Optimal Time for Air Out of a Casper Mattress
When you receive your new Casper mattress, it’s generally recommended to let it air out for at least a few hours before using it to sleep on, though leaving it for 24 hours is ideal. This period allows for off-gassing, during which volatile organic compounds (VOCs) disperse, and for the mattress to fully expand to its proper shape. Now, let’s delve deeper into why airing out is essential and how you can properly care for your mattress during this period and beyond.
Understanding Off-Gassing in Memory Foam Mattresses
Off-gassing is a term used to describe the release of VOCs that often occurs when memory foam products are new. These compounds are emitted as gas from certain solids or liquids, and while they are typically in low levels, they can cause a distinct odor that many people find unpleasant. It’s worth mentioning that Casper mattresses are CertiPUR-US® certified, meaning they are made without ozone depleters and have low VOC emissions for indoor air quality (less than 0.5 parts per million).
Health Implications of VOCs
For most people, the small number of VOCs released during the off-gassing period is not harmful, especially once the mattress has aired out properly. However, individuals with sensitivities or respiratory issues may want to take extra precautions and ensure ample ventilation or wait an extended period before using the new mattress.
Proper Ventilation Is Key
To expedite the airing out process, it is crucial to place the mattress in a well-ventilated area. Open windows and use fans to increase air circulation around the room. If the weather permits, you can even leave a door open to allow for more air exchange. This will not only help eliminate odors more quickly but also aid in the expansion process of your new mattress.
Our Top 5 Mattress Picks
Updated September 2026EGOHOME 8-Inch Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress, Full, Medium Firm
Best for most bedrooms. A medium-firm green tea memory foam mattress with a cooling gel layer, delivered rolled in a box.
- Full size, 8 in
- Medium firm
- Cooling green tea gel
- CertiPUR-US, fiberglass free
OhGeni Queen Air Mattress with Built-in Pump, 18-Inch Raised
Best for guests and camping. Inflates in about three minutes with the built-in pump and sits 18 inches off the floor, so it feels like a real bed.
- Queen, 18 in raised
- Built-in pump
- 800 lb capacity
- Waterproof PVC
Novilla 6-Inch Gel Memory Foam Mattress, Twin
Best budget twin. A slim gel memory foam twin that suits kids' rooms, bunk beds and trundles where a thick mattress won't fit.
- Twin, 6 in
- Gel memory foam
- Cooling
- CertiPUR-US
Zinus 8-Inch Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress, Twin
Best-known brand. Zinus's long-running green tea foam design in twin size, with both CertiPUR-US and OEKO-TEX certified materials.
- Twin, 8 in
- Green tea memory foam
- CertiPUR-US & OEKO-TEX
GAESTE 8-Inch Cooling Gel Memory Foam Mattress, Full, Medium Feel
Best for hot sleepers. Cooling gel memory foam with a medium feel, plus a machine-washable, anti-slip cover you can actually clean.
- Full size, 8 in
- Medium feel
- Cooling gel foam
- Washable cover
- Fiberglass free
Maintaining Room Conditions
Temperature and humidity can also play roles in the airing out period. A warmer room will likely speed up the off-gassing process, as the heat can make the VOCs dissipate faster. Similarly, a dryer environment will help the foam expand more quickly, as moisture can slow down this process.
Steps for Airing Out Your Casper Mattress
Let’s break down the process into simple steps:
1. Unbox your mattress in the room where you intend to use it.
2. Carefully remove the packaging and allow the mattress to unroll and start expanding.
3. Increase ventilation by opening windows or using fans/air purifiers to encourage the dispersal of any off-gassing odors.
4. If possible, leave the mattress uncovered during this period to facilitate airing out.
5. Check the expansion of the mattress after a few hours. Though it can be tempting to test it out, it’s best to wait until it fully expands.
6. Allow for 24 hours of airing out if you can. Even if the mattress seems to have expanded fully and the odor has lessened after a few hours, giving it a full day ensures an optimal sleeping environment.
Caring for Your Casper Mattress After Airing Out
Once your mattress is fully expanded and aired out, maintaining its condition is essential for longevity and continued comfort.
Protecting Your Mattress
Use a mattress protector to safeguard against spills, dust, and allergens. This can prolong the life of your mattress and keep it fresh and clean.
Regular Maintenance
While rotating and flipping mattresses were common recommendations in the past, Casper’s layered-design means only rotation is advised, and that too infrequently. Casper suggests rotating their mattresses 180 degrees every six months to distribute wear more evenly.
Importance of a Trial Period
Casper offers a risk-free trial period for their mattresses. This is an excellent opportunity to assess the comfort and support of your new mattress over several nights of sleep. If you’re sensitive to smells or off-gassing presents a concern, the trial period can also give you ample time to ensure that any odors have dissipated to your satisfaction before fully committing to keeping the mattress.
Handling Persistent Odors or Issues
In rare cases where odors persist beyond the typical airing out period, reaching out to Casper’s customer support can provide additional guidance. They may offer tips specific to their mattresses that can aid in reducing any remaining scent.
Finishing Thoughts
The initial airing out of your Casper mattress is a step towards ensuring a comfortable and fresh sleeping environment. By giving your mattress time to breathe, not only are you allowing any potential odors from the manufacturing process to fade away, but you’re also ensuring that it has properly expanded to deliver the utmost support and comfort that Casper has designed it for. While 24 hours is the suggested time frame, even a few hours can make a significant difference. The right care and patience during the airing out period can contribute to many nights of restful sleep on your new mattress.
