We have two steps to teach you for those who want to know how to store a mattress in a storage unit. You might be thinking that just because you have secured a storage unit for your bed, you are less likely to encounter issues. It’s a relatively straightforward process, but trust us, it’s worth reading additional tips when it comes to storing something like a mattress in a storage unit.
Storing a mattress itself shouldn’t be done haphazardly. You still want to get the bed in its best condition when you take it out. Here is what you should do:
How To Store A Mattress In A Storage Unit The Best Way
Step #1. Position
After you have secured a storage unit, you are ready to arrange your mattress inside. Let us assume that you are not only storing your bed like most people, and you also have other items. Space may not be enough, so it’s tempering to stand the mattress on one side.
Now, stop right there because this isn’t the ideal orientation for storing a mattress in a storage unit or not. Keeping your bed upright is only acceptable for a short period because this position will change the model’s structure. The coils and padding will eventually settle due to gravity, so your bed will end up getting deformed.
Even foam beds are not safe when left upright for a long time because the layers will lose their shape. Instead, enough space for your mattress and store it horizontally over something flat to keep its form. Placing it over something is also a reasonable precaution in case the floor gets wet.
Step #2. Cover
After you lay your mattress flat, it’s time to cover it for additional protection. It’s worth reminding you at this point never to place anything on top of the bed. Again, it might seem like a good idea to save space, but you risk encouraging dents on the bed from those objects’ weight.
What should you use to cover a mattress in a storage unit? Before you brought the bed into the unit, you have probably used the model’s specific mattress cover. However, you want to provide twice the protection by covering everything with plastic wrap.
The material will keep moisture and dust at bay, and you can feel secure that even bugs can’t penetrate the bed if the original mattress cover developed holes or tears. While pests and water damage are not something to be afraid of in renting a storage space, it’s still better to be prepared. Finally, tape the plastic well to keep it from unraveling.
Can A Mattress Get Bed Bugs In Storage?
Bed bugs are one of those pesky critters that may live in a mattress uninvited. It’s why it will make you feel more are at ease after covering the mattress in plastic and tape because there are no holes where these bugs can enter. However, there’s still a slim chance of having bed bugs in storage.
Reason and prevention
Before you freak out, let us emphasize why a bed bug infestation can happen in a storage facility. Remember that these insects can survive for months without their host. If you or someone unknowingly brought them there, you are at risk of seeing them in a poorly protected mattress when not controlled as soon as possible.
How do you prevent bed bugs in a storage unit? Make sure to inspect everything you’ll store in the unit with the mattress. The facility itself should also be well-maintained, and there is nothing that can become hiding spots for bed bugs.
Your unit shouldn’t have any black or brown spots as they might mean bed bug droppings or skin. Next, you shouldn’t smell anything inside, and the walls have no cracks that might invite insects. Garbage bins and bushes are also common areas where bed bugs might live.
What about mold and mildew?
Mold and mildew are the least of your worries when storing a bed in a storage unit. However, if you’re genuinely keeping the mattress in there for a very long time, opt for a climate-controlled unit. This way, it’s impossible for mold and mildew to develop since the humidity ad temperature is not fluctuating.
How Long Can A Mattress Stay In Storage?
You can keep a mattress in storage for as long as needed, but there’s a catch to remember. You must ventilate the bed every six months. This means unwrapping it and letting it air out twice a year.
This will deodorize the mattress and also disinfect it. You can also use this as an opportunity to check for dents and creases. If the bed, for some reason, got damp, aerating it twice a year will notify you and dry it quickly.
How Do You Freshen A Mattress That Has Been Stored?
Sprinkle baking soda all over the surface and let it sit for an hour or two to absorb any smells. Then, vacuum the powder off and repeat on the other side. You can also vacuum the bed first before applying the baking soda.
Conclusion
The safest place to keep your bed until you need it is a storage unit. If you’re unsure how to store a mattress in a storage unit, you only need to position and cover it. Overall, it’s as simple as knowing the proper orientation and protection, but remember to aerate your mattress every six months.