I  have had the rug down for 3 days and NO smell.  I purchased the pad with the rug, which I would recommend for tile or wood.  The rug is not real thick, but the pad gives it more cushion and keeps it in place and it would make sense the pad will help with the rug life in our great room.  There is little traffic on the carpet which also help extend the life.  I have had no trouble with the corners curling and the edge is blue on this rug.