Do You Have to Wait 72 Hours for a Mattress to Fully Expand?

Learn how long you really need to wait for a mattress to expand and when it's ready for use. Get expert tips on mattress setup.

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No, you don't have to wait the full 72 hours for a mattress to expand. Most mattresses reach about 90% of their full size within a few hours. However, waiting the recommended 72 hours ensures it fully expands and any odors dissipate. It's best to wait as long as possible for optimal comfort and durability.

FAQs & Answers

  1. Why do mattresses take time to expand after unboxing? Mattresses compressed and vacuum-sealed for shipping need time to decompress to their full size. This process also allows any packing odors to dissipate.
  2. Can I sleep on a mattress before it fully expands? Yes, most mattresses reach about 90% of their full size within a few hours, making them comfortable enough to use before the full 72-hour expansion period.
  3. What causes the odor from a new mattress after unboxing? The odor, often called off-gassing, comes from volatile organic compounds in the mattress materials and usually fades within a few days of airing out.