Written By: Michal Szlas - Founder and CEO of Otty Sleep
Ever wondered if you can dive straight into the comfort of your brand new mattress?
In this blog, we'll delve into the science behind mattress expansion, discuss the debate around sleeping on a new mattress right away, and explore the different types of mattresses and their respective expansion times.
So, before you snuggle into your new mattress, take time to read this guide. It's packed with essential information that will help you get the most out of your new purchase.
After all, a well-cared-for mattress is the key to many nights of restful sleep.
Sleeping on a New Mattress: The Debate
The debate around whether to sleep on a new mattress straight away is a hot topic. It's a question that has left many sleep enthusiasts and new mattress owners scratching their heads. This section aims to delve into this debate, exploring the pros and cons of immediate use versus allowing your mattress to settle and breathe.
Understanding the dynamics of a new mattress and how it adjusts to its new environment is crucial. It's not just about immediate comfort, but also about ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of your mattress.
So, Can You Sleep on a Mattress Straight Away?
Technically, you can. There's no rule that says you can't. However, it's not the best idea if you're looking for optimal comfort and support.
A new mattress needs time to settle and breathe. It's like a new pair of shoes; they need to be broken in before they feel just right.
Sleeping on a new mattress immediately might not damage it, but it won't provide the dreamlike comfort you envisioned for your first night. Some areas might feel a bit firmer or softer than others because the mattress is still expanding. So, while you can sleep on a new mattress straight away, it's probably best to wait a bit.
Why You Can't Sleep on a New Mattress Right Away
The concept of not being able to sleep on a new mattress right away is rooted in the mattress's need for time to settle and breathe. Fresh out of the packaging, the mattress is still in the process of expanding to its full size. This expansion process can affect the mattress's ability to provide optimal comfort and support.
Moreover, the mattress needs time to air out. This is crucial to eliminate any odours from the manufacturing process and to ensure a fresh sleeping environment. So, while you technically can sleep on a new mattress immediately, it might not provide the dreamlike comfort you envisioned for your first night.
Understanding Mattress Expansion
When you purchase a new mattress, understanding the concept of mattress expansion is crucial. This process, which involves the mattress regaining its original size and shape, is a key factor in determining when you can start using your new mattress.
What Does 'Mattress Expansion' Mean?
'Mattress expansion' is a term that refers to the process a brand new mattress undergoes to reach its full size and optimal comfort level. This process is particularly relevant for mattresses that are delivered in a compressed state, often vacuum-sealed and rolled up for ease of transport, like all OTTY mattresses.
Once the packaging is removed, the mattress begins to expand, a process that can take time. This expansion process is crucial for the mattress to achieve its intended support and comfort levels. It's not an immediate process, and depending on the type of mattress, it can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days.
The Science Behind Mattress Expansion
Essentially, the expansion process is all about the materials used in the mattress, particularly foam. This foam is highly flexible and responsive to pressure, containing gas-filled cells. When the mattress is vacuum-sealed, the gas within these cells is compressed, reducing the mattress's size.
Upon opening the packaging, the pressure is released, allowing the foam cells to expand as they take in air. This results in the mattress gradually regaining its original size and shape. It's important to give the mattress time for full expansion before using it, as lying on it too soon could hinder the expansion process and affect the comfort level.
Types of Mattresses and Their Expansion Times
Understanding the different types of mattresses and their respective expansion times is crucial when purchasing a new one. This section will delve into the specifics of memory foam, innerspring, latex, and hybrid mattresses.
We'll discuss how long each type takes to fully expand and what factors can influence this process. This knowledge will help you plan and prepare for your new mattress arrival.
Memory Foam Mattresses - 48 hours
Memory foam mattresses, second in popularity, offer personalised support by contouring to your body.
They may require up to 48 hours to fully expand, with room temperature playing a role in the duration.
You can start using them after a few hours, but they won't be at their full potential yet.
Innerspring Mattresses - 24 to 48 hours
Innerspring mattresses, also known as coil mattresses, are a traditional choice.
They are generally less comfortable and supportive than foam-based mattresses. The spring shapes, coil gauge, and number of coils can vary greatly.
The expansion of innerspring mattresses can take around 24-48 hours.
Despite appearing fully expanded earlier, internal movement continues.
Latex Mattresses - 8 to 12 hours
Latex mattresses are a popular choice due to their cooling and supportive properties.
They are made from natural materials, making them easy to adjust to.
These mattresses are known for their quick expansion times, often fully expanding within 8-12 hours.
Despite their quick expansion, it's still recommended to air them out before use to allow the natural materials to breathe.
Like other types, they may initially feel firm as they adjust to your body shape and soften over time.
Hybrid Mattresses - up to 72 hours
Hybrid mattresses, a blend of innerspring and memory foam, offer the best of both worlds.
They are made from orthopaedic grade memory foam and seven zones of individually enclosed springs for maximum support.
These mattresses are vacuum sealed for easy delivery.
They might take up to 72 hours to fully expand due to the multiple materials used.
Despite the wait, the comfort and support they provide make them worth it.
OTTY Mattresses are usable within hours of unpacking, but we recommend allowing 2-3 days for them to fully expand, providing their full support and comfort.
How to Speed up the Expansion Process
To hasten the expansion process of your brand new mattress, there are a few tricks you can employ.
Unpacking the mattress immediately upon arrival is a good start. The sooner it's out of the box, the quicker it begins to expand.
Another effective method is to increase the room temperature. Turning on your central heating or using a space heater can stimulate the expansion process. However, be cautious when manually manoeuvring the mattress layers, as it's not typically recommended and requires careful handling.
Additionally, we often recommend increasing air flow to the room by opening the windows where possible. This way, any off-gassing of the mattress will be dealt with quicker and your mattress should take less time to fully expand.
Does a New Mattress Release Any Odours During Expansion?
Indeed, a brand new mattress can release certain odours during the expansion process. This phenomenon, known as off-gassing, is due to the release of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) used in the manufacturing process.
While generally harmless, the scent can be unpleasant to some, and in rare cases, may trigger mild allergies. It's advisable to allow the mattress to fully expand in a well-ventilated room to expedite the dissipation of these odours.
Is It Safe to Sleep on a New Mattress During Expansion?
The short answer is yes, it's safe. However, it's important to note that the mattress may not provide the optimal comfort and support you're expecting. The mattress needs time to breathe and settle, and sleeping on it straight away might interfere with this process.
While it's not harmful to you or the mattress, it might not be the most comfortable experience. Some areas of the mattress might feel firmer or softer than others as it's still in the process of expanding. So, while it's safe, it might not be the most comfortable option.
How to Break in Your New Mattress
Breaking in a new mattress is a process that requires patience and a positive mindset. It's not an overnight affair, but a journey that can take up to a month. The time it takes to get used to your new mattress varies depending on the type of mattress you've bought and what you were previously used to. For instance, transitioning from an innerspring to a hybrid mattress might require a bit more adjustment time.
To speed up the process, you can roll back and forth across your mattress to distribute weight evenly. Spending at least 8 hours a night on your mattress also helps. You can also place heavy objects on the mattress for an hour or so each day. Letting your mattress breath when you're not sleeping by removing sheets, toppers and duvets is another effective strategy. Remember, the goal is to make your new mattress feel like home, so take your time and enjoy the process.
Final Thoughts on Sleeping on a New Mattress
In conclusion, the journey to a good night's sleep on your brand new mattress requires a bit of patience. The mattress expansion process is a crucial step that ensures your mattress provides the comfort and support you need.
It's not just about unboxing; it's about giving your mattress the time it needs to breathe and settle.
Remember, while it might be tempting to sleep on a mattress straight away, it's best to allow for full expansion. This not only enhances your sleeping experience but also prolongs the lifespan of your mattress.
Follow the care guide provided by the manufacturer, and don't rush the process.
Finally, keep in mind that every mattress is unique. The time it takes for a mattress to expand can vary based on its type and the conditions of your room.
