Memory foam mattresses are one of the most famous mattress types available. Primarily because they are easy to remember, new buyers like to play it safe. However, moving it from one place to another is where the hassle starts. Therefore, knowing how to compress memory foam mattress is essential for every homeowner.
How To Compress Memory Foam Mattress?
This guide will give step-by-step instructions to help you DIY at home. Compressing your mattress can help you move your stuff to another place more easily.
Trying to compress your memory foam mattress alone could damage it. Manufacturers utilize specialized machinery to apply enormous pressure to mattresses without damaging them. If you use a do-it-yourself compression method, the bed’s stability may be compromised, resulting in a lumpy mattress or a mattress that won’t inflate back to its original shape during transit.
Should You Take Your Mattress Or Buy A New One?
Consider whether it is worthwhile packing up your mattress before beginning any project. If your memory foam mattress fits the following requirements, you might want to think about recycling or donating it instead:
- The age of your mattress is seven years or older.
- You wake up from sleep on an uncomfortable mattress or with discomfort.
- There are rips or splits in your mattress.
- There is a sinking or loosing of form in your mattress.
- These all indicate it’s time to get a new bed and replace your mattress.
Gather All Your Materials
Here are some items you’ll need to pack up your mattress:
- Mattress bag made of plastic
- straps with ratchets
- Tape for ducts
- tiny vacuum bag
- Cleaner vacuum
- A container
Consider grabbing a friend or two as well. Having an extra pair of hands makes this task considerably easier.
Mattress bag made of plastic:
A premium mattress bag is available online or at local storage facilities. A sturdy, airtight, sealable mattress bag is required. Be sure to get the appropriate size.
Ratchet straps:
Once the mattress has been rolled up and compacted, ratchet straps keep it in place. You should use three or four ratchet straps total—two for the ends and one or more for the middle. You could require more if the mattress is larger.
Placing cushioning between the mattress bag and the ratchet straps could be a good idea. If the bag is constructed of a thinner, less expensive material, the ratchet straps may cut into the bag when you tighten them.
Duct Tape:
To strengthen the seal and fasten the compression valve, use duct tape. The mattress bag’s seams can be strengthened with tape to stop rips and leaks.
Although duct tape is our top choice due to its durability, packing tape can also be used.
Bag with Vacuum Seal
Vacuum seal bags come in various sizes and compress bedding, clothing, and other items. A tiny vacuum bag will do since you only use it for the valve. Simply check that the valve is compatible with the vacuum you are using.
Vacuum Cleaner:
The vacuum power of a shop vac or a typical vacuum cleaner is sufficient to remove the air from the bag.
Optional Box
Your mattress can be kept safe during the move with a little box. To determine what size box will fit the mattress the best, you should buy one after the mattress has been crushed and rolled up.
How To Compress Memory Foam Mattress?
1. Prepare the mattress
Take off all your bedding, aside from the mattress protector, to prepare your mattress for compression. This includes mattress toppers, pads, sheets, blankets, and comforters.
2. Mattress bag
Slide the mattress in the plastic bag. Though one person may still complete it, it is simplest with assistance from another. Carefully slip the mattress inside the bag, starting from one side and lifting one end a few inches.
After shutting the bag, use duct tape strips to strengthen the closure. For the last steps, move your mattress to the floor.
3. Screw the Valve in Place
Remove the vacuum bag’s valve, leaving enough plastic around it so that tape may be used to secure it. Next, make a tiny hole in the mattress bag that only the valve can pass through. To make the bag airtight, slide the valve inside and draw it through this opening. Then, seal the hole with tape.
4. Take a Deep Breath
For this stage, it is best to have your mattress flat on the floor so that the foam is compressed uniformly and no damage is done.
Fit the valve with your vacuum hose. You can seal the two together with duct tape if you’d like. When the vacuum is turned on, observe how the mattress and bag flatten.
5. Convert the Mattress
After the mattress has become flat, begin rolling it up from one end. The vacuum cleaner should be kept running since it will collect any remaining air the mattress has been rolled up to remove. For a tighter bundle, roll slowly.
6. Fasten It
After the mattress has been folded, tighten the straps by wrapping them around it and cranking. As we already discussed, place some cushioning between the straps and the beg to avoid tearing.
Keep the mattress horizontal after rolling it up and securing it to avoid damage. If you have one, place the mattress into a box, then shut it.
What Are The Pros and Cons Of DIY Compressing Memory Foam Mattress?
Let’s take a quick look at some of the pros and cons of Compressing your memory foam mattress at home:
Pros:
- Compressing a memory foam mattress can be helpful when moving
- It becomes easy to transport compared to other uncompressed mattress
- You don’t need a handful of people to accommodate the move
Cons:
It can damage your mattress if you don’t compress the mattress correctly
Compression can break springs or other support structures in the foam
Compressed mattresses can take a day or two to return to their original form. So, make sure to keep an alternative for the time being.
Can You Compress Other Types Of Mattresses?
Furthermore, if you think a compressed memory foam isn’t working out for you, there are other alternatives you can use:
Gel Memory Foam Mattress:
Gel memory foam is gaining rapid popularity, mainly because of its amazing sleep support system, breathable materials that help regulate body temperature and budget-friendly options.
Therefore, buyers naturally gravitate towards a gel foam rather than a traditional spring mattress to save time, effort, and money. If you’re tired of the old memory foam, switch to gel and see the difference.
Latex Mattress:
These types of mattresses use latex foam as their primary material. Because of their highly durable features, these mattresses are commonly found in high-end mattresses.
Moreover, manufacturers use latex for people with allergies, as this material is made of real rubber and is not prone to attracting dust mites and other allergens.
Furthermore, people find latex to last longer compared to other mattresses. Therefore, if you’re on the lookout for new bedding, we highly suggest you invest in a mattress that knows its worth and can last for a longer period.
Wrapping It Up!
Now that you know how to compress a memory foam mattress, you can invest in a product that offers you superior comfort and support. Moreover, it also improves your sleep pattern. However, they can be a hassle when it comes to moving and storage. Nonetheless, the above guide is enough to cover all the necessary steps you need to follow. Also, check our article on How Long Does It Take Memory Foam Mattress To Expand.
If you love this blog, make sure to check out some of our other works as well.
FAQs
Can you make a memory foam mattress smaller?
Of course! Cutting a memory foam mattress is possible, whether your goal is to downsize it to fit a new bed frame, make some cushions, or just alter it for a do-it-yourself project. To guarantee a smooth cut without destroying the foam, it is necessary to use the appropriate instruments, patience, and accuracy when cutting foam.
How To Compress Memory Foam Mattress? Can you soften a memory foam mattress?
You can sleep on it or take daily short walks on it. It will naturally soften with time. Rotate and Flip: Frequent rotation and flipping of memory foam mattresses is beneficial, particularly for dual-sided models. This may reveal a softer side and help equal outwear.
How long does memory foam stay firm?
The typical lifespan of a memory foam mattress is six to 10 years, although some can last up to fifteen years before losing their shape and capacity to conform to your body. Numerous elements determine how long a mattress lasts and whether it will be on the shorter or longer end of its lifespan.
