Have you ever bought a new piece of furniture and noticed a strong, unpleasant smell that lingers for days—or even weeks?
That odor comes from what are known as Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)—a group of chemicals released into the air from new products around us.
These compounds, mostly human-made, are used as solvents in various industries such as paint, building materials, furniture, and office equipment. Because they easily evaporate at room temperature, they turn into gases that slowly escape into the air—a process known as off-gassing.
Such odors often come from furniture treated with chemicals like flame retardants, protective coatings, or fabric preservatives.
Among the most common of these solvents are formaldehyde, chloroform, and trichloroethylene—the main culprits behind that distinctive “new furniture” smell.
How to Safely Get Rid of That “New Furniture” Smell
There are a few simple steps you can take to reduce those strong odors and protect the air quality in your home.
1. Let the furniture “breathe.”
Before bringing new pieces indoors, remove all packaging and leave them in a well-ventilated space—like a covered balcony or garage—so the fumes can dissipate.
2. Improve indoor ventilation.
Open your windows and use fans to increase airflow. This helps odors fade more quickly. If the furniture has removable fabrics or covers, wash them and let them dry outdoors.
3. Keep the room cool
Heat and humidity can increase the release of harmful compounds, so keep your room at a moderate temperature using an air conditioner or dehumidifier.
4. Bring in houseplants
Certain plants—such as Dracaena, Bromeliads, and Jade plants—can help purify the air and reduce the concentration of VOCs indoors.
5. Consider secondhand furniture
Older pieces have already released most of their gases, making them a healthier and more economical choice. Just be cautious with furniture painted before 1978, as it may contain banned lead-based paint.
6. Ask before you buy
When purchasing new furniture, inquire about formaldehyde content—especially in pressed wood products. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recommends choosing those labeled for outdoor use, as they emit lower levels of this harmful chemical.
