How to Get a Bed Upstairs

Strip the linens from the bed, including pillows, blankets and sheets. Fold the items and store them nearby to redress the bed after the move.

Break the bed down into small, manageable parts. Remove the headboard, dismantle the frame, and separate the mattress from the box spring. Keep all screws, nuts and bolts together and organized in an easily accessible location.

Wrap the mattress and box spring in furniture covers to keep them from getting snagged during the move.

Don heavy boots to protect your toes in case you accidentally drop any heavy pieces during transit.

Carry the lightest parts of the bed upstairs first. Have movers carry whatever they can manage individually, then work together to get the larger parts of the bed up the stairs.

Map the intricacies of the route before carrying the box spring and mattress upstairs. Memorize door and stairwell height and banister placement, as well as twists and turns along the way. Determine exactly how many steps are involved, and whether any of them are broken, damaged or disproportionately placed in relation to other stairs.

Move the box spring before moving the mattress. Place movers at the short ends and have them lift their ends at the same time to flip the box spring so its balanced on one of its longer sides. Slide the box spring up the stairs, balancing the bottom side along the edges of the steps. If you’re moving the bed up a short staircase, use a wooden board as a ramp.

Repeat the process with the mattress. Many mattresses have handles along the side to allow movers to get a better grip. Use the handles if they are available. Since mattresses typically are heavier than box springs, it may be difficult to keep the mattress upright. If there is a wall connected to the steps, allow the mattress to rest against the wall for additional support.