Is it important to air out a new air mattress? The answer is a definite yes! You should indeed do that before sleeping on it.
When you purchase a new air mattress and take it out of the packaging, you can instantly smell an offensive odor coming out of the box.
The manufacturing chemicals used in the product last some time but gradually goes away.
The plastic wrap used to seal the goods to prevent scratches may also be another source of the odor.
Remove the plastic wrapping and throw it away (responsibly).
Of course, you don’t want to sleep uncomfortably just because of the mattress smell of your new air bed, right? But how long will it take to solve this issue?
How Long Should You Air Out A New Air Mattress?
1. You can air a new mattresses for 24 hrs
Airing a new air bed is very important to remove the smelly odor from the newly manufactured product.
The most effective way is to do it for 24 hours.
This will allow the new mattress smell to dissipate leaving the mattress to ready to be used comfortably.
You can good night’s sleep on the newly bought mattress as soon as the stench vanishes.
2. Some air mattresses are good to go after 3-4 hours
For some air mattresses with very high quality, you can simply air them out for three to four hours then they’re ready for use.
However, remember that not all air mattresses can be air out for only 3-4 hours.
Most of the air mattresses out there need more time.
Make sure to freshen your new blow-up mattress in an open area.
You can also use a vacuum cleaner to eliminate the remaining dust from the factory, as it also helps remove the smell of chemicals as well.
3. 6 hours could be a good sweet spot
Some mattresses are aired out for 6 hours before they’re ready for use.
Doing this will reduce the smell to a great extent.
Check that you air out all the sides of the air bed, not just the top area.
Exposing all the sides of the new mattress near the window or under the sun removes the foul odor and kills bacteria.
And it will be appropriately ventilated.
4. For persistent smells, try 3-7 days
Unfortunately, the niggling smell of a new mattress can stay for an extended period.
Therefore, airing the air mattress for 3-7 days is recommended if it can’t lose that “new” smell.
Be sure to bring in the air bed at nighttime to avoid moisture and humidify it.
The humidity can stay on the inflated air mattress if not sun-dried properly.
How Often Should You Air Out Your Air Mattress?
To air out a new mattress once may not be enough because removing the smell of chemicals from the air bed can take more time.
For this reason, airing the new mattresses at least once a week for a month is necessary.
People who are sensitive to chemicals, and those who have asthma or any lung-related disease can do this.
The stench from the new airbed can trigger lung-related conditions.
Moreover, chemical smells aren’t the only ones you should worry about.
Airing out your mattress, especially under the sun, can also get rid of bacteria that cause unpleasant odors in your mattress.
FAQs
How long should I allow my new air mattress to air out before using it?
It is generally recommended to let your new air mattress air out in a well-ventilated room for a few hours before using it. This allows any off-gassing odors from the manufacturing process to dissipate.
Can I speed up the off-gassing process of a new air mattress?
To accelerate the off-gassing process of a new air mattress, you can increase air circulation in the room by opening windows or using fans. This helps in reducing the lingering smell of volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) that may be present.
How long does the off-gassing smell typically last in most air mattresses?
The duration of the off-gassing smell in most air mattresses varies, but it generally dissipates within a few days to a couple of weeks. However, some mattresses may have minimal off-gassing and may not emit a noticeable smell.
Are there any health concerns associated with the off-gassing of new air mattresses?
Off-gassing from new air mattresses, especially those made with memory foam or polyurethane foam, can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that may cause temporary symptoms such as throat irritation or headaches. However, these symptoms typically resolve once the off-gassing process is complete.
Can I use a mattress cover or mattress pad to minimize off-gassing and chemical odors?
Yes, using a mattress cover or mattress pad can help minimize off-gassing and chemical odors from a new air mattress. These covers act as a barrier and reduce direct exposure to the mattress, thereby minimizing the smell and potential irritants.
Final Thoughts
Airing out a new mattress is very important before using it.
This action removes the smell of chemicals emitted from the new airbed.
Smelling this lingering stench is very uncomfortable.
We don’t want this to be a stimulus for lung-related problems to worsen.
You also don’t want to feel uncomfortable while sleeping with the smell.
And if you can’t avoid using it immediately, use bedding to cover the smell and air it immediately after use.
You can air out your new mattress for as short as 3 hours, and the manufacturing smell might fade.
If you want the odor to dissipate faster, air it out in a well-ventilated area.
It’s much better if it’s under the sun to properly eliminate the odor.
You can likewise use a fresh air cleanser to reduce the time airing your new mattress.
If you air out your new mattresses for 24 hours or more, bring it inside during nighttime.
This step avoids moisture which will dampen the air bed.
Don’t forget that moisture is a haven for most bacteria and viruses. It is also important to save your new bed from sharp objects.
