How to Cut a Memory Foam Mattress: 4 Steps

You may want to cut your memory foam mattress to alter the size. It could be because you’ve ordered the wrong size, want to split it in two, or your requirements have changed. You could also need to cut up your mattress for easy disposal or crafting.

The question is, what’s the best and most simple way to cut a memory foam mattress? And how easy is it?

The good news is, cutting a memory foam mattress isn’t as much of a hefty task as you might think. Because of the material, an electric carving knife will do the job just fine, provided you’re extremely careful.

In this guide, we will take you through the process of safely cutting your mattress to size, with a step-by-step guide and plenty of handy tips to help you along the way.

Chop chop!

What You’ll Need to Cut a Memory Foam Mattress?

Before you start the job, you’ll want to ensure you have all the right tools. You also need to establish the size and thickness of your mattress.

In most cases, the equipment and steps that follow will also work if you’re cutting a mattress topper too. Of course, this is a much simpler task due to the density difference.

Below is a list of what you’ll need to start cutting your memory foam mattress.

• A Tape Measure
• A Straight Edge 
• A Marking Pen
• An Electric or Manual Carving Knife or Stanely Blade

Cutting a Memory Mattress in 4 Easy Steps

Before you begin cutting your memory foam mattress, it’s important to remember a few things.

For one instance, any chance of ever returning the mattress is out of the window, and any warranty or guarantee will be immediately void, so make sure you’re certain before you go snipping away.

Secondly, check the product specifications. If you’ve bought a low-budget mattress, chances are it could contain fiberglass, which, when exposed to air, can cause severe irritation and provoke allergic reactions.

So, if you’re certain you want to go ahead with the cutting of your mattress, check out the steps below for the easiest and safest way to do so.

1. Remove Any Accessories

Suppose your mattress is already in place on the bed. In that case, you’ll need to remove accessories such as sheets, mattress toppers, pillows, and covers. Sometimes, you might need to cut an outer cover if it does not fasten.

2 Mark Out Your Cutting Line

You’ll need to measure the size you want your mattress to be after cutting and make accurate lines on it before you begin. You also must ensure the lines are straight. Otherwise, you could end up with an extremely obscure-shaped mattress unsuitable for use.

For this, it can help to have a second pair of hands and eyes to confirm the measurements and hold the measuring tape in place.

3. Find a Safe Place to Cut

Cutting your memory foam mattress on a carpet or leaning against your body is not advisable. Any slips or mistakes could be dangerous.

In this case, you need to find a flat, solid surface to do the job, preferably a wallpaper table or outdoor area. The edge you’re cutting off will need to be hanging over the edge of the surface so the knife can glide through the memory foam smoothly.

If you have someone helping you, get them to hold the mattress on the table or surface while you cut, but if this isn’t the case, find a large, heavy object to weigh it down.

4. Cutting the Memory Foam Mattress

We recommend using an electrical carving knife when cutting a memory foam mattress, as this is how you tend to get a more defined result. With a Manual or Stanley, chances are, you’ll get a few jagged lines and rough cuts.

Either way, try to remain as stable as possible, take your time, and slowly move the knife along the marked line until you reach the other side.

Once your cut is complete, you can run back along it to straighten any wonky lines or rough edges, just don’t get carried away or go past the marked line.

Important Safety Precautions When Cutting a Memory Foam Mattress

To ensure we’ve got everything covered, and you’re doing the job as safely as possible, follow the tips below to protect you and others around you from injury when cutting your memory foam mattress.

• Work in a well-ventilated area to ensure proper air circulation.
• Wear protective gloves and goggles to protect your hands and eyes.
• Use a sharp utility knife or an electric carving knife for clean and precise cuts.
• Ensure your mattress doesn’t contain fiberglass.
• Take your time and make slow, controlled cuts to avoid accidents.
• Use a straight edge or ruler as a guide to ensure straight cuts.
• Keep your fingers and body parts away from the cutting area to prevent injury.
• Dispose of any excess foam properly and clean up any debris after cutting.
• Ask someone to assist you (safety in numbers.)

Frequently Asked Questions

The Final Cut

So, there we have it; you’ve got everything you need to get to work!

Remember, stick to the safety precautions, ask for help if you can, and use the correct tools, and you’ll have your memory foam mattress cut to size in no time!