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Last Updated January 10, 2025
Buying a new mattress is an exciting experience. You look forward to a good night’s sleep, knowing that your body will get the proper support it needs to wake up feeling refreshed. But then, as you unbox your mattress and let it settle into place, a peculiar smell greets your senses. This might leave you wondering, "Why does my new mattress smell?" and whether it’s something you should worry about.
Well, fear not! This is a common phenomenon, and here, we’ll dive into the science behind that new mattress odor and explore how long it lasts, if it’s harmful, and how to get rid of it.
Key Takeaways:
The smell that comes with a new mattress is often a result of several factors, and it's completely normal. It’s known as off-gassing, a term that refers to the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and chemicals used in the production of the mattress.
Here's a breakdown of why it happens:
Most mattresses—especially memory foam—are made with a blend of synthetic materials like polyurethane foam, adhesives, flame retardants, and other chemicals. These materials are treated during the manufacturing process to improve their durability, fire resistance, and comfort.
As these materials are compressed and sealed in plastic during shipping, they can release volatile organic compounds when exposed to air. When you unpack your mattress, and it begins to expand to its full size, it "breathes out" the chemicals trapped inside, creating that distinct smell. This is the process of off-gassing.
In addition to the chemicals in mattresses, the packaging process contributes to the smell. Mattresses that are vacuum-sealed and rolled up for shipping often have a higher concentration of off-gassing when first unboxed. The sealed plastic wrapping keeps the chemicals in the mattress until it is opened up and aired out in your bedroom.
If you’ve chosen an organic or natural latex mattress, the smell could be coming from the materials used in construction. Natural latex, for example, has its own earthy, rubbery scent that some people find pleasant. However, it can still emit odors similar to the off-gassing of synthetic mattresses, although they are generally less intense, non-toxic, and fade quicker.
Memory foam mattresses, in particular, are known for their pungent smell. The polyurethane foam used in many memory foam mattresses contains chemicals like isocyanates that react with moisture in the air. These reactions can create a strong, sometimes unpleasant odor that typically dissipates over time.
The good news is that most mattress odors are not harmful, and the chemicals used in the production of your mattress are generally considered safe by health and safety standards. However, the intensity of the smell can vary, and some people may experience mild irritation due to sensitivity to VOCs.
For the vast majority of people, the smell will go away on its own within a few days to a week. However, for those with asthma, allergies, or heightened sensitivity to chemicals, it’s important to consider the following:
The duration of the smell can vary depending on the type of mattress, the materials used, and how well the room is ventilated. Generally, the odor will dissipate within 48 hours to 7 days.
Here’s what you can expect from different types of mattresses:
If you're eager to get rid of that off-gassing odor or want to speed up the process, here are some detailed, effective methods to help you eliminate the odor from your new mattress. Each of these strategies targets the smell in different ways, whether by ventilation, absorption, or masking.
One of the most natural and effective ways to get rid of the unpleasant smell of a new mattress is to air it out. Fresh air helps dissipate the chemicals and VOCs released by the mattress.
Place the Mattress in a Well-Ventilated Room: As soon as your mattress is unboxed, place it in a room with good airflow. Open windows and doors to encourage cross-ventilation. Fresh air helps the mattress breathe out any trapped chemicals and allows the VOCs to disperse more quickly.
Consider Outdoor Airing (but Avoid Direct Sunlight): If possible, move the mattress to a shaded outdoor area, such as a patio or balcony, for a few hours. The outdoor air circulation can help speed up the off-gassing process. However, avoid placing your mattress in direct sunlight, as this could damage the materials, especially latex or memory foam. UV rays can break down the integrity of the foam and reduce its lifespan.
Fan Use: If outdoor airing isn’t an option, use a fan in the room to increase air circulation. Position the fan so it blows directly over the mattress or near an open window. This will speed up the airing process and help reduce the intensity of the smell more quickly.
Duration: Air out your mattress for at least 24 to 48 hours before using it. The longer the mattress can breathe, the quicker the smell will fade. If you can’t wait to sleep on it, try using the mattress for short periods while it continues to air out in the background.
Baking soda is a natural deodorizer and a powerful odor absorber. It’s often used in households to neutralize refrigerator odors and clean carpets—and it works wonders on mattresses, too.
Sprinkle Generously: Start by removing any sheets, mattress protectors, or pillows, and sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the entire surface of the mattress. You want to cover the mattress evenly, paying special attention to areas where the odor is most concentrated.
Let It Sit: Allow the baking soda to sit on the mattress for several hours. For best results, leave it on overnight. Baking soda works by absorbing the odors that have settled into the mattress, including any residual VOCs.
Vacuum It Off: Once the baking soda has had time to sit, vacuum it off thoroughly using the upholstery attachment on your vacuum cleaner. This will remove the baking soda along with any trapped odors. If you don’t have a vacuum cleaner, use a handheld or small brush to gently shake off the powder.
Repeat If Necessary: If the smell persists, repeat the process a couple of times. It’s a gentle, non-toxic way to absorb lingering odors without damaging your mattress.
A mattress protector can help if the smell doesn’t seem to fade quickly enough or if you simply want a temporary solution while your mattress continues to air out.
Barrier for Comfort: A mattress protector acts as a barrier between your skin and the mattress, preventing you from coming into direct contact with the smell. This can be useful if you’re sensitive to smells or if the smell is strong and bothersome.
Aids in Odor Containment: While the mattress continues to off-gas, the mattress protector helps trap the odor underneath, keeping it from spreading throughout the room or affecting your bedding. Make sure the mattress protector is breathable (preferably cotton or another natural fabric) to allow some ventilation.
Easier to Clean: If odors persist, you can easily wash your mattress protector. Some mattress protectors are even treated with odor-reducing agents or have antimicrobial properties that help combat bacteria or mold.
Choose a High-Quality Protector: Opt for a high-quality mattress protector that fits snugly around the mattress and covers it fully. Some protectors come with a waterproof feature as well, which can help if you’re dealing with other issues like spills or stains.
Activated charcoal is a powerful natural deodorizer often found in everything from refrigerators to air purifiers. It absorbs moisture and neutralizes odors, making it an excellent tool for speeding up the deodorizing process for your mattress.
How to Use: Place activated charcoal bags around the room, near the mattress, or even directly on the mattress. You can find charcoal bags designed specifically for this purpose, which are usually filled with activated carbon.
Where to Place the Bags: Place several bags around the mattress—one at each corner or near the head and foot of the mattress. If you can place the mattress near an open window, place the charcoal bags near the window to help absorb the air’s moisture and any lingering VOCs from the room.
Timeframe: Leave the bags around the mattress for a few days. While charcoal may not completely eliminate the smell in a matter of hours, it will help to reduce the intensity of the odor more effectively than many other methods.
Maintenance: If you use charcoal bags, remember to "refresh" them every 1-2 months by placing them in the sun for a few hours to restore their effectiveness. This is especially important if they’re absorbing moisture from the air.
While essential oils won’t eliminate the source of the odor, they can be a great way to mask the smell with a pleasant fragrance.
Cotton Ball Method: Add a few drops of your preferred essential oil (lavender, eucalyptus, or lemon work well) onto a cotton ball or small piece of cloth. Place these around the mattress, especially in areas that seem to have the strongest smell. The oils will release a fresh scent into the room, and you’ll feel more comfortable while waiting for the mattress to off-gas.
Diffuser Method: Another option is to use an essential oil diffuser in the room. You can place it near the mattress to spread a calming scent like lavender, which also has relaxing properties. This can help mask the strong chemical odor while also improving the overall ambiance of your bedroom.
Spray Method: For a more direct approach, you can create a DIY room spray by adding 10-20 drops of essential oil to a spray bottle filled with water. Lightly spritz the air or the mattress surface, but avoid oversaturating the mattress. The oils will create a more pleasant, soothing atmosphere.
Be Mindful of Sensitivities: If you’re sensitive to smells, it’s best to use essential oils sparingly. While some people enjoy the fragrances, others may find them overwhelming. To avoid irritation, test a small area before applying the oils widely.
Despite the initial smell, the benefits of buying a new mattress outweigh the temporary inconvenience. A high-quality mattress supports better sleep, which can lead to improved health, energy, and productivity. The chemical odors usually subside, leaving you with a comfortable, supportive bed to enjoy for years.
However, if the smell seems to get worse over time, or if you notice any kind of discomfort, it’s a good idea to contact the retailer to inquire about possible issues with the mattress.
If you've recently purchased a new mattress and noticed an odor, it’s most likely the result of off-gassing from the materials used in the manufacturing process. While the smell can be unpleasant, it’s generally not harmful and fades quickly.
Ventilation, natural deodorizers, and a little patience will usually do the trick to get rid of the smell. Remember, a fresh new mattress means better sleep ahead, so hang in there—you’ll be snoozing soundly in no time!
And if you ever feel uncertain about the odor or need specific advice, don’t hesitate to reach out to the manufacturer for further guidance. Happy sleeping!
The smell from a new mattress can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days to dissipate. It may last 2 to 5 days, depending on the material, brand, and the ventilation in the room.
It is usually safe, though it may be unpleasant. While it's generally non-toxic, if you are sensitive to odors, it's advisable to air out the mattress for a day or two before sleeping on it.
To get rid of the smell, ventilate the room by opening windows and using fans to improve airflow. You can also sprinkle baking soda on the mattress, let it sit for a few hours, then vacuum it up. Placing the mattress in direct sunlight for a short period can also help remove odors.
Yes, you can sleep on a new mattress straight away, but you may want to let it air out for a few hours if you're sensitive to smells. Some people prefer to wait a day or two to allow the off-gassing to subside and the smell to fade.
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5. How to Deodorize a Mattress?
Disclaimer: What is said in this article has been referenced from multiple sources and is intended only for educational and informational purposes. Please note that no content in this article is a substitute for professional advice from a qualified doctor or healthcare provider. Always consult an experienced doctor with any concerns you may have regarding a health condition or treatment, and never disregard any medical suggestions or delay in seeking treatment because of something you read here.
