New mattresses often emit a “new mattress smell” due to the materials and chemicals used in their production. This smell is noticeable when you first unbox a new mattress and can last for a few days to a few weeks. While some find this smell unpleasant, many wonder if it’s actually harmful.
Mattress fumes contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released from the polyurethane foam and adhesives used to make mattresses. Studies show that VOCs can have short- and long-term health effects, especially for babies and young children.
However, these fumes disperse quickly and are usually not present at levels considered dangerous. With enough ventilation and time, the fumes will air out of your mattress.
Here’s a detailed look at mattress off-gassing, the VOC chemicals involved, and whether the fumes pose a health risk.
What Causes the “New Mattress Smell”?
That strong scent emitted from a new mattress comes from a process called off-gassing. This happens when volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are released from the mattress materials.
The most common mattress offenders are:
- Polyurethane foam – Used in mattress comfort and support layers. Polyurethane foam off-gasses 4-phenylcyclohexene and VOCs.
- Adhesives – Join mattress layers together. They contain VOCs like formaldehyde.
- Flame retardants – Added to meet flammability standards. These contain VOCs like boric acid.
These gases are not inherently toxic, but some have an odor that causes the “new mattress smell.” Off-gassing happens quickly at first as the tightly packed materials expand and release gases.
It can last for a few hours up to a few weeks, but the bulk of VOC emissions will occur within the first 24-48 hours.
Proper air circulation helps mattress off-gassing dissipate more quickly. Leaving your mattress unmade allows more air contact to let the VOCs fully air out.
What VOCs Are in Mattress Fumes?
While each mattress is different, these are some of the main VOCs that may off-gas from a new mattress:
Polyurethane Foam VOCs
- Formaldehyde
- Benzene
- Toluene
- Ethylbenzene
- Xylene
- Styrene
Polyurethane foam breaks down over time and releases these gases, especially when new. The highest concentrations come from cheap, low-density foam. Higher density foams made without methylene chloride tend to off-gas less.
Adhesive VOCs
- Formaldehyde
- Toluene
- 1,4-Dioxane
Adhesives are used in small amounts but contain VOCs that add to the mattress fumes. Water-based adhesives off-gas less than solvent-based glues.
Flame Retardant VOCs
- Antimony
- Boric acid
- Phosphates
- Tris(2-chloroethyl) phosphate
These are added to meet flammability standards. Mattresses sold in the US must withstand a certain amount of open flame per federal regulation 16 CFR 1633.
Are Mattress Fumes Toxic?
Whether mattress fumes pose a significant health risk depends on the type of VOCs, levels of exposure, and individual susceptibility.
VOC Exposure Risks
VOC exposure causes both short- and long-term health effects:
- Eye, nose, throat, and skin irritation
- Headaches, dizziness, nausea
- Exacerbation of asthma
- Damage to the liver, kidneys, and central nervous system
- Increased cancer risk
Formaldehyde is a major concern. The EPA classifies it as a probable human carcinogen. Studies link formaldehyde exposure to an increased risk of leukemia and nasopharyngeal cancer.
Off-gassing VOCs can be especially harmful to babies. Infants have higher respiration rates and their developing organs are more vulnerable to chemical effects.
However, mattress VOC levels are generally low enough not to be considered dangerous. But emissions can build up in poorly ventilated rooms and affect sensitive individuals.
Reducing Exposure
These tips can help reduce VOC exposure from a new mattress:
- Air out the mattress before use – Let it sit in a well-ventilated area for 24-48 hours
- Keep your bedroom well-ventilated
- Use an air purifier to help filter out VOCs
- Cover the mattress with a mattress protector until off-gassing is complete
- Avoid placing infants to sleep on or near a new mattress
Over time, off-gassing slows and VOC emissions decrease to safer levels. But take steps to limit exposure, especially for babies and those sensitive to chemicals.
Do Memory Foam Mattresses Off-Gas More?
Memory foam is often cited as having more VOC off-gassing than other mattress types. This is partly true, but it depends on the materials.
Memory foam is made from polyurethane foam. When dense, viscoelastic polyurethane foam is used, it initially off-gasses more than conventional polyurethane foam.
But many modern memory foam mattresses use:
- Plant-based materials
- Gel infusions
- Higher density foam
- Zero or low VOC adhesives
These manufacturing methods reduce VOC emissions in memory foam mattresses. Reputable brands certify their foams and adhesives with programs like CertiPUR-US® or GREENGUARD Gold to limit VOC levels.
So while early forms of memory foam off-gassed a lot, many modern versions release fewer VOCs than cheaper polyurethane foams.
Do Innerspring Mattresses Off-Gas?
Because they contain less foam and adhesive, innerspring mattresses generally off-gas less than all-foam beds. But they still emit some VOCs, mainly from:
- Polyfoam comfort layers
- Adhesives in cushioning materials
- Flame retardant on coils
Higher quality innersprings use less adhesive and have foam comfort layers certified for low emissions. But cheaper spring mattresses likely contain VOCs from low-grade polyurethane foam and solvent glues.
The coil system itself does not off-gas since the metal does not emit volatile organic compounds. So innerspring beds overall have fewer sources of VOC off-gassing than solid foam or latex mattresses.
Do Latex Mattresses Off-Gas?
100% natural latex contains no VOCs – it’s an all-natural material tapped from rubber trees. There’s no off-gassing smell with real latex.
However, many “latex” mattresses substitute synthetic latex made from petrochemicals. This does emit VOCs as it breaks down:
- Styrene
- Butadiene
- Ethylbenzene
- Xylene
If you want zero VOC off-gassing, verify your latex mattress uses 100% natural latex, not synthetic latex.
Blended latex with both natural and synthetic content will have some VOC emissions. But certified low-VOC adhesives and backing materials can limit VOC exposure.
Do Mattress Protectors Stop Off-Gassing?
Mattress protectors and covers do temporarily stop some off-gassing. This can reduce VOC emissions into your bedroom.
But mattress covers only delay the off-gassing – VOCs continue building up inside the barrier and are released when you remove it.
Once your new mattress off-gasses for 48-72 hours, a protector can contain the remaining VOCs. But you still need to let the initial VOC bulk air out first.
Look for bed protectors made from breathable, ventilated materials to allow some airflow. Plastic barriers trap VOCs and cause more emission when removed.
How Long Does Mattress Off-Gassing Last?
Off-gassing happens quickly at first then tapers off over several weeks. Here’s a rough timeline for mattress VOC emissions:
- First 24 hours – 50-60% of total VOC emissions
- 3-5 days – 75-90% off-gassed
- 2 weeks – VOC levels greatly diminished
- 4-6 weeks – Most VOCs dissipated
Most off-gassing completes within 1-2 weeks. But some sensitive individuals notice lingering odors for a month or more.
Proper air circulation is key for off-gassing to complete quickly. Rotate your mattress to air out all sides and leave the bed uncovered.
Higher room temperature and humidity also speed up the process since VOCs diffuse faster.
How to Air Out a New Mattress Faster
It’s normal for some smell to remain even after a few weeks. But you can help air out the mattress VOCs faster with these tips:
- Leave your mattress unpackaged for 48+ hours before use
- Stand mattress upright against the wall to expose all sides
- Place near a window or use a fan to improve airflow
- Remove bedding materials to prevent trapping gases
- Vacuum sealed mattresses may need 5-7 days to fully expand and off-gas
- Consider placing the mattress outside on a covered porch for a few hours
Rotating your new mattress every few days gets fresh air to all internal layers off the bed.
Avoid putting sheets, mattress pads, or other barriers on too soon. Let the initial VOC bulk fully dissipate first.
An air purifier can also filter out remaining odors and VOCs in the bedroom. Just change the filter regularly to prevent re-emission.
Tips for Off-Gassing a Mattress While Sleeping on It
Ideally, you wouldn’t sleep on a new mattress until off-gassing is complete. But for some mattress owners, that’s not practical. Here are some tips for off-gassing a new mattress while using it:
– Keep your bedroom well-ventilated with open windows or fans to maximize airflow.
– Don’t make the bed in the morning. Leaving sheets and blankets pulled back allows more air contact with the mattress during the day.
– Use a mattress protector but make sure it’s breathable fabric, not plastic. Look for protectors advertised as “cooling.”
– Flatten the mattress during the day to let air circulate underneath.
– Vacuum the mattress regularly to remove VOCs from the surface.
– Consider an air purifier to filter VOCs while sleeping. Open windows during the day when not in use.
– Rotate the mattress weekly so all sides get fresh air exposure.
– Dry cleaning bedding will remove absorbed VOCs compared to machine washing.
It’s not ideal but these steps can help minimize exposure to mattress off-gassing VOC’s when you sleep on a new bed.
FAQs
Is it safe to sleep on a new mattress right away?
It’s generally recommended to let a mattress fully off-gas for 24-48 hours before use. The initial VOC emissions are highest right after unboxing. Letting these disperse fully before sleeping on the mattress prevents excessive exposure.
How long does a mattress last?
With average use, most mattresses last 6-8 years before needing replacement. Higher quality mattresses can last up to 10 years or longer. Rotating and caring for your mattress properly extends its usable life.
When should you replace an old mattress?
Signs that indicate it’s time to replace an aging mattress include:
- Noticeable sagging, sinkholes, or uneven surface
- Poor support with increased back pain
- Visible cracks or damage in the foam or coils
- Strong off-gassing odor from the old foam breaking down
- Infestation of bed bugs, dust mites, or other pests
Replacing an old, worn out mattress can improve sleep quality and support.
Can mattress off-gassing make you sick?
The VOC levels from a new mattress are usually not high enough to make most people acutely ill. But off-gassing can cause headache, nausea, allergy symptoms, and respiratory irritation in some sensitive individuals if the room is poorly ventilated.
Babies and young children are more susceptible to irritation from the chemicals. Allow new mattresses to fully off-gas before use to limit reactions.
What’s the healthiest mattress for off-gassing?
Mattresses made from all natural materials like wool and natural latex have the lowest VOC emissions. Look for certifications like GOLS and GOTS that regulate chemicals use.
Many mattress brands now engineer their foam beds to reduce off-gassing VOCs as well. CertiPUR certification ensures VOCs are within established limits.
The Bottom Line
New mattresses off-gas as a result of the VOCs released from their materials, mainly polyurethane foam and adhesives. Exposure to these chemicals can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat.
While VOC levels are generally not high enough to cause major health issues, babies and sensitive people may react. Allowing new mattresses to fully air out before use helps reduce contact with the VOCs.
Look for off-gassing reducing technologies like plant-based foams, CertiPUR certification, and low VOC adhesives when mattress shopping. With enough time and air circulation, VOC emissions will dissipate to low levels.
By understanding mattress off-gassing and taking steps to allow VOCs to fully air out, you can safely enjoy your new mattress. Follow the recommendations in this article to minimize exposure and let your mattress reach safe, stable VOC emission levels.