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Under the Mattress

How long can a mattress stay in the box?

By Matthew Brunken · Updated October 24, 2026 · 1 min read · Editorial standards

Short answer

It depends on the brand, so check yours. Purple recommends unrolling within two weeks of delivery. Nectar says to open it as soon as it's delivered and treats boxes left closed for 90 days as misuse. Casper recommends opening within the first 100 nights. Once it's out, let it expand on a breathable base.

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Regular price $249, Fall 2026 promotion price $199first mattress, any size · Fall 2026 promotion

HEPA vacuuming, enzyme treatment for organic odor, dry vapor steam and UV-C. We recommend cleaning twice a year.

Brand by brand

  • Purple: "We recommend you unroll the Purple® Mattress within two weeks of delivery" (Purple).
  • Nectar: open it when it arrives. Mattresses not opened within 90 days of delivery "are considered misused and are ineligible for warranty claims and returns" (Nectar).
  • Casper: open it within the first 100 nights to use the trial. Casper says it has no evidence that longer boxing damages the mattress, but it may take longer to expand (Casper).

After unboxing

Set it on a breathable base, not damp concrete (is it bad to put a mattress on the floor). Any new-foam smell is covered in off-gassing.

Where to read next

How we clean what you can't see

This section is our view. Every Sleep Sanitation visit starts with a nose-and-eyes inspection to find where the odor actually lives, then HEPA vacuuming, enzyme treatment on organic odor, low-moisture dry vapor steam from our Italian-made Vapor Clean machines, UV-C light treatment and a moisture check before we leave. Underside treatment, for the side that faces the floor or frame, is +$50–$75 per mattress. The first mattress is $199 Fall 2026 special (regularly $249), any size. We recommend cleaning every mattress twice a year. Take the 60-second mattress quiz or schedule your cleaning. Call or text (402) 512-5658, or email info@sleepsanitation.com.

Changelog

  • 24 October 2026: First published. Sources accessed on this date.

Sources

  1. How long can the Purple Mattress stay rolled up in its packaging? · Purple
  2. How Long Does a Nectar Mattress Take to Expand? · Nectar
  3. Frequently Asked Questions · Casper

Last reviewed October 24, 2026. Manufacturer specifications and care instructions change; check the current version for your exact model. This page is general information, not medical advice. How we source and check pages: editorial standards.

Frequently asked questions

Can a boxed mattress void the warranty?+

Some brands, like Nectar, limit warranty claims if it isn't opened in time.

Can I store a boxed mattress in the garage?+

Follow the brand's time limit. A dry space is best.

Do you clean new mattresses?+

Most new mattresses only need a protector. Book us twice a year after that.

Want it done for you?

Sleep Sanitation cleans mattresses only, in homes across the Omaha and Lincoln metros, using low-moisture dry vapor steam. Call or text to book.

First mattress $199 Fall 2026 special (regularly $249), any size. See the pricing page for the full price list.

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