How to Move a Bed
Thankfully, there are ways to move your bed and your mattress successfully, with or without the help of professional movers. Keep reading to learn the best way to move a bed.
Should You Hire Movers or DIY?
When you're getting ready to move a bed, hiring professional movers with a moving van or moving truck may be the best idea. This is especially true if you don't have an extra person to help out.
However, a DIY bed move isn't impossible. With a pickup truck or a van, a friend or family member to help, and the right materials, you can get your mattress where it needs to be.
What You'll Need
- A screwdriver or Allen key to disassemble the frame and headboard
- A mattress bag or plastic to cover the bed
- Packing tape or rope
- A plastic bag to store small hardware from the bed frame
- Move straps to help with lifting
- A friend or two to help with the heavy-duty lifting
- A good night's sleep before you get to work
Start With Your Bed Frame and Box Spring
Before you worry about moving the mattress, take it off the bed frame and/or box spring and lean it against the wall to the side. Box springs are generally lightweight and while they're big, they're not too difficult to move. Once you get this out of the way you should have more room to work with your bed frame and a headboard or footboard if you've got one.
How to Move a Memory Foam Mattress Safely
Memory foam mattresses require a little extra care when moving. Allowing the mattress to fully expand before transport, using protective covers, and avoiding excessive folding can help maintain its shape and comfort.
Moving a Standard Mattress
Before you start to move the mattress, be sure to remove the bed linens and pack them away to avoid stains, dirt or damage to your bedding. Once the mattress is bare, have someone help you place it into a mattress bag, which offers protection from dirt and debris.
If using moving straps, slide them beneath the mattress about 1' from the ends on either side and use them to lift the mattress horizontally. Make sure you have one person to lift on each end and an extra hand or two to keep the mattress stable at the sides. If you won't be using straps, bend at the knees and grab the mattress from the bottom to lift it up. Again, lift it horizontally and ensure you have at least two people to move it and keep it steady.
Renting a Moving Truck
If you don't own a large van or a pickup truck or have a friend who does, you'll need to rent a moving truck from U-Haul, Penske or another truck rental company. If you're just moving a queen-size bed or smaller, a cargo van can typically fit the mattress, box spring and bed frame; however, king-size beds usually need to be moved in something larger. If you're planning to move other furniture, consider a 10' to 20' moving truck.
Moving Long Distances
If you're planning to move to a new city, state or country, you might want to consider shipping your mattress instead of moving it yourself. If you plan to do this, it's important to pack everything carefully in bubble wrap and other protective materials to prevent damages. That's especially true when it comes to your headboard, footboard and any organic parts of your bed frame, such as those that contain wood.
There are several shipping companies that can be found online. Before selecting one, make sure to discuss the details of your shipment, including the date you need your bed to arrive at its new home, with the provider and take time to research their reputation online.
The Bottom Line
Moving a bed is difficult but it's not impossible to take care of it yourself. With a little extra help and the right tools, you can easily get your bed to a new room or a new home.
Common Questions About Moving a Bed
What's the easiest way to get a king-size mattress down a flight of stairs?
Moving a large mattress like a king-size can be tricky, but the easiest method involves protecting it with mattress bags and enlisting at least two people. Tilt the mattress on its side and carefully maneuver it down the stairs, one step at a time, with one person at the top guiding and the other at the bottom supporting. For added safety and grip, consider using furniture straps or dollies if space allows.
Should I disassemble my bed frame before moving it, and if so, what tools will I need?
Disassembling your bed frame is highly recommended for easier transport and to prevent damage. Most bed frames, especially platform or metal ones, require basic tools like a screwdriver (Phillips or flathead), a wrench, or an Allen key, which are often included with the original hardware. Keep all screws and small parts in a labeled baggie attached to the frame itself to ensure nothing gets lost.
How can I protect my bed frame and mattress from scratches and damage during a move?
To protect your bed components, invest in furniture moving blankets or thick comforters to wrap the mattress and headboard/footboard. For the frame, use bubble wrap or moving blankets on any exposed or delicate parts, and secure them with tape. Ensure all disassembled pieces are neatly organized and protected before loading them onto the moving truck.
What's the best way to transport a bed with a built-in storage system, like drawers?
For beds with built-in storage, it's best to empty all drawers completely and consider removing them if possible, as this reduces weight and bulk. If drawers cannot be removed, secure them shut with packing tape or rope to prevent them from opening during transit. Wrap the entire frame, including the storage sections, in moving blankets for comprehensive protection.
Are there any specific considerations for moving a waterbed or adjustable bed?
Waterbeds require careful draining of the water using a siphon or pump before moving, and the mattress should be thoroughly dried and folded according to manufacturer instructions to prevent mold. Adjustable beds need to be unplugged, and the base should be moved in its lowest position; check the manual for specific disassembly or transport guidelines to protect the motor and mechanism.