Why Does My New Memory Foam Pillow Smell? How to Air It Out

You've just unpacked a new memory foam pillow and noticed a faint smell. It's one of the most common questions people ask about foam bedding, so here's a clear explanation of what it is and how to get rid of it quickly.

What is the smell?

Memory foam is made from polyurethane. When it's freshly made and then sealed in plastic for shipping, it can carry a mild "new" smell, a bit like a new car or a new sofa. People often call this off-gassing. Because the pillow has been vacuum-sealed, the scent has had nowhere to go, so it's most noticeable in the first minutes after you open it.

Is it normal?

Yes. A light new-foam scent is common with memory foam products and usually fades on its own within a few days as the pillow airs out. It tends to be stronger with pillows that have been sealed for longer or kept somewhere warm.

How to air it out faster

1. Unpack it as soon as it arrives. The longer it stays sealed, the more concentrated the smell.
2. Remove the cover and let the inner pillow and the cover air separately for the first day.
3. Put it somewhere well ventilated. An open window or a room with good airflow helps a lot.
4. Use a little indirect sunlight if you can. Avoid long hours of strong, direct sun, which isn't good for foam.
5. Fluff it. Shaking and squeezing a shredded foam pillow pushes air through the fill and helps the scent clear. It also helps the pillow expand to full size.
6. Wash the cover on a gentle cycle once it's been aired. Don't put the foam filling in the washing machine.

What not to do

• Don't spray strong air fresheners or perfume into the foam. They just mix with the smell and can linger.
• Don't soak the filling or put it in a dryer.
• Don't put it straight back into a closed cupboard while it still smells. Let it breathe first.

When to contact us

For most people the scent is gone within a few days. If it's still strong after a week of airing, or if you're sensitive to smells, get in touch and we'll help you sort it out.

Want to know more about how the Driftly Bamboo Pillow is made? The full materials list is on the product page under "Details".