There’s nothing like the feeling of a fresh mattress delivered to your door. But the moment you unwrap it, a weird smell hits. Kind of like paint. Or plastic. Or a bit of both.
That’s off gassing, and it’s more common than people realise.
Key Takeaways
- Off gassing is the release of trapped chemicals into the air from mattress materials like foam and adhesives. The smell is strongest in the first few days but usually fades with ventilation and time.
- Some mattress types off-gas more than others. Foam mattresses tend to have the strongest odour, while natural latex and innerspring designs are much milder.
- Ecosa mattresses are made with CertiPUR-US certified foams, breathable construction, and eco-conscious materials to help minimise off gassing from day one.
Off gassing happens when certain materials in a mattress release odours. The smell usually fades, but it can be unsettling if you’re not sure what it is.
In this guide, we’ll explain where it comes from, which mattress types are more likely to smell, and how to clear it faster.
We’ll also share how our designs help keep those odours to a minimum right from the start.
Jump to a section:
- What is Off-Gassing in a Mattress?
- Is Off-Gassing Harmful?
- Mattress Type & Off-Gassing
- How to Get Smell Out of Mattress
- How Long Does Off-Gassing Last?
- How Ecosa Avoids Off-Gassing
- FAQs
What is Off-Gassing in a Mattress?
Off gassing is when a new mattress releases trapped chemicals into the air. This usually comes through as a smell.
These airborne chemicals are called volatile organic compounds (VOCs). They often come from:
- Foams, especially polyurethane
- Adhesives and glues used during assembly
- Fabric coatings or synthetic treatments
- Fire-resistant chemicals added for safety
Some VOCs carry a strong scent, while others are completely odourless. The result is often that new mattress smell that shows up after unboxing.
Off gassing doesn’t only happen with mattresses.
New sofas, carpets, and even electronics can release these particles too. But because boxed mattresses are sealed tightly for shipping, the smell builds up inside and becomes more noticeable when the box is first opened.
Is Off-Gassing Harmful?
For most people, no. Off gassing from a mattress isn’t dangerous. But it can still be uncomfortable.
Some people are more sensitive to smells or airborne particles than others. If you’re someone who gets a headache around strong cleaning products or fresh paint, you might also notice a reaction to off gassing.
Common symptoms include:
- Mild headaches
- Dizziness or nausea
- Watery eyes or irritation
- Sneezing or coughing
- Scratchy throat
These symptoms are usually short-lived and go away as the smell fades. Ventilating the room can help speed things along.
If you have asthma, allergies, or chemical sensitivities, the odour might feel stronger. And for babies or small children, who spend more time closer to the mattress surface, it’s worth being cautious.
Mattress Type & Off-Gassing
Different mattresses release smells in different ways. It depends on the materials used and how they were processed during manufacturing.
Let’s break it down:
| Mattress Type | Off-Gassing Level | What to Look For |
| Innerspring | Very Low | Choose designs with minimal foam or adhesives |
| Latex (Natural) | Low | Check for GOLS or OEKO-TEX certification |
| Latex (Synthetic) | Moderate | Avoid blended or synthetic latex if smell is a concern |
| Hybrid | Moderate | Look for low-VOC foam and breathable coil design |
| Foam | Strong | Choose CertiPUR-US or OEKO-TEX certified foams |
Innerspring Mattresses
Innerspring mattresses are typically the least likely to off-gas.
They rely on metal coils for support and usually contain less foam or synthetic padding. Some models use fabric or adhesives inside the structure, which can give off a light scent at first. But in most cases, the smell is very mild and short-lived.
Latex Mattresses
Natural latex comes from tree sap and usually doesn’t off-gas in the same way as synthetic foam.
These mattresses often have a subtle, earthy smell, but it’s not chemical. The catch is that some latex mattresses are blended or contain synthetic latex, which can still off-gas. Look for certifications like GOLS or OEKO-TEX if you’re after a natural latex option with minimal odour.
Hybrid Mattresses
Hybrid mattresses combine foam layers with a spring or coil system.
Because they still contain foam, you might notice a light smell at first. But the open structure created by the coils helps improve airflow, which can help the smell disappear faster.
Foam Mattresses
Foam mattresses, including memory foam and polyurethane foam, are the most likely to off-gas.
That’s why you’re more likely to notice a chemical smell after unboxing, especially with mattresses that come vacuum-sealed. Lower-quality foams tend to smell stronger and for longer.
If you’re choosing foam of any kind, look for CertiPUR-US or OEKO-TEX certification to reduce exposure to harsh odours.
How to Get Smell Out of Mattress
Off gassing is a common part of unboxing a new mattress, but the smell doesn’t have to stick around for long.
Here are a few ways to help it clear out faster:
1. Unwrap It as Soon as Possible
As soon as your mattress arrives, remove the plastic wrapping and let it expand in an open space. Off gassing happens when VOCs are trapped inside packaging, so the sooner you unpack it, the sooner the smell starts to fade.
Avoid letting it sit wrapped up for hours or days. Even just cutting the plastic open to let it breathe can make a big difference.
2. Let Fresh Air In
Airflow is your best friend. Open windows, turn on fans, and if possible, leave the door to the room closed so the smell doesn’t spread through your whole home.
The more circulation, the faster the VOCs will move out and the air will feel clean again. This is also a handy trick for when you want to deodorise your mattress over time, especially after hot nights or spills.
3. Find Some Sunlight
If you have a spare room with sunlight, or can safely leave the mattress in a sunlit space indoors, do it. Warmth and light help speed up the process.
Just be careful with outdoor exposure, as moisture or dirt can damage the mattress.
4. Sprinkle Baking Soda
Baking soda is a simple, natural deodoriser. Lightly sprinkle it across the surface of your mattress and leave it for a few hours before vacuuming it off. It can help absorb lingering smells without adding more chemicals to the mix.
And don’t toss the box once you’re done. You’ll need it again when it’s time to freshen up your mattress during regular cleaning.
5. Give It a Gentle Walk-Over
No need to jump on it, but gently pressing down on the surface or walking across it in clean socks can help release trapped air. Just make sure the room is well ventilated if you try this step.
6. Don’t Sleep on It Straight Away
If the smell feels strong, let the mattress breathe overnight before putting sheets on or lying down.
Body heat can make odours more noticeable. Waiting a bit gives things time to settle.
How Long Does Off-Gassing Last?
For most mattresses, especially a mattress in a box, off gassing fades within the first 24 to 72 hours. That’s when the smell is usually strongest, especially right after unboxing.
If your mattress is made with high-quality foam or comes with low-VOC certifications, the smell might disappear in just a few hours. Hybrid mattresses tend to clear faster too, thanks to better airflow in the design.
Can You Sleep on a Mattress While It’s Off-Gassing?
You can sleep on a mattress while it’s off-gassing, as long as it has fully expanded. This usually takes between 24 to 72 hours.
If the smell feels strong or you’re sensitive to odours, it’s better to wait. Try unboxing your mattress in the morning and leaving it near an open window all day. By bedtime, the scent will likely be much weaker or gone entirely.
How Ecosa Minimises Off-Gassing
We use materials that are safe for your home and certified to keep chemical smells to a minimum.
Here’s how our mattresses are built to reduce off-gassing:
| Feature | Ecosa Mattresses | Conventional Mattresses |
| VOC Emissions | Low, CertiPUR-US certified foams | Moderate to high, especially in uncertified foams |
| Foam Content | Clean, low-odour memory and latex foams | Polyurethane or synthetic memory foams |
| Adhesives | Minimal, low-odour construction | Often bonded with synthetic glues |
| Flame Retardants | No chemical sprays, safer materials used | May contain chemical flame retardants |
| Fabric Finishes | Breathable Tencel™ and recycled polyester, low chemical finish | Frequently coated or treated with synthetic finishes |
| Air Quality Impact | Designed for clean indoor air with quick off-gas release | Can impact indoor air quality during the first few weeks |
| Safety for Children | Certified low-VOC, safe for family homes | Potential concerns with odour and chemical sensitivity |
1. CertiPUR-US Certified Foams
Layers used in the Ecosa mattress range, including BounceTech™, copper-infused, and graphene-infused memory foam, are CertiPUR-US certified. This means they are made without harmful substances like formaldehyde or phthalates and meet strict standards for indoor air quality.
2. Low-Odour TPE Grid
Our FlexMatrix™ Grid is made from thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), a clean, durable material often used in baby products and medical equipment. It does not carry strong smells and is safe for indoor environments.
3. Breathable, Well-Ventilated Design
With zero-waste steel springs, micro coils, and airflow-friendly latex, our mattresses are built to breathe. This design helps any mild smell fade faster by improving ventilation from the inside out.
4. Eco-Conscious Textiles
We use Tencel™, recycled polyester, and OceanCycle™ certified zips and covers. These materials are selected for comfort and breathability, without the harsh chemical treatments that often cause lingering odours.
5. No Harsh Flame Retardant Sprays
We meet fire safety standards without relying on chemical sprays. Instead, we use safer fabric blends and thoughtful construction to create protection without the smell.
Looking for a sleep setup that keeps things fresh from day one?
Our range of eco-friendly mattresses and pillows is made with low-VOC materials, breathable designs, and certified comfort you can feel good about. No harsh smells, just better sleep.
FAQs
1. What is off gassing in a mattress?
Off gassing is when a new mattress releases small amounts of gas from materials like foam or adhesives. This often shows up as a chemical smell after unboxing. It’s common with boxed mattresses and usually fades within a few days.
2. How long does the new mattress smell last?
Most of the smell disappears within 24 to 72 hours. If the mattress is made from low-VOC materials and aired out in a well-ventilated space, it may clear even faster. Some lingering scents can last up to a week, especially in closed rooms.
3. Can I speed up mattress off gassing?
Yes. Unbox your mattress right away, place it in a room with good airflow, and open the windows. Sunlight, baking soda, and time all help reduce the smell faster. Avoid putting sheets on it immediately if the odour still feels strong.