What is Mattress Off-Gassing?

14 Oct What is Mattress Off-Gassing?

For some new mattresses, it’s possible for a process known as off-gassing to take place when the item is first taken out of its packaging. This process may involve the release of certain harmful and/or odorous particles into the air, and there’s a chance these can impact some people negatively — but there are also steps that can be taken to avoid this.

At 2 Brothers Mattress, we’re happy to not only offer a wide selection of mattress options, ranging from innerspring and hybrid mattresses to memory foam and more, but also to assist with concepts like these. What exactly is mattress off-gassing, why is it a risk for some people, and how can you easily avoid it when purchasing and opening any new mattress? Here’s a simple rundown.

What is Mattress Off-Gassing?

When you hear the term “off-gassing,” you might automatically think of the fumes that come from certain cleaning products or paint cans. However, off-gassing can also refer to the release of particles or chemicals into the air — and this is what sometimes happens with new mattresses.

Essentially, when a mattress is first manufactured, it’s likely to contain certain chemicals within its materials. These could be present in the foam, fabric, glues, or other parts of the mattress, and they might not pose any risk while the mattress is sealed in its packaging. However, when that packaging is opened and you begin to unroll or decompress the mattress, there’s a chance that these particles could become airborne and be inhaled.

For some people, this might not pose any serious risk or cause any particular problems. However, others might find that they experience allergic reactions, coughing, headaches, dizziness, nausea, or watery eyes. In very rare cases, more serious issues like difficulty breathing could occur. If you experience any of these symptoms after opening a new mattress, it’s important to get some fresh air immediately and seek medical attention if necessary.

How to Avoid Off-Gassing Risks

Fortunately, there are some simple steps you can take to avoid any risks associated with mattress off-gassing. First, if possible, try to open your mattress in a well-ventilated area, such as a garage or outdoors. This will help to dissipate any particles that might be released into the air.

You might also want to consider letting your mattress “air out” for a day or two before using it. If possible, place it in the sun for a few hours, as this can help to remove any odors. Once you’re ready to use the mattress, simply make sure to put on some clean sheets and enjoy a good night’s sleep.

For more on this, or to learn about any of our quality mattresses or mattress services, speak to the pros at 2 Brothers Mattress today.