How to Speed Up Mattress Off-Gassing

Written by Nectarsleep Editorial Team

Last updated on Jul 09, 2025

Better Sleep Blog
How to Speed Up Mattress Off-Gassing

In this article:

(Because nobody wants to sleep in a cloud of "new mattress smell")

You’ve just unpacked your brand new mattress, you’re all set for a great night’s sleep... and then it hits you.

That weird smell.

It’s kind of like plastic. Or paint. Or new trainers. Whatever it reminds you of, it’s not what you had in mind for your sleep sanctuary.

Welcome to the world of off-gassing — the very normal (but slightly annoying) smell that memory foam mattresses give off when they’re fresh out of the box.

Don’t worry, it’s temporary. But if you’d rather not wait days for it to disappear on its own, here’s how to help it on its way.

Save Up to 48% On Mattresses!*

*See Terms.
Get A Better Mattress

Wait, what is off-gassing again?

Let’s demystify it real quick. Off-gassing happens when volatile organic compounds (VOCs) trapped in your mattress during manufacturing start to break free once it’s unboxed.

Basically, it's your mattress airing out after being sealed in plastic. It might smell a bit chemical-y, but with a CertiPUR-certified mattress like Nectar, you can rest easy knowing the foam is made without nasties like formaldehyde or heavy metals — and meets high health and environmental standards.

How to speed it all up (so you can get on with the good stuff — sleeping)

Here are a few easy ways to fast-track the fresh-air vibes:

1. Unbox it ASAP

The longer it’s wrapped, the more smell builds up. So as soon as your mattress arrives, get it out of the packaging and let it breathe.

2. Pick a well-ventilated room

Ideally, pop it in a spare room with windows open and the door shut. Don’t have a spare room? No worries. Just open the windows wide and let the fresh air flow.

3. Use a fan

Fans = air movement = faster off-gassing. Simple. Point one directly at the mattress and let it do its thing.

4. Turn up the heat (gently)

Off-gassing can happen a little faster in a slightly warmer room. Don’t blast it with heat, but keeping things comfortably warm can help speed up the process.

5. Sprinkle baking soda

A classic for a reason. Lightly sprinkle baking soda on the mattress surface, leave it for a few hours, then vacuum it up. It helps absorb odours and gives things a nice freshen-up.

6. Wait it out (just a bit)

Even if you do all of the above, off-gassing still takes a little time. Usually a few hours to a few days, max. If it lingers a bit longer, don’t stress — it will go.

A little patience, a lot of comfort

That “new mattress smell” might not be your favourite scent, but the good news is it doesn’t stick around. And if you've chosen a safe, high-quality foam like Nectar's CertiPUR-certified mattresses, you’re not dealing with anything harmful — just a bit of temporary pong.

So unbox it, air it out, pop the kettle on, and give it a little time. Your best night’s sleep is just around the corner.

Back to blog