Ever unbox a new mattress and notice a funny, chemical smell? That smell is called off-gassing? Mattress off gassing, to be more precise.
It happens when volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are released from the foam. These are used in the manufacturing process. Especially with memory foam and cheap synthetic mattresses. But don’t worry! This process is totally normal and harmless for most people.
The smell is strongest when you first open your mattress. It will fade quickly, usually within a few days. To help it disappear faster, just let your new mattress air out in a well-ventilated room. Soon, you’ll be enjoying a great, odor-free night’s sleep.
Is Mattress Off Gassing Safe?
This is the number one concern – safety. And, for most healthy adults, the answer is yes. Off gassing is generally considered safe. The chemical smell comes from volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These are gases released from new synthetic materials.
While the term “chemicals” can sound alarming, the levels emitted from a certified mattress are very low. In general, they are not deemed dangerous for an average healthy adult. What about kids?
When it comes to kids and babies, it’s always best to be extra cautious. Their little bodies are still developing. And, they breathe faster than adults. This means they can be more sensitive to air quality.
The good news is that mattress off gassing eases over time. If you are worried about exposing your kids to the volatile chemicals, allow time for the off-gassing to dissipate. Leave the mattress in a well-aired spare room for several days.
The VOC smell is strong at first, but it reduces over time. However, individuals with chemical sensitivities, asthma, or other respiratory conditions might be affected. They could experience headaches or irritation.
If you’re worried, a great strategy is to unbox your mattress in a well-ventilated space and allow it to air out completely before sleeping on it. Choosing a mattress with low-VOC certifications can also provide extra peace of mind. More on this below.
How Long Does Off Gassing Last?
The duration of the smell really depends on a few key factors. But, the great news is that it’s always temporary. For most mattresses, the strongest odor will dissipate within the first 48 to 72 hours. This is when the majority of the VOCs are released.
The smell should be completely gone within a week or two. Especially in a well-ventilated room. The type of mattress plays a big role. Memory foam and latex tend to have a stronger smell that lasts longer than a hybrid or regular innerspring model.
To speed things up, keep the room aired. Open windows and let air circulate through the room. The trick is to get the gases out of your bedroom. Good airflow is your best friend in getting rid of that off gassing smell.
Recent Study Findings
A study funded by the sleep industry group, found that the Majority of Off Gassing from a New Mattress Occurs Within the First Three to Five Days and Becomes Negligible Within a Week.
What Type of Mattress Has the Most Off Gassing?
Generally, mattresses that contain synthetic foams have more off-gassing. Memory foam mattresses are the biggest offenders. That’s because they are composed of polyurethane foam and other petroleum-based chemicals that are highly effective at trapping these gases during compression.
Hybrid mattresses, which combine foam layers with coils, can also have a smell. However, it’ll be less intense compared to a synthetic foam mattress.
On the other end of the spectrum, innerspring mattresses (which use mostly metal and fiber layers) and mattresses made from 100% natural latex (derived from rubber trees) typically have very little to no off-gassing. If you are sensitive to smells, look for a mattress made with natural or organic materials.
Here’s How to Get Rid of the Off Gassing Smell
You can’t stop off-gassing, but you can definitely speed the process up. This helps it disappear much faster. Your most powerful tool is fresh air. Unbox the mattress in a large, open room and open all the windows and doors.
If you have fans, use them to circulate air directly over the mattress. And, for an added boost, you can try adding baking soda to the mattress surface (check the manufacturer’s guidelines first).
Just sprinkle a thin layer over the entire surface of the mattress, let it sit overnight, and it will begin absorbing those unpleasant odors. When you’re done, vacuum it up. Remember, patience is key. Allow the mattress time to breathe and rid itself of the unwelcome scent.
What About Mattress Industry Certifications?
If you’re worried about mattress off gassing, you should look out for industry certifications. These certifications prove a mattress has been independently tested for harmful chemicals. They are often used to label mattresses as having low VOC emissions. The most common and trusted certification is CertiPUR-US®.
This standard ensures the foam is made without ozone depleters, heavy metals, and certain harmful flame retardants. It also sets strict limits for VOC emissions. That means reduced off gassing.
Another excellent certification is GREENGUARD Gold (now part of UL ECOLOGO). It has even stricter standards, testing for over 10,000 chemicals and ensuring a product is safe for use in environments like schools and healthcare facilities.
OEKO-TEX Standard 100 is another great one. It is used to certify that every component of the mattress, from fabric to thread, has been tested for harmful substances. Looking for these marks takes the guesswork out of your purchase. And, reduces your risk of exposure to mattress off gassing.
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What Chemicals Are Released During Mattress Off Gassing?
That distinctive off gassing smell comes from a mix of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). They are released from the synthetic foams, adhesives, and flame retardants used in the manufacturing process. The most common chemicals you find in mattress production are:
Benzene: benzene is a petroleum-based chemical often used in the production of synthetic foams and dyes.
Formaldehyde: used in adhesives that bind layers of the mattress together.
Toluene: often used in foam production and as a solvent.
Chlorofluorocarbons: these are largely banned now, but were once common in foam production.
Senior Editor
Josh is senior editor at Mattress Comfort Guide. He is an industry expert with over 30 years of experience in the bed and mattress industry. Josh is a native of Albuquerque and is a graduate of the University of New Mexico. He holds an M.S. in Project Management and a B.S. in Earth & Planetary Sciences.
He has worked in both the retail and manufacturing industries where he has held consultancy roles on mattress design and technologies. Josh has a particular interest in how different mattress types complement body size and sleeping position, and deliver optimal lumbar support. Josh is a keen sports fan and when he’s away from the office he likes to play basketball and catch the New Mexico Lobos games with his two sons at the Pit.