As a general rule, new latex mattresses have a latex scent, often compared to vanilla. But a natural latex mattress certainly won't have a chemical smell like synthetic or artificial materials. At the same time, this latex smell will disappear over time as your mattress is used. But if you're sensitive to smells, it's best to eliminate the odor from the start!
1. How long does it take for the latex mattress smell to disappear?
Typically, it can take 1 to 2 months for the smell of a natural latex mattress to dissipate. This is because mattresses made from natural ingredients need time to neutralize all the odors from the manufacturing and shipping process. This process can be accelerated by airing out the mattress.
No one wants to sleep on a smelly mattress, but even the purest latex mattresses will have a certain odor.
2. Reasons why natural latex mattresses have an odor
By nature, latex has a certain smell. Although not harmful, it still produces this distinct faint odor that can be unpleasant to people. The cause comes from:
Due to the mattress's origin from rubber tree sap
The smell of a new mattress often comes from compounds produced by certain enzymes and bacteria in the latex. These substances occur naturally and are even present when the latex is in its most natural liquid form.
Part of the smell of a newly purchased latex mattress comes from how it's made. First, natural rubber tree sap is frothed, then poured into the mattress mold. The foam is heated, then thoroughly washed to become a latex mattress. This process includes vulcanization, which heats the proteins in the rubber tree sap, and the odor produced by vulcanization will dissipate over time.
Due to packaging and shipping
Another reason why a new natural latex mattress smells at first is due to its packaging and shipping. Immediately after production, the mattress is wrapped and prepared for shipping. This means the latex smell and chemicals called VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) get trapped in the packaging. Since they can't dissipate immediately, natural latex mattresses have the strongest odor when first opened.
VOCs compressed in the mattress packaging will be released into the air and produce odors of varying intensity.
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3. How to reduce the smell of a new natural latex mattress
There are several ways to reduce the odor of your natural latex mattress. However, deodorizing latex foam needs to be done carefully to ensure you don't damage your new mattress.
Allow the mattress to “breathe”
The safest way to reduce the smell of a natural latex mattress is to give it time to "breathe." Natural ventilation easily and safely reduces the new mattress odor without using harmful chemicals or artificial fragrances.
You can speed up the off-gassing process by removing sheets or blankets from the latex mattress and opening windows, even when you're not using the bed.
However, make sure that no direct sunlight hits the surface of the latex mattress. Because while natural latex mattresses are normally durable and often last over 15 years, prolonged exposure to sunlight can damage them more quickly.
Use a mattress protector
While your mattress should be aired out during the day, to reduce odors at night, simply add a protector on top of your existing mattress. They will help reduce the new mattress smell.
If the latex mattress smell is unpleasant, you can use a waterproof mattress protector to limit the odor reaching your nose.
Additionally, to minimize odor, use a 100% cotton mattress cover that contains no synthetic materials.
Walk or roll on the mattress
Walking or rolling on a new mattress can help release VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) faster. Just be aware that placing too much weight on the mattress can damage it or the bed frame.
4. Things to avoid when reducing new mattress odor
The smell of a newly purchased latex mattress can be an issue for many people. There are many ways to minimize the odor, but it's important that you don't do anything to make the situation worse. Here are things you should avoid when trying to deodorize your latex mattress or pillow:
Essential oils
Volatile oils like essential oils can damage your new natural latex mattress. You should use a diffuser in a room with a natural latex mattress to reduce the odor. But make sure the mattress is covered with a sheet.
Vinegar
Many home cleaning guides recommend using vinegar to deodorize, but Ru9 still advises against spraying or applying vinegar directly to a natural latex mattress. This will not reduce the mattress odor, and because it is acidic, vinegar can also damage the latex foam.
Baking soda
This is also a common tip: sprinkle baking soda on the surface of a latex mattress to reduce its odor. However, you should absolutely not do this. Because it doesn't reduce the latex odor, and it's almost impossible to completely remove baking soda particles from a natural latex mattress due to its open cell structure.
In summary, odor is unavoidable when you buy a new mattress, especially a latex one. But by following the simple steps above, you can enjoy a good night's sleep without unpleasant odors. Good luck.
