Sleep Number Bed Odor

October 25, 2014 by Debra Lynn Dadd

Question from Bonnie

I have owned a sleep number bed for about 4 years. The volcanized rubber air chamber still puts off a very strong odor. I can not even turn my pillow over because it will smell to strong. My bed sheets have the odor. In the past you recommended a aluminum camping sheet to block odor from a chair. I tried this and it did not work. I have a medical problem and it is the only bed I can tolerate, traditionbal innerspring is bad for me.

I heard about charcoal absorbing bed blankets. I talked to MDE and they said they are unsafe. Do you have a suggestion. I want to try the charcoal.

Also due to an ankle problem the only shoe that helps me is New Balance. The odor is horrible and takes many months to leave. Can anything speed up the process?

Lastly, what do you use for handwashing dishes? Thank You

Debra's Answer

It is very difficult to remove the odor from rubber whether in a bed or a shoe. The odor is an indicator that the rubber is off gassing.  I strongly recommend sleeping on a natural mattress.

I see no reason why a carbon blanket would be unsafe. Many people with MCS use them successfully.

I wash my dishes with a variety of different products, as I am always trying new things. Currently I'm using BioKleen Natural Dish Liquid. It has a nice citrus smell that I like.