How to Get Rid of New Mattress Smell Quickly and Safely

Updated 2026-07-19 · 1 Tier Finds

Opening a new mattress box brings excitement, but that harsh chemical odor can instantly kill the vibe. If you are wondering how to get rid of new mattress smell, you are not alone. That stench is off-gassing—the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) trapped in the foams and adhesives during manufacturing and vacuum sealing. While usually harmless, it can be intense and ruin your sleep quality for the first week. We have tested dozens of beds, from dense memory foam to breathable hybrids, and the intensity of that smell varies wildly by construction and material quality. Here is how to banish the odor without damaging your investment, and what to look for when buying to avoid this issue in the future.

Understanding Off-Gassing and Why It Happens

Off-gassing is most common in beds made with synthetic materials, specifically polyurethane memory foam. When the mattress is compressed and rolled into a box for shipping, those chemicals are tightly sealed inside. Once you cut the plastic, the foam expands, releasing VOCs into the air. Traditional innerspring mattresses generally have less of this smell because they contain less foam, but hybrid models—which combine springs with foam comfort layers—can still retain a distinct scent. The goal is to speed up the release of these compounds so you can get a safe, comfortable night's rest.

The Best Methods on How to Get Rid of New Mattress Smell

If you want to sleep on your new bed immediately, you need to be aggressive with ventilation. Do not just rely on time; you need active airflow to push the VOCs out of the room. Here is the most effective protocol we have found through years of testing:

1. Strip it down: Remove all plastic wrapping immediately. Do not leave the mattress wrapped in a corner of the room hoping the smell will dissipate through the box. It needs to breathe.
2. Maximize airflow: Open all windows and doors in the room. If you have ceiling fans, box fans, or an air purifier with a VOC filter, turn them on high. You want cross-ventilation to push the chemical air out and pull fresh air in.
3. Apply baking soda: If the smell is stubborn, sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the entire mattress surface. Let it sit for several hours or overnight if possible. Baking soda absorbs odors effectively. Vacuum it off thoroughly before putting sheets on.
4. Check the source: If the odor persists after a week, check your mattress protector and sheets. Sometimes new synthetics in bedding contribute to the smell. Wash them twice with a cup of vinegar added to the rinse cycle to neutralize lingering scents.

Choosing the Right Mattress to Minimize Odors

When shopping for Mattresses, specifically mattresses in a box, material choice is the biggest factor in odor intensity. If you are sensitive to smells, you need to be picky about what you buy. Memory foam offers the best pressure relief and motion isolation, but it tends to off-gas the most and sleeps hot. Innerspring mattresses are the coolest and usually have the least chemical smell, but they transfer more motion. Hybrid mattresses attempt to give you the best of both worlds—a spring coil base with a foam top layer—but ensure the foam top is high quality.

Budget-tier options often use lower-density foams and cheaper adhesives, leading to a stronger, longer-lasting odor. Mid-range to premium models often use plant-based foams or proprietary cooling gels that smell less like chemicals and more like fresh linen. To find the specific features that match your sensitivity, check current options and prices on Amazon, where you can filter by material type and read verified user reviews regarding initial scent.

Features That Matter for Air Quality and Comfort

Beyond just foam vs. spring, look for certifications that guarantee safer manufacturing. Certifications like CertiPUR-US indicate that the foam is made without ozone depleters, heavy metals, or formaldehyde. While certified foam can still smell when new, it is generally less toxic and clears faster than non-certified alternatives.

Also, consider the cover material. A removable, washable cover made of organic cotton or bamboo is a huge plus. It acts as a barrier between you and the foam and can be easily washed if it absorbs any initial plastic smells. When sizing your bed, ensure you have space around the frame for air to circulate. Shoving a California King into a tight room with no airflow will trap the smell longer than a Twin in a well-ventilated space.

Long-Term Maintenance for a Fresh Sleep Environment

Once the smell is gone, keeping the mattress clean prevents future odors. Always use a waterproof mattress protector. It protects against sweat, spills, and accidents which can lead to mildew or bacterial smells—the kind that are much harder to get rid of than factory off-gassing. Rotate your mattress every three to six months to ensure even wear and prevent sagging, which can trap moisture and odors in specific spots. If you live in a humid climate, a dehumidifier in the bedroom is a worthy investment to keep the internal materials of the bed dry and fresh.

FAQ

Is the new mattress smell toxic?

For most people, the new mattress smell is not toxic, just unpleasant. It comes from VOCs released during the manufacturing process. However, those with asthma or chemical sensitivities may experience headaches or nausea. If you fall into this category, stick to CertiPUR-US certified beds or natural latex options and let the mattress air out in a guest room or garage for at least 72 hours before bringing it into your bedroom.

How long does it take for the smell to go away?

Typically, the smell dissipates within a few days to two weeks. If you follow the ventilation steps above, you can usually reduce this to under 48 hours. Cheaper, budget foam mattresses may retain a faint scent for up to a month, whereas high-end latex or spring mattresses often have no noticeable odor after 24 hours.

Does baking soda actually work on mattress odors?

Yes, baking soda is highly effective at absorbing surface-level moisture and odors. It draws out the volatile compounds sitting on the top layer of the fabric. For a brand new mattress, it is a great secondary step alongside airflow. Just be sure to vacuum it up completely so the powder does not mix with sweat later to create a paste.