| Your waterbed is an investment in your comfort, health and well-being. With adequate planning and correct packing, your waterbed can be transported safely. |
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| If you do not have an exact record of the cost of your waterbed, you might want to obtain a current retail cost prior to selecting a protection plan from your mover. If you desire replacement cost rather than depreciated protection, many moving companies, including United Van Lines, offer full-value coverage against loss or damage. |
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| The following are some general guidelines for preparing your waterbed for shipping: |
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Draining and Disassembling Your Waterbed
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Disassembly time will vary with each waterbed because of the difference in mattress sizes and drainage methods used. For information on how to drain a particular type of mattress, contact a local waterbed store or the manufacturer. Allow adequate time to completely drain and disassemble your waterbed. Most moving companies require customers to drain mattresses prior to moving day. |
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Unplug the mattress heater and allow it to cool before starting the drainage process. Otherwise, the heater can scorch or even melt your mattress. |
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If your mattress is to be in storage for more than five weeks: |
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Add mattress conditioner to the water a day or more before draining to prevent the growth of mold and mildew. |
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Use a vinyl cleaner on the outside of the mattress as a protectant.
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There are three ways to drain waterbed mattresses: |
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Straight siphon method - takes about an hour, can be used for “freeflow” mattresses that have no interior baffles. |
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Using a faucet adapter and drain pump - typically comes with mattresses, can take up to three hours depending on your water pressure and type of mattress. |
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Using an electric pump - available for rent or purchase at waterbed stores, draining typically takes about 30 minutes. |
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Get as much water out of your mattress as possible! |
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If you press down on the mattress and see a handprint afterward, continue draining. |
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Have your cap and plug handy to place on the mattress fill/drain hole right after draining to ensure a vacuum-packed seal. |
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Put all screws, nuts, and bolts in a plastic bag and tape it to the back of the frame. |
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Ask your mover about arranging for drainage and disassembly of your waterbed. |
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| Folding Your Mattress |
| If you have a motion-reducing mattress, you must use special care while draining and moving it in order to prevent the interior baffles from shifting. |
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After the mattress is completely drained and sealed:
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Fold it into thirds, starting from the head of the bed and folding towards the foot. |
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Make sure the baffles do not shift out of place, but if they do, try to reposition then. (They should be in place before you refill your mattress.) |
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You may pack the folded mattress with blankets in a box. Make sure it will not be at risk of being punctured or otherwise damaged by other items. |
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Finish by folding the mattress in half widthwise. |
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The heating pad and tube thermometer must be treated with care. |
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Roll the pad and thermometer – each separately – from either end.
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Rolling items ensures the elements in each will not be broken or twisted.
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| Upon Delivery |
| If any servicing or reassembly is required for your waterbed, advise your moving company representative at the time of your estimate so appropriate arrangements can be made. Because a waterbed holds 80 to 200 gallons of water, you should determine where you want the bed placed before you fill it. |
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