Short answer
Only for short periods, such as carrying it or loading a truck. For storage, makers say lay it flat. Sealy says standing it on its side can let foam or springs shift and lead to sagging. Purple says a few weeks at most if you have no choice.
Book your mattress cleaning
Regular price $249, Fall 2026 promotion price $199first mattress, any size · Fall 2026 promotion
HEPA vacuuming, enzyme treatment for organic odor, dry vapor steam and UV-C. We recommend cleaning twice a year.
What manufacturers say
- Sealy: "If you turn your mattress on its side, the structure can be greatly compromised," and materials "may never return to the correct placement" (Sealy).
- Purple: store it flat. A mattress can go on its side "for a short period, generally up to a few weeks," if there's no other option (Purple).
- Saatva: flat is best for memory foam, latex, pillow tops and innersprings (Saatva).
If it has to stand
Brace it on a clean, flat wall, keep it covered and off the floor, and lay it flat as soon as you can. Storage basics are in storing a mattress in a unit or garage.
Where to read next
How we clean what you can't see
This section is our view. Every Sleep Sanitation visit starts with a nose-and-eyes inspection to find where the odor actually lives, then HEPA vacuuming, enzyme treatment on organic odor, low-moisture dry vapor steam from our Italian-made Vapor Clean machines, UV-C light treatment and a moisture check before we leave. Underside treatment, for the side that faces the floor or frame, is +$50–$75 per mattress. The first mattress is $199 Fall 2026 special (regularly $249), any size. We recommend cleaning every mattress twice a year. Take the 60-second mattress quiz or schedule your cleaning. Call or text (402) 512-5658, or email info@sleepsanitation.com.
Changelog
- 24 October 2026: First published. Sources accessed on this date.
Sources
- How to Store Your Mattress · Sealy
- How To Store a Mattress · Purple
- How to Store a Mattress in a Storage Unit or Garage · Saatva
Last reviewed October 24, 2026. Manufacturer specifications and care instructions change; check the current version for your exact model. This page is general information, not medical advice. How we source and check pages: editorial standards.