How to Roll a Mattress: Complete Guide for Storage, Moving, and Disposal

Introduction:

Moving or storing a mattress can feel like a big task. Whether you’re moving to a new home, storing your mattress in a small space, or even getting rid of an old one, rolling your mattress can make the job a lot easier. But not all mattresses are the same! Some are easier to roll than others, and some need extra care.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to roll a mattress the right way to make your life easier. From foam to spring mattresses, we’ll explain everything you need to know. You’ll learn how to roll it up safely, store it properly, and even get it ready for disposal. Let’s dive

Can You Roll a Mattress?

Rolling a mattress isn’t always possible, and it really depends on the type of mattress you have. Here’s a breakdown of which mattresses can be rolled safely and which ones might not do well with the process:

Mattress Types That Can Be Rolled

• Memory Foam Mattresses: These are usually easy to roll because of their soft, flexible nature. You can roll them up without worrying too much about damaging them. However, make sure not to keep them rolled for too long, or the foam may lose its shape.
• Latex Mattresses: Similar to memory foam, latex mattresses are flexible and can be rolled. But again, they should not be kept rolled for extended periods as they may lose their comfort and shape.

Mattress Types That Shouldn’t Be Rolled

• Innerspring Mattresses: These mattresses have coils inside, which are easily damaged if you roll them. Rolling an innerspring mattress can hurt the springs and make it uncomfortable to sleep on later. It’s better to fold them or transport them flat.
• Hybrid Mattresses: These combine foam and coils. Rolling them can damage the coil system, so it’s best to avoid it.

Always Check the Manufacturer’s Guidelines

Before rolling your mattress, always check the manufacturer’s instructions. Some mattresses are made to be rolled, while others are not. If you’re unsure, it’s safer to avoid rolling

Benefits of Rolling a Mattress

Rolling a mattress isn’t just about saving space – it can actually make your life easier in many ways. Here are some of the top benefits of rolling a mattress:

1. Space Saving

If you’re moving to a new place or need to store your mattress, rolling it up is a great way to save space. It makes the mattress much smaller and easier to fit into tight spaces, like storage units or the back of a car.

2. Easier to Move

Rolling a mattress makes it much easier to carry. Instead of struggling with a big, bulky mattress, you can roll it into a smaller, manageable size. If you need to move it by yourself, rolling it up is a simple solution.

3. Protection

When you roll up your mattress, you’re also protecting it from dirt, dust, and other damage during transport. This is especially useful if you’re storing the mattress for a while or moving it to a new location.

4. Perfect for Disposal

If you need to get rid of an old mattress, rolling it up makes it easier to take it to a disposal site or donate it. It helps keep things tidy and ensures you’re not causing any damage when moving the mattress around.

5. Better Organization for Storage

Rolling up your mattress can also help you organize your space better. Instead of having a big mattress taking up lots of room, you can neatly store it, especially in smaller spaces like closets or under a bed.

How to Roll a Mattress: A Step-by-Step Guide

Now that you know why rolling a mattress can be helpful, let’s walk through the step-by-step process to make sure you do it the right way. Follow these simple steps to roll your mattress safely.

Step 1: Remove All Bedding

Before you start rolling, you’ll want to remove all the bedding. This includes sheets, blankets, pillows, and mattress protectors. This step is important because any extra weight or material could get in the way of the rolling process.

Step 2: Place the Mattress on a Flat Surface

Lay your mattress on the floor or another flat surface. Make sure there’s no incline or uneven area where you’re rolling. A flat surface helps prevent any bending or damage while you roll it.

Step 3: Check Manufacturer Guidelines

Remember to check the manufacturer’s guidelines before you begin. Some mattresses are built to be rolled, while others may be damaged by the process. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to refer to the instructions or avoid rolling.

Step 4: Start Rolling the Mattress

• If your mattress is memory foam or latex, you can begin rolling from one end to the other.
• Press down gently as you roll to remove excess air. This helps the mattress stay tightly rolled and makes it easier to manage.
• Tip: If the mattress is large (like a king-size), it’s easier to get someone to help you hold it while you roll it up.

Step 5: Secure the Mattress

Once your mattress is fully rolled, you need to secure it to keep it from unrolling. You can use straps, ropes, or ratchet straps. These tools help keep the roll tightly secured, making it easier to move or store.

Step 6: Use a Mattress Bag (Optional)

For extra protection, you can place your rolled mattress into a plastic mattress bag. This will keep your mattress safe from dirt, dust, and moisture, especially if you plan to store it for a long time.

How Long to Leave a Rolled Mattress?

You might be wondering, how long is it safe to leave a mattress rolled up? The answer depends on the type of mattress, but there are a few key things to keep in mind to keep your mattress in good shape.

Short-Term Rolling

If you’re rolling your mattress for moving or temporary storage, it’s okay to leave it rolled for a few days or weeks. For most foam or latex mattresses, rolling them up for this period won’t cause any damage.

Long-Term Rolling: Not Recommended

• Don’t keep your mattress rolled for too long. If you leave it rolled up for several months, the foam or materials can lose their shape and firmness.
• Memory Foam: For memory foam mattresses, leaving them rolled up for more than a few weeks can cause the foam to become deformed and uncomfortable.
• Innerspring Mattresses: Rolling innerspring mattresses is generally not recommended, and leaving them rolled for an extended period can cause the coils to get damaged.

Best Practices for Long-Term Storage

• If you need to store your mattress for a longer time, unroll it as soon as possible to avoid permanent damage.
• Use a mattress bag and store it in a cool, dry place to maintain its shape and prevent mold or mildew.

How to Roll a Mattress for Different Purposes

Rolling a mattress can be useful for different reasons, whether you’re moving, storing it, or getting rid of an old one. Let’s break down the best way to roll your mattress for each of these purposes.

1. How to Roll a Mattress for Moving

When you’re moving to a new home, rolling your mattress can make the whole process easier. Here’s how to do it right:

• Prepare Your Mattress: Remove all bedding, including sheets, pillows, and mattress protectors.
• Roll the Mattress: Follow the previous steps to roll your mattress. Be sure to press down gently to remove any air as you go.
• Secure the Roll: Once your mattress is rolled, use ratchet straps or rope to secure it. This will prevent it from unrolling while you’re moving it.
• Use a Mattress Bag: For extra protection during the move, place the rolled mattress in a plastic mattress bag to keep it safe from dirt and moisture.

2. How to Roll a Mattress for Storage

Rolling a mattress is a great way to store it if you’re tight on space. Here’s how to store it correctly:

• Check the Mattress Type: Make sure your mattress can be rolled without damage (usually memory foam or latex).
• Roll the Mattress: Follow the same rolling process. Be sure to compress it gently to remove as much air as possible.
• Secure the Mattress: Use strong straps or a mattress bag to keep it sealed and safe.
• Keep it in a Dry, Cool Place: Store your mattress in a cool, dry area to avoid mold or mildew growth. Avoid keeping it in a damp basement or attic.

3. How to Roll a Mattress for Disposal or Donation

If you need to get rid of an old mattress, rolling it makes it easier to handle.

• Clean the Mattress: Make sure the mattress is clean and dry before rolling it.
• Roll It Up: Follow the usual rolling process, but be careful not to damage it if you plan to donate it.
• Wrap It Up: If you’re donating the mattress, wrap it in a plastic cover to keep it clean. If you’re disposing of it, make sure to follow local disposal guidelines for mattresses.

How to Roll a Mattress in a Box

Sometimes, you may want to roll your mattress into a box, especially if you’ve bought a mattress-in-a-box product. This can make transporting or storing your mattress even easier. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Prepare Your Mattress

• Remove All Bedding: Take off any sheets, blankets, pillows, or protectors from the mattress.
• Clean the Mattress: Vacuum the mattress to remove dust and dirt. This will help keep it clean and fresh.

Step 2: Use a Mattress Bag

• Place the Mattress in a Mattress Bag: Before rolling, place your mattress into a plastic mattress bag. This helps protect it from dirt, dust, and moisture during the rolling and storage process.
• Seal the Bag: Once the mattress is inside, seal the bag tightly with tape, making sure no air can escape.

Step 3: Roll the Mattress

• Start Rolling from One End: Begin rolling the mattress slowly from one end to the other. Press down as you roll to help remove air and keep the mattress as tight as possible.
• Keep the Roll Tight: As you roll, ensure the mattress stays compact and secure. If necessary, use a helper to keep it steady.

Step 4: Place the Rolled Mattress in a Box

• Choose the Right Box: Find a box that fits the size of your mattress. Mattress-in-a-box companies often have custom-sized boxes for their products. If you don’t have one, you can buy a suitable box online or at a moving supply store.
• Place the Rolled Mattress Inside: Once the mattress is rolled, carefully place it into the box. Make sure it fits snugly so it won’t move around.

Step 5: Seal the Box

• Close the Box: Once your mattress is inside, seal the box shut using strong tape. If you’re planning to store the box, make sure it’s stored in a cool, dry area.

How to Roll a Mattress for Different Mattress Types

Not all mattresses are created equal, and rolling them up depends on their material and construction. Here’s how to handle different types of mattresses when rolling them.

1. How to Roll a Foam Mattress

• Memory Foam:
  • Easy to Roll: Memory foam mattresses are soft and flexible, which makes them ideal for rolling. Just follow the usual steps of removing the bedding, placing it on a flat surface, and then rolling it up tightly.
  • Compression: If you want to make the process even easier, you can vacuum seal the mattress before rolling. This helps compress the foam and makes it smaller and easier to manage.
• Latex Foam:
  • Similar Process: Like memory foam, latex foam mattresses are flexible and can be rolled up with ease. However, don’t keep it rolled for too long, as it could lose some of its shape and support.

2. How to Roll a Spring Mattress

Rolling a spring mattress is not recommended in most cases. The coils inside the mattress are at risk of being damaged if rolled. However, if you absolutely need to roll it, here are some steps to minimize damage:

• Looser Roll: Roll the mattress gently and loosely to avoid putting too much pressure on the springs.
• Avoid Tightening: Don’t use ratchet straps or ropes that are too tight, as they can damage the springs or affect the mattress’s comfort.
• Seek Help: If the mattress is large or heavy, it’s best to have someone help you roll it carefully.

3. How to Roll a Hybrid Mattress

Hybrid mattresses combine foam and innersprings, making them more difficult to roll than foam-only mattresses. Here’s what to do:

• Check Manufacturer Guidelines: Always check the manufacturer’s instructions before rolling a hybrid mattress. Some may be designed for rolling, while others should never be rolled.
• Roll Carefully: If you do roll a hybrid mattress, do so gently. You may want to roll it with the foam side on the inside to minimize pressure on the springs.
• Use a Mattress Bag: To keep it safe, place the mattress in a mattress bag before rolling it. This will help protect the foam from getting dirty.

How to Roll a Mattress Without a Vacuum

Sometimes, you don’t have access to a vacuum or vacuum bag, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still roll your mattress. Here’s how to do it without a vacuum:

Step 1: Prepare the Mattress

• Remove Bedding: First, take off all the sheets, blankets, pillows, and mattress protectors.
• Clean the Mattress: Vacuum the mattress to remove dust, dirt, and debris. You can use an upholstery attachment to make sure it’s clean.

Step 2: Compress the Mattress Manually

• Press Down on the Mattress: To help remove some air, you can press down on the mattress with your hands. This is especially important for foam mattresses, as they tend to hold air inside.
• Get Help: If the mattress is large (like a queen or king-size), it’s best to have someone help you press down on it while you start rolling it. Having another person will make it much easier to keep the mattress compressed.

Step 3: Start Rolling

• Roll Slowly: Begin rolling the mattress from one end to the other. Make sure you keep the roll as tight as possible.
• Apply Gentle Pressure: As you roll, apply gentle pressure to compress the mattress more. But don’t push too hard, as this can damage the foam or springs.
• Secure the Roll: Once the mattress is fully rolled, use ratchet straps or rope to secure it tightly. This will keep the mattress from unrolling while you move it.

Step 4: Store or Move the Rolled Mattress

• Place It in a Mattress Bag (Optional): If you have a mattress bag available, it’s a good idea to wrap the rolled mattress in it to keep it protected from dirt or moisture.
• Store the Mattress: If you’re storing the mattress, make sure it’s in a cool, dry area. Avoid leaving it in a damp place, as that can cause mold or mildew to form.

How to Roll a Mattress for Disposal or Donation

Rolling your mattress before disposal or donation can make the process much easier. Here’s how to handle the mattress in the most practical way:

Step 1: Clean the Mattress

• Make Sure It’s Clean: If your mattress is still in good condition, clean it thoroughly before rolling it. Vacuum the mattress to remove dust and debris. You may also want to spot clean any stains to make sure it’s presentable if you’re donating it.

Step 2: Roll the Mattress

• Follow the Rolling Process: Roll the mattress in the same way you would for storage or moving. Press down gently to remove excess air and begin rolling from one end to the other.
• Keep It Secure: Once rolled, secure the mattress tightly with ratchet straps, ropes, or strong tape. This will prevent it from unrolling during transport.

Step 3: Wrap It Up

• Wrap the Mattress in a Plastic Cover: If you’re disposing of the mattress, wrap it in a plastic mattress bag. This will protect it from dirt and moisture during transportation.
• Check Donation Guidelines: If you’re donating the mattress, check with the donation center to see if they require any specific steps, such as wrapping or special packaging.

Step 4: Transport the Mattress

• Disposal: If you’re disposing of the mattress, check your local disposal guidelines. Many places have specific rules for mattress disposal, such as taking it to a recycling center or using a special pickup service.
• Donation: If you’re donating the mattress, take it to the donation center. Some places may even offer free pickup services, so check with them first.

Conclusion

Rolling a mattress makes moving, storing, or disposing of it much easier. For foam mattresses, it’s a great option, but be sure to check the manufacturer’s guidelines before rolling any mattress. Remember, spring mattresses should be handled carefully to avoid damage. By following the right steps, you can keep your mattress safe and make transport hassle-free. If you want to buy a new bed and mattress, we recommend the best in quality from Midland Bed and Mattress.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions people have about rolling and storing mattresses. Let’s address these to help you feel confident in the process!

1. Can You Roll a Mattress Without a Vacuum?

Yes, you can roll a mattress without a vacuum. For foam mattresses, you can press down manually to remove air and roll it tightly. While a vacuum helps compress the mattress more, it’s not necessary for all types. Just make sure to secure the mattress properly once it’s rolled.

2. How Long Can You Leave a Rolled Mattress?

It’s best not to leave a mattress rolled for too long. For memory foam mattresses, it’s okay for a few weeks, but anything longer can cause it to lose its shape. Innerspring mattresses should never be rolled for extended periods, as it can damage the springs.

3. Can You Roll a Spring Mattress?

Rolling a spring mattress is not recommended. The coils inside can get damaged or bent, which may ruin the mattress’s comfort. If you need to move or store a spring mattress, it’s better to keep it flat and use a mattress bag for protection.

4. How Do You Roll a Mattress for Storage?

To roll a mattress for storage, follow these steps:

1. Remove all bedding.
2. Place the mattress on a flat surface.
3. Roll the mattress tightly, pressing out any air.
4. Secure the roll with straps or rope.
5. Place it in a mattress bag for extra protection, and store it in a cool, dry area.

5. Is It Okay to Roll a Memory Foam Mattress?

Yes, memory foam mattresses are ideal for rolling. Just make sure to avoid leaving them rolled up for too long, as this can affect the foam’s shape and support. Vacuum sealing the mattress before rolling is a great way to compress it for easier handling.

6. How to Roll a Mattress for Disposal?

Rolling a mattress for disposal is simple. Clean the mattress, roll it up tightly, and secure it with straps or ropes. Wrap it in plastic to keep it clean and transport it to the disposal or recycling center according to your local guidelines.

7. Can You Roll a Hybrid Mattress?

Hybrid mattresses combine foam and innerspring coils. While you can roll them, it’s not recommended because the springs inside can be damaged. Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines before attempting to roll a hybrid mattress.