few simple solutions:

Rubber Mats: Placing a rubber mat underneath the mattress can provide the friction needed to keep it in place. Rubber mats are inexpensive and easy to find.
Mattress Pads: A mattress pad with a non-slip bottom can also help keep the mattress from sliding. These pads are designed to stay in place, making them a good option for long-term storage.
Straps and Brackets: Using straps to secure the mattress to the wall or installing brackets can provide extra stability. This is particularly useful if you plan to store the mattress for an extended period.

By using these methods, you can ensure your mattress stays securely against the wall, preventing any potential damage or inconvenience.

Conclusion

Properly storing a mattress can save you a lot of money and extend its lifespan. At Yawnder, we believe in providing expert advice to help you make the most of your investment.

When you store a mattress against a wall, it’s crucial to follow the right techniques. Start by thoroughly cleaning your mattress to prevent any mold or mildew buildup. Use a mattress bag for protection and choose a storage location with good temperature and humidity control. Always place the mattress on a flat surface to avoid damaging the support cores.

Avoid common mistakes like storing the mattress vertically or placing heavy items on top. These can cause the inner workings to shift, leading to a lopsided mattress. For long-term storage, consider using climate control and regular checks to ensure everything remains in good condition.

By following these simple steps, you can keep your mattress in excellent shape, ready for use whenever you need it.

For more expert tips and high-quality mattresses, visit our Yawnder mattress store. We’re here to help you with all your mattress needs.