Mattress Storage During Deployment: What You Need to Know
When you deploy, your household goods don’t stop existing — they need to go somewhere. For service members who are deploying solo, moving into barracks temporarily, or sending family back to a home state, figuring out what to do with a mattress can feel like a low-priority logistics problem in the middle of a very busy out-processing period. But making the right call on mattress storage before deployment can save you hundreds of dollars and significant hassle when you return.
Government Non-Temporary Storage (NTS)
The most cost-effective storage option for deploying service members is government Non-Temporary Storage. When your orders take you away from your permanent duty station without your household goods, you may be entitled to NTS at government expense. This is coordinated through your installation’s Transportation Office (now called Personal Property Office at many installations). NTS is typically available for the duration of your deployment and for up to 90 days before and after. Your mattress can be included in NTS along with other household furniture and belongings.
Self-Storage Units
For shorter deployments, temporary duty assignments, or situations where NTS isn’t available, a self-storage unit is a practical alternative. Climate-controlled units are strongly recommended for mattress storage — standard non-climate-controlled units can reach extreme temperatures that damage foam mattresses, and humidity fluctuations can encourage mold and mildew growth in any mattress type. Climate-controlled units cost $50–$150/month depending on size and location, but the investment is worthwhile for protecting a quality mattress.
Leaving the Mattress with Family
If your family is moving back to a home state while you deploy, taking the mattress with them is often the simplest option. The mattress can be used in the family’s temporary housing, avoiding the cost of both storage and a replacement mattress for the family. If the family will be staying in furnished housing or with relatives who already have beds, the mattress may not be needed — in which case storage or sale should be evaluated.
How to Prepare Your Mattress for Long-Term Storage
Proper preparation before storage dramatically extends how well a mattress survives a deployment-length absence. Clean the mattress thoroughly before storing — vacuum the surface, spot clean any stains with a mild upholstery cleaner, and allow it to dry fully before sealing. Seal the mattress in a quality mattress bag with the opening taped shut. If you’re storing in a non-climate-controlled environment, consider a sealed plastic cover over the mattress bag for additional moisture protection. Store the mattress flat if at all possible — storing on its side for months can distort the internal structure, particularly for foam models.
When to Just Replace
If your mattress is already 7+ years old, in poor condition, or wasn’t a quality mattress to begin with, storage costs for an extended deployment may not be worth it. A $50/month climate-controlled storage unit over a 9-month deployment costs $450 — often enough to significantly offset the cost of a new mattress when you return. Many mattress brands offer military discounts that make a quality new mattress purchase quite affordable when combined with sale pricing.
Buying a New Mattress After Deployment
If you’re coming back from deployment and setting up a new household or moving to a new duty station, this is an ideal time to buy a new mattress. Your combat zone tax exclusion income, combined with military discounts and sale pricing, can make it financially very feasible to invest in a high-quality mattress. Extended sleep trial periods (100–365 nights) give you flexibility to adjust to civilian sleeping conditions and decide if the mattress is right for your needs as you readjust from deployment.
Find Your Military Mattress Discount
The following brands offer verified military discounts for active duty service members, veterans, National Guard, reservists, and military spouses. Click any link to check current pricing and verify your eligibility.
- Saatva Classic — Premium innerspring hybrid with verified military discount. White-glove delivery included. Check current military pricing at Saatva →
- Layla Sleep (Flippable Foam) — Dual-firmness memory foam, 120-night trial, lifetime warranty. Military discount via SheerID. Check Layla’s military discount →
- Nectar Memory Foam — 365-night trial, lifetime warranty. Military discount via SheerID. Check Nectar’s military pricing →
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