How to store a mattress topper – expert tips on keeping it in top condition
Mattress toppers can alter the firmness levels of your bed, making them perfect for upgrading uncomfortable college dorm mattresses or adding cushioning to a guest bed when friends and family come to stay. There are also cooling mattress toppers that offer a breathable gel layer to keep you sweat-free during hot summer nights.
They're the best way to transform your sleep and prolong the life of your bed. But what do you do with one when it's not on your mattress? Storing a mattress topper when you're moving or don't want to use it can be quite tricky – especially if you don't have too much space. Store a topper wrong, and it could be damaged, too. As with your duvet, bed sheets, and pillows, caring for your mattress topper will help keep it in good condition.
To help you find out the best way to store a mattress topper, we've spoken to the experts for their step-by-step guide. As H&G's sleep editor, I've tried it out too, and would recommend the following to have your best mattress topper looking and feeling just as comfortable for years to come.
How to store a mattress topper
How to store a mattress topper depends on the type, and you should check the manufacturer's website to see what methods they suggest. For example, Karl Shevick, the founder and CEO of Earthfoam states 'you should generally avoid storing foam toppers folded or compressed for an extended period of time. This may cause indentations that will not recover.'
1. Clean your mattress topper
The first step is to clean your mattress topper properly before you store it Theresa Schnorbach, content director and sleep scientist at Emma Mattress explains that 'Cleaning your mattress topper helps to avoid any potential build-up of mold or other bacterial nasties. Remove all your bedding, from the shams and sheets through to your mattress protector, vacuum the topper to remove any debris, and treat any stains or orders using the appropriate methods.' Spot cleaning using baking soda or gentle cleaning agents like Method's free and clear laundry detergent is usually the best way.
Make sure your mattress topper is fully dry before continuing to the next step. Bear in mind this could take around 24 hours. Hanging your topper on a clothesline or leaving it out in the sun will speed up the process if you have outdoor space.
2. Roll up your mattress topper
The best way to then store your mattress topper is to roll it, but this can be easier said than done if your topper is thicker. Theresa recommends 'gently rolling the mattress topper instead of folding it, as folding can cause permanent wrinkles, creases or even cracks in your topper'. By rolling it, you can save on space if you have fewer places to store. A tightly rolled mattress topper can fit perfectly under the bed or in a cupboard.
3. Use a storage bag
Most mattress toppers will come with a storage bag. If yours did, then you can roll up your topper and 'carefully store it without creasing', says Theresa. 'If you no longer have the original bag, you can use a large plastic mattress bag to protect the topper from any damage.'
There are lots of mattress bags available online, like these best-selling mattress bags from Linenspa on Amazon.
Theresa adds that 'if your mattress topper came with a plastic vacuum seal, use this to seal the bag tightly and prevent air or harmful elements from damaging the topper. If your bag doesn't have a vacuum seal, you can similarly use a vacuum cleaner to remove the air from the bag before sealing it.' There's also plenty of vacuum storage solutions on Amazon that will shrink your topper, making it easier to store it without creases.
4. Store in a cool, dry place
Where you store your mattress topper is important for keeping your topper in good condition. Karl Shevick explains 'It is a good idea to store a foam topper in a cool, dark place to prevent the foam from degrading.'
Theresa agrees you should 'choose a storage space that is dry and unlikely to experience too much temperature fluctuation'; bedroom closets or under beds are the best. She recommends 'avoiding areas like basements and attics as these are often prone to dampness, humidity, or mold, which can damage the mattress topper.'
FAQs
How do you store a mattress topper in the summer?
Storing your mattress topper somewhere too hot is probably the biggest threat to your mattress topper. You should follow the above steps and then ensure your mattress topper is stored in a relatively climate-controlled space or room to prevent any heat damage. Wrapping it in plastic will keep any air and potential moisture out, too. If you have a feather or pillow topper then you can be less strict, but foam toppers should be away from heat at all times. When foam gets hot, it can soften and wrap. If temperatures exceed 400°F, foam toppers could degrade.
How long should you keep a mattress topper?
A mattress topper is great for prolonging the life of your mattress, and it should do by at least three to five years. Of course, this can vary depending on the type of topper you have and how well you care for it – which includes storing it properly. Memory foam toppers tend to last longer than polyfill or feather bed toppers are they won't degrade or change form too easily. However, experts do recommend that you should replace your mattress topper after this time as it may start to sag or comfort your body and no longer offer the support needed. That being said, after 3-5 years, it's probably time to invest in a new mattress.
While mattress toppers are a cheaper alternative to buying a brand-new bed, they do still cost. This is why you should store your mattress topper properly when it is not in use. To take extra caution and avoid any damage you should unroll your mattress every few months, even if you don't intend to put it back on your bed. Airing it out will prevent moisture build-up and release any trapped heat.
