Yes, you should always take the outer plastic off a new mattress once you get it home. The plastic is there to protect the mattress during storage and transit only, and can actually have harmful effects if left on for use on your bed.
Why do mattresses need to be wrapped in plastic?
Plastic film is used to wrap a mattress before it is stored and transported for many reasons. The primary reason is that the plastic wrap helps to compress the mattress, making it smaller and easier to store and deliver. This is important because it saves space and makes the mattress less expensive to ship. In addition, the plastic wrap protects the mattress from dirt, stains, and other damage. This is vital because it helps to keep the mattress in good condition and looking new. Ultimately, the plastic film serves an important purpose in protecting mattresses during storage and transport.
Should you take the plastic off a new mattress?
You should always take the plastic cover off a new mattress as soon as you get it home or unbox it. The plastic film is there only to protect the mattress during transit and storage, and should not be left on when you use your mattress.
Plastic film prevents the mattress expanding fully
If you leave the plastic on your mattress, you will potentially damage the mattress, as it will not be able to expand fully because the plastic film will be compressing it. Read our post detailing can you sleep on a new mattress straight away.
Plastic is uncomfortable and hot to sleep on
Also, sleeping on plastic is not ideal as it may cause you to sweat more, and it can also be quite uncomfortable and slippery.
Read also: Do silk pillowcases make you sweat?
Plastic film wrap prevents ventilation of your mattress
Another issue is that leaving plastic around your mattress will stop air circulation passing through the mattress and ventilating it. This means that it can eventually suffer from mold due to condensation building under the plastic, leading to damp and mold.
Ultimately, it is best to simply remove the plastic from your mattress as soon as you can so that you can enjoy a comfortable and clean sleeping surface.
Do you take the plastic off a memory foam mattress?
It’s especially important to take the plastic off memory foam mattresses as they need to air out before use. This type of mattress is made from foam which has a strong chemical smell when new. The plastic wrapping traps this in, so it’s important to remove it as soon as possible so that you can start airing out your mattress.
Moreover, if you start using your memory foam mattress while it is still compressed under plastic and hasn’t had chance to fully expand, you run the risk of actually permanently damaging the internal structure of your mattress. A memory foam mattress should be given at least 24-48 hours after you take the plastic off before it is used, in order that it expands fully and doesn’t get damaged under weight of the human body.
How to safely unwrap your new mattress
Most new mattresses come with a special tool in the box to rip the plastic. This is so you avoid using a knife, which may damage the mattress itself. If you don’t have the plastic ripping tool included, make sure to use a smal knife to carefully knick the plastic at the corner seal, ensuring that you don’t touch the mattress with the knife, and then tear the plastic down the seam with your hands.
How do you air out a new mattress?
Once you have taken the plastic off your new mattress, it is important to air it out before using it. This process helps to get rid of the chemical smell which is common in new mattresses.
To air out your mattress, simply place it in the room where you intend to use it and open all the windows. If possible, put a fan in the room to help circulate the air and speed up the process.
Leave your mattress to air out for at least 24 hours before using it (and ideally 48 hours). Once this time has passed, your mattress should be ready to use and should no longer have a strong chemical smell.
Can I wrap my mattress in plastic?
If you need to store your mattress, it is best to wrap it in a breathable fabric such as cotton rather than plastic. This is because wrapping your mattress in plastic could cause it to become damp and lead to mold growth.
Cotton is a much better material for storage as it allows air to circulate, preventing the build-up of moisture which can damage your mattress.
Read also: Can you roll a spring mattress?
What should I use to protect my mattress instead of plastic film?
If you want to keep your mattress clean and protect it from stains, moisture and possibly even bed bugs and dust mites, invest in a waterproof mattress protector. These are specially designed to be used while sleeping and will not cause any harm to your mattress. Simply place the waterproof mattress protector on your bed, under your bed sheets, and wash it when you change your sheets.
Read also: Can you burn a mattress?
Conclusion: Should you take the plastic off a new mattress?
Yes, you should take the plastic off your new mattress as soon as possible. This is because the plastic can damage the mattress, prevent ventilation and lead to mold growth. A better alternative is to use a waterproof mattress protector which will protect your mattress from stains, moisture and bed bugs.