How to measure if a mattress will fit up stairs?

To accurately measure if a mattress will fit up stairs, you need to compare the dimensions of your mattress with the key measurements of your staircase, focusing on width, headroom, and any turning points.

How to Measure if a Mattress Will Fit Up Stairs?

Ensuring your mattress can navigate your staircase is crucial for a smooth delivery and installation. The process involves precise measurements of both your mattress and the critical dimensions of your stairwell.

Key Staircase Measurements to Take

Before moving any furniture, take the following essential measurements of your staircase. These will determine the maximum size of an item that can pass through.

• Staircase Width:
  • Crucial Tip: You'll need to measure the width of your staircase. Do this by measuring from the handrail to the wall as this indicates the maximum width of something that will fit up the stairs.
  • Measure the narrowest point of the staircase.
• Staircase Headroom (Vertical Clearance):
  • Measure the vertical distance from the top of each step to the ceiling directly above it. Pay special attention to any sloped ceilings or low-hanging fixtures.
• Landing Dimensions:
  • If your stairs have a landing (a flat area where the stairs turn), measure its length and width. This is especially important for mattresses that are longer than the landing's shortest side, as they will need to be pivoted.
• Doorway Dimensions:
  • Measure the width and height of any doorways leading to or from the staircase, both at the bottom and top floors. These act as additional choke points.
• Obstacles and Protrusions:
  • Note any architectural features like newel posts, wall sconces, or radiators that might reduce clearance.

Key Mattress Measurements to Take

While mattresses are somewhat flexible, especially foam ones, it's best to know their rigid dimensions to anticipate challenges.

• Mattress Length: Measure from head to foot.
• Mattress Width: Measure from side to side.
• Mattress Thickness (Height): Measure the depth of the mattress.

Understanding Mattress Flexibility:

• Memory Foam/Hybrid Mattresses: These tend to be more pliable and can often bend or compress slightly, making them easier to maneuver around tight corners.
• Innerspring Mattresses: These are generally more rigid due to their coil structure and will have very little flexibility.

Comparing Measurements for a Successful Fit

Once you have all your measurements, you can compare them to assess the fit.

1. Width Check: The width of your mattress must be less than the narrowest width of your staircase (handrail to wall measurement).
2. Headroom Check: The thickness (height) of your mattress, especially when held on its side or at an angle, must be less than the minimum headroom of your staircase.
3. Landing/Turning Check:
   • If your mattress is rigid, its length (or even its diagonal measurement for very large, rigid items) must be able to fit within the dimensions of any landings for turning.
   • For flexible mattresses, you'll need enough space to pivot it around the corner without hitting the ceiling or walls. Often, the mattress needs to be "walked" up or down on its side.

Practical Tips for Moving a Mattress Upstairs

• Teamwork: Always enlist at least one other person. A mattress is unwieldy and heavy.
• Protect the Mattress: Wrap your mattress in a mattress bag or heavy-duty plastic to protect it from dirt, damage, and tears during the move.
• Clear the Path: Remove all obstacles from the stairs, landings, and hallways, including rugs, picture frames, and small furniture.
• Slide, Don't Drag: Use moving blankets or furniture sliders to help the mattress glide more easily, especially on landings.
• Pivot Carefully: When navigating turns, communicate clearly with your moving partner. One person can guide the mattress from the top, while the other pushes from below.
• Consider Professional Help: If your mattress is exceptionally large (e.g., King or California King) and your staircase is particularly narrow or winding, professional movers have specialized equipment and experience.
• Mattress in a Box: For future purchases, consider a "mattress in a box" which arrives compressed and rolled, making it significantly easier to transport upstairs.

Example Measurement Table

By systematically measuring and comparing these dimensions, you can confidently determine whether your mattress will fit up your stairs, saving you time, effort, and potential damage.