IKEA memory foam mattresses are known for their comfort and support, but they can also come with a strong chemical smell. This smell, often described as a "new mattress smell," can be a major turn-off for some people, and it can even cause headaches and respiratory issues for those who are sensitive to strong scents. In this article, we will explore the causes of the IKEA memory foam mattress smell and provide tips and solutions for getting rid of it. IKEA Memory Foam Mattress Smell: What Causes It and How to Get Rid of It
The strong chemical smell that comes with a new IKEA memory foam mattress is caused by a process called off-gassing. This is when the chemicals used to make the mattress, such as polyurethane and flame retardants, release gas into the air. While this is a normal process for all memory foam mattresses, it can be quite overwhelming for some people. If you find the smell of your new IKEA memory foam mattress to be too strong, here are some steps you can take to get rid of it: 1. Air it out – The first thing you should do is remove all packaging from your new mattress and let it air out in a well-ventilated room. This will help the off-gassing process and allow the smell to dissipate faster. You can also place the mattress in a room with an open window to speed up the process. 2. Use baking soda – Baking soda is known for its odor-absorbing properties. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over your mattress and let it sit for a few hours before vacuuming it off. This will help absorb the smell and leave your mattress smelling fresh. 3. White vinegar spray – White vinegar is another natural odor eliminator. Mix equal parts of water and white vinegar in a spray bottle and lightly mist your mattress. Let it dry completely before using the mattress. How to Remove the Chemical Smell from Your New IKEA Memory Foam Mattress
There are also some preventative measures you can take to reduce the smell of your IKEA memory foam mattress in the first place. These include: 1. Unpack and air out your mattress as soon as possible – The longer your mattress stays in its packaging, the longer it will take for the smell to dissipate. As soon as you receive your new mattress, remove all packaging and let it air out. 2. Choose a low-VOC mattress – VOCs (volatile organic compounds) are the main culprits behind the chemical smell of mattresses. Choosing a low-VOC mattress, such as an organic or natural memory foam mattress, can greatly reduce the off-gassing and smell. 3. Invest in a mattress protector – A mattress protector can not only protect your mattress from spills and stains, but it can also act as a barrier between you and the chemicals in your mattress, reducing the smell. Tips for Reducing the Smell of Your IKEA Memory Foam Mattress
As mentioned earlier, the strong smell of your IKEA memory foam mattress is caused by the off-gassing process. This process is a result of the chemicals used to make the mattress breaking down and releasing gas into the air. While this may sound alarming, it is a completely normal and safe process. The smell may be strong at first, but it will dissipate over time. It is important to note that the off-gassing process is not unique to IKEA memory foam mattresses – all memory foam mattresses go through this process. However, the smell may be more noticeable with some brands than others. Understanding the Off-Gassing Process of IKEA Memory Foam Mattresses
If you find the smell of your IKEA memory foam mattress to be too strong and want to speed up the off-gassing process, here are some tips you can follow: 1. Increase ventilation – As mentioned earlier, increasing ventilation in the room where your mattress is placed can help speed up the off-gassing process. Open windows and turn on fans to allow fresh air to circulate. 2. Use an air purifier – Air purifiers are designed to remove toxins and pollutants from the air. Using one in the room where your mattress is placed can help reduce the smell and speed up the off-gassing process. 3. Apply heat – Heat can also help speed up the off-gassing process. Place a heating pad on low or use a hairdryer on low heat to warm up the mattress. Just be sure to keep a safe distance and not overheat the mattress. How to Speed Up the Off-Gassing Process of Your IKEA Memory Foam Mattress
If you prefer more natural solutions, here are some ways to eliminate the smell of your IKEA memory foam mattress: 1. Activated charcoal – Activated charcoal is a natural odor absorber. You can place a bowl of activated charcoal near your mattress to help absorb the smell. 2. Essential oils – Some essential oils, such as lavender and eucalyptus, have natural deodorizing properties. Mix a few drops with water in a spray bottle and lightly mist your mattress. 3. Fresh herbs – Fresh herbs, such as rosemary and thyme, have a strong, pleasant scent that can help mask the smell of your mattress. Place a few sprigs of fresh herbs between the mattress and box spring. Natural Ways to Eliminate the Smell of Your IKEA Memory Foam Mattress
If you decide to use an air purifier to reduce the smell of your IKEA memory foam mattress, here are some top picks: 1. Coway Mighty Air Purifier – This air purifier has a four-stage filtration system and can cover up to 361 square feet. It also has a built-in air quality sensor and automatic fan speed adjustment. 2. Blueair Blue Pure 411 Air Purifier – This compact air purifier is ideal for smaller rooms and has a three-stage filtration system. It also has a washable pre-filter and is energy-efficient. 3. Levoit Core 300 Air Purifier – This air purifier has a three-stage filtration system and can cover up to 300 square feet. It also has a sleep mode for quiet operation and a filter replacement indicator. The Best Air Purifiers for Reducing the Smell of Your IKEA Memory Foam Mattress
Proper ventilation is key to reducing the smell of your IKEA memory foam mattress. Here are some tips for ventilating your bedroom: 1. Open windows – Opening windows in your bedroom can help improve air circulation and reduce the smell. 2. Turn on fans – Fans can also help improve air circulation. You can also place a fan near the mattress to help speed up the off-gassing process. 3. Use a dehumidifier – High humidity levels can make the smell of your mattress worse. Use a dehumidifier to keep the humidity level in your bedroom between 30-50%. How to Properly Ventilate Your Bedroom to Reduce the Smell of Your IKEA Memory Foam Mattress
While the smell of IKEA memory foam mattresses is normal and will dissipate over time, some people may have specific concerns or complaints about the smell. Here are some common complaints and how to address them: 1. The smell lingers for too long – If the smell of your IKEA memory foam mattress is lingering for weeks or even months, it may be a sign of a low-quality mattress. Consider investing in a higher-quality, low-VOC mattress. 2. The smell is too strong – If the smell is too strong for you to handle, consider using some of the tips mentioned earlier to speed up the off-gassing process. You can also contact IKEA customer service for further assistance. 3. The smell is causing health issues – If you experience headaches, nausea, or respiratory issues due to the smell, it may be a sign of a sensitivity to the chemicals in the mattress. Consider choosing a low-VOC or natural mattress in the future. Common Complaints About the Smell of IKEA Memory Foam Mattresses and How to Address Them
While the smell of your IKEA memory foam mattress may be overwhelming at first, it is important to remember the benefits of choosing a low-VOC mattress. These include: 1. Better for your health – Low-VOC mattresses are made with fewer chemicals, making them a safer option for those with sensitivities or allergies. 2. Environmentally friendly – Low-VOC mattresses are also better for the environment, as they release fewer harmful chemicals into the air. 3. Long-term benefits – Choosing a low-VOC mattress can also have long-term benefits for your health, as you won't be exposed to harmful chemicals every night. The Benefits of Choosing a Low-VOC IKEA Memory Foam Mattress