How To Get The Smell Out Of New Furniture

How to Get the Smell Out of New Furniture

New furniture can be incredibly exciting, but that "new furniture smell" can sometimes be overwhelming and even off-putting. This lingering odor is often caused by volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released from the adhesives, finishes, and fabrics used in manufacturing. Fortunately, there are several effective methods to neutralize these smells and enjoy your new purchase without the headache (literally!).

Understanding the Source of the Smell

Before diving into solutions, it's helpful to understand what's causing that unpleasant aroma. The culprit is often a combination of:

• Formaldehyde: A common VOC used in manufacturing various furniture components.
• Glue and Adhesives: The adhesives used to bind wood, fabrics, and other materials can release strong odors.
• Finishes and Coatings: Lacquers, varnishes, and paints used to protect and enhance the furniture's appearance can also contribute to the smell.
• Fabrics: Some fabrics, especially those treated with fire retardants, can emit noticeable odors.

Effective Ways to Eliminate New Furniture Smell

Here are some proven strategies to banish that new furniture smell and create a fresh-smelling home:

1. Ventilation is Key:

This is perhaps the simplest and most effective first step. Open windows and doors to allow for maximum air circulation. The more fresh air you can circulate, the faster the VOCs will dissipate. Consider using fans to accelerate the process.

2. Baking Soda Power:

Baking soda is a natural odor absorber. Place several open containers of baking soda near your furniture. Leave them for several days, replacing them as needed. Baking soda will absorb the odors, leaving your room smelling fresh.

3. Activated Charcoal:

Similar to baking soda, activated charcoal is a powerful odor absorber. Place bowls of activated charcoal near the furniture. This method is particularly effective for strong odors.

4. White Vinegar Solution:

Fill shallow bowls with white vinegar. The acetic acid in vinegar neutralizes odors. Place these bowls around the furniture and let them sit for a day or two. Remember to ventilate the room properly, as vinegar itself has a strong smell.

5. Air Purifiers:

Using an air purifier with a HEPA filter can help remove VOCs and other airborne particles, contributing to a fresher-smelling environment.

6. Houseplants:

Certain houseplants are known for their air-purifying properties. Plants like spider plants, snake plants, and peace lilies can help filter out some of the VOCs.

7. Time and Patience:

While these methods accelerate the process, remember that some odors may take time to fully dissipate. Be patient, and continue to ventilate the area.

Preventing the Smell in Future Purchases

While getting rid of the smell is important, preventing it in the first place is even better. Consider these tips for future furniture purchases:

• Choose low-VOC or VOC-free furniture: Look for furniture labeled as eco-friendly or made with low-VOC materials.
• Air out furniture outdoors before bringing it inside: If possible, let the furniture air out in a well-ventilated area outside before bringing it into your home.
• Choose natural materials: Furniture made from natural materials like solid wood and natural fibers tends to have less of a smell.

By implementing these methods, you can effectively eliminate that lingering new furniture smell and enjoy your beautifully furnished home without any unpleasant odors. Remember that patience is key, and a combination of these methods will yield the best results.