If you’ve ever tried moving a bed by yourself, you already know how difficult it is to carry the mattress, let alone pack everything else up. While no one enjoys tackling the task of packing up and moving their bed, the cheapest moving strategy is to DIY it.

How to Move Your Bed

Though moving a bed has its own set of challenges, it can be done. Keep the following five steps in mind as you prepare to move your bed:

1. Remove the Bedding

Once you decide that it’s time to move your bed, the first thing you need to do is remove all of the bedding. Start packing up your pillows, sheets, covers, and the like. Use a vacuum-sealed bag to help prevent these items from getting dirty or dusty during the move.

Be sure to keep all of your bedding items together, so you know where to find them after you unpack. Place all of the related bags into the same box and be sure to label them clearly.

2. Roll the Mattress Up

The next step is to remove the mattress and get it ready to be transported. If you have a thinner, memory foam mattress, you should be able to roll it with ease. Remove the foam from your bed and roll inwards. The mattress should take on a cylindrical shape, and this will help to keep it protected during the move. Once it is rolled up, get some string and tie the foam together, so it doesn’t unroll.

If you have a queen-size or king-size mattress, you’ll likely need to fold it in half before moving it. If you find that you cannot fold your mattress in half, you will probably need to use a moving truck or a vehicle that allows for the mattress to be tied on top of it.

3. Dismantle the Frame

Once the mattress is off, it is time to begin dismantling the frame. Before pulling the frame apart, make sure you give the bed frame a good cleaning.

As it likely has been a few years since it was last cleaned, you’ll want to use antibacterial wipes to ensure that everything is fresh for whenever you next use the frame.

Start taking apart the frame by removing the headboard first. This should come apart easily with a screwdriver. Next, dismantle the rest of the frame.

Try to follow the instructions for the bed frame if you have them handy. If not, you’ll likely need to remove the bed slats. Then, use a screwdriver or Allen key to loosen the longest sections. Once all the pieces are pulled apart, use string to tie them together.

4. Save All Loose Parts

You’ll want to make sure that you keep track of all the screws and other small parts you remove from the bed frame.

Be sure to have all of these parts organized in a container that is easily accessible whenever you need to put the bed back together.

Try to keep these parts near the rest of the bed so that they will be there when you need them.

5. Pack the Bed

When it comes time actually to pack your bed, you should use high-quality materials to guarantee protection during the move.

Materials like bubble wrap, packing wrap, moving blankets, and similar materials are a must for keeping all bed-related items safe during your trip.

As you tackle all aspects of your move, be sure to keep this guide in mind. By taking care to follow these steps, you’ll ensure that your bed arrives safely to its new home.