You bring a new mattress home. You unwrap it. A strong, unfamiliar smell fills the room.
That smell is not just unpleasant - it is a sign of chemical off-gassing, and it may linger far longer than you think.
In this article, we explain what off-gassing actually is, what causes it, and why it is a common problem with memory foam and synthetic mattresses. More importantly, we show how the CocoCore mattress avoids off-gassing completely - so you can sleep without inhaling hidden toxins.
What Is Off-Gassing?
Off-gassing refers to the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from manufactured products. VOCs are small molecules that easily evaporate at room temperature and disperse into the air.
When you smell that “new mattress” scent, you are often inhaling VOCs released by:
• Petroleum-based foams
• Adhesives and glues
• Flame retardants
• Synthetic dyes and plastic coatings
• Chemical fabric treatments
This process can last for days, weeks, or even months—depending on the materials used.
Where VOCs Come From in a Mattress
1. Foams (Especially Memory Foam)
Memory foam is made from polyurethane, a petroleum-based plastic. It is manufactured using chemical blowing agents and stabilisers, which continue to emit gases long after the foam is cured.
2. Adhesives and Glues
Most foam-based mattresses are layered together using synthetic glues. These adhesives often contain formaldehyde and other VOC-releasing compounds.
3. Flame Retardants
To meet fire safety standards, many mattresses are treated with chemical flame retardants. These are especially common in memory foam products. Some of the compounds used have been linked to hormonal disruption and respiratory issues.
4. Synthetic Fabrics and Coatings
Polyester fabrics, plastic fire barriers, and stain-resistant finishes may all contribute to off-gassing.
Potential Health Effects
While everyone reacts differently to VOCs, the risks are well documented. Off-gassing can cause:
• Headaches
• Dizziness or nausea
• Eye, nose, or throat irritation
• Coughing or respiratory discomfort
• Worsened symptoms for asthma or allergy sufferers
• Sleep disruption due to poor air quality
Children, pets, and people with respiratory sensitivities are especially vulnerable.
In some cases, exposure to certain flame retardants and chemicals used in foam production has been linked to longer-term health risks, although more research is still emerging.
How Long Does Off-Gassing Last?
Most off-gassing is strongest in the first 24 to 72 hours after unboxing a mattress, especially if it has been compressed and sealed in plastic.
However, studies have shown that low-level VOC emissions can persist for weeks or months - particularly in closed indoor environments.
Ventilation can help in the short term, but it does not eliminate the root cause: chemical-filled materials.
How CocoCore Avoids Off-Gassing Completely
We designed the CocoCore mattress to be completely free from harmful off-gassing. Here is how:
1. No Foam
CocoCore contains zero memory foam, polyurethane, or latex foam. That means no petroleum-based materials and no chemical softeners or stabilisers.
2. No Glues or Adhesives
Our construction uses physical layering and high-quality stitching, not glue. The result is a mattress that is safe, breathable, and fully recyclable.
3. No Chemical Flame Retardants
We meet all safety regulations using naturally fire-resistant materials like coconut coir and recycled polyester blends. No sprays. No residues.
4. Natural and Certified Materials
We use organic or naturally derived fibres like bamboo, hemp, and coconut coir. All materials are chosen with health, safety, and breathability in mind.
The result: a mattress that is completely non-toxic, with no synthetic smells and no risk of chemical exposure.
CocoCore vs Off-Gassing Mattresses
Why This Matters
We spend roughly one third of our lives in bed. That means your mattress plays a bigger role in your long-term health than most household items.
If you are creating a safe sleep environment for yourself or your family, avoiding off-gassing should be a top priority.
The CocoCore mattress offers true peace of mind: no foam, no glue, no toxins, no compromises.
Final Word
Off-gassing is not just about an unpleasant smell. It is a symptom of toxic materials in everyday products - especially synthetic mattresses.
You do not have to settle for that.
With CocoCore, you can breathe clean air from day one. You can sleep in a truly natural environment. And you can choose a mattress that puts your wellbeing first.
