6 of the best mattress bags for moving and storing your bed — from $6.99

These handy mattress bags will ensure your bed doesn't get damaged when you move in or out of an apartment

Close-up top view roll-packed spring mattresses in mattress bags on carpet floor background
(Image credit: Getty Images)

Mattress bags are designed to keep your bed free from damage when moving. And, this affordable accessory could seriously save you from having to spend your paycheck on a new bed you don't need.

You might be moving out of your parent's home, temporarily returning to the nest, or getting the keys to your first apartment. Either way, you've got a lot of packing to do. There are too many clothes, appliances, and everyday essentials to think about; and that's before you get to all of the heavy furniture, including your mattress. 

It may be the last thing to go, but it's important to safeguard your bed and transport it appropriately. And if you bought a brand-new mattress, you'll understand how important it is to protect it. So before you strap your mattress to the roof of your car or chuck it carelessly in the moving van — make sure you get yourself a bag. Acting as a barrier between dirt, dust mites, and critters, it'll protect your best mattress from everything your garage, storage unit, or transit throws at it.

Best mattress bags: Quick menu

6 of the best mattress bags for full protection 

Why you can trust Real Homes Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.

Our mattress bag picks

Even if you have to store your best cheap mattress away, recycle your mattress, or, are looking into mattress disposal options, these bags will come in handy. I've done the legwork and found the top-rated mattress bags for moving. These are the six with great reviews.

What to consider when choosing a mattress bag

  • Thickness and durability: Naturally, thicker materials tend to be more durable. For some bags, you’ll be able to see how many millimeters (that’s one-thousandth of an inch) it is. A bag that’s 3 mm to 6 mm should be sufficient for most moves, as it can stand up well to handling and possibly being dragged across surfaces. If it’s 2 mm, that doesn’t necessarily mean you shouldn’t use it, but just be aware it’s less likely to withstand rough handling. These may be better suited for storage in a home or garage.
  • Size: It sounds simple, but you’ll want to make sure your mattress bag is the right size for your mattress. Many bags come in different sizes, so there’s sure to be one that fits, but you don’t want to find yourself trying to fit a mattress into a bag that’s too small on moving day. Top tip: Go a size up if you're unsure. 
  • Handles: While they’re certainly not a necessity, handles are very useful to have. They'll make the moving process much less frustrating, as the mattress will be easier to maneuver.
  • Closure/fixture type: Some mattress bags will have zips, others will have adhesive backing, and a few (typically cheaper options) need to be sealed with packing tape. Remember to pop a roll of heavy-duty tape (like Scotch Tape from Amazon) in your basket if you're buying the latter.

FAQs

Should I put my mattress in a bag? 

Short answer: Yes! Not wrapping your mattress in protective packaging could be one of the biggest moving mistakes you could make. Mattresses (including the best mattress in a box, the best memory foam mattress, and the best organic mattresses) can be an expensive investment, and not worth the risk of damage. Mattress bags can keep your bed protected from spills and stains when en route to your new place, and free from pests, bed bugs, and mold if you're planning on keeping it in storage for some time. It could be the difference between your mattress lasting for years to come or having to spend the rest of your savings on a new one. 

What's the best way to store a mattress?

According to Jillian Mueller, a recovering insomniac and sleep expert at Sleepopolis.com, you should: "Clean your mattress thoroughly, wrap it in a mattress bag or plastic wrap, then place it laying flat on the ground in a temperature-controlled room. Make sure not to store boxes or other objects on top of your bed."

Jillian Mueller, author and sleep expert at Sleepopolis
Jillian Mueller

Jillian is a health, wellness, and lifestyle writer living in Charlotte, NC. As a recovering insomniac, she knows firsthand the importance of a good night’s sleep and loves sharing the latest tips and tricks to help you get the rest you need. She also is an avid runner and is studying to become a certified Balanced Body Pilates Instructor.

How we chose these mattress bags

No, we haven't had hands-on experience with these mattress bags, but with plenty of reviews, the public has! To make sure this list is a short roundup of only the best bags you can get to protect your bed, we've read the ratings, compared and contrasted the comments, and done our thorough research. The six here scored top marks for durability and cost and live up to expectations, according to customers. We've filtered out the best from the rest, so you don't have to. Pick up one of these mattress bags and believe me: your biggest purchase yet will be protected. 


Once your bed has arrived safely at its new destination, you might want to refresh your knowledge on how to clean a mattress. You'll want to have your best handheld vacuum and one of our favorite upholstery cleaners on standby.

When unpacking your mattress, take time to inspect it, and evaluate its comfort. You might find that you'll need to invest in the best mattress topper to add comfort.  Alternatively, invest in the best cooling mattress topper your money can buy if you're a hot sleeper, moving into a top-floor apartment.

TOPICS
Christina Chrysostomou
Former acting head ecommerce editor

Hi, I'm the former acting head ecommerce editor at Real Homes. Prior to working for the Future plc family, I've worked on a number of consumer events including the Ideal Home Show, Grand Designs Live, and Good Homes Magazine. With a first class degree from Keele University, and a plethora of experience in digital marketing, editorial, and social media, I have an eye for what should be in your shopping basket and have gone through the internal customer advisor accreditation process.