To get the most comfort, prolong its life, and ensure the best sleeping experience, it is highly recommended to allow your new mattress to air out for at least 24 hours before using it. This crucial step allows the mattress to fully expand, reshape, and release any trapped odors or volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from its manufacturing and packaging process.
Why Air Out Your New Mattress?
Airing out a new mattress, particularly those shipped in a compressed "bed-in-a-box" format, offers several significant benefits:
- Full Expansion: Compressed mattresses need time to decompress and reach their intended size and firmness. While many expand significantly within a few hours, a full 24 hours ensures complete recovery.
- Off-Gassing: New mattresses, especially those made with synthetic materials like memory foam, can release a distinct "new mattress smell," often referred to as off-gassing. This is due to the release of VOCs used in the manufacturing process. While generally harmless in small amounts, proper ventilation dissipates these odors, improving indoor air quality. For more information on indoor air quality, you can refer to resources from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
- Optimal Comfort & Longevity: Allowing the mattress to fully air out and settle ensures its internal components are correctly aligned, contributing to the supportive feel and ultimately, the lifespan of the mattress.
How to Properly Air Your Mattress
Follow these steps to effectively air out your new mattress:
- Unbox Immediately: As soon as your new mattress arrives, unbox it and carefully remove all plastic packaging. Be cautious not to cut the mattress itself.
- Place on a Flat Surface: Lay the mattress flat on its intended bed frame, foundation, or a clean, flat floor surface. This allows it to expand evenly.
- Ventilate the Room: Open windows and doors in the room where the mattress is airing to promote cross-ventilation. If possible, use a fan to circulate air.
- Avoid Covering: Do not place sheets, mattress protectors, or blankets on the mattress during the initial airing period. This allows maximum air exposure.
- Give it Time: While some mattresses may appear fully expanded in a few hours, waiting the full 24 hours provides the best results for off-gassing and complete shape recovery. Some manufacturers even suggest up to 72 hours for complete off-gassing, especially for memory foam.
- Maintain Good Airflow: Even after the initial airing period, maintaining good airflow around your mattress through proper bedding and occasional rotation can help sustain its freshness. For general mattress care tips, the Sleep Foundation offers helpful guides.
Airing Times for Different Mattress Types
While 24 hours is a general recommendation, the time it takes for a mattress to fully off-gas and expand can vary slightly by type:
| Mattress Type | Typical Expansion Time | Off-Gassing Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Memory Foam | 24-72 hours | Most prone to off-gassing, requires good ventilation. |
| Hybrid | 24-48 hours | Less off-gassing than pure memory foam, but still benefits from airing. |
| Innerspring | A few hours (for expansion) | Minimal off-gassing, but still benefits from airing to remove new fabric smells. |
| Latex | 12-24 hours | Natural latex has a distinct, often sweet smell that dissipates. Synthetic latex may have some off-gassing. |
By following these guidelines, you can ensure your new mattress is fully ready to provide you with restful and comfortable sleep for years to come.
