When you buy a new mattress and get it home, it may go through a short period of off-gassing. If you've never heard of that, you're not alone. Few customers fully understand what that means, and it often leads them to assume there's a problem with their mattress. Here's everything you need to know about off-gassing in a mattress and what to do about it.
What Does Off-Gassing Mean?
Off-gassing is the name for the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from manufactured furniture. VOCs are carbon-based chemicals that can easily vaporize at room temperature. In effect, they turn into gases, which your mattress may release into the surrounding air.
What Causes Mattress Off-Gassing?
Off-gassing in mattresses is typically caused by adhesives and certain synthetic materials, most notably memory foam and polyfoam. While blended latex a mix of natural and synthetic latex may off-gas slightly, natural latex does not off-gas and is generally considered a low-emission option compared to other materials. It's also most common with mattress-in-a-box products. However, it can also happen with any mattress stored in vacuum-sealed packaging. Keep that in mind when you shop for a mattress to avoid the problem.
Shop Our Entire Mattress SelectionIs Off-Gassing Safe?
If you have an off-gassing mattress, it's typically not a cause for concern. There are no known major health risks associated with the VOCs a mattress might release. However, it can come with an unpleasant smell. And, individuals with certain allergies and respiratory issues can have reactions to the VOCs.
How Long Does Off-Gassing Last?
The process can last anywhere from a few hours to a few weeks, depending on the mattress. In most cases, the majority of the VOCs from a mattress vaporize within the first hour. So, you can expect the effects to taper off after that.
How to Air Out A New Mattress
When your new mattress arrives, a little fresh air goes a long way, especially in the first 24-48 hours.
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Let it breathe: Open windows or run a fan to circulate air in the room
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Give it time: Any new-mattress scent (especially with latex or natural materials) is typically mild and fades quickly
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Use an air purifier (optional): Helpful for those who are especially sensitive to smells
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Maximize airflow: If you have an adjustable base, slightly elevating the mattress can help air move around it
Pro tip: You can put sheets on right away, but if you’re sensitive to smells, letting the mattress air out uncovered for a few hours can help it dissipate faster.
Shop Low-Emission Mattresses at City Mattress
If you're concerned about VOC emissions from a new mattress, avoiding synthetic materials can help. These low-emission mattresses can help you maintain a healthy indoor environment. After all, even if an off-gassing mattress isn't a threat, it's certainly unpleasant, so avoiding one can be ideal.
Visit a City Mattress store or book an appointment to get personalized guidance from our experts, who average eight years of experience.