Can You Sleep On A Memory Foam Mattress Before 24 Hours?
Purchasing a new mattress is a thrilling step towards enhancing your sleep comfort and overall well-being. The excitement of your new investment will make you eager to get into bed as soon as it arrives.
However, a common question arises: can you sleep on a mattress while it’s expanding?
Most companies ask you not to sleep on your memory foam mattress before 24 hours after you’ve unboxed the bed to ensure the quality of their product is at its fullest potential when you sleep on it for the first night.
But when nighttime rolls around and its time to go to sleep, waiting to use your new bed can be inconvenient. Some sleepers may not even have their old mattress to use one more night if they opted for white glove delivery.
So, what happens when you sleep on a memory foam bed before those 24 hours are up? In our article, we’ll discuss how long you should really wait before using your foam mattress and what you can do to minimize the wait.
Can I Go To Sleep Right After the New Memory Foam Mattress Has Expanded?
Truth is, you can sleep, roll around, and step on your new memory foam mattress as much as you want while it expands. Regular mattress use will only decrease the material’s expansion time.
If you want to sleep on it before the 24-hour mark, just remember the mattress won’t feel its very best until it expands to its full size. If the first night on your new bed isn’t all you’d dreamed it’d be, give it more time before calling for a return.
If a mattress has a ten-inch profile, then you need to wait until it’s expanded to 10 inches tall and the corners have grown to their full shape. If your bed is still uncomfortable after full expansion, then it’s time to call.
A few bloggers suggest waiting to put your new memory foam mattress protector and sheets on your new bed only after the corners have fully extended. However, in our experience, we’ve found you don’t have to wait for the corners to take shape to go to bed, as you’re typically not sleeping on the corners of the mattress; this lets those corners continue to expand throughout the night. Mattress protectors and sheets are not tight enough to prevent the corners from expanding and should not have an impact on your bed’s expansion time.
There are a few reasons why manufacturers don’t want the bed used within 24 hours of unrolling. The 24-hour rule exists mainly as a precaution to ensure the mattress has fully extended and there’s no damage to the bed’s foam.
However, a memory foam mattress fresh out of the box is more versatile than aged foam. Rolling across it won’t do much harm. If the mattress doesn’t assume its original shape after the allotted expansion period, then the foam layers may be defective. Contact the company for exchange or return information.
The second reason why brands want you to wait to sleep on their beds is the risk of off-gassing. Nobody wants to fall asleep on a chemical-smelling bed, and jumping to sleep on a freshly unpackaged mattress may be unpleasant. While most foam mattresses are CertiPUR-US® certified, there still are slight off-gas smells. Letting your bed air out for the allotted off-gassing time prevents you from dealing with any unpleasant scents.
Understanding the Mattress Expansion Process
In today’s world of modern mattresses, especially those often purchased online, they are typically compressed and tightly rolled or folded to ensure easy shipping and handling.
The mattress is vacuum-sealed and packaged to minimize its size for convenient delivery. Once you remove the mattress from its box and place it on your bed, it will begin to decompress and gradually expand to its full size and shape over time.
This initial expansion process usually doesn’t take long, and it can be quite enjoyable to watch!
However, you’ll need to give the mattress some time to fully expand and reach its optimal state, which we’ll discuss further in this article. It’s generally recommended to avoid sleeping on a new mattress until it’s fully ready.
The Science Behind Mattress Expansion
The science behind mattress expansion primarily involves the elastic properties and cellular structure of the materials used in the mattress. Most modern mattresses are made from various types of foam, which are known for their high flexibility and responsiveness to pressure.
The foam cells within the mattress contain gas, and during the vacuum-sealing process, this gas is compressed and effectively removed. When you remove the tight packaging, the pressure is released, allowing the foam cells to expand and take in air.
As a result, the mattress gradually returns to its original size and shape. It’s a rather ingenious process if you ask us!
It’s important to allow the mattress time to fully regain its intended shape before sleeping on it, as applying pressure too soon can hinder the foam’s ability to absorb air.
This could potentially prevent the mattress from reaching its ideal form, and if that happens, it may not be as wonderfully comfortable as you’d expect!
Many people wonder if vacuum-sealing affects the performance and longevity of a mattress. However, the reality is that the vacuum-packing process does not impact the quality or performance of the mattress in any way.
Common Mattress Types and Their Expansion Times
Different types of mattresses have varying expansion times, and understanding these differences can help you plan your first night’s sleep on your new bed.
Here, we’ll explore the average expansion times for four common mattress types.
Innerspring Mattresses
Innerspring mattresses are among the most traditional and widely used types. While they offer certain benefits, they generally don’t match the comfort and support provided by foam-based mattresses. Also known as coil mattresses, the design can vary significantly in terms of coil shape, gauge, and quantity.
Innerspring mattresses typically take about 24-48 hours to fully expand. Although they may appear to expand much sooner, internal adjustments are still occurring during this time.
Memory Foam Mattresses
Memory foam mattresses are among the best for providing personalized support as they contour to your body, offering unparalleled comfort.
They are probably the second most popular type of mattress and have become more accessible than ever before. Memory foam mattresses generally require around 48 hours to completely expand, with room temperature playing a role in the duration.
While you might be tempted to dive in and snuggle up after just a few hours, keep in mind that you won’t experience the mattress’s full potential until it has fully expanded.
Latex Mattresses
Latex mattresses are gaining popularity due to their cooling and supportive properties. These mattresses tend to expand the quickest, with some fully expanding within just 8-12 hours! Made from natural materials, latex mattresses are often easy to adjust to, even if it’s your first time sleeping on one.
Hybrid Mattresses
Hybrid mattresses combine the best features of different mattress types, most commonly innerspring and memory foam. For example, our exceptional Hybrid Bamboo Mattress is crafted from orthopedic-grade memory foam paired with seven zones of individually enclosed springs, providing an ideal blend of comfort and support.
Hybrid mattresses are typically vacuum-sealed for easier delivery, and because they contain multiple materials, they may take slightly longer—up to 72 hours—to fully expand. However, the wait is well worth it for the quality of sleep you’ll enjoy.
Factors Affecting Mattress Expansion
Several factors can influence how long it takes for a mattress to fully expand. One of the primary considerations is room temperature and ventilation.
Research suggests that a warm and slightly humid environment can help your mattress expand a bit faster, so it’s something to keep in mind! However, be cautious not to let the room get too hot or humid, as this can negatively affect the materials and even lead to unpleasant odors.
The thickness and density of the mattress itself also play a role in the expansion time. It stands to reason that thicker and denser mattresses will take longer to reach their fully expanded state.
While waiting a little longer for a thicker mattress may require some patience, the payoff is worth it—they offer more support and enhanced comfort.
A common question that arises during this process is, “Can you sleep on a mattress while it’s expanding?” While some manufacturers may say it’s fine, it’s always best to check their recommendations to ensure the best experience.
Additionally, waiting until the mattress is fully expanded before sleeping on it might provide the most comfort and support.
Potential Issues of Sleeping on a Mattress While It Expands
- Discomfort
A mattress that hasn’t fully expanded may lack sufficient cushioning and might not conform properly to your body shape. Initially, it could feel too firm, creating painful pressure points and causing discomfort.
- Inadequate Support
A mattress that’s still expanding is unlikely to offer the necessary support if used immediately. Your body may not sink into the mattress as intended, leading to misalignment.
Some sleepers may even experience the sensation of feeling the base beneath the mattress, known as ‘bottoming out.’ Additionally, excessive weight or force could damage the bed base, as a partially expanded mattress doesn’t provide adequate cushioning.
- Compromised Sleep Quality
Sleeping on a mattress before it fully expands can result in poor sleep quality due to insufficient comfort and support. As a result, you might wake up feeling tired, irritable, and stiff.
- Reduced Durability
Using a mattress before it has fully expanded can lead to premature wear and tear, potentially shortening its lifespan. Indentations and sagging may develop, creating an uneven sleeping surface.
Additionally, the mattress might not regain its original dimensions, and with a single-sided mattress, sagging often leaves you with no option but to replace it.
- Warranty or Guarantee Risks
Sleeping on a mattress before it has completely expanded could void its warranty or guarantee, leaving you without protection if issues arise later.
Tips for Achieving Optimal Mattress Expansion
When it comes to expanding your mattress, there are several tips to ensure the best outcome. First and foremost, always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines—each mattress is unique, so it’s important to know the specific instructions for yours.
If you can’t find any visible instructions, don’t hesitate to contact the company’s customer service team. They’re there to help!
Prepare your room in advance. Start by removing your old mattress and clearing enough space for the new one. Make sure your bedside tables are clear, and take the opportunity to prepare the base of your bed as well.
A quick vacuum and a wipe-down can make a big difference, allowing you to start fresh. Once your room is ready, it’s time to exercise patience. Go about your day while the mattress expands, knowing that good things come to those who wait.
As you anticipate your first night on your new mattress, make sure you have fresh bedding, clean pajamas, and a calm mindset. With everything in place, you’ll be set for the best sleep you’ve ever had on your new mattress.
Why Choose a Memory Foam Mattress?
With so many mattress types available, why might a memory foam mattress be the bed for you? There are a few factors that contribute to memory foam’s popularity, such as its affordability and comfortable feel.
Plus, the wait for its full expansion aside, a memory foam mattress is often a highly convenient mattress to order and set up. You can purchase an online mattress that’s shipped right to your front door, never once needing to leave your home.
Memory foam is also consistently recommended as one of the top materials for pain relief. Lastly, a memory foam mattress can serve as an affordable hypoallergenic mattress for allergies. The dense foam layers of a memory foam mattress prevent allergens from settling inside the bed.
Our Memory Foam Mattress Recommendation
The Amerisleep AS3 is our top memory foam mattress recommendation not just for taking only a few hours to fully expand, but for its versatile medium feel and eco-friendly mattress design. Most sleeping styles can stretch out on the AS3 and feel comfortable, making it excellent for partners who want to share a bed.
The top layer of the AS3 is breathable and responsive Bio-Pur® foam. This foam is more eco-friendly than traditional memory foam as Amerisleep produces it with plant-derived oils, along with standard ingredients.
The middle layer of the AS3 is Affinity foam with HIVE® technology. The surface underneath the shoulders and hips are flexible and cushioning, while the head, torso, and feet are focused on support.
The base layer of the AS3 is Bio-Core® foam. This sturdy material reinforces the mattress’s structure, increasing its expected lifespan to maximize the bed’s value.
Wrapped around the AS3 is a plush, breathable cover of Refresh fabric. Aside from its soft feel, Refresh relies on technological, thermoreactive minerals to convert body heat into infrared energy, which then penetrates the body to boose local bloodflow.
The Amerisleep AS3, like all Amerisleep mattresses, comes with free shipping, a 100-night sleep trial, and a 20-year warranty.
AMERISLEEP AS3
- Responsive memory foam made partly with plant-derived oils
- Targeted support for five areas of the body boosts comfort
- Sturdy base foam ensures mattress longevity
Why Are Memory Foam Mattresses Boxed Up?
The entire reason bed in a box mattresses exist is for easier shipping. A mattress in a box that’s been compressed and rolled up takes up less space in a delivery vehicle. This means mail order mattresses can travel relatively easily across the country to arrive at a shopper’s front door.
It can also be easier for shoppers to move a mattress on their own if the bed is boxed up, perhaps with the assistance of a dolly cart as the mattress can still feel quite heavy.
How Do I Speed Up the Expansion Process?
So the answer to “What happens if you sleep on a memory foam mattress before it’s finished expanding?” should be “It’s a little uncomfortable, but the mattress will be fine.” But is there a way to help the mattress expand faster so you can rest in comfort?
Constant movement, body weight, and heat activate the foam, loosening the material. Laying down on the mattress and rolling around for a few minutes as well as standing on the end of the mattress and walking around the edges should make it expand faster.
What if My Foam Bed Isn’t Expanding?
While some memory foam mattresses expand quickly, there are others that have a harder time expanding. If you run into this problem, try activating the memory foam mattress with body heat.
Roll around and walk on the memory foam mattress— almost as if you’re giving the bed a massage, try to no stomping or bouncing to prevent mattress damage— and sleep on it for a few days. Afterward, it should expand to its correct size.
How to Break in Your New Mattress
Now that your mattress is fully expanded and you’re ready to dive into bed for a much-improved sleep, you might be wondering how long it takes to ‘break in’ your new purchase and how to do it. We’ve got you covered!
Breaking in a new mattress refers to the time it takes for you to get accustomed to it, and this varies depending on both the individual and the type of mattress you’ve chosen.
For instance, if you previously had a memory foam mattress and replaced it with something similar, the adjustment period shouldn’t be too long. However, if you’re transitioning from an innerspring to a hybrid, it may take some time to get used to the change.
Be patient and approach bedtime with a positive mindset. On average, it can take about a month to fully adjust to your new mattress, so don’t expect to fall in love with your new sleep setup overnight—although you might!
Proper care of your new mattress is crucial, and if you want to speed up the break-in process, consider the following tips:
- Roll back and forth across your mattress to help distribute weight evenly.
- Spend at least 8 hours a night on your mattress to aid the adjustment.
- Place heavy objects on the mattress for an hour or so each day.
- Allow your mattress to breathe by removing sheets, toppers, and duvets when you’re not sleeping on it.
When shopping for a new mattress, it’s wise to choose a company that offers a free trial period. This way, you can spend time breaking in the mattress and ensure it’s the right fit for you before making a final decision!
Why Way of the Mattress Is Up?
When your mattress expands fully and takes shape, you might find yourself facing a puzzling dilemma: Which side should be facing up? Not all mattresses have two sides, especially memory foam mattresses that are designed for sleeping on just one side. But fret not! There are some clever tricks that can swiftly help you find the answer.
First, consider the mattress design. Some mattress manufacturers make the top and bottom clear by using different colors for each. More obviously, one side of the mattress may have a tufted, finished look like a pillow top mattress, while the other side has a plain and rougher look with a flat, non-skid surface.
Even if the mattress appears identical on both the top and bottom, you can still discern a difference. One side should yield more readily to your touch—it’s the side with the cozy padding where you’re supposed to sleep. The firmer side should face down.
Still not sure? Take a look at the mattress tag or label. This little tag is usually sewn onto one side of the mattress. Now, pay close attention: If you find the tag, it means that the opposite side, without the tag, should be facing up when you place the mattress on your bed frame.
If all these methods still leave you scratching your head, fear not! We recommend reaching out to the customer service team of your mattress brand. They should be able to help you resolve the issue and set up your mattress properly.
The Mattress Hasn’t Expanded After a Week!
If a foam mattress doesn’t expand after five or seven days, then you most likely have a defective bed.
A mattress not expanding is very rare. But if you’ve given your mattress a whole week to expand and it hasn’t, call customer service to inform them of the defective mattress and initiate the return policy or warranty claim.
Taking Care of Your Foam Mattress
Whether you have a hybrid or a gel memory foam mattress, you’ll need to care for it properly to maintain its longevity. Innerspring and hybrid mattresses only need a box spring, whereas memory foam mattresses require a more sturdy foundation. All mattresses, though, need periodic cleaning.
Choosing a Foundation
Foam beds need a solid, flat mattress foundation.
Flexible box springs work well with an innerspring and hybrid mattress; however, a memory foam mattress paired with this type of base will cause the middle to sag, resulting in discomfort.
Memory foam needs a bed frame with either a solid flat surface or a slatted base. Platform beds are a good option, as long as the slats are less than 2.75 inches apart to prevent the foam material from dipping; this could cause the mattress to deteriorate quickly and product indentations in the material.
Cleaning Tips
Some foam mattresses have removable, machine-washable covers. If you have a mattress without a removable mattress cover, you’ll have to spot clean it with room temperature water mixed with mild detergent.
It’s a good idea to vacuum the mattress at least once a month to remove loose foreign debris and any hair. These same cleaning tricks work on a mattress topper.
To save yourself the trouble of having to spot-clean a stained memory foam mattress, it’s best to cover the surface with a memory foam mattress protector.
Use a Mattress Protector
A high-quality mattress protector is crucial for safeguarding your bed from spills, ensuring a clean, safe, and comfortable sleeping environment. Most protectors fit like a fitted sheet, using elastic straps or a skirt that stretches over the corners of the mattress.
Additionally, encasement-style protectors are available that zip around the entire mattress, providing complete coverage.
Since compressed or rolled-up mattresses often contain foam that closely conforms to your body shape, using an overly thick mattress protector can create an additional barrier between you and the mattress.
Therefore, it’s advisable to opt for a relatively thin mattress cover that offers protection without affecting the mattress’s feel or performance.
Turn Your Mattress
All mattresses, whether they contain loose fillings or foam, will naturally settle over time. Turning your mattress helps to distribute the fillings evenly.
To ensure you’re rotating the mattress correctly, refer to the manufacturer’s care instructions, usually provided with the mattress.
Generally, you should rotate your mattress weekly for the first three months and then monthly thereafter. Double-sided mattresses, which have fillings on both sides, can be flipped and rotated for even wear.
Air Out Your Mattress
When you first unpack your new mattress, you might notice a slightly unpleasant odor. This is entirely normal, and the smell should fade once the mattress has been properly aired.
Allow the mattress to air out in a well-ventilated room for a few hours. If needed, open doors and windows to let in fresh air and help the smell dissipate more quickly.
Ensure Proper Mattress Support
It’s important to place your mattress on a suitable bed base that offers adequate support. Foam mattresses, for example, typically perform best on firm, flat surfaces like platform tops or slats.
Make sure your mattress is resting on a well-ventilated base that allows for good air circulation. Avoid using an old bed base, as it can potentially damage the mattress and may even void its warranty.
The Importance of Choosing Mattress Companies with a Free Sleep Trial
Opting for mattress companies that provide a free sleep trial is crucial because it gives you the opportunity to try out the mattress before making a final commitment.
Many manufacturers strongly recommend this approach. It helps ensure that you are selecting the right mattress tailored to your needs, providing the comfort you require for a good night’s sleep.
However, it’s important to remember to properly break in your mattress before deciding to return it. Many companies offer a 120-night sleep trial on all of their mattresses, allowing customers ample time to break in their mattresses fully before making a final decision.
This trial period ensures that you can be confident in your choice before committing to your new mattress.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best mattress to avoid body impressions?
Memory foam mattresses are excellent if you want a mattress that won’t retain body impressions. While the foam surface is quick to mold to your body, well-made memory foam is just as quick at snapping back into shape.
However, when it comes to durable resilience, it’s difficult to beat the potential of latex foam. The buoyant material can withstand wear and tear well enough that it can retain its shape after decades of use. See our memory foam vs latex mattress guide for a thorough comparison.
Can you damage a memory foam mattress by sleeping on it too soon?
No, sleeping on a high-quality memory foam mattress after unboxing it shouldn’t affect its structure. The reason the “give it a day to expand” rule exists is that a memory foam mattress won’t offer a truly comfortable, high-quality sleep experience until it reached its full shape.
If your mattress does feel saggy and unsupportive after unboxing, it’s more likely the bed is defective, in which case you should reach out to the mattress company and file a warranty claim.
Can you put a box spring under a memory foam mattress?
No, we do not recommend pairing a traditional box spring with a memory foam mattress. Box springs have supportive coils that are meant to deepen the bounce of a classic innerspring mattress. These interior coils are not spaced close enough to provide the consistent support that a heavier memory foam mattress needs, and that usually results in premature sagging and loss of comfort.
What are the disadvantages of a memory foam mattress?
One drawback to memory foam mattresses is that they cannot be made without synthetic materials. It’s possible to reduce the amount of petrochemicals used to make memory foam, resulting in eco-friendly plant-based memory foam mattresses.
Another drawback is that many low-budget memory foam mattresses do contain fiberglass, a material that has been criticized for its potential health effects if it escapes a mattress. However, as the dangers of fiberglass have become more widely known, many manufacturers have begun to make mattresses without fiberglass that rely on memory foam comfort.
Do all memory foam mattresses have a new mattress smell?
Yes, many memory foam mattresses have a faint chemical odor after unboxing. Known as ‘off-gassing,’ this smell results from volatile organic compounds breaking down after the mattress has been unpacked. For most sleepers, the smell is merely unpleasant and may take at most a few days to fade away. Using a mattress protector can make the smell less noticeable. If you can, you also let it air out in a spare room.
Do memory foam mattresses sag?
Yes, a memory foam mattress will eventually lose support, though a well-made memory foam mattress typically lasts longer than spring mattresses. Still, a high-quality memory foam mattress should be sag-free for about a decade, if it’s properly cared for by mattress owners. That means keeping the mattress on a supportive surface and rotating it regularly to even out wear and tear.
Conclusion
You now understand the rules behind allowing a foam mattress to expand and you have a few cleaning tips up your sleeve, dispelling one of the common mattress myths. You even know what to look for in foundations and bed frames that are best for foam mattresses. To learn more about maintaining your new mattress, read our other guides.
