If you've recently purchased new imported hardwood furniture, you may have noticed a strong chemical smell coming from it. This smell can be overwhelming and may take some time to dissipate if you are sensitive. In this blog, we'll explore how long the smell lasts, how to get rid of it, and how to avoid off-gassing from your furniture.
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How long does it take for new furniture smell to go away?
The length of time it takes for the new furniture smell to go away depends on a few factors, such as the type of furniture, the materials used, and the ventilation in your home. Typically, the smell will start to dissipate after a few days, but it can take up to several weeks for it to completely go away. If the smell persists, it may be a sign of off-gassing.
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How do you get the chemical smell out of new furniture?
There are a few ways to get rid of the chemical smell from new furniture. First, try wiping down the furniture with a mixture of equal parts water and vinegar. You can also try placing bowls of white vinegar around the furniture to absorb the smell. Activated charcoal can also help absorb the odors. Alternatively, you can try using a specialized odor-eliminating spray designed for furniture. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully and test the spray on a small, inconspicuous area first.
- How do you get the smell out of a new dresser?
To get the smell out of a new dresser, you can follow the same steps as for any new furniture. Start by wiping down the dresser with a mixture of equal parts water and vinegar. You can also place bowls of white vinegar or activated charcoal inside the drawers to absorb the odors. If the smell persists, try leaving the drawers open for a few days to allow for more ventilation.
- How to avoid off-gassing from your furniture
Off-gassing is the release of chemicals from furniture and other household products into the air over time. To avoid off-gassing from your furniture, look for products made with natural materials and avoid those made with synthetic materials or treated with chemicals. You can also choose furniture with low VOC (volatile organic compound) emissions or look for furniture that has been certified by organizations like GREENGUARD or the Forest Stewardship Council.
- Troubleshooting a Bad Smell in Drawers
If you're experiencing a bad smell in your drawers, it may be due to a buildup of moisture or mold. Start by thoroughly cleaning the drawers with a mixture of equal parts water and vinegar, and then allow them to air dry completely. You can also try placing a moisture-absorbing product like silica gel packets or baking soda inside the drawers to help prevent moisture buildup.
- What is off-gassing?
Off-gassing is the release of chemicals from household products into the air over time. These chemicals can include formaldehyde, benzene, and toluene, among others. Exposure to these chemicals can cause a range of health effects, including headaches, dizziness, and respiratory issues.
- Are there any natural products which I can use to speed up the off-gassing process?
There are several natural products that can help speed up the off-gassing process, including activated charcoal, baking soda, and vinegar. You can place bowls of these products around your furniture to absorb the odors. Be sure to replace them regularly
Here are some references to support the information in this blog:
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American Lung Association. (n.d.). Indoor Air Quality: VOCs in Paints and Coatings. https://www.lung.org/clean-air/at-home/indoor-air-quality/vocs
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Environmental Protection Agency. (2022, janvier 31). Formaldehyde. https://www.epa.gov/formaldehyde
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GREENGUARD. (n.d.). Why GREENGUARD Certification. https://www.ul.com/resources/why-greenguard-certification
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Health Canada. (2013, septembre 3). VOCs in Consumer Products. https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/air-quality/indoor-air-contaminants/volatile-organic-compounds.html
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Sustainable Furnishings Council. (n.d.). About SFC. https://sustainablefurnishings.org/about-sfc/