The smell will knock you over when you unwrap!  I have the good fortune of living in Florida in December, so it went outside immediately.  I sprinkled baking soda over it and left on for several days, then shook it out.  It still needs airing for some time and will be worth the extra effort.  The color is a beautiful white with some hints of light yellow for an authentic look.  Looks just like the picture.  The loft is incredible and ever so soft.  The backing is sewn to the fur with a thin suede like fabric so don't know about the tread, but mine is going under dining chairs so not to be concerned. Very good value for the money. The smell kept it from 5*