The #1 Guide to Off Gassing in Mattresses: What It Is and How to Reduce It

Understanding Mattress Off-Gassing and Its Impact

What is Off Gassing in Mattresses? When you unbox a new mattress, you may notice a distinct smell. This odor is due to off-gassing, a process where volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are released into the air from the mattress. VOCs are chemical byproducts of the mattress manufacturing process, particularly from synthetic foams. Although these smells are usually harmless, they can be unpleasant and sometimes cause minor health discomforts like headaches or dizziness.

In a nutshell:
– Off-gassing occurs when VOCs from new materials are released into the air.
– VOCs include chemicals like benzene, acetone, and formaldehyde.
– Most common in memory foam and polyfoam mattresses, less so in natural latex and microcoil beds.

At Yawnder, we strive to take the mystery out of mattress shopping by offering expert-tested recommendations and insights.

I’m Ben Trapskin, the creator of Yawnder. I’ve spent years researching and experiencing the importance of sleep. My dedication to helping others find the perfect mattress comes from my own journey through sleep struggles and countless frustrating mattress trials.

What is Off Gassing in Mattresses?

When you first unpack a new mattress, you might notice a distinct smell. This odor is due to off-gassing, a process where volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are released into the air. These chemical emissions are a byproduct of the mattress manufacturing process, especially in synthetic materials like memory foam and polyfoam.

Causes of Off Gassing

Manufacturing Process: During production, mattresses made from synthetic foams undergo various chemical treatments. These treatments help create the foam’s structure and durability but also leave behind VOCs.

Synthetic Foams: Materials like memory foam and polyfoam are particularly prone to off-gassing. These foams are made from polyurethane, which is derived from petroleum. The chemical reactions involved in creating these foams release VOCs.

Vacuum-Sealed Packaging: Many modern mattresses, especially mattress-in-a-box models, are compressed and vacuum-sealed immediately after production. This packaging traps VOCs inside the mattress. When you open the package, these compounds are released into the air, causing the new mattress smell.

Common VOCs in Mattresses

Different VOCs can be found in new mattresses. Here are some of the most common ones:

• Benzene: Found in petroleum-based foam, benzene is a known carcinogen. While the levels in mattresses are typically low, it’s still a concern for many consumers.
• Formaldehyde: This chemical is used in the production of some mattress materials and adhesives. It can cause irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat.
• Acetone: Often used as a solvent in the manufacturing process, acetone can contribute to the off-gassing odor.

These VOCs are more prominent in synthetic foam mattresses. Natural materials like latex or microcoils tend to have fewer VOCs, making them a better choice for those sensitive to chemical emissions.

Understanding the causes and common VOCs in mattresses can help you make an informed decision. In the next section, we’ll explore the health implications of off-gassing and who is most at risk.

Health Implications of Off Gassing

Off-gassing from mattresses can have several health implications, ranging from mild to severe. The effects depend on the types of VOCs released, the concentration, and the duration of exposure.

Headaches and Dizziness

You might have experienced a headache or dizziness after cleaning with strong chemicals. This is similar to what happens with off-gassing. VOCs like benzene and formaldehyde can cause headaches and dizziness, especially in poorly ventilated spaces.

Respiratory Issues

Off-gassing can worsen respiratory conditions like asthma. VOCs can irritate the respiratory tract, leading to coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. This is particularly concerning for people who already have respiratory issues.

Hormone Disruption

Certain VOCs, such as phthalates, are known endocrine disruptors. This means they can interfere with your hormones. Hormone disruption can lead to various health problems, including reproductive issues and developmental problems in children.

Cancer Risk

Some VOCs are carcinogenic, meaning they can increase the risk of cancer. For example, benzene and formaldehyde are both classified as human carcinogens. Long-term exposure to these chemicals can significantly increase your cancer risk.

Who is Most at Risk?

While off-gassing can affect anyone, certain groups are more vulnerable:

• Infants and Children: Babies spend a lot of time sleeping, making them more susceptible to the effects of off-gassing. Their developing bodies are more vulnerable to toxins, which can lead to long-term health issues.

• People with Respiratory Issues: Individuals with conditions like asthma or chronic bronchitis are more likely to experience severe symptoms from VOC exposure.

• Chemically Sensitive Individuals: Some people are more sensitive to chemicals and can experience symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and respiratory issues even at low VOC levels.

Understanding the health implications and who is most at risk can help you take steps to minimize exposure. In the next section, we’ll discuss different mattress materials and their off-gassing potential.

Mattress Materials and Off Gassing

Different mattress materials have varying levels of off-gassing. Let’s break down the most common types and their off-gassing potential.

Memory Foam

Memory foam, also known as viscoelastic foam, was originally developed by NASA. It’s famous for its ability to mold to the body, offering excellent pressure relief. However, memory foam tends to emit noticeable off-gassing odors due to its synthetic nature.

Pros:
– Excellent pressure relief
– Contours to the body

Cons:
– High potential for off-gassing
– Can sleep hot, though newer formulations include cooling technology

To reduce off-gassing, look for memory foam mattresses with CertiPUR-US or GREENGUARD Gold certifications. These certifications ensure the foam meets strict standards for low VOC emissions.

Polyfoam

Polyfoam refers to any polyurethane-based foam. It’s commonly used in comfort, transition, and support layers of mattresses. The feel of polyfoam varies depending on its formulation but generally falls between memory foam and latex.

Pros:
– Versatile and breathable
– Often more affordable than other foams

Cons:
– Potential for off-gassing
– Durability can vary

Like memory foam, polyfoam mattresses can benefit from CertiPUR-US certification to ensure low VOC emissions.

Latex

Latex mattresses can be made from natural or synthetic latex. Natural latex is derived from rubber tree sap and is considered more eco-friendly, while synthetic latex is made from petrochemicals.

Pros:
– Minimal off-gassing with natural latex
– Highly responsive and durable

Cons:
– Synthetic latex can emit VOCs
– Generally more expensive

Natural latex processed through the Dunlop or Talalay methods offers different feels but both are good options for minimal off-gassing. Look for certifications like eco-INSTITUT to ensure low emissions.

Microcoils and Innerspring

Microcoils are small springs used in comfort and transition layers, while innerspring mattresses have larger coils in their support cores. These mattresses are known for their breathability and minimal off-gassing.

Pros:
– Excellent airflow
– Minimal off-gassing

Cons:
– Can be noisy
– Less contouring compared to foam

Innerspring mattresses with pocketed coils offer better motion isolation and still maintain low off-gassing levels.

Hybrid Mattresses

Hybrid mattresses combine elements of foam (memory foam, polyfoam, or latex) with innerspring coils. The off-gassing potential depends on the types of foam used.

Pros:
– Balanced support and comfort
– Better airflow than all-foam mattresses

Cons:
– Off-gassing varies based on foam layers
– Can be heavy and hard to move

Airbeds

Airbeds use air chambers for support, often combined with foam comfort layers. They generally have low off-gassing levels, especially if the foam layers are minimal.

Pros:
– Adjustable firmness
– Low off-gassing

Cons:
– Can be expensive
– Requires maintenance

Understanding the off-gassing potential of different mattress materials can help you make an informed choice. In the next section, we’ll look at ways to reduce off-gassing when you get a new mattress.

How to Reduce Off Gassing

Speeding Up Off Gassing

When you get a new mattress, the off-gassing smell can be a bit overwhelming. But don’t worry, there are several steps you can take to speed up the process and get rid of that new mattress smell faster.

1. Remove the Plastic Wrap

As soon as you get your mattress, take off the plastic wrap. Keeping it wrapped will trap the fumes and slow down the off-gassing process. Even if you’re not ready to use the mattress right away, unwrapping it will help the trapped gases escape sooner.

2. Air Out Your Mattress Properly

Place your mattress in a well-ventilated area. If you have a garage or an open space, that’s ideal. You can also lay it on a tarp outside if the weather is nice and the mattress is protected from the elements. This open space allows the fumes to dissipate more quickly.

3. Increase Air Circulation

If you don’t have a large open space, you can still improve air circulation in your room. Open windows and doors to let fresh air in. You can also use fans to cross-ventilate the room, which helps speed up the off-gassing process.

4. Use Baking Soda

Baking soda is great for absorbing odors. Sprinkle some on your mattress and let it sit for about a day. After that, vacuum it up. This can neutralize some of the chemical smells and make your mattress more pleasant to sleep on.

5. Consider a Polyethylene Mattress Cover

A polyethylene mattress cover can act as a barrier, reducing the amount of VOCs that escape into the air. This can be especially useful if you are sensitive to smells or chemicals.

6. Use Air Purifiers

Air purifiers with activated carbon filters can help remove VOCs from the air. Place one in the room where your mattress is airing out to speed up the removal of any lingering odors.

7. Give It Time

Sometimes, the best solution is just to wait. Most off-gassing odors will dissipate within a few days to a week. If you can, let your mattress air out for as long as possible before you start using it.

By following these steps, you can significantly reduce the off-gassing time and enjoy your new mattress much sooner. In the next section, we’ll look at certifications to look for when buying a mattress to ensure low emissions from the start.