Renovating your home or moving into a new home can be an exciting experience, but the strong smells that come with new furniture can overshadow that excitement. Why does new furniture smell so strong and how do you deal with these smells? When we ask ourselves the question, “Why Does New Furniture Smell and How to Get Rid of It?” we want to find explanations about the source of the smell and how to safely alleviate it. Let’s take a closer look at this common problem and practical solutions.

Why Does New Furniture Smell?

The smell from new furniture is usually caused by chemicals used during production. Adhesives containing formaldehyde, which are often used during woodworking, are the main source of unpleasant odors, although they provide a long life for furniture. In addition, solvent-based chemicals can also emit strong vapors during painting and varnishing processes. Plastics and foams used as protective materials when packaging furniture can also leave an odor. For example, when you buy a new bookcase, you will smell a slight chemical smell from the pressed wood materials and veneers that make up the shelves, a smell that will usually subside within a few weeks after assembly.

How to Get Rid of New Furniture Smell?

The most effective way to get rid of these odors is to have good ventilation. For example, if you have a garden and the weather conditions are suitable, leaving your newly purchased extendable dining table outside for a few days can help disperse the odors. Otherwise, you will need to keep the windows open to provide the best possible ventilation in the house. Another effective method is to leave natural odor absorbers such as coffee grounds and vanilla extract in a container next to the furniture. In addition, air purifying filters containing activated carbon can absorb bad odors and provide cleaner air.

How Long Does It Take for New Furniture Smell to Go Away?

The time it takes for the new furniture smell to disappear can vary from a few hours to a few months, depending on the type of furniture and the ventilation of the house. Especially in furniture with a large surface area, it can take longer for the smell to disappear, as a large amount of adhesives and coating materials are used. For example, a large, bulky closet or wardrobe will contain more materials, so the smell can be more intense and persistent than a pouf seating area.

How to Remove New Furniture Lacquer Paint Smell?

Removing the smell of lacquer paint usually requires more focused and specific methods. Since lacquer paint is a multi-layered application, the vapors emitted from these layers are quite strong. If you have a piece of furniture with a strong odor, such as a newly lacquered coffee table, you can use professional air purification methods such as ozone generators. These machines break down oxygen molecules to neutralize the smell. When it comes to natural methods, kitchen ingredients such as onion slices or lemon juice can be effective. 

Does Furniture Smell Harm People and Pets?

While odors from new furniture are generally harmless to most people and pets, they can cause headaches, irritated eyes, or other allergic reactions in sensitive individuals or individuals with certain health conditions. Children and asthmatics may be particularly sensitive to these odors. It is important to assess the source and intensity of the odor and consult a healthcare professional if necessary, as long-term exposure can have adverse health effects.

The smell of new furniture, although a sign of a fresh start, can sometimes be unpleasant. Therefore, increasing the ventilation of your home, using natural deodorizers and getting help from air purifiers are effective solutions to combat these odors. By effectively reducing and eventually eliminating furniture odors, you can enjoy a comfortable and healthy living space.