Prevent Mattress Sliding on a Platform Bed-Ultimate Guide
If you’re here, you are probably the proud owner of a platform bed. You are already convinced it offer the right kind of support and comfort you need, as well matches your style, but you may sometimes experience problems with the mattress sliding on the platform. Platform beds are typically constructed to sit low to the ground. The one drawback that tends to annoy people about this kind of bed frame is that the mattress and box spring can slide around. Whenever you try to tuck the sheet in, the whole thing slides over. Then of course, the process reverses when you get to the other side of the bed.
There are ways to get your mattress to stay put on the bed frame! We’ll walk you through some tips on how to keep it from slipping off the platform surface.
Why do mattresses drift off platform beds?
Missing rails
Certain types of mattresses need sufficient weight to keep the mattress in one place. But several kinds of bed frames don’t have the footboard top rails or side rails to secure the mattress. The can also be an issue for panel beds with box springs. If the box spring exceeds the footboard rail’s height, it’s likely for the mattress to slip once it ages.
The lack of friction
The primary factor that causes the mattress sliding is due to the lack of friction. If the bottom material of the mattress is latex or memory foam, it will not grip against the wooden surface of the bed frame. This also applies to box springs with a non-grippy coat.
The skating bed
When placed on tile or hardwood floor, beds with either wooden legs or wheels can slide around the slippery floor. Even if you lock the wheels, you might still have issues. You need the right supports to keep the bed in one place.
An old mattress
The sliding seems to occur more often when the mattress is old. Even high-quality mattresses can’t escape from this consequence after years in use. During regular use, the best mattress will store our body oil and other particles to form a sliding layer over the bottom. You might be tempted to flip the mattress to reduce the sliding problem, but you don’t want to lie on the dirty side.
How to keep the mattress from sliding
The good news is that there are 10 easy ways to eliminate the sliding and keep your mattress safe in its place.
Use wooden trim to make side rails
This tip works for mattresses on box springs with bed frames that have side rails. You can buy trim stocks 1¾” wide and 1/2″ deep. You’ll need at least two blocks of seven-foot sections, then cut it down to the length of the side of your bed. Measure your bed to get the most accurate results.
Start with putting one stick on each side. You’ll see the trim stocks hold the box spring centered in the bed frame so it will not slide. You can add two more blocks at the foot and the head of your bed. Some bed designs feature small metal plates that perform the same function.
Non-slip pads
This solution seems to work well for most types of mattresses made from latex, satin, or memory foam.
Rubber non-slip pads won’t slide against any surface, even when you own a metal bed frame. A Yoga mat can be an altered if you have a spare one. The excellent grippy bottom of yoga mats will ensure the position of the cushion.
Elastic straps
Using straps may not fix the problem on their own, but you can combine this method with the non-slip rubber pad for better results. Band the straps at the head and the foot then pull them over the mattress before you put on the cover. If you have a box spring, tighten them with longer rubber straps. It will friction, but may also cause irritation under the sheets. You can solve this by using a mattress pad.
Mattress encasement
One of the best methods is a mattress encasement to cover the entire unit. A full cover contributes a friction layer to keep your mattress from slipping. It also protects the freshness of the mat from frequent use.
Unfortunately, the process of putting on the encasement isn’t something one person can do on their own. Make sure you get some help from your spouse or friends.
Shelf Liner
An economical way to keep the mat still is to put shelf liners on the platform area. Liners perform the same purpose as rubber pads, but at a lower cost. One roll of liner is 12 to 24″ wide, 48 to 60″ long. For mattresses that don’t slide too badly, this can work effectively.
Double-sided tape
Though we do not recommend this for a long term solution, it might temporarily solve the problem. Removing the tape could leave a mess on your mattress and box spring. Sometimes the tape won’t come out entirely or will pull out threads.
Fix the bed platform
Changing the original structure may not be possible for most people, but if you are handy around the house, you may be able to modify your bed frame. Add two small wooden bars at the top and the foot to stabilize the mattress. Remember to paint them a matching color. You’ll need a drill and some screws to nail pieces of wood into the frame.
Move the bed
Another easy solution is to move the bed into a corner. Place the bed against two walls limits the directions the mattress can slide. However, you cannot control every side which may result in the cushion slipping to the free sides.
A full replacement
If none of the above tips help, you may consider buying a new mattress. It’s possible that your mattress has reached its retirement. Getting a new mattress is expensive, and the shopping can be frustrating, but if your bed is old enough that it is slipping around, it may also contain bed bugs and harmful bacteria. Thus it brings me to the next point.
Protect your new mattress
You don’t want a repeat problem so take good care of your new mattress from the beginning. As the tips Home Body provided, get an encasement and cover right from the beginning to extend the item’s resistance. You’ll be surprised about how much a difference this makes in your mattress’s lifespan.
Conclusion
A sliding mattress is a common problem for platform beds. You don’t want to start your day with frustration right as you get out of bed. Shifting your mattress back into place is not something you want to do each morning. Mattress1000 hopes these tips about how to keep your mattress stationary on the platform bed will be useful to you.
