How to Keep Your Mattress Smelling Fresh & Free From Harmful VOCs

Quick Summary (TL;DR)

Wondering how to remove mattress smell? Chemical odors (from VOCs in mattresses) and long-term smells are common but preventable. Airing out your mattress, using natural deodorizing methods like baking soda or essential oils, and choosing eco-friendly certified materials can keep your bed fresh. LOAFY mattresses are designed with sustainable, low-VOC materials that minimize odors from day one.

🛏️ How to Keep Your Mattress Smelling Fresh & Free From Harmful VOCs

That unmistakable "new mattress smell" can be more than just an annoyance—it can be a sign of chemicals filling your sleep space. If you've ever unboxed a new bed and been hit with a strong, chemical odor, or if an older mattress has developed a musty smell, you know how it can disrupt your sanctuary.

This isn't just about comfort; it's about health. Understanding what causes mattress odors, how to eliminate them, and—most importantly—how to choose a mattress that stays fresh is key to creating a truly restorative sleep environment. This guide covers everything you need to know.

What Are VOCs? (And Why You Should Care)

The term "VOC" stands for Volatile Organic Compound. These are gases emitted from certain solids or liquids, including the adhesives, synthetic foams, and flame retardants used in many mattresses.

That "new" smell is often the sound of these VOCs "off-gassing" into your bedroom air.

• Short-Term Effects: Exposure can lead to headaches, dizziness, eye/nose/throat irritation, and even allergic skin reactions.
• Long-Term Concerns: Prolonged exposure to some VOCs has been linked to more serious health issues, including liver or kidney damage and central nervous system problems.

The bottom line: Reducing VOC exposure is a crucial step toward a healthier home.

Common Causes of Mattress Odors: New vs. Old

1. The "New Mattress Smell" (Off-Gassing)

This is primarily a VOC issue. It's most common with:

• All-foam mattresses (especially memory foam) due to the chemical composition of the foam.
• Bed-in-a-box mattresses because VOCs can become concentrated inside the compressed roll.
• Mattresses using synthetic adhesives and flame retardants.

2. Long-Term Use Odors

Over time, even the best mattresses can develop smells from:

• Sweat & Body Oils: The average person perspires up to a liter of fluid each night.
• Dust Mites: These microscopic creatures thrive in warm, humid environments and their waste can cause odors and allergies.
• Spills & Accidents: From water glasses to pet accidents, moisture trapped inside is a primary cause of mildew and mold.
• Lack of Ventilation: When a mattress is always covered by sheets and a mattress pad, moisture gets trapped.

Step-by-Step: How to Remove Smells from a New Mattress

If your new mattress has a smell, don't panic. Here’s your action plan to speed up off-gassing:

1. Unbox Immediately: Get the mattress out of its plastic wrap within hours of delivery. Trapping the gases inside only prolongs the smell.
2. Choose the Right Room: Place the mattress in a well-ventilated room. Open all windows and doors to create a cross-breeze.
3. Use Air Movement: Place a fan facing the mattress to circulate air and dissipate odors faster.
4. Try an Air Purifier: A purifier with a HEPA and activated carbon filter can capture VOC particles and clean the air.
5. Use Sunlight (Carefully): A few hours of direct sunlight can help neutralize odors. Be aware that prolonged direct sun may fade fabrics, so use judiciously.

Most chemical smells will significantly fade within 3 to 7 days with this method.

Long-Term Maintenance: How to Keep Any Mattress Fresh

Prevention is the best medicine. Incorporate these habits to keep your mattress smelling clean for years:

• Use a High-Quality Mattress Protector: This is non-negotiable. A breathable, waterproof protector is your first line of defense against spills, sweat, and dust mites. Wash it every 1-2 months.
• The Baking Soda Method: Every few months, strip your bed and sprinkle a thin, even layer of baking soda over the entire mattress surface. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes (or several hours for deeper cleaning) to absorb odors. Then, vacuum it thoroughly.
• Essential Oil Boost: For a fresh scent, add a few drops of lavender or tea tree essential oil to the baking soda before sprinkling. These oils have natural antibacterial properties.
• Air It Out: When you change your sheets, pull back the covers and let the mattress breathe for an hour before putting fresh linens on.
• Clean Spills Immediately: Blot any liquid spills with a clean cloth and use a mild upholstery cleaner if necessary. Always ensure the area is completely dry.

Choosing a Low-Odor, Low-VOC Mattress: What to Look For

The best way to avoid the problem is to choose a mattress designed for health and freshness. Here’s what to prioritize:

Why LOAFY Mattresses are the Fresh Choice

At LOAFY, we believe your mattress should support your health, not compromise it. That’s why we’ve built freshness into our very DNA.

• CertiPUR-US® Certified Foams: Every ounce of foam in a LOAFY mattress is certified to be low-VOC, so you can breathe easy from night one.
• Breathable, Sustainable Covers: Our SeaWeave™ covers, made from bamboo and recycled materials, are not only soft but also highly breathable to wick away moisture.
• Eco-Conscious Construction: We prioritize materials that are better for you and the planet, repurposing ocean-bound plastic and avoiding toxic chemicals.
• The Result: A mattress that arrives with no chemical smell, and thanks to its intelligent design, stays fresher far longer.

Don't let odors or chemicals interfere with your sleep and health. You deserve a mattress that feels as good as it is for you.

👉 Shop LOAFY Mattresses Today and Breathe Easier Tonight.

Invest in a sleep surface certified for low emissions and designed for long-lasting freshness. Enjoy peace of mind with our 100-night risk-free trial.

Frequently Asked Question(FAQ)

How long does it take for a new mattress smell to go away?

For most quality, certified mattresses, the initial "new mattress smell" or off-gassing will dissipate within a few days to a week if the room is well-ventilated. Strong chemical smells that persist beyond two weeks may indicate lower-quality materials.

Are VOCs in mattresses dangerous?

While VOC levels decrease over time, short-term exposure can cause symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and irritation, particularly in children, the elderly, or those with chemical sensitivities. Choosing a low-VOC mattress minimizes these risks and contributes to better indoor air quality.

What is the best way to get a smell out of an old mattress?

The most effective method is the baking soda treatment: sprinkle baking soda over the entire surface, let it sit for several hours to absorb odors, and then vacuum it thoroughly. For persistent smells, a light spray of a vinegar and water solution before the baking soda can help, but ensure the mattress dries completely to prevent mold.

Do natural latex mattresses smell?

Natural latex mattresses may have a mild, natural rubber scent that is not harmful and is distinctly different from a chemical VOC smell. This mild odor dissipates much faster than the off-gassing from synthetic memory foams and is generally not a cause for concern.

How can I prevent my mattress from smelling?

The single most effective step is to use a high-quality, breathable, and waterproof mattress protector. This barrier prevents sweat, spills, and allergens from penetrating the mattress core. Regularly washing your bedding and airing out the mattress also play crucial roles.