Is Your Child's Mattress Giving Off a Smell? The Truth About Off-Gassing and Foam.

Aug 20, 2025by Chris Silva

You just brought home a brand-new mattress for your child only to notice a strange, chemical-like smell. Should you be concerned? This scent is commonly referred to as off-gassing, and it’s one of the most common questions parents ask when shopping for a new mattress. Let’s unpack what it is, where it comes from, and how to choose a safer, healthier option for your child’s sleep.

What Is Off-Gassing?

Off-gassing is the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from certain materials, especially synthetic foams, adhesives, and chemical treatments. VOCs can evaporate into the air and create that “new product” smell similar to a freshly painted room or a new car interior.

While some VOCs are harmless, others have been linked to headaches, dizziness, and irritation in sensitive individuals, especially children, whose developing bodies are more susceptible to environmental triggers.

Why It Happens in Mattresses

Many foam mattresses especially those made with petroleum-based polyurethane contain chemical additives for firmness, fire resistance, or durability. During manufacturing and packaging, these compounds can get trapped inside the mattress. Once unwrapped, they begin to dissipate into the air, creating that off-gassing smell.

In poorly ventilated rooms, the odour can linger for days or even weeks.

Is Off-Gassing Dangerous for Kids?

The answer depends on the mattress materials. Not all foam is created equal.

High-VOC foam: Often found in low-cost, imported mattresses, this foam can release measurable amounts of chemical compounds for extended periods.
Low-VOC, CertiPUR-US® Certified foam: Meets strict emissions standards and is tested to be free from harmful levels of formaldehyde, phthalates, and heavy metals.
Natural latex or plant-based foams: Made with renewable ingredients like natural rubber or soybean oil, these options produce significantly fewer VOCs.

While most off-gassing is considered non-toxic at low levels, it can still be unpleasant—and for children with asthma, allergies, or sensitivities, it’s worth avoiding when possible.

How to Minimize Off-Gassing in Your Child’s Bedroom

If you’ve already purchased a mattress and notice a smell, here are steps to help:

Air it out: Let the mattress sit in a well-ventilated room for 24–72 hours before your child sleeps on it.
Use fresh air and sunlight: Open windows and, if possible, place the mattress in indirect sunlight to help break down VOCs faster.
Avoid plastic covers: Wrapping the mattress in plastic can trap odours instead of letting them dissipate.
Choose bedding made from natural fibres: Organic cotton or bamboo sheets can help improve breathability and reduce lingering smells.

Choosing a Low-Off-Gas Mattress from the Start

The best way to protect your child’s sleep environment is to select a mattress made with low-VOC, eco-friendly materials from the beginning.

At Haven Sleep Co., we use:

CertiPUR-US® certified foams with ultra-low VOC emissions
Plant-based NaturFoam™, replacing up to 40% of petroleum-based oils with renewable soybean oil
Natural bamboo covers, sewn in Canada by skilled artisans for better breathability and durability
No harmful chemical fire retardants—we meet safety standards using safe, sustainable methods

The result? A mattress that arrives fresh, safe, and ready for your child to enjoy without weeks of chemical odours.

Final Thoughts

A good night’s sleep should never come with a side of chemical smell. By understanding off-gassing and knowing what to look for in a mattress, you can create a healthier, fresher sleep space for your child.

If you’re ready to skip the odour and give your child a cleaner start to sleep, explore Haven’s HIBERNate Kids Mattress designed for comfort, durability, and peace of mind.