You just bought beautiful new wooden furniture for your home, and the excitement quickly turns into frustration. That strong, unpleasant smell can be overwhelming and makes you wonder if it's safe. Don't worry; you're not alone. Understanding what causes that odor and how to deal with it can make all the difference. Let's dive into the reasons behind new wooden furniture smell and whether it poses any health risks.

1. Understanding the New Furniture Smell

1.1 What Causes New Furniture Smell?

The new furniture smell usually comes from volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These are chemicals that evaporate at room temperature and are commonly found in finishes, paints, and adhesives used in furniture manufacturing. When VOCs are released into the air, they create that familiar odor. Different types of wood and finishes can emit various compounds, which is why you might notice different smells from different pieces of furniture.

Factors contributing to VOC emissions:

• Types of wood: Solid wood, plywood, and particleboard all have different VOC levels.
• Finishes: Varnishes, stains, and paints used to treat the wood.
• Adhesives: Glues used in assembling the furniture often contain formaldehyde, a common VOC.

Pro-tip: Regularly ventilate your home by opening windows and using fans to help dilute indoor air pollutants, including VOCs.

1.2 Is the New Furniture Smell Harmful?

While the new furniture smell can be off-putting, it's often the health concerns that worry many. Short-term exposure to VOCs might cause headaches, dizziness, and respiratory irritation. These symptoms are typically temporary and subside once the VOC levels decrease. However, long-term exposure to high levels of VOCs can pose more serious health risks, including respiratory issues and, in some cases, has been linked to cancer.

To mitigate health risks:

• Choose low-VOC or no-VOC furniture whenever possible.
• Keep the room well-ventilated to reduce indoor pollutant concentration.
• Use air purifiers equipped with activated carbon filters to remove VOCs from the air.

Fun fact: According to an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) report, indoor levels of VOCs can be up to ten times higher than outdoor levels, emphasizing the importance of ventilation.

1.3 How Long Does the New Furniture Smell Last?

The duration of the new furniture smell can vary significantly based on several factors. On average, it can last from a few days to several months. Type of wood, quality of finishes, and room ventilation all play crucial roles. For example, solid wood furniture with natural finishes might have a shorter-lasting smell compared to furniture made with plywood or particleboard that use more adhesives and finishes.

Factors impacting smell duration:

• Material composition: Particleboard and MDF tend to release VOCs longer than solid wood.
• Ventilation: Adequate airflow can significantly shorten the duration of the odor.
• Humidity and temperature: Higher temperatures and humidity levels can accelerate the off-gassing process.

Pro-tip: Placing bowls of vinegar or activated charcoal near the new furniture can help absorb the smell more quickly.

2. Natural Ways to Remove New Wooden Furniture Smell

2.1 Air It Out

One of the simplest and most effective methods to get rid of the new wooden furniture smell is to air it out. Place the furniture in a well-ventilated area, preferably near open windows or doors. Fresh air circulation works wonders in dissipating unpleasant odors. Try placing the furniture outside on a porch or balcony for a few hours a day if weather permits. Natural sunlight can also help break down some of the chemicals contributing to the smell.

To further enhance the effectiveness, you can utilize fans to increase airflow around the furniture. Positioning fans to direct air around and through drawers and cabinets will accelerate the airing-out process. This method is practical for all types of wooden furniture, be it bunk beds, desks, or wardrobes, helping you achieve a fresh-smelling environment quickly and easily.

Pro Tip: Using an air purifier equipped with a HEPA filter can accelerate the removal of airborne volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Place it near the new furniture for faster results.

2.2 Use Baking Soda

Baking soda is a natural odor neutralizer that can absorb and eliminate the new furniture smell effectively. Sprinkle a liberal amount of baking soda on the furniture's surfaces, including inside drawers and cabinets. Let it sit for at least a few hours or overnight to absorb odors. Afterward, you can vacuum or wipe away the baking soda residue using a clean, damp cloth.

For added effectiveness, create a baking soda sachet by filling a small fabric bag or sock with baking soda and placing it inside the furniture drawers or cabinets. Change the sachets every few days until the odor is completely gone. This method is particularly useful for solid wood furniture from brands like Scanica CA, ensuring long-lasting freshness.

An alternative is to mix baking soda with essential oils, such as lavender or eucalyptus, to add a pleasant scent while neutralizing odors. This combination not only freshens the furniture but also creates a more inviting environment in your room.

Pro Tip: Remember to vacuum or shake out the baking soda thoroughly to avoid any residual powder on your furniture.

2.3 Try Vinegar Bowls

White vinegar is another potent, natural odor eliminator. Use vinegar bowls by placing small bowls filled with white vinegar inside the furniture drawers or around the area where the new wooden furniture is located. White vinegar's acetic acid neutralizes odor-causing compounds in the air.

Leave the bowls for a few days to allow the vinegar to absorb and neutralize the odors completely. To prevent any spillage or damage, ensure the bowls are stable and not overfilled. If you prefer a less pungent scent, you can dilute the vinegar with water or add a few drops of your favorite essential oil.

You can also use a vinegar spray solution by combining equal parts of vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Lightly mist the furniture's surface, then wipe it down with a clean cloth. This can help to remove odors embedded in the wood without causing any damage to the finish.

Pro Tip: Ensure good ventilation when using vinegar to avoid an overwhelming scent. Opening windows or using fans can help disperse the vinegar fumes more quickly.

3. Preventing and Reducing New Furniture Smell for Future Purchases

3.1 Choosing Furniture with Low-VOC Finishes

When shopping for new wooden furniture, consider selecting options with low-VOC finishes. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are chemicals that emit gases from certain solids or liquids, often found in finishes. These gases can contribute to the lingering "new furniture smell." Furniture with low-VOC or no-VOC finishes significantly reduces this emission, making the air in your home safer and fresher. Furniture labeled as low-VOC is becoming increasingly popular due to the rising awareness about indoor air quality.

Brands like Scanica CA offer a range of solid wood furniture options, including beds, loft beds, and Dressers & Chests with low-VOC finishes. Customers can thus ensure a healthier living environment. Look for certification labels such as GreenGuard or ECO to identify furniture pieces that conform to low-VOC standards. These pieces are not only sustainable but also friendly for families with children, who are more sensitive to indoor air quality issues.

Pro-tip: Always check with the retailer or manufacturer if their products are certified low-VOC. This small step can make a big difference in indoor air quality and overall health.

3.2 Consider Solid Wood Furniture from Scanica CA

Another effective strategy to prevent new furniture smell is to opt for solid wood furniture. Unlike particleboard, which often contains formaldehyde and other chemicals, solid wood is naturally less likely to off-gas. Solid wood furniture is more durable and tends to hold up better over time, making it a good investment for your household. Materials like pine and oak are excellent choices as they produce minimal emissions and provide a long-lasting finish.

At Scanica CA, you can find a variety of solid wood furniture including Stairway Bunk Beds and Loft Beds. These pieces are crafted from high-quality materials and offer great functionality. Moreover, Scanica's furniture features four drawers and side shelving, enhancing their usability while keeping your indoor environment safe. High quality solid wood ensures that no particleboard, veneer, or MDF is used, thus minimizing the risk of off-gassing and keeping the air clean and breathable.

Pro-tip: When assembling furniture, ensure that the area is well-ventilated to disperse any initial odors faster. This speeds up the dissipation process.

3.3 Proper Ventilation and Maintenance Tips

Ensuring proper ventilation is critical to preventing and reducing new furniture smell. Always place new furniture in well-ventilated spaces to help release trapped gases and odors. Open windows and use fans to keep the air circulating. In colder months, when opening windows isn’t practical, consider using air purifiers equipped with carbon filters to absorb VOCs and other chemical odors. Regularly maintaining your home’s air quality can go a long way in preventing the accumulation of harmful smells.

Maintenance is vital in keeping your furniture smelling fresh. Regularly clean the surfaces of your furniture with natural cleaning solutions like a mix of baking soda and water or vinegar and water. These can neutralize any lingering odors and keep your furniture in top condition. Also, ensure that any spills are cleaned up immediately to prevent moisture and odor buildup. For durable and healthier options, check out Scanica CA's mattresses as they offer anti-microbial and high-density foam options to keep indoor air clean.

Pro-tip: Use indoor plants like aloe vera and peace lilies as natural air purifiers. They are known to absorb VOCs, effectively maintaining a healthier living space.

Taking proactive steps such as choosing low-VOC furniture, considering solid wood options, and ensuring proper ventilation can significantly mitigate the new furniture smell. By implementing these strategies, you're not only creating a more pleasant living environment but also promoting health and well-being in your household.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to get smell out of new wood furniture?

You can remove the smell by airing out the furniture, using bowls of vinegar, and sprinkling baking soda over surfaces. Keep the room well-ventilated.

How to remove formaldehyde smell from wood furniture?

Use activated charcoal, air purifiers with carbon filters, and improve room ventilation to effectively reduce formaldehyde smells.

How to stop furniture off-gassing?

Choose low-VOC products, ventilate the room, and use air purifiers. Opt for solid wood furniture from brands like Scanica CA to minimize off-gassing.

Is new wood smell safe?

While generally not harmful, prolonged exposure to VOCs can cause headaches or irritation. Ensure proper ventilation to reduce risks.