Unless you are ordering a heavy innerspring mattress or you live alone, there’s really no need to pay extra for white glove delivery when buying a bed-in-a-box mattress.
If the company is offering it for free (Like Purple) then by all means take advantage.
But if they are charging the usual $99 to deliver the mattress and set it up for you, you can keep your money and set up the mattress yourself.
It’s easy and takes just a few minutes.
Just make sure there someone else around to help you carry the box inside and, if need be, lift the mattress to properly position it.
Here's how to do it.
Take The Box Inside
The first step is to take the mattress inside to your bedroom or wherever else you want to set it up. You’ll most likely need a helping hand here.
Even though the mattress has been compacted into an unbelievably small box, it still weighs as much as it would if it were spread out. You won't be able to lift it on your own.
With help, getting it inside is super easy.
One reason I love bed-in-a-box mattresses is that they are no trouble getting inside the house. So don’t worry if you have stairs or a tight doorway. The box will get through easily.
You need to have your foundation or box spring already setup. If you ordered a new foundation along with the mattress, set it up first before unboxing the mattress.
Unrolling the Mattress
With the foundation ready, lift the box containing the mattress and lay it on its side on one end of the bed.
Open the box and pull it out to leave the mattress roll sitting on the bed. You can also remove the box while the mattress is still on the floor and place the unboxed mattress roll on the bed.
Either way, you should end up with a rolled up mattress sitting on one end of the bed.
Cut away the plastic that’s keeping the mattress rolled up. Be very careful not to cut the mattress itself.
Roll out the mattress onto the bed until it is completely flat.
If there is another plastic wrapping around the mattress, remove it too. An easy way to do this is to cut open along the head side of the bed and then pull it out like a sock from the other end.
Note: Never leave the mattress in the box for more than three months. The pressure keeping it rolled up tight can deform it permanently with time. If you’ll not be home for more than 3 months after the mattress is delivered, ask the company to reschedule delivery. Most will gladly do it.
Wait for A few Hours
At first your mattress may seem thinner than the 11 or 13 inches specified by the manufacturer. This is normal and is caused by the compacting process.
As soon as you unroll the mattress, it will automatically start puffing up to its normal height.
If you want you can sleep on the mattress immediately but it’s best to give it a few hours to settle.
It takes a couple of days before it has fully expanded but you can sleep on it the first night.
Frequently Asked Questions About Setting up a Bed-in-a-Box Mattress
How long can I leave the mattress in the box?
Most companies will ask that you unbox the mattress within three months to avoid permanent deformation. Failing to unbox the mattress in time may void the warranty.
I detected an unpleasant smell when setting up my new mattress? Is it dangerous?
This is called off-gassing and it’s something that happens to all bed-in-a-box mattresses. It is not harmful.
If it feels particularly strong, leave the mattress uncovered (and ideally leaning against a wall) in a well ventilated room for a few hours or a couple of days. This will give it time to air out.
But normally, most mattresses have very little off-gassing and it fades away quickly.
What do I do with my old mattress?
If you don’t want to remain with your old mattress, there are several things you can do with it.
First, check whether the mattress company offers mattress removal services. Those that offer white glove delivery often also offer mattress removal at an additional fee.
They’ll dispose the mattress for you.
You can also sell or give away the mattress if it is in relatively good shape and critter-free. List it on eBay or check whether there is a local charity that accepts used mattresses.
The other option is to find a recycling center for mattress near you and take it there or have it picked up from your home.
You can also breakdown and dispose the mattress yourself. Use this guide from a landlord who has done it many times.
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