--- title: "How to Store a Mattress: Flat, Dry and Supported" description: "Plan mattress storage with model-specific guidance on flat versus upright positions, covers, moisture, moving, compression and checks before reuse." url: "https://bedguide.co.uk/care/how-to-store-a-mattress/" category: "care" primary_entity: "how to store a mattress" date_published: 2026-08-03 date_modified: 2026-09-08 --- # How to Store a Mattress: Flat, Dry and Supported > To store a mattress, follow the instructions for the exact model and prepare a clean, dry, supported space. Check whether it must lie flat and which packaging is allowed. Do not assume a mattress delivered rolled can be compressed again at home. Keep heavy objects off it and inspect the space for damp. Sources: - [TEMPUR UK: cleaning and care](https://uk.tempur.com/caring-tempur.html) — Model-specific storage, packaging, cover care and bed-base instructions. These rules do not apply automatically to other brands. Checked 2026-09-08. - [TEMPUR UK: quality guarantee and instructions](https://uk.tempur.com/quality-guarantee.html) — Links to current model instructions, including moving, transport and storage requirements. Checked 2026-09-08. ## How to store a mattress before moving house Start with the model name and care booklet. Look for separate instructions for moving, storage and an unopened delivery. Briefly carrying a mattress on its edge is not the same as leaving it that way for weeks. TEMPUR’s UK care guidance, for example, requires its mattresses to be stored flat and says the original packaging is preferred. It gives different storage instructions for its toppers. This is why one generic rule about upright storage, covers or rolling is not enough. ## Prepare the space and the mattress 1. Measure the storage space and the route into it, including stairs and tight turns. 2. Check the maker’s permitted storage position and supporting surface. 3. Inspect the mattress and follow its cleaning instructions if needed. 4. Allow any cleaned areas to dry fully before covering or moving it. 5. Choose a clean, dry location and keep the mattress away from leaks and wet surfaces. 6. Keep the label, order details and instructions available for the move back. A garage or shed is not suitable simply because it has enough floor space. Check for changing damp conditions, leaks, pests and contact with cold or wet surfaces. If you cannot provide the conditions the maker requires, choose another storage arrangement. ## Can a mattress be stored on its side? Do not treat upright storage as a universal space-saving option. The permitted position depends on the model. Ask the manufacturer before planning to leave it upright, especially where instructions require flat storage. If a mover plans to transport it on its edge, clarify the handling method and duration separately. The lifting route, storage position and mattress support are different checks. Do not bend it sharply to make it fit through a doorway without model-specific permission. ## Which mattress storage cover should I use? Use the maker’s packaging guidance. A cover can protect against dust and handling marks, but it does not make a damp storage space suitable. Do not seal moisture into a bag or use a wet cover. There is no single rule that every mattress must use breathable fabric instead of plastic. Some manufacturers specify original packaging. Confirm the material, sealing instructions and any inspection requirements for your model. If using a fabric bag, include its seams and handles when checking the route and stored dimensions. ## Can I vacuum-pack or roll the mattress again? A factory-compressed mattress is not automatically approved for home compression. Packaging equipment, compression limits and allowed storage periods vary. Keep a mattress in its normal shape unless the manufacturer explicitly provides a safe method for your model. An unopened boxed mattress also has its own unpacking instructions. Do not assume you can leave it boxed indefinitely. See [rolled mattress expansion](/care/rolled-mattress-expansion) for the distinction between first use, recovery and storage. ## Keep the mattress supported during storage Support it in the position and manner the manufacturer specifies. Keep heavy boxes and furniture off it. Protect it from sharp edges and avoid using it as a shelf. When arranging movers, confirm how it will be carried; do not assume decorative handles are lifting handles. Record its condition before storage. If you can access it safely, check periodically for moisture, damage or a change in shape. A photograph makes it easier to explain a problem without guessing when it began. ## Before putting it back on the bed Check both the mattress and its base. Follow any manufacturer instructions about acclimatisation or recovery after moving. If it is damp, damaged or has visible mould, obtain suitable advice before using it; do not cover the problem with fresh bedding. Continue with [mattress and base compatibility](/care/mattress-base-compatibility), [damp beneath a mattress](/care/damp-and-mould-under-mattress) and [delivery access planning](/sizing/bed-footprint-and-access). ## Frequently asked questions ### Can I store a mattress upright? Only where the manufacturer permits that storage position for the exact model. Short handling during a move is a different situation. Some makers, including TEMPUR for its mattresses, require flat storage. ### Can I vacuum-pack a mattress that arrived rolled? Do not assume that factory compression can be repeated at home. Obtain explicit instructions for your model before rolling or compressing it again. An unopened boxed mattress can also have an unpacking deadline. ### Should I use plastic or a breathable mattress storage bag? Follow the manufacturer’s packaging instructions. Some specify original packaging. Whichever cover is permitted, the mattress and storage space must be dry; a bag cannot make a damp location suitable. --- Source: https://bedguide.co.uk/care/how-to-store-a-mattress/ · BedGuide — educational encyclopedia, no affiliate commission. Facts checked against official sources where possible; see https://bedguide.co.uk/editorial-policy. Report an error: https://bedguide.co.uk/corrections.